Psychiatric NP, Masters vs. DNP

[ohrnio]

I've worked my entire two year or so nursing career in ICU nursing. Cardiac/Thoracics/Transplant unit. I have been seriously wanting to get into psychiatric nursing. I'm uncertain if I really need to do a DNP or if i can get my masters degree. I have no want to do hospital psychiatry. I would rather work in an office and establish a long term relationship with my patients (hopefully children & adolescents). I have just moved and don't have any contacts at my new job/location. Any input about this general question would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[AustinPsychNurse]

Hi Ohrnio. I am in a Psych NP (masters) program in Texas. From your name, I will guess that you are in Ohio which could be somewhat different. Whether you graduate with an MSN or a DNP, you will test for the same PMHNP certification and be allowed to do the same things. For treating patients, an MSN is enough. If you want to be a professor or do research (both at lesser pay), then a DNP is needed.

Here in Austin, you can get a job as a Psych NP with either degree. Demand > supply. There are a couple of Psych APRNs here who have a PhD, but I don't know of any with a DNP. UT Austin is a top nursing school but has no DNP program so I am not too concerned that a flock of DNPs will flood the market. Like I said, I'm not sure about your environment. Either way, look into it, it is a great career path.