Doctor Nurse?

                               Doctor of Nursing Practice:

                                                   A new concept for the field, and the region!

Have you ever thought of going to school to become a Nurse? Have you ever thought of becoming a Doctor? Did you ever think you could become both...simultaneously? Well, there is a relatively new field for Healthcare Professionals and it is the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNPr or DNP). You may not become a physician but it is as close as you can get via nursing.

This "new" field is based on the principle that nurses who want to go beyond the BSN (baccalaureate) level of study, but do not see themselves becoming bogged down with the research and/or the teaching positions assumed with obtaining a PhD can do so. It is meant for those who want to continue to "get down and dirty" in the hospital systems and make a difference "on the front lines." Once you have obtained your BSN you can apply to a program of study encompassing a Masters curriculum (which you must first obtain) then, through obvious progression, one can move into the designated area of study for the DNP program. This pathway is usually a four year program because of the added Masters courses. However, if one has obtained their Masters in Nursing (in any one of the advance practice fields) can enter into the program with a two year coursework curriculum.

 Most programs accommodate those of you who are willing to continue working while taking on this great task as well. They are Doctorate programs that "provide students with the skills and tools necessary to assess the evidence gained through nursing research, evaluate the impact of that research on their practice, and as necessary, make changes to enhance quality of care." 

These new programs have "popped up" all over the country but the surprising notion is that the southern areas are not joining the band wagon so quickly. In fact, Duke University is the only school in North Carolina who is running the program. Their program has only been available to students since 2008!  University of South Carolina and University of Virginia are the next two closest schools to offer the program (although Shenandoah University and Old Dominion University also offer the program).

The ability to bring in this new degree program will depend on its success and the interest of professionals in a more practical advanced professional degree.