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DNP Programs

About DNP Programs

DNP programs are Doctor of Nursing Practice programs designed to educate nurses with a focus on the clinical factors of nursing, as opposed to merely academic research. Online DNP programs offer nurses the opportunity to obtain their DNP, which is a terminal and doctorate-level, nursing degree. The curriculum coursework for a DNP mainly consists of leadership, advanced practice, and the application of the clinical research. The DNP programs for certified advance practical nurses are replacing prior doctorate-level degrees in the nursing field.

A DNP degree is meant to get registered nurses ready for the rigors of advanced practice nursing. Popular roles in advanced practice nursing are the certified registered nurse anesthetist, the nurse practitioner, the clinical nurse specialist, and the certified nurse midwife. So far, there have been many, recognized benefits of DNP programs. Some of them include advanced competence for complicated faculty, leadership and clinical roles; better knowledge with which to improve patient results and nursing practices; and improved leadership skills in order to better practice and the delivery of healthcare.

Most nurses who seek continuing education in the form of a DNP degree are already working professionals, and that is why many institutes of higher learning provide flexible educational opportunities. Some of these flexible options involve the option to choose bridge programs as well as specialized programs for those seeking degrees as certified advanced practice nurses. In addition, DNP degree programs are available in both online and on-campus options. Since many nurses who are entering DNP programs are already working professionals, online programs allow them the chance to work flexibly around their already existing, daily schedules.

Any nurse who wants to get a DNP degree has to already hold a BSN as well as an MSN degree. Because the DNP is the highest and most professional of all degrees that nurses can aspire to earn, the educational prerequisites are highly strict. Nurses who are interested in earning a DNP degree are advised to educate themselves about the prerequisites for admission in such a degree program. The reason is due to the relative newness of the DNP as a degree concept. There has not been enough standardization of academic criteria with regards to the DNP degree; applicants must inquire at their institute of choice about any requirements needed for program admission.

No matter what state nurses are living, obtaining a DNP degree brings with it a plethora of benefits. Nurses with a DNP degree are increasingly being looked to in order to bridge the gap between doctors and ordinary nurses. Due to the high status of this degree, nurses with this certification are increasingly being held at parity with other healthcare professions in the event that a doctorate status or degree is necessary. Nurses with DNP degrees are generally being called on to help in advanced diagnosis, for legal consultation, and also to participate in highly skilled clinical research.

To understand more about DNP programs, consult the following resources.