If you’ve been working as a nurse for a number of years and want to take your career to the next level, studying for a DNP degree might be the perfect option. Read on to find out more about the program, what the study experience is like, the benefits you could gain, and how to apply.
What is a DNP?
DNP stands for doctor of nursing practice, and it’s a doctoral-level degree – the highest level of education available in clinical nursing. The program is specifically designed for ambitious nurses who wish to progress to the top tier of jobs in their field. You can choose to take the course on either a full-time or part-time basis, meaning it will take between one and six years to complete depending on your previous qualifications and experience. There are also online DNP programs to consider that can add even more flexibility to obtaining your degree.
Who is eligible to study for a DNP?
There are a few pathways you can follow to achieve your DNP degree, with the eligibility requirements differing slightly depending on which you choose. Traditionally you would need to already hold a master of science in nursing (MSN); however, these days, it’s possible to find BSN to DNP programs that you can enroll on with just a bachelor of science in nursing. There are also a few courses aimed at nurses who don’t have a BSN and students who have a bachelor’s degree in a field outside of nursing. Individual colleges all have their own entry requirements, so be sure to check each institution carefully before applying.
How is a DNP different from a PhD?
The DNP and PhD are both doctoral-level degrees; however, they differ in their focus. The right choice for you will therefore depend on your personal career goals:
- The DNP concentrates on clinical nursing and is well suited to those who wish to work in advanced roles in direct patient care. It also has options for those interested in certain indirect patient care roles, such as executive nurse leadership.
- The PhD concentrates on research and academia and is well suited to those who wish to work in these areas. Unlike the DNP, there is no requirement to complete any clinical hours. At the end of the course, you will write a lengthy thesis based on original research that you defend in an oral examination.
What areas can I specialize in on a DNP?
Although we’ve been talking about the DNP as if it’s one program, the truth is that there are many different specialist courses you can enroll on. As such, you have the chance to find a program that closely matches your interests and the sort of career you want to have after graduating. For instance, you could take a course that focuses on direct patient care, such as online acute care nurse practitioner programs, midwifery, geriatrics, or psychiatric care. Alternatively, you could choose a concentration such as nursing informatics, health policy, or management and move into an indirect patient care role after college.
What is the DNP study experience like?
Your DNP study program will be divided into three main areas:
- Taught academic modules
- Clinical placements
- An independent research project
The specific modules you take will depend on both the college you study with and the focus of your program. There is a core curriculum that remains similar no matter which course you choose, while the specialist elective modules can vary considerably. That’s why it’s important to check exactly what topics are on offer when choosing where to apply. The sort of titles you can expect to study include:
- Foundations and Essentials of Doctoral Study in Nursing
- Theoretical and Scientific Foundations of Nursing
- Research for Evidence-Based Practice
- Doctoral Nursing Global Perspectives
- Healthcare Finance
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning
- Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology
- Epidemiology and Population Health
- Primary Care Approaches for Children
- Advanced Pediatric Nursing
- Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan
- Advanced Nursing in Reproductive Healthcare
- Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults
- Psychopathology
- Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
- Leading Healthcare Organizations
- Advanced Pathophysiology
In terms of clinical placements, you will normally be required to complete a minimum of 1,000 hours in a relevant healthcare setting. You will have the opportunity to select locations that align with your personal passions and aspirations, so choose wisely. These placements are wonderful chances to put what you’ve learned into practice, network with other professionals, and gain valuable feedback and advice. Make the most of your placements by asking insightful questions, listening carefully, observing closely, and saying yes to every opportunity you’re offered.
Your DNP project will be completed toward the end of your course. It will be on a topic of your choice and involves investigating a real clinical or administrative problem in the field of nursing. You’ll bring together all the knowledge and skills you’ve gained, immerse yourself in the issue, and potentially generate real improvements to patient care with your results. That’s why so many students find it the most rewarding part of the program.
What are the benefits of having a DNP?
Aside from the obvious boost to your nursing knowledge and clinical skills, studying for a DNP can have many benefits. Notably, it qualifies you for higher-level job roles that you might not otherwise be eligible for and which in turn offer larger salaries. As such, a DNP can bring you greater employability, job security, and financial stability. You’ll also enjoy more autonomy and responsibility at work, which increases job satisfaction even further.
In addition, the process of studying for a DNP will help you to boost a number of transferable skills that will be useful regardless of the career you progress to. These include communication, analytical thinking, decision making, problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, organization, time management, presentation, and much more.
How do I apply for a DNP?
The first step is to start researching DNP programs. Find a couple that offer modules in the specific areas of nursing that interest you the most, and be sure you meet the eligibility criteria before putting together your application. You’ll normally need to submit an application form, resume, academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement about why you want to enroll. You should also begin to look into funding options because scholarship application deadlines are often earlier than course application deadlines. Focus on letting your passion for nursing shine through, and you’re sure to impress the panel!
