Montclair State University has introduced its first fully online doctoral program, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), aimed at registered nurses seeking advanced clinical leadership roles.
The DNP program is structured to prepare working RNs for direct care as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), focusing on training family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. Those who are already master’s-prepared Certified Nurse Practitioners can enter the program without a specific concentration.
Students have flexible options for completing the program: it can be finished in two years (six semesters), three years (eight semesters), or five years (14 semesters) depending on their prior education and whether they choose full-time or part-time study.
“Launching our new DNP program is a significant step forward in the evolution of the School of Nursing,” said Dean Janice Smolowitz. “Our experienced faculty look forward to working with nurses who seek to advance their clinical practice by coordinating and managing care to address the needs of individuals, families, and communities across settings and over time. This program will give practicing nurses the tools they need for leadership as the next generation enters the field.”
Courses are delivered entirely online and asynchronously, allowing flexibility for working professionals. However, students must also complete in-person clinical hours and participate in three on-campus immersion experiences to ensure practical skills development.
Applications for Montclair State University’s online DNP are now open for both Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 admission cycles, with rolling admissions.
“We know the demand for healthcare practitioners in New Jersey is growing, and the need for doctorate-prepared Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is especially high,” said Marc Austin, Vice Provost and Managing Director for Montclair Unbound. “These new degrees have a ‘healthcare multiplier’ effect for the state. We are very pleased to offer them fully online so working professionals can advance their knowledge and their careers without disrupting their already busy lives.”
