BSN to DNP Programs
Those who have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) may be considering a BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program in order to become an advanced practice nurse, clinical expert, health care executive, or policy expert. Understanding more about this degree option can help individuals determine whether this is a degree path that makes sense for them.
Why Choose a BSN to DNP?
A DNP is a terminal degree, and thus the highest educational achievement one can reach in the field of clinical nursing. Employers increasingly require a DNP to fill slots for advanced practice nurses (APNs); in fact, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing recommends that the DNP be the entry-level degree into advanced practice.
With a DNP credential, nurses have additional professional benefits including:
Of course, in order to become a DNP, individuals must be prepared to invest a significant amount of time--and money--in their studies. Students entering BSN to DNP programs should be fully committed to pursuing a rigorous academic program--and reaping the benefits that result from a high-level career in nursing.
How to Become a DNP Student
Those who are ready to become a Doctor of Nursing Practice would be advised to explore the admission requirements for the schools of interest. BSN to DNP degrees usually require entering students to hold a BSN and be registered nurses. Because DNP programs are academically challenging, students are often required have a grade-point average of at least a 3.0, although this requirement varies significantly from program to program. Furthermore, many schools require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores.
BSN to DNP Program Requirements
When one becomes a DNP student, a specialization must be selected. One’s specialization largely determines his or her coursework and clinical study. Specializations are numerous and include APN careers such as:
- Certified nurse-midwife
- Nurse practitioner
- Nurse anesthetist
- Clinical nurse specialist
Additional specializations include:
- Leadership
- Administration
- Public health
- Informatics
- Policy
- Education
BSN to DNP programs typically take three years of full-time study and up to five years for part-time study. Many programs offer courses online; some have campus requirements while others are offered fully online, with the exception of clinical requirements.
DNP Salary Expectations
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice, individuals may expect a good salary, depending on the specialty.
DNP Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that advanced practice nurses are increasingly stepping in as low-cost primary care physicians, particularly in under-served areas. The increased demand for quality, lower-cost care has increased the demand for nurses with high levels of expertise who can provide this level of care.
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Advanced Nursing Degrees at Nova Southeastern University – Offered Online!! Secure your career Change healthcare. Choose the best nursing program for you New technologies, New nursing responsibilities, New healthcare policies. There have been so many rapid changes within the healthcare field in recent years. The focus on evidence-based care is apparent. For instance, as of 2013, the American Nurses Association (ANA) requires 100% of nursing managers to hold a B.S.N. or higher to even qualify for their “Magnet” hospital designation.
The Institute of Medicine’s “Vison 2020” recommends all clinical nurses hold a B.S.N., and the ACN backs their recommendation. This means that top healthcare organizations aren’t considering hiring clinical nurses without at least the B.S.N. credential. Advanced nursing roles call for a master’s or doctorate-level degree. Like many things over time, the nursing industry has expanded beyond the skills and knowledge an R.N. credential alone provides. To maintain a lifelong nursing career, or to work in one of the many new nursing positions, you need an advanced nursing degree.Nursing Degree Options.If you’re wondering what program is best for you, think about the responsibilities you enjoy as a nurse as well as what you’re naturally interested in learning.
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- Northcentral University was founded in 1996 to provide working professionals around the world with unprecedented access to richly engaging, professionally relevant, and academically-rigorous education from a U.S. university.
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IWU's online degree programs are completely online, eliminating the commute and classroom lectures from your day. Because you decide when to study, in most cases you are free to complete the 12 to 15 hours course commitment per week at your own pace and in the learning style that is best for you.
Where Is Indiana Wesleyan University?
Indiana Wesleyan University is located in Marion, Indiana. As an online student attending Indiana Wesleyan University Online, you may or may not have to visit Indiana Wesleyan University’s campus.
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Building on Purdue's mission to provide greater access to affordable, world-class education, Purdue University Globaldelivers a fully personalized online experience that's tailored to working adults. By opening the doors to adults who need flexibility to fit learning into their busy lives, we make it possible to achieve a high-quality education from a prestigious university system—completely online.
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- A Master of Science in Nursing in as few as 20 months
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With the intentional structuring of the curricula in the caring science based upon the work of nurse theorist Dr. Jean Watson, our faculty are here to support you on your journey to academic and professional success, and inspire you to BE COMPASSIONATE as you provide nursing care to patients and their families. The Nevada State College School of Nursing Bachelor of Science in nursing program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
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