PhD or DNP: Planning for Doctoral Nursing Education

Leading authorities from inside and outside of nursing are calling for a rapid increase in the number of nurses holding doctoral degrees. More nurses with the terminal degree are needed to serve as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, assume faculty roles, embark on research careers, and pursue top leadership positions. Today’s prospective nursing student can choose from doctoral programs focused on research or practice. The authors explore the differences in these degree options, expectations for students enrolled in these programs, key questions to ask when selecting a degree type, and the career choices available to doctorally-prepared nurses, including faculty positions.