When selecting advanced degrees in nursing, you will notice that you have several alternatives, like a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Ph.D. in nursing. The issue then arises, which option is preferable? Ultimately, this is determined by one’s future interests and job objectives. To put it in simple terms: The DNP is an advanced nursing practice degree with a clinical emphasis, whereas the PH.D. in nursing is a research and academic degree.
DNP
The Doctor of Nursing Practice is a doctoral degree pursued by an experienced nurse practitioner who wants to develop in their clinical practice and, sometimes, assumes leadership. However, experience is no longer required, as many nurse practitioner programs incorporate the DNP into their curriculum, making them RN-DNP programs. Previously, earning a Master of Science in nursing was sufficient for advancement. There is a bigger chance that you will be interviewing for prospective advances with someone with a DNP. Furthermore, most nurse practitioner programs need faculty to have an advanced degree (DNP or PH.D.) to teach. Again, the DNP emphasizes nursing practice. Curriculums are designed to develop nursing leaders with the skills and tools necessary to eventually use research evidence in clinical practice to enhance patient outcomes. It also aims to improve understanding of the nursing practice. Finally, these skills will enable DNP-prepared nurses to lead interdisciplinary teams, improve patient care, and assess outcomes to potentially modify healthcare standards. DNP programs frequently demand clinical hours due to the clinical practice component. In most PH.D. programs, this is not necessary.
PH.D.
Most Ph.D. in nursing schools place a strong emphasis on research. This program aims to train nursing scientists to create new nursing knowledge and advance the science of how we accomplish our work. Graduates frequently lead research teams and participate in clinical trials. PH.D. holders are also commonly found in academic contexts. They teach and frequently assist in designing, developing, and researching educational programs. As a result, many Ph.D. programs often demand mentored teaching experience. This is not needed in a DNP program. However, teaching mentorships are frequently less than the clinical hours required in the DNP program.
Other Distinctions
A dissertation is frequently required as part of a PH.D. program. This official presentation, usually in front of professors, requires dissemination and defense of the study data. DNP programs do not require this, but they do need a capstone project typically focused on enhancing clinical practice. A DNP program can last 1-3 years, whereas a Ph.D. program can last up to 4-5 years. Again, timelines may vary because schedules are beginning to integrate these additional degrees into their nurse practitioner programs.
You have an option.
The decision to pursue the DNP or PH.D. program is a personal one. Finally, consider your future in nursing and where you want to be in 5-10 years. The DNP may be a preferable alternative for those who desire to continue working as a physician, maybe in a leadership role. The Ph.D. may be preferable for those who want to work primarily in research, education, and academia. In any case, be aware that there are numerous programs to pick from and extensive support from each field of specialization.
