Terminal Degree Nursing Options: PhD vs. DNP
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PhD vs. DNP
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Nursing Research (PhD- Doctorate of Nursing Science)
Focuses on developing new nursing knowledge and advancing scientific inquiry
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Curriculum
In a PhD program, coursework will focus on research and analytical methods, theory, and nursing science. Most programs allow student to specialize in research interests that will directly relate to their careers; this research will culminate in a dissertation.
Career Tasks
Nurse scientists will spend their time researching, conducting analysis, and performing scientific studies to improve all patients’ health status. Collaboration with DNPs and other healthcare professionals is expected.
Careers
Nurse Researcher or Educator for healthcare facility, Nurse Scientist, Policymaker, Academic Professor, Author
Nursing Practice (DNP- Doctorate of Nursing Practice)
Focuses on a clinical career and improving outcomes of patient care and population health
Curriculum
DNP programs focus on a combination of healthcare policy and advocacy, information systems and technology, healthcare quality improvement, evidence-based practice, and organizational and systems leadership. A final project may also be required.
Career Tasks
DNPs will direct patient care, including diagnosing, treating and educating patients to help improve their outcomes. Collaboration with PhDs is expected and necessary to apply the findings of scholarly research within a clinical practice setting.
Careers
High-level advanced Leadership/Practitioner within Healthcare facility, Quality Improvement Management, Healthcare Informatics, Clinical Educators, and Policymakers
Sources:
http://www.aacn.nche.edu/dnp/ContrastGrid.pdf
http://dnp.fiu.edu/comparison
http://www1.salary.com/Professor-Nursing-salary.html
http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Doctor_of_Nursing_Practice_(DNP)/Salary#by_Job
Top 25 Best Value DNP Programs
Top 50 Best Value PhD Programs
Additional Nursing Salary Data:
Average Nursing Salary for DNP- $116,000 (that is, the average annual salary of those holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice as reported from Payscale.com)
Average Nursing Salary for those with PhD- $87,590 (that is, the average annual salary for those holding a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science reported by Salary.com)
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- Essential Guide to Online education in the USA
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Aya Andrews
Editor-in-Chief
Aya Andrews is a passionate educator and mother of two, with a diverse background that has shaped her approach to teaching and learning. Born in Metro Manila, she now calls San Diego home and is proud to be a Filipino-American. Aya earned her Masters degree in Education from San Diego State University, where she focused on developing innovative teaching methods to engage and inspire students.
Prior to her work in education, Aya spent several years as a continuing education consultant for KPMG, where she honed her skills in project management and client relations. She brings this same level of professionalism and expertise to her work as an educator, where she is committed to helping each of her students achieve their full potential.
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With a deep commitment to education and a passion for helping others succeed, Aya is a true inspiration to those around her. Her dedication to her craft, her community, and her family is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in all aspects of her life.