Generalist MSN to DNP

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Hello everyone,

I started looking at post masters DNP programs. My MSN is a generalist degree (i.e. Not a nurse practitioner). I started looking around at different DNP programs and it seems most of them require you to have your NP to go the MSN to DNP route.

Does this mean that with my generalist MSN I would be entering the DNP program like a BSN student having to take a full four years or more of classes?

Thanks for for your replies!

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Specializes in Behavioral Health.

Hi Scrubs,

If you are wanting to be a NP-DNP, then yes it'll be the four year program geared towards the BSN to DNP. If you aren't interested in becoming an NP, then there are DNP programs that focus on leadership that are post MSN and do no not require you to be an NP. On my last look, there seemed to be plenty of those available. Good luck!

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Depends on the DNP program and the content of your MSN program. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | University of Nevada, Reno and DNP Application Process | School of Nursing are examples of two that will accept generalist MSNs. Both programs will lead to Nurse Practitioner doctoral degrees. The first requires that this MSN contain specific coursework, the second doesn't. (Those are just my go-to examples that I remember off the top of my head, definitely not the only programs like this!)

Even if you have to take the BSN to DNP path, you will likely be able to transfer in a number of credits from your previous graduate program. You'd have to talk to the school in question to confirm this.

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Specializes in ER/Tele, Med-Surg, Faculty, Urgent Care.

I know someone whose DNP is in Informatics. Her MSN was in either Nursing Education or Admin, I can't remember which.

UNM (University of Albuquerque) just started DNP programs, one is for NPs, here is description of the other program;

The Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) for Nurse Executives is designed for licensed, registered nurses with an MSN in Nursing Administration, or BSNs with an MBA, MHA, or MPH. We expanded our admission criteria in 2015 to include other BSNs with an MSN in education, informatics, and health policy who have progressive and current nursing leadership positions with current and progressive management positions.

While the DNP originally was to be the terminal degree for NPs, universities have created variety which leads to confusion.

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