The Best Online Dual DNP/MBA Programs in 2024

In the ever-evolving realm of healthcare, where the intricacies of clinical care intersect with the complexities of business management, the demand for leaders equipped with a diverse skill set is more pronounced than ever.

The top online dual DNP/MBA programs for the year 2024 aim to fulfill this demand by shaping professionals who excel not only in patient care but also in the business aspects of healthcare delivery. This educational pathway transcends the mere acquisition of knowledge; it’s a transformative journey that reshapes the future landscape of healthcare. Through rigorous coursework, extensive clinical training, and a profound exploration of the business side of healthcare, graduates of these programs emerge ready to navigate and revolutionize healthcare systems.

Explore further details about these programs, including prerequisites, requirements, costs, salary expectations, and more. Whether you’re a practicing nurse looking to elevate your career or simply intrigued by this educational path, we’ve got you covered.

What Is a Dual DNP/MBA Program?

A dual DNP/MBA program represents an advanced educational track that integrates a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Tailored for nursing professionals aspiring to assume leadership roles demanding both clinical expertise and business acumen, graduates of this program are primed to lead healthcare organizations, enhance patient care systems, and oversee the business facets of healthcare delivery.

DNP/MBA Coursework

The coursework in a dual DNP/MBA program is meticulously designed to furnish students with a comprehensive education encompassing advanced nursing practice and business management. The DNP curriculum delves into areas such as evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, leadership in healthcare organizations, and specialized advanced nursing practices. Meanwhile, the MBA component focuses on business disciplines including accounting, finance, economics, marketing, and management.

Participants in a dual DNP/MBA program learn to apply business principles within the healthcare context, acquiring skills in strategic planning, financial management, organizational leadership, and operations management. The integrated curriculum ensures graduates possess a nuanced understanding of navigating complex business challenges in healthcare institutions while upholding the highest standards of patient care.

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DNP/MBA Clinical Training

Clinical training in a dual DNP/MBA program underscores the application of clinical expertise across diverse healthcare settings. DNP students typically fulfill a designated number of clinical hours, enhancing their advanced nursing skills and applying evidence-based practices to enhance patient outcomes.

Throughout clinical training, students engage in direct patient care, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to initiatives aimed at improving quality and efficiency in healthcare delivery. This clinical exposure is pivotal for cultivating the advanced practice skills essential for a DNP.

DNP/MBA Outcomes

Graduates of a dual DNP/MBA program are uniquely positioned to lead within the healthcare sector. They possess the skills to:

– Implement evidence-based practices to enhance patient care.
– Effectively manage finances and operations of healthcare organizations.
– Develop and execute business strategies in healthcare settings.
– Lead healthcare teams and manage human resources.
– Advocate for policy changes and improvements in healthcare.

The outcomes of a dual DNP/MBA program encompass improved healthcare delivery systems, effective management of healthcare organizations, and leadership in healthcare transformation through innovative practices. Graduates can pursue executive roles such as Chief Nursing Officer, healthcare consultant, healthcare administrator, and other leadership positions requiring a dual focus on clinical excellence and business strategy.

Best Online Dual DNP/MBA Programs

The selection of the following schools is based on allnurses’ methodology, which involves surveying readers to understand their priorities, along with considerations such as graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates from a multitude of prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, MD

The Johns Hopkins University presents a dual degree initiative merging a DNP with an MBA through its School of Nursing and Carey Business School. This program aims to cultivate graduates who excel not only in patient care and safety but also in driving transformative change at healthcare leadership and corporate levels. Notably aligned with the DNP Executive Track, the program is structured to deliver comprehensive training and preparation.

Program Highlights:

– Duration: The program’s completion timeframe ranges from a minimum of 3 years to a maximum of 6 years.
– Modality: It is offered online with mandatory on-site immersions.
– Accreditation: The nursing component holds accreditation from ACEN or CCNE.
– Tuition: Estimated at $1,939 per credit.
– Financial Aid: Various options, including grants, scholarships, federal loans, and employment programs.
– Admission Deadlines: Fall entry deadlines are November 1 and January 15.
– Admission Requirements: Include a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a minimum GPA of 3.0, RN licensure, letters of recommendation, official transcripts, a current resume/CV, a goal statement/project proposal, work experience, and a faculty interview.
– Clinical Hours: A minimum of 375 clinical hours from prior education is required, with additional hours if under 552.
– Curriculum: The dual degree mandates 66 credits with 448 practice hours.
– On-site Requirements: Approximately 3 on-site immersions of 3-4 days each during the first year and one on-site symposium event lasting 1 day in the second year.

2. Union University – Jackson, TN

Union University offers a dual degree option enabling DNP students to concurrently pursue an MBA. Nestled within the McAfee School of Business, this program aims to equip nursing leaders with the essential skills and knowledge required for executive leadership roles in healthcare or academic settings.

Program Highlights:

– Modality: The MBA program is a fully online 36-credit hour program.
– Credit Transfer: 12 credit hours from the Post-Master’s DNP program apply to the MBA program.
– Tuition: Cost is $1,030 per credit hour for DNP courses and $695 per credit hour for MBA courses, plus general student fees.

This dual degree program caters to nursing professionals seeking to expand their expertise into business management, preparing them for high-level roles in healthcare institutions.

3. DeSales University – Center Valley, PA

DeSales University offers a dual degree program fusing a DNP in Clinical Leadership with an MBA. This unique program enriches healthcare expertise by integrating financial and managerial aspects into the advanced practice nursing curriculum.

Program Highlights:

– Accreditation: Business programs, including the MBA, are accredited by ACBSP, and nursing programs are accredited by CCNE.
– Career Focus: Tailored for individuals aiming for leadership roles demanding both clinical expertise and business acumen in the healthcare sector.

4. Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville, IL

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) provides a collaborative program enabling post-master’s, advanced practice nurses to simultaneously pursue an MBA and DNP. This program aims to foster professional capabilities in business while enhancing quality and innovation in healthcare.

Program Highlights:

– Course Format: The DNP component is delivered online with on-campus immersion experiences, while MBA courses are online in accelerated eight-week sessions.
– Clinical Requirements: Out-of-state students should consult the assistant dean regarding clinical requirements.
– Career Outcomes: Graduates can assume roles like entrepreneurs, chief nursing officers (CNOs), or chief executive officers (CEOs) in major healthcare institutions.

This dual degree program suits master’s-prepared nurses aspiring to executive roles in healthcare, merging clinical expertise with vital business and leadership skills.

5. University of Michigan-Flint – Flint, MI

The University of Michigan-Flint offers a distinctive dual degree program for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), combining a DNAP with an MBA with a Health Care Management concentration. CRNAs can apply up to 12 specified credits toward both degrees, providing a comprehensive education in anesthesia practice and business administration.

Program Highlights:

– Dual Credit: Allows for 12 specified credits counting towards both the DNAP and MBA degrees.
– Curriculum: DNAP requires 92 credits, and the MBA requires 45 credits with a Health Care Management concentration.
– Course Format: Various formats, including online, on-campus, and NetPlus! sessions every six weeks.

6. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – Chattanooga, TN

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) offers a DNP program with an optional MBA track for those interested in nursing administration systems. With concentrations for post-master’s advanced practice nurses and BSN to DNP students, this program emphasizes clinical hours, online delivery, and additional coursework for MBA completion.

Program Highlights:

– Accreditation: The DNP program is accredited by CCNE.
– Curriculum: Post-master’s DNP requires a minimum of 36 semester credits, while BSN to DNP or non-advanced practice master’s requires a minimum of 57 credits.
– Clinical Hours: Both concentrations necessitate 1,000 clinical hours, including a clinical residency and a Translational Project.

7. Viterbo University – Lacrosse, WI

Viterbo University’s integrated MBA/DNP program is tailored for registered nurses seeking leadership roles in healthcare. The program focuses on providing critical business and management skills essential for successful healthcare leaders while allowing students to complete both degrees simultaneously.

Program Highlights:

– Duration: Completable in three to four years, with flexible options.
– Format: A blended format of online and face-to-face coursework.
– Tuition: Graduate tuition per credit hour plus a resource fee, with additional fees for certain nursing courses.
– Credits: Post-master’s DNP/MBA requires a minimum of 49 credits, while post-BSN DNP/MBA requires 62 credits.

8. Wilmington University – New Castle, DE

Wilmington University offers a flexible dual-degree program enabling candidates to attain a DNP and an MBA in Health Care Administration concurrently. Targeted at advanced practice registered nurses and nurse leaders, this program focuses on hands-on learning, specialized concentrations, and flexible online delivery.

Program Highlights:

– Hands-On Learning: Combines coursework, experiential engagement hours, and a DNP project.
– Specialized Concentrations: Choose between Advanced Practice or Leadership concentrations.
– Business Skills: Emphasizes executive skills, analytical techniques, and courses like Introduction to Data Analytics and Healthcare Economics.
– Flexible Delivery: Available 100% online, recognized for excellence in eLearning.
– Accreditation: Accredited by CCNE.
– Duration and Cost: Completion in 20 or 28 months with a cost of $2,088 per course.

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Dual DNP/MBA Prerequisites & Requirements

Enrolling in a Dual DNP/MBA program involves meeting specific prerequisites and requirements that demonstrate readiness for the demanding curriculum. These criteria are carefully designed to ensure students possess the foundational knowledge and skills essential for success in both clinical and business aspects.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites for a Dual DNP/MBA program typically include:

1. Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution.
2. Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure: Candidates must have a current and unrestricted RN license.
3. Work Experience: Some programs require a specified amount of clinical work experience as a registered nurse, often a minimum of one to two years.
4. Academic Performance: A minimum grade point average (GPA), typically around 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, is usually required for admission.
5. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT): While some programs may require standardized test scores, this requirement is increasingly being waived by many schools.
6. Prerequisite Courses: Applicants may need to complete specific prerequisite courses, especially if their undergraduate degree lacked certain business or advanced nursing coursework.

Requirements

Once admitted, completing a Dual DNP/MBA program generally involves:

1. Core Coursework: Fulfilling all required courses in both the DNP and MBA curricula.
2. Clinical Hours: Completing the required number of clinical hours for the DNP portion, often exceeding 1,000 hours.
3. Capstone Project or Dissertation: Many programs mandate a scholarly project demonstrating the integration of DNP and MBA competencies.
4. Internship/Residency: Some programs may include a business internship or residency, offering practical experience in healthcare administration.
5. Examinations: Passing any required comprehensive exams or evaluations assessing knowledge and competencies in nursing practice and business management.
6. Professional Standards: Adhering to ethical and professional standards expected of advanced practice nurses and business leaders.

Dual DNP/MBA Pros & Cons

Dual DNP/MBA programs offer a unique blend of clinical and business education, providing various opportunities for healthcare professionals. However, like any advanced education, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider.

DNP/MBA Pros

1. Enhanced Leadership Skills: Graduates gain a strong combination of clinical expertise and business acumen, preparing for leadership roles in healthcare.
2. Increased Marketability: A dual degree enhances competitiveness in the job market, offering a broad range of skills in high demand.
3. Higher Earning Potential: With advanced skills, DNP/MBA graduates often have higher earning potential compared to peers with a single degree.
4. Broader Career Opportunities: The combination allows for diverse career paths, including executive positions, consulting, policy development, and entrepreneurship in healthcare.
5. Impact on Healthcare Delivery: Graduates can implement changes improving patient care outcomes, operational efficiency, and overall healthcare delivery.

DNP/MBA Cons

1. Time Commitment: Dual degree programs are intensive and may take several years, challenging for those working or with significant commitments.
2. Financial Investment: Programs can be expensive, and the financial burden may be substantial without scholarships, grants, or employer support.
3. Workload Intensity: Balancing rigorous coursework can be stressful, leaving little time for personal life or other interests.
4. Limited Availability: Not all universities offer dual DNP/MBA programs, limiting options, especially if relocation is not feasible.
5. Risk of Overqualification: There’s a potential risk of being overqualified for certain positions, affecting job search if employers are concerned about salary expectations or fit for specific roles.

DNP/MBA Costs & Salary Expectations

When considering a Dual DNP/MBA program, thorough research on costs and salary expectations is crucial, evaluating financial situations and potential return on investment.

DNP/MBA Cost Considerations

1. Tuition Fees: Dual programs often have higher tuition due to increased credit requirements, with some institutions charging differential rates for MBA courses.
2. Additional Fees: Costs for books, supplies, technology, and clinical training specific to the DNP program may apply.
3. Living Expenses: On-campus students budget for room and board, while all students consider transportation costs for commuting.
4. Opportunity Costs: Engaging in a dual degree program can result in lost income if it requires reducing work hours or taking a leave of absence.
5. Financial Aid: Costs can be mitigated through scholarships, grants, employer assistance programs, and student loans, though loans add to long-term financial burdens.
6. Return on Investment: The potential for higher earnings and career advancement should be weighed against upfront and ongoing program costs.

Dual DNP/MBA Salary Anticipations

Attaining a dual DNP/MBA qualification can lead to a myriad of opportunities in nursing and administration, influencing salary expectations. Various factors, including geographical location, years of professional experience, the employing institution, and more, contribute to shaping the compensation landscape.

However, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for medical and health services managers is reported to be $104,830. Additionally, ZipRecruiter provides insights into the average annual salaries for Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs) at $135,579 and nurse directors at $108,675.

While these figures offer a directional perspective, it is imperative to engage in region-specific research within your chosen profession. This approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of salary expectations and aids in evaluating the overall worthiness of pursuing a dual DNP/MBA for your career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the typical credit hour requirements for an online Dual DNP/MBA program?

A: Dual DNP/MBA programs usually necessitate completion of 60 to 90 credit hours, contingent upon the educational institution and the specific requisites of each degree. This encompasses coursework spanning both nursing and business management, encompassing electives or specialized areas such as informatics, population health, or epidemiology.

Q: Can I complete a Dual DNP/MBA program on a part-time basis?

A: Many educational institutions provide the flexibility of undertaking online dual DNP/MBA programs on a part-time basis. This accommodating structure enables working professionals to balance their academic pursuits with concurrent clinical practice or other commitments. It is noteworthy, however, that part-time study might prolong the overall duration of the program compared to full-time enrollment.

Q: How important is accreditation for a Dual DNP/MBA program?

A: Accreditation holds paramount importance as it guarantees that the program adheres to rigorous standards of quality. Prospective students are advised to seek programs where both the DNP and MBA components hold accreditation from reputable bodies. This may include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for DNP and AACSB or ACBSP for the school of business.

Q: What kind of executive leadership skills can I expect to gain from a Dual DNP/MBA program?

A: A dual DNP/MBA program is meticulously designed to impart executive leadership skills, encompassing strategic management, marketing proficiency, and the capability to leverage information systems for enhancing healthcare delivery. These acquired skills position graduates for high-level administrative roles, enabling them to influence policy decisions and spearhead organizational change.

Q: What are the admission requirements for an online Dual DNP/MBA program?

A: Admission prerequisites typically encompass a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited institution, an active Registered Nurse (RN) license, a minimum GPA (usually around 3.0), and relevant work experience. While some programs may necessitate Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores, this requirement is less prevalent. Additionally, completion of specific prerequisite courses related to business or advanced nursing might be obligatory.

Q: How do practicum hours work in an online Dual DNP/MBA program?

A: Online dual DNP/MBA programs generally mandate the completion of a specified number of practicum hours within a clinical setting. This structure enables students to apply their DNP knowledge in a real-world environment. The practicum hours constitute a crucial component of the DNP project, which plays a pivotal role in the clinical training aspect of these programs. Educational institutions often provide assistance in arranging local practicum sites for online students, ensuring a seamless integration of theoretical knowledge with practical experience.