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Guidelines for Applying for a Nursing Doctoral Degree in the United States

Applying for a Nursing Doctoral Degree in the US

In the nursing profession, lifelong learning has been considered as an essential practice. Enrolling for a nursing doctorate is among the formal methods that healthcare providers can become lifelong learners. In response to the increasing complexity of healthcare, rise in patients and family expectations, growth in the elderly population, and the proliferation of chronic conditions, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in 2011 recommended for an increase in the number of nurses with doctorates. This article contains an explanation of the guidelines for applying for a nursing doctorate in the United States (US).

Nursing Doctoral Degrees in the United States

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, doctorate degrees in nursing programs are categorized based on research and practice-focused principles. In research programs, candidates graduate with a Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Nursing Science degree (DNS, DSN, or DNSc). Also, research-focused doctorate programs require candidates to conduct original research projects and are designed to prepare nurse scholars and scientists. The Ph.D. and DNS curriculum focuses on research methodologies and scientific content. The practice-focused programs are designed to prepare advanced nursing practice experts. Candidates in practice-focused programs earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and the degree is based on the application of credible research findings, innovation, and evidence-based practices. DNP programs are the most common in the US.

Qualifications for a Nursing Doctoral Degree

Individuals who desire to enroll for a doctorate degree have two primary education pathways. The first option is to earn a bachelor's (BSN) or a master's in nursing (MSN) then a DNP. The second option is to possess a BSN or MSN then enroll for a Ph.D. degree. Also, there exists an option where a registered nurse (RN) can earn a DNP and qualify for accreditation as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). A candidate can be considered as eligible to enroll for a DNP degree if they scored a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in the bachelor's and master’s program if applicable. The minimum GPA points vary because for Grand Canyon University and Vanderbilt University are 3.4 and 3.5, respectively.

DNP Nursing Application

Application Requirements for a DNP Program

Universities and nursing schools require candidates to submit different documents when seeking enrolment at the institutions. Some of the admission documents include goal statements, statement of purpose (SOP), letters of recommendation, personal statements, curriculum vitae or resumes, and letters of reference. The length and type of admission documents requested vary depending on the university.

Summary of the Course Syllabus

The name of the units and the number of credits vary across the universities. Conversely, the content of all DNP programs must be congruent with the eight essentials and APRNs consensus model. A candidate enrolled at a DNP program should expect to learn about (a) middle-range nursing theories; (b) translation of research into practice, (c) application of systems thinking to resolve issues in healthcare, (d) the technology used in clinical decision-making, (e) nursing advocacy, (f) inter-professional collaboration, (g) population health and clinical prevention, (h) evidence-based care, and (i) writing a capstone project. The average period for completing a nursing doctoral degree ranges from three to six years.

Cost, Financial Aid, and Scholarships

On average, the cost of one DNP credit varies from $400 to $2,300, see more here. Individuals seeking to enroll in the DNP program can obtain scholarships from nursing organizations or the university enrolled. For instance, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners [AANP] offers applicants scholarship funding that ranges from $2,500 to $5,000. Most universities have financial aid advisors who guide students on how to access assistance from the federal government, grants and loans, scholarships, and limited-time savings.

Internships and Work Opportunities

Earning a DNP provides nurses with the opportunity to work in direct patient care as APRNs or practice in the position of leaders and administrators. Working in leadership and administration roles allows nurses to influence healthcare outcomes through scientific findings. Also, nurses with a DNP can practice in the roles of CRNA, CNM, and NPs. As an NP, an individual will be required to specialize in a specific population. The various NP specialization includes Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHP), Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner administrators. 

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