At a crossroads...

I work full time at a university and have had experience at a community college and with a large NCLEX prep company. I've also edited a nursing med-surg textbook for a publishing company, and I just have an MSN. I've done a ton of research for doctorate programs because I'd like to advance my career even further. I can say that it depends on what you want to do with the degree as to which route you should take. Since you want to teach and do research, and judging by your remarks about a reputable school, I would think the PhD would carry the most weight for you. I will say, however that regional and nursing accreditation are the real "gold standards" as to the quality of a program. Don't discount a program just because it isn't offered by Harvard. I remember 10 years ago, most "brick-and-mortar" schools really looked down on online programs and now they all offer them!

I hate research and just want to teach because that is where my passion is. For me, the degree that makes me the most marketable is the DNP as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Many schools like this degree because they want NP's to teach the NP courses. I'm not familiar with the DrPH so I can't speak to that. I have found that the need for nursing faculty is so great that schools will take any doctorate they can get for most courses (unless they are NP courses). Whatever you decide, good luck in your pursuits!

Thank you for sharing your background and perspective, DisneyRNMSN. I'm still torn. I REALLY would like to teach and the terminal degree is the PhD. So, that seems to make the most sense. However, I would still like to "do" AND "think." That would be the DrPH (which is similar to the DNP, but for public health professionals). The University of South Florida, which is part of the Florida State University system, has an online DrPH. It's a lot less money and my employer, even as a seasonal employee, will pay 50%. Hmmm... I've seen quite a few nursing professors with the DrPH. That gives me hope.

You're welcome! I've also heard great things about the Doctor of Health Education (DHEd) at AT Still University, a preeminent osteopathic medicine school. Not sure what nursing programs would think of it right now, but it is growing in popularity.

Thanks, again, for your input! I'm STILL thinking about which path to take. I need a program that is within 90 minutes of my home and/or an online program. I really need some practical experience BEYOND the bedside before I commit to a research and/or teaching career. I'm trying to secure those opportunities, but SWFL isn't the hotbed for either. Sigh.