Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs and degrees have increased substantially in recent years and there has been controversy surrounding whether more advanced practiced registered nurses should be prepared by DNP programs that are lengthier and more expensive than other masters degree programs. However, little research has been conducted that explores the role of DNP-prepared nurses outside of academic settings.
This brief describes a study that surveyed DNP programs to identify where DNP-prepared nurses are employed outside of academia and interviewed employers to examine the role of DNP-prepared nurses, how these nurses differed from those of other advanced practice registered nurses, and the flexibility that DNP-prepared nurses bring to their organizations.
