The path to obtaining a doctor of nursing practice degree typically starts with getting a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN), followed by a master of science in nursing (MSN) and then a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree. That’s three degree programs that can take many years to complete.
What if there is a faster way to reach a DNP degree? You can with an accelerated BSN to DNP program.
A bachelor of science in nursing to doctor of nursing practice (BSN to DNP) program grants a doctoral degree in nursing practice (DNP) to candidates who already have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. With a BSN, candidates can simply enroll in a DNP program as long as they fulfill the prerequisites and have the required clinical experience. DNP is a terminal degree and the highest level of education available in the field of nursing. DNP differs from other terminal degrees such as the Ph.D., doctor of nursing science (DNSc) and nurse doctorate. DNP delivers practice-based training, while these other degrees focus on research skills and scholarly inquiry.
The BSN-DNP program will not grant a master’s degree (MSN). However, it is important to note that both MSN and DNP are graduate nursing degrees and both prepare registered nurses to gain skills, knowledge and opportunities in clinical nursing, administration, research or nursing education. DNP programs include additional training in organizational competencies such as leadership, healthcare policy, interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based practice and health information systems. MSN is more of an entry-level educational requirement, but DNP is at the doctoral level. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has endorsed shifting the minimum education level for nursing practice from an MSN to a DNP. Hence, more nurses are now pursuing DNPS making the doctorate-level of education necessary if nurses want to continue competing in the job market.
Most full-time BSN to DNP programs take approximately 3-4 years to complete. A part-time program can take around 4-6 years. Students who already have an MSN can complete their DNP in 18 months to 2 years. Candidates can also take an online BSN to DNP program and fast-track their studies. An accelerated online BSN to DNP program can be completed in 40 months. Due to the increase in demand for DNPs, the number of DNP programs has also increased. Nursing schools in all 50 states now offer DNPs. Online DNP programs are also becoming more popular, and several options are now available. The best way to pick a program is to identify one that aligns with your career goals and schedule.
A BSN to DNP program has a comprehensive curriculum that covers nursing theory, practice, and research methods. Candidates are required to complete core nursing courses along with specialty courses based on the niche they choose. This is one of the key strengths of a BSN to DNP program as they offer specializations in a specific niche. Some of the specialties that are offered include Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Pediatric (Primary Care) Nurse Practitioner (PNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
A DNP degree benefits your nursing career. First, it enables you to acquire more comprehensive knowledge in diverse areas of nursing, including the core specialty of nursing, healthcare policy, and healthcare and organizational management. Hence, nurses with a DNP degree are not limited to providing patient care but can also position themselves for leadership roles in the field of nursing. This opens up significant opportunities for executive and managerial-level jobs. In addition, nurses with a DNP can influence healthcare policy and advocate for measures that will help improve the quality of care. Nurses with a DNP degree are better positioned to run a healthcare facility, clinic or department. They would have more dynamic skills encompassing clinical and managerial nursing aspects. Finally, the BSN to DNP program offers you the opportunity to narrow your focus and concentrate on a specific niche, whether it is primary care, family care, mental health or pediatric care.
Nurses with a DNP are in a better position to apply evidence-based research to improve the quality of care, advocate for patient safety, lead projects that have the potential to define the future of nursing within a healthcare organization, be better prepared for an executive or policy setting role and have the skills and knowledge to educate other nursing professionals.
A DNP degree also paves the way for nurses to earn a higher salary. Since the curriculum enhances clinical and managerial skills, nurses can get higher-level positions and earn more. According to PayScale.com, nurses with a DNP earn approximately $8000 more per year compared to those with an MSN. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job openings for nurses are likely to increase by 52% between 2020 and 2030. A DNP can enhance your chances of acquiring positions that are open to advanced nursing professionals.
