DNP/FNP (vs. FNP w/Master's degree) vs. PhD

[redjewerly]

Hello everyone.

Need advice again!!

I have a hard time to decide between BSN-to-DNP programs and BSN-to-PhD programs.

It is lucky to have many options in nursing field but it also gives me tough times to make my decision.

In my previous post, I mentioned that I have been working on FNP online program but currently I'm in high risk which I may not be able to finish my FNP degree (esp. clinical components) due to the student visa issue.

So, I've been searching for BSN-to-DNP (FNP) programs and BSN-to-PhD programs.

I know that practical role is more suitable for me.

And, I want to be a good clinician who can provide higher quality of care for my patients. Becoming a nurse practitioner is my dream.

Definitely, I should go for DNP degree though.

The only concern that make me hesitate to apply for DNP program is future job market. [FNP/DNP vs. FNP/Master's degree vs. PhD]

(1) Are there more job opportunites for FNPs/DNP than FNPs with master's degree?

(2) Are there any FNP/DNP who can't get a job as a FNP?

I heard some NPs with Master's degree still work as a RN since there is no job for new grad-NPs.

(3) Is it worth to go DNP program than NP/Master's degree?

Even though I don't see myself in non-clinical setting

.............. I'm considering PhD degree.

Since I'm an international student, there is a high chance that I can't get a NP job/ visa sponsorship in the U.S. .....in the worst case.

In that case, I should find a job as a nursing professor in my home country where there is no DNP degree or no DNP.

However, I don't think many nursing schools (esp. in countries where there is no DNP degree) hire nursing professor/faculty who has DNP degree.

Even though I really want to be a NP in the U.S. and I am not the type of person who enjoy writing and doing researching work, I'm considering of going PhD program for the worst situation.....

Would pursuing PhD degree open me more future options (as an international student)???

Can international nursing phD students get phD funding?

It has been a couple of weeks to compare between FNP/DNP (vs. FNP/Master's) vs. PhD but I can't still make my decision....

[Kuriin, BSN, RN]

DNP is the exact same thing as a MSN except a couple more years added to it. You will be potentially hired in managerial positions in your clinical setting (Director of the Clinic, etc.), but, aside from that, there should be really no difference at this point.

[HarryTheCat, MSN, RN]

I've been really disappointed in the DNP curricula that I've looked at. With few exceptions, they tend to load you up with courses that have nothing to do with the patient care aspects of the practice of Nursing, focusing more on management and research. I am now completing my MSN, but just can't justify the additional time and expense to get the DNP, only to wind up qualified to sit at a desk or in meetings all day. If I was interested in research I would do a PhD, not a DNP, and If I wanted to be a nurse manager I would have done my MSN with a concentration in Administration. The only DNP program that I have seen that really seems to "get it" is Rush University, but I can't relocate to Chicago, and can't afford to take the time away from earning a paycheck to get through it. I think most schools have really missed the boat with their DNP programs, and think that they will be disappointed in the enrollment numbers as time goes on.