Should I do NP or DNP in the near future?

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I know that the DNP degree is replacing the NP in the near future.

I'm thinking of starting an NP program after I've had a year or so of hospital experience after completing my MSN, which will mean that I'll be applying to NP schools by the end of 2010.

Will it still be a good idea to go for the NP at that late date? Or will it make more sense to prepare for the change by getting a DNP instead?

Specializes in ICU,CCU, MICU, SICU, CVICU, CTSICU,ER.

I too have been struggling with the decision to get FNP or DNP. After reading the posts here I feel the FNP would best fill my needs at this time. I want to thank snowrider for providing me the best food for thought ...the medical community WILL be watching the DNP very closely. Hospital/clinic administrations that shell out money for RN's to obtain a DNP will likely want to see their investment stand out against the MS prepared NP. So in the clinical arena, without much more clinical training that the MSN-NP, how and what will this difference look like? Personally, I think it will not make much difference-clinically speaking. As for research, that is the purpose of the DNP. I am all for improving my profession through the use of evidenced-baed research, however I drink way too much coffee to find myself seated behind a desk to be the one writing the papers. I like the clinical aspect too much and feel such a strong desire to do nothing else for now.

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I'm not sure if anyone has heard of this-but I was recently told by the Director of an NP and DNP program that if you do not obtain an APN certification(like NP) before you get a DNP degree that you will not have prescriptive authority like APN's have. Has anyone heard this? It doesn't sound right to me.

I am currently thinking about getting a post masters certification NP, or going directly for the DNP, but if this is correct, that would certainly change things.

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I'm not sure if anyone has heard of this-but I was recently told by the Director of an NP and DNP program that if you do not obtain an APN certification(like NP) before you get a DNP degree that you will not have prescriptive authority like APN's have. Has anyone heard this? It doesn't sound right to me.

I am currently thinking about getting a post masters certification NP, or going directly for the DNP, but if this is correct, that would certainly change things.

It depends on the state. Most states have regulatory language that requires a MSN with board certification in your speciality area to qualify for licensure/certification as an APN. If your state specifically requires a MSN and you get a DNP instead, then yes, you may not qualify for licensure/certification in your state. Another reason to get the post-master's NP certification over the DNP at this time.

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It depends on the state. Most states have regulatory language that requires a MSN with board certification in your speciality area to qualify for licensure/certification as an APN. If your state specifically requires a MSN and you get a DNP instead, then yes, you may not qualify for licensure/certification in your state. Another reason to get the post-master's NP certification over the DNP at this time.

I'm in Illinois. Any idea if that is the case here? I already have a MSN but did not get certified after graduation 10 years ago and now need more clinical hours to meet requirements to sit for certification exam for Clinical Nurse Specialist. At this point I will at the very least get NP certificate, not CNS, since I hear that is going by the wayside soon.

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I'm in Illinois. Any idea if that is the case here? I already have a MSN but did not get certified after graduation 10 years ago and now need more clinical hours to meet requirements to sit for certification exam for Clinical Nurse Specialist. At this point I will at the very least get NP certificate, not CNS, since I hear that is going by the wayside soon.

You'll need to check the Nurse Practice Act for Illinois. The requirements will be specifically listed under the Advanced Practice section.

Definitely go for the NP certification over the CNS.

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