DNP and then Law school?

Nurses Career Support

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Im currently a entry level BSN nursing student at a local university program. As of late I've been seeing a lot of post BSN to DNP programs pop up. I had already decided on going to Law school after finishing up Nursing school to pursue my dream of becoming a Nurse Attorney, but after seeing the minimal requirements set forth by some of these programs im debating on whether or not I should get my DNP. Im 19 years old (will be 22 by the time I finish nursing school), and like to have a plan for the future.

any help or insight as to what I should do would be greatly appreciated ☺ thanks in advance!

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For many nursing students or new grads in nursing, it's hard for them to imagine what their careers might be like in a few years. I was considering the law school route at one time. The good thing is that law doesn't require any specific prerequisites, so when you decide you're ready to apply, it's usually just a matter of taking the LSAT and gathering transcripts and recommendations.

What specifically attracts you to a DNP role or degree versus law or bedside nursing?

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Thanks for the Reply!

What attracted me to the JD route was the fact that I could apply my medical knowledge that I gained as a result of nursing school and my clinical experiences in the hospital with my JD to make a difference in cases. After seeing so many of those Legal nurse certification course ads I figured why not just take it one step further and become a real attorney! However, upon further research I found there was a decline in JD program enrollments due to the over saturated legal field. I figured i wouldnt have to worry about the over saturation to the same extent as other attorneys since I would have nursing as a back up. As of now i dont know if i should wait gain experience and get my DNP then go to law school, or take my LSAT as soon as I finish nursing school>

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

I think you should give it a few years before deciding. The situation may change considerably between now and when you will be ready to make those decisions. I think your biggest potential for making a mistake right now would be to decide prematurely. Get your BSN and get a sense of what nursing is all about ... as you are doing that, you can decide the type of nursing that is the best fit for you. If that includes being an NP, fine. If not, also fine. If you still want to be an attorney -- that's fine, too. But you won't be in a position to make an informed decision until you actually experience at least a little of nursing.

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Thanks, I never looked at it like that...yea maybe i should just take it a step at a time

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