Doctoral Programs

Recognized worldwide for excellence in research, education, practice, and policy, Penn Nursing’s DNP and PhD programs prepare nurses to be leaders in innovative-practice and research-intensive environments.

Penn Nursing Doctoral Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

DNP in Systems Leadership (DNP-SL)
DNP in Executive Leadership (DNP-EL)
DNP Nurse Anesthesia (DNP-NA)

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

PhD Dual Degrees

All dual degree programs require students to submit separate applications to (and be accepted by) both programs.

Upcoming Events

September 23 | 12:00 PM EDT

DNP Programs Virtual Information Session

October 18 | 9:00 AM EDT

Fall 2025 Graduate Open House

November 19 | 7:00 PM EST

DNP Programs Virtual Information Session

October 9 | 10:00 AM EDT

DNP Programs Virtual Information Session

October 31 | 10:00 AM EDT

PhD Virtual Open House

See All Events

Frequently Asked Questions

Doctoral programs in the nursing profession primarily fall into two types: research-focused and practice- focused. Most research-focused programs grant the Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) and are designed to prepare nurse scientists and scholars to conduct generalizable research using rigorous statistical methods. Practice-focused doctoral programs yield the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (DNP) and are designed to prepare experts in specialized advanced nursing practice. They focus heavily on evidence-based practice that reflects the application of credible research findings. The two types of doctoral programs differ in their goals but are complementary in nature.

The Post-Master’s DNP (DNP-PM) expands the skills of master’s-prepared nurses to translate evidence in order to improve clinical practice and the health outcomes of specific populations. The DNP in Executive Leadership (DNP-EL) provides master’s-prepared nurses who already have leadership experience with the executive-level skills to lead systems and organizational change. Please refer to each program’s website for more information.