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Discussion

Continuing Education

Good day to all my fellow nurses. I have finally achieved my LVN. Of course, I intend to go back to school. I understand there are many titles of nurses in this community website. So i ask you all this:

What would be a more realistic approach to achieve a DNP ? I'm in California for the time being. I have been told to go BSN, but the more i look into it, a MSN would make more sense if i were to go for DNP. I also intend to specialize in orthopedics. Is there any information i seem to be missing ? I've also heard that PhD is an option after I get my MSN.

Any comments positive and negative will be greatly appreciated for a response.

Thanks !

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    Keep in mind that a lot of DNP programs will require you to have RN experience just to apply to the program. I think the BSN or entry-level MSN would be a good starting point.

    Also, you can go BSN-DNP: a MSN isn't always required. It depends on the program you're applying to.

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    LPN to RN is your first step. This is imperative REGARDLESS of what step you take. LPN/LVN to BSN programs exist, but I have NEVER seen a LPN/LVN to MSN program. While they may exist, I would not recommend this course of action. Once you have a BSN, I would recommend doing a BSN to DNP program if that's what you're wanting to end at.

    If you want a PhD, you'll need to do LPN to RN (whether or not it is a BSN program doesn't matter), get your MSN, and then pursue your PhD. I have not seen BSN to PhD programs, but they may exist. I chose DNP, so I have most research in that field.

    Personally, I have never been an LVN/LPN. So, I received my ADN and then immediately followed with my BSN. Once finished, I applied to a MSN program that offers matriculation into their DNP program after completion.

    You have an additional step since you will have to sit for another NCLEX to receive your RN. There are ADN (associate's degree programs) to MSN programs out there that allow you to skip your BSN all together.

    Diploma --> Associates --> Bachelors --> Masters --> PhD/DNP

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    • Experts
    LPN to RN is your first step. This is imperative REGARDLESS of what step you take. LPN/LVN to BSN programs exist, but I have NEVER seen a LPN/LVN to MSN program.

    I agree, AFAIK there isn't a LVN-MSN program. But OP could do a direct-entry MSN program. They don't even have to have a ADN to do it...but most direct-entry MSN programs do require the applicant have at least a bachelor's degree of some sort. If OP has a non-nursing bachelor's gathering dust somewhere, they could be eligible for it.

    Here's an example of one (this is not an official endorsement, I just happen to know this one exists):

    Master's Entry Program in Nursing (for non-RNs) -

    Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science - University of San Diego

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