Questions about the DNP

I'm a freshman in college, and I'm very interested in becoming an NP. I was debating between a PA and NP for a long time, and I came to the conclusion that NP would be better. However, I just found out about the required doctorate and now I'm a little worried. Is it worth it to get the doctorate? And I'm also curious if I will even need it.. I will graduate in 2012, and then go into the Masters program. I'm not sure when I will graduate that, but I'm assuming around 2014. So I will be right around the deadline, do you think I will need the DNP? Or, even if it's not required, would I want it since it would be easier to get a job considering all the new NPs would have the Dr.?

I've never been interested in being an MD, because I want the more reasonable hours, I want to remain personal with my patients, and I just think it would be a better job. But now that the schooling will take about the same time... I just don't know. I would just like some more information, please!