Seeking BSN to DNP advice

[Whitemtn]

Hello all, this is my first post!

Nearing the end of my BSN degree, I am beginning my search for graduate school, in particular a DNP degree. I would love to jump into graduate school while I still have the momentum, but of course I seek experience as well. Looking at relocating to another state, does anyone suggest where may be a good place to start in terms of licensure, job applications, school applications, etc. Needless to say, I fully intend on working through school while taking as many classes as possible.

Again, looking for a direction to go... I appreciate any and all suggestions!

Top two programs of interest would be in Boston and Seattle.

[Corey Narry, MSN, RN, NP]

Welcome to Allnurses!

Since you've narrowed your locations to two cities, you can start by looking at the DNP program list complied by AACN at American Association of Colleges of Nursing | DNP Program Schools.

One thing to bear in mind about the DNP programs is that not all will admit you as a post-BSN student. Some schools only offer the degree as a post-Master's entry. For example, in Seattle there are only two programs:

• Seattle University - only accepts post-Master's applicants
  
• University of Washington - accepts students in a BSN to DNP program as well as MS/MSN to DNP.
  

Massachusetts has a lot more DNP programs than Washington but they are spread throughout the state. It appears that Boston programs are:

• MGH Institute of Health Professions - offers BSN to DNP.
  
• Northeastern University - only accepts post-Master's students
  
• Regis College - only accepts post-Master's students
  
• Simmons College - only accepts post-Master's students
  
• University of Massachusetts Boston - only accepts post-Master's students
  

So it looks like for Seattle and Boston, you only have UW and MGH as options.

Also, have you identified your goal as far as obtaining the DNP? BSN to DNP programs have a nurse practitioner focus though not all DNP programs are geared for NP's. Have you also thought about what NP specialty you are interested in?

Have you also looked into the new graduate employment climate in both Boston and Seattle? Both cities are large urban areas that may be affected by an over-saturation of nurses that could make it difficult for new grads to find jobs easily.

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