3 DQ 2
Discuss the difference between a DNP and a PhD in nursing. Discuss which of these you would choose to pursue if you decide to continue your education to the doctoral level and explain why.
I recall some years ago there was a controversy with physicians about nurses claiming the honor of doctor. Physicians and their allies pushed legislators to restrict who can call themselves doctor. A bill proposed in the New York State Senate would bar nurses from advertising themselves as doctors, no matter their degree (Harris, 2011). The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of philosophy (PhD) are both doctoral degrees with a little bit different criteria required for graduation. Advanced practice degrees such as Midwifery are transitioning to doctoral degrees from masters programs. The biggest difference between the DNP and PhD besides graduation requirements is that PhD programs do not teach nursing practice. The PhD role is usually for nonclinical nurses who are getting into the education and research realms. While PhD-prepared nurses focus on the discovery of new knowledge, DNP-prepared nurses focus on the application of new knowledge and research into practice in order to promote better health care and patient outcomes (Grand Canyon University, 2018). One can have both a PhD and a DNP, but if looking for a career in advance practice, Doctor of Nursing practice is the route to take. I would choose to pursue the Doctor of philosophy path because I feel my strengths would better fit the research role. I have no desire to return to bedside nursing at this point in my career.
Using 200-300 words APA format with at least two references. Sources must be published within the last 5 years.
