MSN vs DNP

[Monica Nixon, BSN]

Hey everyone,

 

I have been looking into various nurse practitioner programs specifically pediatric primary care and was wondering what the overall opinion is on MSN versus DNP. I know the AACN is wanting to change the education for NP from masters to doctoral.

I am not opposed to doing a BSN to DNP track, but wanted to get others opinions since the DNP programs are 4 years, and MSN programs are around 2.

 

Thanks! :)

[Corey Narry, MSN, RN, NP]

It's a personal choice and whoever you ask will have a bias for one vs the other for various reasons.  I went to grad school at a time when DNP wasn't a thing and having the option now for MSN to DNP, I am still not quite convinced I need it especially since in my area, there is no difference in the way I will be paid nor would it affect my current scope of practice as it exists. 

I see a benefit to get a DNP if I want to advance to leadership roles and maybe even in academia but I have no desire for those areas at the moment.  I used to think I did but having been in the clinical setting since I became an NP, I am very comfortable staying put where I am. That is my perspective and yours and others may be different.