Sep 28, 201510 yr What is the difference? I know that you need at least a masters degree.As far as autonomy, does a DNP needs to be working under an MD? because I know that NPs have to work under an MD.Or is a DNP kind of an equivalent to an MD cause its a doctorates?Tell me what I need to know please, and thanks! More Like This Student Nurse Practitioner University of South Florida (USF) Nurse Practitioner DNP and MSN - Fall 2026 24 Replies Active 07/05/2026 09:17 PM
Sep 28, 201510 yr A DNP, or Doctorate, is a level of education - not licensure. Someone can be a NP with the education level of masters (MSN) or a doctorate (DNP) there is no difference in the scope of practice, as that is dictated by the state. A DNP is similar to a MD, in that, they are both doctoral level degree and can be referred to as "doctor." The scope of practice, however, is dictated by that state's board of nursing. Point being: MSN-NP and DNP-NP is the same as saying ADN-RN and BSN-RN. Scope remains the same, just difference of education.
Sep 28, 201510 yr What is the difference? I know that you need at least a masters degree.As far as autonomy, does a DNP needs to be working under an MD? because I know that NPs have to work under an MD.Or is a DNP kind of an equivalent to an MD cause its a doctorates?Tell me what I need to know please, and thanks!Not necessarily. In some states, NP's can practice independently.
Sep 28, 201510 yr In nearly half the states, NPs can practice with full autonomy, without physician oversight. I think it's 22 states.
What is the difference? I know that you need at least a masters degree.
As far as autonomy, does a DNP needs to be working under an MD? because I know that NPs have to work under an MD.
Or is a DNP kind of an equivalent to an MD cause its a doctorates?
Tell me what I need to know please, and thanks!