Whats the difference b/w DNP and Ph.D?

Specialties Doctoral

Published

Just a question, i was wondering what the difference is between DNP and an rn with a Ph.D. I know its a little silly, but it's confussing. I'm guessing that DNP is a nurse practitioner with a doctoral degree, so what kind of a nurse has a Ph.D?

Thanks :)

allnurses Guide

ghillbert, MSN, NP

3,796 Posts

Specializes in CTICU.

There's a lot of info about the difference on this site.

DNP is a clinical/practice doctorate. PhD is a research doctorate.

UVA Grad Nursing

1,068 Posts

There are many good threads here about the DNP.

I've also put a simple grid on my own website with the differences between the PHD and DNP programs at the University of Virginia (focus, courses, expectations, job outlooks, etc).

http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/programs/phddnpcompare/

Thanks!!

The website you put up really clarified the differences well! Thank you :)

HeartsOpenWide, RN

1 Article; 2,889 Posts

Specializes in Ante-Intra-Postpartum, Post Gyne.

DNP is more clinical based while PhD is more research based.

+ Add a Comment