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A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal degree rooted in clinical practice and intended for nurses who want to take their careers a step further. DNP graduates are leaders in advanced nursing practice that bring evidence-based knowledge into the clinical setting to help improve healthcare outcomes and strengthen the leadership role of nurses in both the clinical and academic setting.
Salary
Program Length
One to five years
30-40 credit hours of didactic coursework
1,000 clinical hours
Requirements
Choosing a DNP program is a very large decision. Nurse.org has compiled a list of the best DNP programs online for 2022. This list takes numerous factors into consideration including location, graduation rate, cost, credit hours, as well as other factors.
The 2022 U.S. World News and Report Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Ranking is also taken into consideration.
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Though every DNP curriculum is different, all accredited nursing programs follow the framework provided by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing in The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Practice Nursing.
Individuals should expect to take the following classes:
Though every online DNP program is different, most have similar entry requirements, which generally include:
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Online DNP programs vary greatly in cost. Factors include school, location, online versus in person, and ultimate degree. Online programs are generally cheaper than traditional in-person programs.
Credit hours can vary between $500 to $4,000 depending on the program. Part of this will depend if the program is public versus private. Furthermore, DNP programs are more expensive because of the increased number of credit hours. Overall tuition costs also include program fees, lab fees, course materials, and other associated expenses.
Examples of credit cost include:
The two main accreditation bodies in the United States are as follows:
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DNP programs are very difficult as this is a terminal degree for advanced practice nurses. The purpose of a DNP program is to prepare individuals to assume leadership roles as executives or advanced practice nurses. Furthermore, DNPs are expected to apply evidence-based practice to improve individual, family, and community health outcomes. Individuals are expected to have a higher level of thinking as well as analyzing research and data.
While a DNP program is very challenging regardless of employment status, it can be even more challenging if working during the duration of the program.
Picking the right DNP program can be overwhelming especially with the increasing number of available programs throughout the country and the ease and accessibility of online programs.
Online programs have given access to top-tier programs for those that are unable to relocate. Unfortunately, some of the best DNP programs in the country do require some in-person learning that is generally completed over several days and/or a weekend. If it is feasible to travel to the campus for the in-person learning then this will open even more DNP programs to you. Additionally, the in-person campus dates are identified at the beginning of the program so that you can plan accordingly.
The most important determining factor when choosing a program is understanding if the state in which you reside allows students to enroll in distance education programs and therefore participate in clinical practicums within the state. It is important to check with your state board of nursing to see if your state allows this. Licensure requirements vary from state to state and by a professional organization. Any questions regarding state eligibility you can also contact the University’s Office of Enrollment and Student Affairs.
Other factors include,
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