If you’re looking to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in California, you have a number of fantastic options available to you, from in-person and online to hybrid programs. Still, the financial commitment to this degree can be daunting. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to funding your education as an aspiring DNP in California, which touches on things like:
- Scholarships: institutional, national, state-based, and private
- What’s the difference between financial aid and scholarships?
- Work-study programs
- Federal and state grants, including the Pell Grant and FSEOG
- Loans: state, federal, and private
We’ll also touch on terms like “per-unit pricing” and the FAFSA form, closing with some helpful additional tips for paying for a degree that really pays off.
How Much Does A DNP Program in California Typically Cost?
The cost of a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in California can vary significantly depending on the institution and the specific program format (in-person, online, or hybrid).
On average, the tuition for a DNP program in California as of 2024 ranges from $40,000 to $100,000.
What Is “Per-Unit” Pricing?
“Per unit” pricing means the cost of one credit hour or unit of academic coursework at a
college or university. Each course in a program is typically assigned a certain number of credit hours or units, which reflect the amount of time spent in class and the workload expected from the student.
For one example, the DNP program at Azusa Pacific University charges $1,160 per unit and a course is worth 3 units. So, the total cost of that course would be calculated as:
$1,160 x 3 = $3,480
The total number of units required to complete the program. For instance, if a DNP program requires 40 units to graduate and the cost per unit is $1,160, the total tuition cost would be $46,400.
Public universities tend to have lower tuition costs compared to private institutions. For instance, the California State University system’s DNP programs, such as those offered at Fullerton and Fresno, are typically less expensive, with tuition fees averaging around $30,000 to $40,000 for the entire program.
Scholarships: An Overview
Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment.
For more on loans, read the below sections, “Student Loans: The Pros and Cons of Federal Loans,” “Alternatives to Federal Loans: State and Private,” and “Loans: In Sum.”
Scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific eligibility criteria. They can come from a variety of sources, including universities, professional organizations, private foundations, and government agencies.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: What’s the Difference?
Financial aid is a broad term encompassing various types of funding that can help students cover the expenses of their education. This can include grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships. Financial aid usually requires filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or other similar forms. Scholarships may have separate application processes and deadlines, often requiring essays, recommendation letters, and proof of eligibility.
Many scholarships require students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their financial need, particularly scholarships that are awarded based on financial need (as opposed to, say, a strictly merit-based scholarship). If a student is applying for an institutional scholarship that is not strictly need-based, many colleges and universities still require the FAFSA, as it helps the institutions allocate resources accordingly.
Additionally, some students may choose to apply for private scholarships, which are offered by organizations, foundations, and corporations. These may or may not require the FAFSA, and are explored in more detail below. Some private scholarships are purely merit-based or based on other criteria such as community service, leadership, or specific talents and do not consider financial need, and in that case, the FAFSA may not be necessary.
Can I Get Funding for a BSN to DNP Program?
The short answer: yes! And that’s not all.
In fact, university scholarships for DNP students can be available to both students who are already enrolled in DNP programs and those who are incoming students (BSN or RN students) transitioning into a DNP program. The eligibility criteria for these scholarships vary depending on the specific scholarship and institution.
For instance, many universities offer scholarships specifically for students who have already been admitted to their DNP programs. These scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, and financial need. For one example, the University of San Francisco offers scholarships to its DNP students based on their academic performance and commitment to nursing practice.
In contrast, some scholarships are available to students who are transitioning from a BSN or RN to a DNP program. These scholarships aim to support students in their journey from undergraduate or initial nursing licensure to advanced practice nursing.
National Scholarships: A Few Strong Options
One strong option for aspiring DNP students can be found through the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). AACN offers various scholarships, such as the Geraldine “Polly” Bednash Scholarship and the AfterCollege/AACN Scholarship Fund, which support students enrolled in AACN member institutions. These scholarships aim to assist nursing students across the country, including those in DNP programs. The AACN website is also a helpful resource, offering a comprehensive list of scholarships available to nursing students, including DNPs.
Some other noteworthy options include:
- The National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship Program: covers full tuition and a monthly stipend, as well as other educational costs for students committed to working in underserved areas upon graduation.
- The Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: recognizes healthcare students, including nursing students, for their academic excellence and leadership in the field, offering financial support to cover tuition and other educational expenses.
- The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program: comprehensive financial support in exchange for a service commitment in critical shortage facilities after graduation.
- The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP): provides grants and scholarships specifically designed for nurse practitioners, including those pursuing DNP degrees.
- The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA): provides scholarships to members pursuing higher education in nursing. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and community service, aiming to support the educational advancement of Black nurses and promote diversity within the nursing profession.
California-Specific Scholarships for DNP Programs
As you pursue scholarship options for completing a DNP degree in California, it’s also helpful to consider some local options at both the university and private level. These include:
- California State University System Scholarships: The California State University (CSU) system offers numerous scholarships to nursing students. Each CSU campus – and there are 23 in total – has its own scholarship programs. Students are encouraged to explore options at their respective campuses. For instance, the CSU Fullerton School of Nursing provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate nursing students.
- University of California System Scholarships: Similarly, the University of California (UC) system offers a variety of scholarships for nursing students. UC San Francisco, known for its outstanding nursing programs, has several scholarships specifically for DNP students, such as the UCSF School of Nursing Alumni Association Scholarship.
Private organizations also offer scholarships to nursing students in California. Some notable examples include the California Nurses Foundation Scholarship and the Kaiser Permanente Health Care Career Scholarship Program.
Work-Study Programs
A work-study program is a federally funded program in the United States that provides part-time employment opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for education expenses. These jobs are typically on-campus or with approved off-campus employers, such as nonprofit organizations or public agencies, and are designed to be flexible around the student’s academic schedule. The work-study program aims to promote community service and work related to the student’s field of study, thereby offering practical experience alongside financial support. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for work-study funds. (For more on the FAFSA, see the above section, “Financial Aid and Scholarships: What’s the Difference?”.)
Grants
Grants, like scholarships, do not require repayment and are often based on financial need or specific project proposals. If you’re seeking an advanced degree and are interested in exploring all of your options for financial aid, grants can also be of use.
You can apply for a grant to cover university tuition even if you are already receiving other types of financial aid such as scholarships or loans. In fact, financial aid packages typically combine various sources of funding to meet a student’s financial needs comprehensively.
One strong option is a Pell Grant, a form of federal financial aid provided by the U.S. Department of Education to undergraduate students who demonstrate significant financial need. Eligibility for a Pell Grant is determined by the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which assesses factors such as the student’s expected family contribution, cost of attendance at their chosen institution, and enrollment status. The primary aim of the Pell Grant program is to make college more accessible and affordable, thereby promoting educational opportunities for students who might otherwise be unable to afford it. Pell Grants are need-based and do not require repayment, making them an attractive option for students with substantial financial need.
Another valuable federal grant option is the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). This grant is designed for students with exceptional financial need and is typically awarded to those who qualify for the maximum Pell Grant. Unlike Pell Grants, which are funded directly by the federal government, FSEOG funds are distributed by the financial aid offices of participating schools. The award amounts can vary significantly, ranging from $100 to $4,000 per year, depending on the student’s need, the availability of funds, and other forms of financial aid the student is receiving. Both Pell Grants and FSEOGs are integral to helping students with the greatest financial need access higher education without the burden of repayment.
Some state grants are also available to prospective university and college students in California, such as Cal Grants and Health Professions Education Foundation (HPEF) Grants.
Loans
While scholarships and grants are ideal because they do not need to be repaid, loans can also be a necessary part of funding your education.
Loans must be repaid with interest, so it’s important to understand the terms and borrow responsibly.
Federal Student Loans: The Pros and Cons
Federal student loans typically offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared to private loans. These can come in a few forms:
- Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Available to graduate students, these loans accrue interest while you’re in school.
- Direct PLUS Loans: These loans are available to graduate or professional students and parents of dependent undergraduate students. They require a credit check.
Federal student loans generally offer lower interest rates compared to private loans, as well as flexible repayment options, including income-driven repayment plans that cap monthly payments based on your income and family size.
Federal loans are also eligible for loan forgiveness programs, such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which forgives the remaining balance after 120 qualifying payments while working in public service. “Public service” employers include federal, state, local, or tribal government organizations, as well as non-profit organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Employment with private, for-profit companies does not qualify for the PSLF program.
These loans come with a few downsides. For one, federal loans come with borrowing limits, meaning that you may not be able to cover the full cost of your education with this funding. These loans also come with origination fees: charges that the government deducts from the loan amount before the money is disbursed to the student.
Think of it as a processing fee for setting up the loan. For example, if you take out a loan for $1,000 and the origination fee is 1%, the government will deduct $10, so you’ll actually receive $990. However, you will still need to repay the full $1,000, plus any interest, over time.
Alternatives to Federal Loans: State and Private
In California, nursing students also have access to various state loan programs designed to help them finance their education. One prominent option is the Cal Grant program, which provides financial aid to students pursuing undergraduate and vocational education, including those in nursing programs. Eligibility for Cal Grants is based on financial need, academic achievement, and other criteria. Cal Grant awards do not need to be repaid, making them a valuable resource for students.
Some states, including California, offer student loans with competitive interest rates that can be lower than those of private lenders. For example, the California Dream Loan Program provides loans to undocumented students at rates comparable to federal loans. However, state loans may not offer the same range of flexible repayment plans as federal loans, making them less adaptable to changes in your financial situation.
Private loans from banks or other financial institutions are another option. These can come with higher borrowing limits than federal loans, which can be helpful if you need to cover a higher sum of money that would exceed a federal loan borrowing cap. You also might be able to secure a lower interest rate and customized loan terms depending on your credit score and market conditions. However, private loans often have higher interest rates, especially for borrowers with less-than-excellent credit. Variable rates can also increase over time, leading to higher overall costs.
Unlike federal and state loans, private loans generally do not have flexible repayment options like forgiveness programs or income-driven repayment plans. These types of loans can also come with more risk: if you’re applying for a private loan and have low credit, you may need a cosigner to qualify for the loan, adding risk to both parties.
Loans: In Sum
For most students, federal loans are likely your best bet because of their lower interest rates, flexible repayment options, and eligibility for forgiveness programs. If you still need some extra help beyond federal loan limits, state loans can provide competitive rates and state-specific benefits.
Private loans should be considered a last resort, particularly if you do not have a strong credit history.
Additional Tips for Financing Your DNP Education
Apply Early
Many scholarships, grants, and loan programs have deadlines well in advance of the academic year. Applying early increases your chances of receiving funding.
Utilize Financial Aid Offices
Your university’s financial aid office is a valuable resource. They can provide information on available funding sources and help you navigate the application process.
Explore Employer Assistance Programs
If you’re currently employed in healthcare, check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement or assistance programs. Many healthcare organizations provide financial support to employees pursuing advanced degrees.
Consider Loan Forgiveness Programs
Certain loan forgiveness programs, such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, can forgive the remaining balance on your federal student loans after you’ve made a certain number of payments while working in a qualifying public service job.
Budget Wisely
Careful budgeting can help you manage your expenses and reduce the amount you need to borrow. Consider all costs, including tuition, books, living expenses, and other fees, and look for ways to save.
Financing your DNP education in California can be a bit like putting together a puzzle, but with the right pieces, it can all fit together smoothly. By tapping into all available resources and thinking ahead, you can cover your tuition and other expenses without ending up with a mountain of debt.
Make sure to use the tools and resources offered by your school, professional organizations, and state programs to get the most out of your funding opportunities. This way, you can focus more on your studies and less on stressing about finances, paving the way for a successful nursing career.