Choice for Doctoral Studies

Question: What is the difference between a DNP and a PhD in nursing? Which of these would you choose to pursue if you decide to continue your education to the doctoral level? Answer: Basic Difference between DNP and PhD in Nursing While looking for an advanced doctoral level study in the nursing field, the students find two options- DNP and PhD. Both are terminal nursing degrees, but with different scopes. DNP is the practical studies and career wise the student will become a nursing practice scholar for clinical and administrative field of medical field in the future. It deals with the actual translation of the evidence to practice. It focuses on the transformation of health care and advances specialty and leadership in the field. In PhD- the focus is in the field of research and academics in nursing. It works towards the preparation of nurse scientists to work on the research of new methods and technology for a specific problem. The PhD graduates trained to lead the interdisciplinary research works and conduct the studies addressing specific chronic illness or care system (Bednash, Breslin, Kirschling Rosseter, 2014). Personal Choice I would go for the DNP as I am more inclined towards the practical use of my degree. Moreover, the DNP will give me better exposure to both research and practice. I wish to work in the field so DNP is a better choice according to me. Personally, I am more inclined towards the administrative and practical nature of Nursing and feel that this way I can help people better. References Beverly, C. (2014). Changing Health Care Environment: Getting Beyond the PhD Versus DNP Discussion. Journal Of Professional Nursing, 30(2), 101-102. Bednash, G., Breslin, E., Kirschling, J., Rosseter, R. (2014). PhD or DNP: Planning for Doctoral Nursing Education. Nursing Science Quarterly, 27(4), 296-301.