What is dnp

Though a DNP degree is technically on a doctorate level, nurse practitioners with DNPs do not have the same authority as a physician or other kinds of medical doctors. The Doctor of Nursing Practice designates that a nurse has reached the pinnacle of education. Many nurses with DNP degrees end up in administrative or other leadership positions within the healthcare sector.

Yet, others use their degree to pursue the various nurse practitioner roles. The Doctor of Nursing Practice offers nurses a chance to have a competitive advantage over nurses with NPs applying for the same roles. In the future, nurse practitioners may have to receive their DNP to begin practicing. Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates have a variety of jobs they can pursue. The two most common settings in which they work include:.

The Doctor of Nursing practice provides nurses with an opportunity to use their skills to help influence care programs and create nursing initiatives. Additionally, they can help bolster the executive nursing leadership roles. DNPs who choose to become advanced practice registered nurses APRN have an opportunity to work directly with patients by managing, evaluating, and assessing treatment and care. Additionally, they may have to receive an advanced specialty certification. In other words, they both require a graduate degree.

Additionally, these two positions share a lot of the same job opportunities. DNP programs with an advanced practice specialization might include additional coursework in the following clinical areas:. There are several specializations available at the doctoral level in nursing, some of which may qualify graduates for professional certification in that field.

DNP programs are offered in traditional campus-based formats, as well as online and in hybrid formats that combine distance learning and on-campus classroom instruction. There are also a variety of enrollment options for DNP programs. Many programs offer full-time enrollment for students who are able to take three or more courses per semester, as well as part-time options for students who have work or other commitments outside of school.

Admission criteria vary by program, but a universal requirement is a valid and unencumbered state-issued RN license. Applicants are typically required to submit undergraduate and graduate degree transcripts, an updated CV, a personal goals statement, and letters of recommendation.

Students enrolled in the DNP program can expect to take advanced courses designed to build upon their previous education and experience. These are high-level courses that can prepare students for positions after graduation. Students also participate in scholarly projects. Projects allow students to pursue specific educational goals and nursing specializations while also participating in community health care.

These projects will further prepare students to take part in the types of activities that they may expect to see when they accept high-level positions after graduation. There are many reasons why a nurse may want to pursue a more advanced nursing degree. The health care environment is changing, and the demand for more advanced knowledge is increasing.

Health care is becoming more complex, and aging patients need more advanced health care options. Providers must have the advanced education needed to treat patients with more complex disease histories.

Nurses who also have clinical experience may want to teach new nurses who are just starting out in the health care field. The DNP program provides a path to career advancement in health care. Practicing nurses might strive to become administrators and take a stronger leadership role in their current health care organization. The online DNP program might be an option for nurses who want to explore opportunities in health care leadership, nursing education, and advanced patient treatment and care.

The demand for nurses continues to increase, and the need for professionals with doctorates in the nursing field will only grow. Place yourself on the cutting edge of nursing practice by earning your online DNP degree from Regis College. Wherever you are in your career and wherever you want to be, look to Regis for a direct path, no matter your education level.