scarletgray

Thanks, I have to agree. I couldn't really wrap my head around the benefit of a DNP without experience, I thought maybe I was overlooking something. I truly enjoy every area of nursing that I've been exposed to. I don't want to come across as not wanting to provide direct patient care, because it's something I love to do. The problem is I LOVE everything nursing and I just want to explore all my options. Ive been doing even more research and I'm having a hard time understanding why my professors would be so excited about DNP for me.. It really doesn't make sense without experience. It doesn't really seem like an asset at this point in my career. It feels more like a potential long-term goal really. Thanks for the insight though, it got me thinking and was very helpful!

Recently a professor approached me about applying to the MSN to DNP program at our school. I honestly hadn't given it any thought, as I've been so focused on completing my MSN, but I'm starting to consider it. A little background: I'm in a direct-entry RN MSN-CNL program. I've done really well in school and I've been working as a research coordinator for my capstone which I enjoy. I also have 4 years experience working as a nursing assistant on an extremely busy med/surg-orthopedic unit, so although I don't have clinical experience as an RN yet, I do feel well-versed in time-management, triage, and critical thinking. (Obviuosly I have much to learn in clinical practice, but I don't really identify with "new" nurses because I do have hospital experience) The idea of working med-surg when I graduate does not appeal to me... I'm looking for a new challenge. Anyways, back to my question. What is the benefit of a non-NP going on for their DNP? What kind of job opportunities would this degree provide to a student like me? I have an interest in pallitive care patients, does a DNP even make sense for this field of nursing?