I posted this in the pre-Nursing program, but I'm not sure if that was the best place.I'm a freshman in college, and I'm very interested in becoming an NP. I was debating between a PA and NP for a long time, and I came to the conclusion that NP would be better. However, I just found out about the required doctorate and now I'm a little worried. Is it worth it to get the doctorate? And I'm also curious if I will even need it.. I will graduate in 2012, and then go into the Masters program. I'm not sure when I will graduate that, but I'm assuming around 2014. So I will be right around the deadline, do you think I will need the DNP? Or, even if it's not required, would I want it since it would be easier to get a job considering all the new NPs would have the Dr.?I've never been interested in being an MD, because I want the more reasonable hours, I want to remain personal with my patients, and I just think it would be a better job. But now that the schooling will take about the same time... I just don't know. I would just like some more information, please!
allnurses Guide ghillbert, MSN, NP 3,796 Posts Specializes in CTICU. Has 27 years experience. Dec 3, 2008 The schooling won't take the same amount of time. NP = 4yr BSN + 2-3yr MSNMD = 4yr bachelor degree + 4 yrs med school + residency/fellowship etc.
UVA Grad Nursing 1,068 Posts Dec 4, 2008 Mousepad:Some Universities have already made the transition to a BSN-DNP program (and are no longer admitting Advanced Practice students into a MSN program). I expect more schools to make this transition well before the 2015 deadline.These BSN-DNP programs are about 72-85 semester credits long (about 3-4 years) beyond the undergraduate degree.
