A better model for the DNP

meanmaryjean, DNP, RN · Jun 15, 2013

Well, first be SURE you understand that there is currently NO DNP 'requirement' - it is being discussed, and several programs have changed to a DPN format- but PLENTY of of NP programs still exist in the MSN format. You can add a DNP/ Post Master's afterwards, and there are quite a few options for that path.

manusko · Jun 15, 2013

I just graduated from Nursing school with my Associates. I would like to be PMHNP in the future but with so many programs converting from MSN to DNP that may not happen. The opportunity cost to give up an income for a least 4 years in addition to the education expenses for a full time doctorate without tuition support is asking too much! It's just not sustainable. For that type of debt load, I'm better off going to medical school.
I think a better model should be similar for teachers in my state. We earn a Bachelors in Education and receive a provisional license. To earn the full professional teacher certification we are required to have 3 years of work experience and earn a Masters in 5 years to keep your certification. This allows you to get some experience and gradually transition you from a novice to a professional.
What you think?
P.S. Anyone know about DNP programs that do grant an MSN in the middle of the program.

I know many nurses who pursue their masters both full-time an part-time students who also work full-time. It depends on the programs but it is done everyday. Even some CRNA students work 1-2 days a week(not advisable).

Gentleman_nurse, MSN · Jun 15, 2013

Thank for your responses. I was suggesting the powers that be should keep the Masters degree as entry level but require as a terminal doctorate be earned later in your career to keep the path accessible and affordable. I was suggesting if the Doctorate becomes the entry level degree for advanced practice, the barriers become too high economically because of education debt load and loss of salary. Most Doctorate students in other disciplines receive a full tuition scholarship and stipend. Maybe that is goal after all. To reduce the supply and increase prestige and salary.

The entry level DNP makes more sense if you receive a student license which allows you to get some experience under supervision and a modest income similar to how doctoral programs in clinical psychology work.

Terpole · Jun 16, 2013

I know many nurses who pursue their masters both full-time an part-time students who also work full-time. It depends on the programs but it is done everyday. Even some CRNA students work 1-2 days a week(not advisable).

I wonder how this is done. If I could swing it, I would want to work a shift a week while in school. Maybe I can not having a family or S/O?

PMFB-RN, RN · Jun 16, 2013

Thank for your responses. I was suggesting the powers that be should keep the Masters degree as entry level but require as a terminal doctorate be earned later in your career to keep the path accessible and affordable.

*** The DNP as entery to APN folks have no intrerest in keeping the APN path accessible or affordable.

Teleflurry, DNP · Jun 16, 2013

Im in my first semester with Florida Atlantic University's BSN-DNP program. This program award the MSN degree midway and you can sit for your boards. I work full time - plus overtime, so four days a week and have a husband and two year old son. It's possible. The school is designed for working professionals with classes being held online, and on campus once a week. Later it converts to once every other week - I believe. If you want it bad enough - you can make a way out of nothing. :)

Gentleman_nurse, MSN · Jun 16, 2013

@PMFB-RN

I agree but isn't it counterproductive?

@Teleflurry

Now a DNP program like that seems reasonable.

PatMac10,RN, RN · Jun 26, 2013

Im in my first semester with Florida Atlantic University's BSN-DNP program. This program award the MSN degree midway and you can sit for your boards. I work full time - plus overtime so four days a week and have a husband and two year old son. It's possible. The school is designed for working professionals with classes being held online, and on campus once a week. Later it converts to once every other week - I believe. If you want it bad enough - you can make a way out of nothing. :)[/quote']
I like the BSN to DNP program like yours. A few of the BSN to DNP programs here in NC and SC are set up that way (where you receive a MSN partial way through and cam take your licensing test) as well as Frontier University's new BSN to DNP program coming in 2014. I think having a program set up that way makes sooooo much sense.

PMFB-RN, RN · Jun 26, 2013

@PMFB-RN
I agree but isn't it counterproductive? .

*** That would depend on what the goal they are trying to achieve is. I suspect it meets their goals just fine.

Gentleman_nurse, MSN · Jun 27, 2013

What goals besides the official statement?