Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree
Why a DNP?
Simply put, the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree is the wave of the future. This shift is occurring now. AACN and other nursing credentialing bodies are moving quickly to develop the DNP as the minimum entry for advanced practice. Students who wish to pursue a career as advanced practice nurses should pursue the DNP to be prepared for future practice and in keeping with credentials for other health care professionals, such as those in the fields of pharmacy, physical therapy and medicine.
The expansion of scientific knowledge is required for safe nursing practice in an increasingly complex health care system. A practice focused doctorate elevates advanced nursing practice and helps to ensure safe, effective and evidence-based patient care.
For information on the national DNP pilot program, visit the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Web site at http://www.aacn.nche.edu/DNP/index.htm