The University of Tulsa’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program advanced in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report graduate rankings and remains the top-rated DNP program in the state.
The program rose from 104 to 98, according to the new U.S. News & World Report rankings released Tuesday.
“This recognition highlights the impact of our students, faculty and clinical partnerships in preparing nurses to lead in today’s demanding health care environment,” said Oxley College of Health Sciences Dean Ron Walker.
The U.S. News rankings are based on peer assessments from academic leaders across the country and are used to evaluate overall program quality and reputation.
At UTulsa, the DNP prepares advanced practice nurses to meet evolving health care needs through clinical expertise and applied research. The college offers multiple pathways to the degree, including family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care, nurse anesthesia and a post-master’s completion track.
The post-master’s pathway allows experienced clinicians to build on prior training while focusing on translational research. Students complete core coursework in research and theory, along with project-based learning that emphasizes implementation in clinical settings. As part of the program, students complete 500 clinical hours tied directly to their DNP project, aligning with national standards established by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.
Hands-on training remains central to the student experience. Learners engage in simulation-based education and complete clinical placements across a broad network of health care sites, applying classroom knowledge to patient care and system-level challenges.
Student outcomes continue to support the program’s performance. Across Oxley College, graduates achieve pass rates above national benchmarks, with many programs reporting 100% certification success. Students also contribute significant clinical experience, completing more than 60,000 hours of care annually.
Learn more about what makes UTulsa the best choice for nursing education at utulsa.edu/nursing