DNP in 2015.

[jiwonkim89]

Well, I am in the middle of finishing prereqs and applying to nursing school. At first, I wanted to apply to aBSN schools only. But I would like to become a NP eventually, after a few years working as an RN. I wanted to take the more traditional route i guess of having a BSN then an MSN (NP). But I've been reading about the possible change of requirement for a DNP in order be a practicing NP in 2015. I'm 21 right now, so chances are...I'm not going to be completing an NP program by 2015.

So my question is...is it better for me to apply to entry level MSN programs (allowing me to be an RN...possibly CNL)...since DNP programs will require a masters when it's time for me to apply? Gah~ this is all so complicated! Any advice? Is the RN with MSN more common these days? I think the worst thing that could happen is if I get a BSN..and can't even apply to an NP program because I had only have a BSN, not an MSN!!!!!

[elkpark]

DNP programs don't necessarily require a Master's -- most of the original DNP programs were designed for people who are already MSN-prepared advanced practice nurses to go back and complete the DNP (like RN->BSN programs) only because there are so many MSN-prepared APNs out there already. The long-term plan (for the people who are pushing this proposal, that is) is to eliminate MSN-level APN programs, and "new" people will go directly from BSN programs into DNP programs (as in many other disciplines, where people go directly from BA/BS programs into doctoral programs without doing a Master's). There are DNP programs out there for people who don't have Master's degrees now, and more and more are coming "on line" as time goes on.

If you really want a DNP (or if it actually does become a requirement by the time you're looking for a program), I would suggest you just skip the MSN entirely and go directly into a "full service" DNP program.

Best wishes for your studies!