DNP trouble in sight? FNP graduation Spring 2015...

Specialties Doctoral

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I'm beginning my FNP program in May (yay!), and I am projected to finish my last semester in Spring 2015. I have also been thinking about the future DNP requirements.

I know that having DNP is not required by CCNE at this point, but I can't find any conclusive documentation on (a) when it will likely be required, and (b) what my future will look like as a FNP. I know there is always the option of going back for a DNP at some point in my future, but how soon will that be required? If I finish my FNP in Spring 2015, will I need to finish my DNP prior to sitting for boards? Or will there be time to practice as a FNP prior to needing the DNP?

Since getting accepted to the program, my head has been spinning, and I just don't want to make the wrong decision. I feel like there has to be some sort of concrete documentation for the plans of DNP requirements. I just don't want my time spent on a FNP to be wasted... Any insight is greatly appreciated. Thanks for taking the time to read my post. :)

Specializes in Critical Care.

dont worry. you wont have a problem sitting for your fnp exam, and employers will most likely not care if you have just the msn. it will take a while for the dnp to become a requirement.

Specializes in ER.

I am under the impression that as long as you graduate before 2015, with an MSN, you will be grandfathered and not have to get the DNP. I believe that so far, the only APN specialty requiring a DNP is anesthesia . Perhaps I am wrong? Please let me know!!

Specializes in Critical Care.

2015 is the recommended year for NP's and 2025 the year for CRNA's recommended for a doctorate as the entry to practice (i.e. DNP or DNAP). While the nursing organizations have said this... it is now up to state legislatures to decide when to mandate the change. I doubt states will make the change in 2015... well at least most of them.

Specializes in PICU.

When I started my PNP program in 2008, all the talk was of 2012 when the DNP would be required. I wouldn't worry if I were you. I think it will be a very long time before this comes to pass, IMHO. GL!

When I started my PNP program in 2008, all the talk was of 2012 when the DNP would be required. I wouldn't worry if I were you. I think it will be a very long time before this comes to pass, IMHO. GL!

It really depends on your institution, at UMDNJ for example, new students interested in pursuing a psych np will only have the option of getting a DNP. They have eliminated the MSN for psych.

Specializes in Family Practice, Urgent Care, Cardiac Ca.

From what I understand, the CCNE is PROPOSING the DNP be the entry level degree by 2015, but there is yet to be any real threats of enforcement from state or licensing agencies. At this point, yes, some schools are pulling there APN MSN programs and transitioning to DNPs, but MSN ANPs will have ground for a while yet...

Specializes in family nurse practitioner.

If you are in an MSN program they can not change the requires in the middle of your program or at the end. What will happen is there will not be MSN programs available once a DNP becomes the requirement.

I am also having the same conflicting thoughts. I have been accepted into Olivet Nazarene University. I'm really concerned about the school and having only my MSN. Will it stop me from getting a job??? I believe the program is also done by 2015. Any thoughts???

Specializes in Child/Adolescent Mental Health.

UMDNJ is updating their psych to Family. It's not eliminated.

Specializes in Reproductive & Public Health.

My specialty (nurse midwifery) has come out against the DNP as an entry to practice, so I am very curious to see how this plays out in the next 10 years. (disclaimer- I am a RN/CPM and not yet a CNM. but I will be in a few years!)

UMDNJ is updating their psych to Family. It's not eliminated.

I am currently a student there and was informed by my track coordinator that current students had to make the decision to graduate by next August with the Adult psych or take additional classes to complete the family psych. This choice was only being offered to current students as we were informed that going forward the program would only be offered as DNP with a family focus. Rutgers has also decided to only offer DNP or post-MSN starting in the fall.

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