NPs & PAs Are Talking: The DNP Degree
This week, we received a lengthy comment in opposition to making the DNP degree mandatory. The comment was posted on our DNP Answers blog post titled "
Feedback on the DNP." In the post, Mai Kung, NP, DNP, discusses the widespread acceptance of the DNP movement, citing the growing number of programs across the country as evidence of its popularity.
Reader Michael spoke out for the "silent majority." "Unless the individual wants a DNP and wants to be employed at the University level and/or wants to do research; thinking of making it a mandatory requirement in the future is wrought with problems and a monumental mistake," Michael said. "The greatest majority of the supporters of making the DNP a mandatory requirement are those who already obtained their DNP and need to justify their decision to obtain it, spend the money for it and expended the rigorous energy needed to obtain it. You want a DNP, that's fine, but don't make it a requirement. It should be an optional choice."
Several readers weighed in with support for Michael's sentiments. "Hear, hear. I have felt no need to obtain a DNP. I evaluated the coursework of multiple programs. If it was truly ‘clinically based' I would have wanted this degree. I love my work as a practitioner. I have no interest whatsoever in becoming a healthcare administrator, researcher or educator," reader Dana said at www.advanceweb.com/NPPA.
What are your thoughts on the DNP degree? Let us know in the comments below.
For more information on the DNP, check out some of our recent articles:
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