What are the entry-points to Purdue's DNP program?
There are three points of entry for the DNP program: one for post-baccalaureate nurses, one for current MS in nursing students, and one for advanced practice nurses who have completed their MS degrees. Nurses who enter with a baccalaureate degree may complete the 83-credit hour requirement in four years (full-time). For these students, the first two years are the masters' level courses. In years three and four, additional course work and clinical residencies are completed. Applicants who have already finished a master's program and who have maintained their practice and certification are given credit for previous graduate study. They may apply for direct entry into the DNP curriculum (37 credit hours). However, to meet Purdue University's Graduate Program requirements, they may be required to take additional courses.
I am currently enrolled in a Master's NP program. Given that the AACN supports the implementation of the DNP for all APNs by 2015, should I drop out and seek a doctorate program?
No. Your program will prepare you for national certification in your chosen NP specialty area. Our DNP program will accept credits from certified APN programs.
How is the DNP different from current APN programs?
It builds on the site-specific practice of the APN to focus on multiple sites of care, as well as healthcare delivery systems. The DNP represents the highest practice degree in nursing.
What is unique about Purdue's DNP?
This DNP program is well situated to provide expert leadership in solving complex clinical problems through its connection with the Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering. This Center brings policy makers, clinicians, faculty from multiple disciplines, hospital administrators, leaders in the insurance industry and the American Hospital Association, and members of the general public together to focus on applying engineering, management, science, and information technology principles to the improvement of the healthcare delivery system.
In addition, the School of Nursing has partnerships with the Homeland Security Institute; the Schools of Pharmacy, Audiology, and Management; and other departments and centers of Purdue University. Thus, the program involves large-scale interdisciplinary collaboration in research and practice to effect change at the local, national, and international levels.
After the implementation of the DNP, will advanced practice nurses no longer be permitted to practice?
At this time, nurses with master's degrees will continue to practice in their current capacities. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing will work with different APN groups, healthcare providers, and institutions of higher education as they move through this process. Recommendations will be forthcoming for master's-prepared nurses as to how to make a rapid transition to the DNP.
Why should expert APNs go back to school?
The healthcare system and environment is continually changing. A doctoral prepared nurse will have advanced skills to deal with clinical, organizational, economical, and leadership issues. DNPs will be able to design health care systems and will have evidence-based science skills to positively impact health care outcomes.
How flexible are the hours for classes?
Students may go full- or part-time. Often, courses will be offered in the evening or in an intensive weekend format. A few courses may be taken through Distance Education.
If I am an ANP with a DNP, will I be able to have independent practice privileges?
Individual State Nurse Practice Acts describe the scope of practice allowed. These Acts differ from state to state and are not likely to change rapidly.
Will CCNE continue to accredit master's programs?
Yes. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) will continue to accredit baccalaureate and master's programs and is initiating a process for the accreditation of DNP programs.
How will the DNP affect support for the PhD?
The DNP provides a second option for nurses interested in getting a doctoral degree, one that focuses on practice (DNP) rather than research (PhD). The American Association of Colleges of Nursing will continue to support nurse scientists prepared in PhD programs.
