NP program vs DNP program

[Road2CNO]

There is a big push for the DNP with all the hype about the supposed 2015 DNP requirement. I have a BSN and am looking to earn my Nurse Practitioner but have a low GPA. I was thinking maybe it might be less competitive to go with the NP (MSN prepared) and then later progress to DNP since there is not a final on the requirement date. Any advice?

[Corey Narry, MSN, RN, NP]

While I agree that you don't need to rush towards a DNP right now, MSN programs can be quite competitive as well. There are MS/MSN programs that are known to be selective all along and there are programs that were not known to be selective at one point but have now become harder to get into because of the amount of applications they have been receiving. Don't let your less than stellar GPA affect the choice of program to attend. Still try your chance on a good program and realize that GPA is only one piece of the puzzle in determining your fit for future NP preparation.

[TX RN]

I would think the MSN is more competitive than the DNP right now.

Most nurses I know pursuing NP cert look for MSN programs first, DNP second.

They mostly list the shorter program duration as a top reason.

[zmansc, ASN, RN]

I would also suggest researching what you want and what it is going to take to get there. Make a plan, research programs, then determine what it will take for you to get accepted. If you want a DNP, and the programs that seem best for your needs require a higher GPA (or whatever), then you know what you need to do to improve your application. The worst that can happen is you find out you can't make it work so you pick your second best path and get in!

The reason there are so many programs with so many different pathways to getting in is because each of us has a different history, and needs a different path. Finding yours is tough, but it's well worth it in saved time later.