Which is better to start a MSN or DNP?

[akharvey]

I am currently looking at furthering my education on the leadership track and did not know which degree I should pursue.

[Riburn3, BSN, MSN, APRN, NP]

If you can, get a DNP, many schools offer and executive DNP, although several only offer a DNP for APRN's. I also think in order to get a non-APRN DNP, they prefer you to be in a leadership position already (at least the schools I've considered for a DNP). I'm also not sure if there's BSN-DNP programs for leadership roles like there are for APRN's.

[mursej, ADN, BSN, DNP, LPN, CNS]

Winona State University offers a BSN-DNP with two different leadership tracks:

Nursing Leadership Program: Nursing and Organizational Leadership

Or

Nursing Leadership Program: Practice and Leadership Innovations

(Doctor of Nursing Practice - Winona State University)

The University of Minnesota School of Nursing offers a BSN-DNP in Health Innovation and Leadership (formerly titled Nursing Administration)

(Health Innovation and Leadership - School of Nursing - University of Minnesota)

These BSN to DNP nursing administration programs are all over the place. These two example programs do not prepare your for APRN (eg. Nurse Practitioner) licensing, but do prepare you for the advanced practice of nursing administration and health systems leadership. I would consider you continue your research, and familiarize yourself with the various program requirements as they do vary from school to school.

I would also caution that there is a huge difference between the DNP and the PhD in nursing, so I would be clear about what your final career goals and objectives are before diving into doctoral study. I'm not saying that lack of direction for graduate study is a total waste, it's just important to consider the time, money, and other sacrifices one must make when they take on the education journey. Take the time to weigh your options. Good luck!