CNS to DNP

[ray-man]

if i get a CNS and then a DNP in nurse practitioner is that possible or am i thinking it wrong. any suggestions would be helpful.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

What is your ultimate goal? In most states CNS=APN so getting an NP might be redundant

[llg, PhD, RN]

DNP is an academic degree that prepares people for a variety of advanced roles. CNS and NP are 2 different roles, both of which can be studied at the DNP level. (Though some MSN programs exist as well.)

Which role (type of job) do you want to do in the end? If you want to be a CNS and do that kind of work, get a DNP focusing on the CNS role. If you want to do the work of a NP, then get a DNP with a focus on the NP role.

Start by identifying what kind of work you want to do (what role you want). Then choose a program that prepares you for that. There is rarely a need to do both -- though some people may end up with both because they change their minds.

[ray-man]

i liked the CNS and what they do but also i saw some of the restrictions they have in comparison with the NP. since there is a move to make the NP from a MSN to DNP. i thought it will better to get ahead of the new regulations. my goal is to be a nurse practitioner specialized in infectious diseases/tropical medicine and if possible some sort of public health degree.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Okay so you have your goal - I would choose the NP route.

BTW though "some" organizations think DNP should be entry-level for APRNs, no one has enacted that legislation except for CRNAs.