Wanting to start the DNP path

Published

So I have recently decided to pursue an advanced degree specifically a DNP degree in a FNP track so that I have the most options. I have varied interests including ICU/ER, peds, surgery so it is difficult to narrow down DNP track options. That being set aside, does anyone know of a good tool to sift through the 100s of programs nationally? Something that allows me to filter out certain aspects that I am not interested in.

Things for me to consider:

-I am leary of total online programs (completely new approach for me) - i've read about some quality ones and would love to hear more

-I have a BSN and a full year of nursing exp (med/surg, card, ortho, trauma) and want a BSN to DNP program as this is the where the field is heading and am not interested in having to come back to school 3 yrs down the road to get a DNP from a MSN.

-I prefer (although its not a must have) a program that assists in helping students arrange preceptors (I dont agree in giving a school $50+k and than having to arrange my own preceptor(s))

-Affordability is important but not everything as I am a Veteran and have options available to me to offset program costs IF the program is worth the costs

I think that's the most important things to me. I appreciate your help in this. I have read tons of threads here but i've yet to find a good way to sift through the programs other than just visiting each website one by one (ugh).

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in FNP, ONP.

Everyone has their biases, so you probably won't be spared hours online looking at various websites. I'd encourage you to go to the schools and meet faculty. That said, I'd recommend Duke (obviously), Case Western, UCSF, Columbia, Rush or Johns Hopkins.

Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I suppose you are right on the bias. After some significant looking around I have actually come to embrace the online model. I recognize that I have to do my due diligence and ensure I find the right quality, accredited program and that I work hard during school and in my clinicals. I have my eye on frontier and south alabama initially but will be open to more schools. It is supremely important to me that I find a BSN to DNP program and am fairly uninterested in attending a MSN only degree program.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ACNP-BC, Adult Critical Care, Cardiology.

UCSF doesn't have a DNP program yet FYI.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thx, I wonder if anyone can speak to which online programs are of the best quality? There's so many to sift through. I have been comparing to US news tops list but I am aware of the extreme bias and buy in that occurs with them specifically that I do not fully trust their gauge.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Not to dissuade you from BSN to dnp programs but all the programs I've seen are considerably more expensive than MSN followed by DNP programs at my local universities.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I appreciate the input. While money is a consideration, getting it all done in one shot and never going to school again would be nice, haha.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Internal medicine/critical care/FP.

If you want to know which ones not to attend. A good rule of thumb would be the ones advertised on this site.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
If you want to know which ones not to attend. A good rule of thumb would be the ones advertised on this site.

On this website as ads or by posters? Why would the ones paying for ads be bad exactly? TELL ME WHAT YOU KNOW!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Internal medicine/critical care/FP.

Ads. Obviously if they are advertising they want more students. I'd never go to a school where there are more seats for a program than applicants. Means they would take anybody who applies. This is why I'd funny when people post "I got accepted to such and such" wow good job you basically got the gold metal since you were the only one in the race. These schools feed off of the new found 'female independence movement' which is popular in our country.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I disagree that available seats = lower quality. I agree that for profits are more interested in your money than your education.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Well I have narrowed my list down to : froniter, south alabama, south indiana, Texas Tech, Clarkson, U of cinci. Hopefully one of these will have me and that willl be that.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion