DNP 2015 movement?

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"Is it true that all NPs and other APNs will have to finish off their DNP in order to achieve NP status after 2015?"

This question seems to encompass everything i am trying to ask. The subject is SO confusing. I want to maybe potentially pursue FNP. I recently got into the nursing program in my school but it'll take me 2 years to become an RN and then another 1-2 years to gain the experience needed in order to apply to grad school. Should I pursue the FNP route? I see that a lot of the programs for CRNA are transitioning to the doctorate level. Will the same occur for those who want to be an NP? I'm thinking of maybe choosing PA as a (quicker) alternative to NP. Clearly time is important to me and i don't want to apply 4 years down the road just to be faced with even MORE schooling at a doctorate level.

sadiemae1123

214 Posts

This subject has been discussed extensively on this site. As of now no APN organization has mandated a 2015 cutoff as a requirement for the DNP. The 2015 date was a recommendation.

I believe only the CRNAs have decided on a date for the DNP for 2025. If that's your goal then you may have some difficulty finding an MSN program as that date gets closer. There is the AA option but I believe these are only used in a few states. PAs don't administer anesthesia.

As far as FNP vs PA, most PA programs require a bachelor degree and healthcare experience. So, time wise, you may not end up that much ahead going that route vs the FNP.

In other words, relax, you have plenty of time to decide which career path is best suited for you.

zmansc, ASN, RN

867 Posts

Specializes in Emergency.

The previous poster covered the DNP recommendation fairly well, so I'm not going to rehash that.

You mentioned two years to become an RN, is this in a BSN program? If not, expect to need to get your BSN before you can apply to an MSN/FNP program, or for the program to take at least an extra year to complete, as they need to cover several courses that would normally be covered in your BSN program.

There are direct entry programs that you can do which take you from where your at now all the way to FNP, basically they combine the RN program and the NP program into one which are faster. Of course these programs are only offered in select locations, so you may not have one locally.

Others may have other program suggestions as well. In the end there are a lot of moving pieces, and you may need to both research the many varieties of programs as well as identify what sacrifices you are willing to make to prepare for this career.

Good Luck!

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