Nurse practitioner online programs

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Hello,

I have a couple questions regarding FNP/DNP programs I was hoping I could get some clarity on. Where I live there is a program that offers direct entry to DNP without any prior RN experience. I have had one friend already go thru it. While looking at other programs online I have found there are FNP/DNP programs that are offered completely online. How common is this? I would prefer to get my RN first then do an online program vs direct entry however I never knew that such a program existed. Although I understand the philosophies are different, how can there be DNP programs online but say not PA? I think it is great, I just can't imagine there being a PA or MD program online. Do these programs prepare someone adequately for the boards? And being that they are relatively cheaper than in-person programs, why aren't more RN's going the NP route given there is such a greater level of autonomy?

Thanks

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

Moved to the Student NP forum for more replies.

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Specializes in Adult Internal Medicine.
While looking at other programs online I have found there are FNP/DNP programs that are offered completely online. How common is this?

It is becoming more common, for better or worse. Just like brick and mortar programs there are good ones and there are bad ones. You want to do a lot of research. Always ask local employers and shadow local NPs and find out what the hiring preferences are in your area before thinking about a online-distance school.

I would prefer to get my RN first then do an online program vs direct entry however I never knew that such a program existed. Although I understand the philosophies are different, how can there be DNP programs online but say not PA? I think it is great, I just can't imagine there being a PA or MD program online.

Then you can and should plan your education this way; there are many paths to an NP and all of them have benefits and drawbacks, pick the one that fits you.

All DE programs require the students to take and pass the NCLEX and get licensed as RNs prior to continuing the graduate (post-licensure) portion of the program.

Keep in mind, your clinical part of education is not online. That is (obviously) done in person.

As far as PA vs NP education, they are entirely different models. I a not sure if PA programs are doing more online education or not. A PA forum may be able to answer that. Some medical programs now offer their didactic lectures online rather than requiring students to sit in a classroom.

Do these programs prepare someone adequately for the boards?

Depends on the program. The more prestigious online NP programs like Georgetown have a well-established track record of board success.

And being that they are relatively cheaper than in-person programs, why aren't more RN's going the NP route given there is such a greater level of autonomy?

This is a big investment of your time and money. Cheaper is not always better. Do your research before applying.

The NP role and the RN role are very different, and NP is not simply a more autonomous RN. I always tell my students, you need to want the provider role to make the investment of NP school worthwhile. Many RNs have no desire to be NPs; with that autonomy comes a lot of responsibility, different hours, more legal risk, etc.

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Thanks you for your thoughtful response! Very informative.

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