DNP vs MSN - PMHNP

[jimmy_pearce]

Hey All,

This is my first post on the forum. I've read tons of great advice already, and I'm looking for more!

So here's the deal. I am currently taking my prerequisite courses for nursing school. If all goes to plan, I will be done with my ADN in a few years, and I would then like to get my BSN (I currently have a BA in another field, but I am changing my career). Just to be clear i HAVE looked into accelerated BSN and Entry MSN programs, and they are not for me for a bunch of reasons.

My end goal is to become a PMHNP.

All that being said, what the biggest differences between an MSN and DNP program for PMHNP? I know PMHNP programs are all heading towards DNP, but is there really a benefit to that? I would love to hear about your experiences or maybe even a coworker's experience. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Unfortunately, there really isn't too much information out there about the PMHNP route.

Thanks all!!

[jimmy_pearce]

Anyone?

[Jules A, MSN]

Hi jimmy_pearce,

I resisted even opening this because I'm weary of the sudden rush for everyone to become a NP without ever working as a RN which imvho is crucial prior to attempting our quickie educational tract. However I've had 3 days off in a row and am incredibly bored at this point so opening more threads than usual which was a good thing because yours was refreshing. :) Kudos to starting with a reasonable plan both financially as well as professionally. The extra time it takes you will be well worth it in the end, I promise. Unsolicited advice: get adult, locked unit inpatient experience it will be invaluable.

As for your real questions work wise there is no difference and if the Masters option is still available I would be inclined to get that first. The pay and duties will be no different at least at this time, in my experience. If you are young enough to work more a decade or more the DNP will likely be of benefit down the line. Best wishes with your education and career.

[umbdude, MSN, APRN]

@OP-

PMHNP programs are not all going toward DNPs and there is no such requirement. Some schools are phasing out MSN NP programs completely for DNP, but many schools continue to offer MSN for NPs.

In the MSN program, you take the core MSN courses, specialty courses, and clinical preceptorship, then you're done. In a DNP programs, you would take similar MSN courses and spend time in clinicals, and then move onto courses unique to the doctorate program. In the MSN program, you learn to diagnose and treat individuals. In the DNP program, your focus is more on improving the system which impacts a greater number of people.