DNP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at CSUSB is a BSN-to-DNP pathway with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty.
In just eight semesters (2.5 years), students develop advanced clinical expertise and leadership skills that prepare them to sit for national FNP certification and make an impact as primary care providers and healthcare leaders.

For the 2026–2027 academic year, tuition is:

• $9,095 per semester
• $72,760 total program cost

Tuition excludes university fees, textbooks, supplies, and housing.
View the detailed tuition breakdown here.

CSUSB offers an exceptional doctoral education at an affordable CSU tuition rate, making your investment in nursing leadership both accessible and rewarding

The DNP program is full-time and year-round, designed for experienced nurses ready to advance their education while maintaining professional balance.

• Year 1: 100% online (10–11 units per semester)
• Year 2: Hybrid format
  • Semester 4: Courses are fully online
  • Semester 5: Online courses and a 2–3 day on-campus simulation lab
  • Semester 6: Online courses, a 2–3 day on-campus simulation lab and begin clinical rotations
• Year 3:
  • Semester 7: Online courses, continue clinical rotations and a 2-3 day on-campus lab
  • Semester 8: Clinical practicum and transition-to-practice experiences

This flexible, hybrid format combines academic rigor with hands-on training, preparing graduates to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care in real-world healthcare settings.

The DNP Project is the culmination of your doctoral journey—an opportunity to apply your knowledge to improve healthcare systems and patient outcomes.

Under faculty mentorship, you will:

• Identify a real-world clinical issue
• Conduct a literature review and synthesize evidence
• Design, implement, and evaluate an intervention
• Share your results with clinical partners and the professional community

Your DNP Project demonstrates your ability to translate research into meaningful practice.

Yes. The DNP program team provides support and guidance in securing clinical placements.
Students are also encouraged to use their professional networks to identify additional high-quality clinical sites and preceptors, creating opportunities for diverse and enriching clinical experiences.

• Priority Deadline: February 1
  • Applications open October 1 and are reviewed starting February 2.
  • Admission decisions are typically released by March 15.
• Rolling Admissions: If space is available, applications will be accepted through June 1.

Applying early ensures priority consideration for admission and clinical placement planning.

Yes. Applicants who hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) may request to have up to six (6) graduate credits reviewed for transfer toward the DNP program.
Transfer credit policies and procedures are outlined in the DNP Student Handbook.

The CSUSB DNP program is designed as a BSN-to-DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner specialty.
If you already hold an MSN with FNP certification, this pathway may not be the best fit, as there is currently no MSN-to-DNP bridge option.

However, CSUSB continues to expand advanced nursing education options—check back for future post-master’s pathways.