Doctorate in Nursing – Online Programs

A Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) degree is one of the highest level of nursing education one can receive. DNP programs build on the learners’ previous knowledge of the nursing field, and help them learn to improve patient outcomes through the intensive study of patient-centered care, quality improvement in healthcare and evidence-based practices, along with a look at nursing leadership and administration. While these programs do provide a look at research, they are not necessarily research-based and may be an ideal option for those looking to focus on various areas of nursing practice rather than research development and implementation. 

A nurse practitioner (NP) may choose to advance their education and pursue a doctoral degree. However, they do not need to have a doctorate. NPs who do have a doctorate may be referred to as advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) and may provide a portion of clinical care.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Due to the complexity of the healthcare field and the dynamic nature of medicine, DNP graduates are valuable professionals with a deep knowledge base that is applicable to various settings and organizations. Throughout their own career history in healthcare and the fieldwork or practicums required in their programs, DNP graduates have ample experience that can make earning their degree a worthwhile investment. If you’re looking to gain a deep understanding of healthcare and work to positively affect the future of medicine, you may find this degree to worth it for you. 

There are two degrees that can be considered to be terminal nursing degrees. These include the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. 

Accredited DNP online^{(See disclaimer 1)} programs are required to meet guidelines established by their accreditor. These measures ensure that the curriculum offers courses that reach the high standards established by the accreditor and can provide a quality education for all students. Online programs can offer quality education while also allowing you to integrate your studies with your other responsibilities.

There are some services NPs are not able to offer patients based on their training. NPs are only allowed to practice within their area of specialization.^{(See disclaimer 3)} The difference between the two also may involve the NP’s ability to prescribe medication, as some states have certain restrictions on this.^{(See disclaimer 3 )}There are certain states as well that have restrictions on whether an NP can prescribe, diagnose or treat patients without the company of a doctor. However, in general, both NPs and doctors can assess, diagnose, provide treatment options and educate patients.  

A nurse anesthetist is not a doctor but rather is typically known as a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). They do often work with doctors when providing anesthesia and other medical treatment. Anesthesiologists, on the other hand, are medical doctors, as they must possess a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in order to practice.