Though you may be surprised to learn it, it’s possible to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree without holding any prior nursing degree. This is thanks to the rise of direct entry DNP programs, also known as DNP programs for non-nurses and RN-to-DNP programs. This is a relatively new form of nursing degree pathway that was designed to put aspiring nurses on a fast-track to the highest level of their field.
There are no direct entry DNP programs in the state of California, but those who are eager to launch their nursing careers as quickly as possible can find programs at universities all over the country, and online. For those interested in pursuing a DNP in California through a more traditional route, there are two main paths; BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP.
It should be noted that direct entry DNP programs are not without controversy. Some nurses who obtained their doctorate degrees through a more traditional path argue against these accelerated programs, while others say they are a boon for a field in need of more advanced professionals. Read on to learn more about direct entry DNP programs to learn if they’re the right choice for you.
Obtaining a DNP without a BSN
Traditionally, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the first step in a nursing career, providing the foundational framework and entry-level skills needed to become a Registered Nurse (RN). However, in recent years, it has become possible to pursue a DNP without a BSN by attending programs that incorporate this coursework into a longer-term academic trajectory.
Admissions requirements
If one doesn’t hold a BSN, what do they need in order to qualify for direct entry DNP programs? In most cases, DNP programs for non-nurses require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree in another subject, or an Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) and RN certification. Some programs require prospective students to have completed certain classes to be eligible, such as:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
Some programs also require students to have completed some type of work in the healthcare field in order to apply for direct entry DNP programs, though this is not the case at all institutions.
What non-BSNs should expect from their DNP programs
Direct entry DNP programs feature an accelerated curriculum that includes coursework from both BSN and MSN programs as well as clinical rotations, progressing toward advanced clinical practice, leadership, and specialization as a Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Over the course of these programs, students complete many of the same requirements that are included in BSN and MSN programs, such as extensive clinical practicum hours (normally amounting to more than 1,000 total) and a final DNP project that focuses on one’s chosen area of specialty in the nursing field.
Direct entry DNP programs are the fastest route for non-BSN holders to acquire their degrees, but they still take longer to complete than other DNP programs, amounting to four to five years total (when taken on a full-time schedule).
The reason for this is simple: students in these programs have more coursework to complete in order to catch up with those who have completed more school. Those who are considering direct entry DNP programs can rest assured they will be receiving their nursing education in as consolidated of a format possible.
Outcomes
Those who complete direct entry DNP programs will be awarded a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree identical to that of students who attended BSN-DNP or MSN-DNP programs. They will be eligible for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) certification if they wish to pursue work as clinical specialists, or can qualify for indirect care leadership roles in healthcare organizations. In other words, though the path to a terminal degree will be different for those who enroll in DNP programs for non-nurses, they will leave with the same qualifications as those who attended lower levels of nursing school.
Debates surrounding accelerated DNP pathways
Though direct entry DNP programs are surely an eye-catching option for aspiring who haven’t yet completed any amount of schooling, there are some nursing professionals who regard these programs with some skepticism. These nurses argue that the compressed timeline of these programs does not provide the comprehensive training needed to take on the tremendous responsibilities of advanced practice nurses. Indeed, many other kinds of DNP programs require applicants to have completed at least a year of work experience in the nursing field, which provides intensive training that students will miss out on in direct entry programs.
That said, many nursing professionals support the arrival of direct entry DNP programs, arguing that these programs fill much-needed roles in the nursing profession that have long been understaffed. These nurses contend that the roles and responsibilities of DNPs are ever-changing, and that the field can shift to support those who did not attend BSN or MSN programs but nevertheless have devoted a considerable amount of time and effort to obtaining their terminal degrees. Further, these proponents also assert that direct entry DNP programs are rigorous and intensive enough to compensate for the class time students may have missed from a BSN program.
As a prospective DNP student, it’s worth giving thought to both sides of this argument, and to envision what type of nursing career you’d like to have. Some applicants may see the benefit of breaking up their education over time and amassing field experience on the way, while others may be eager to complete their education in one fell swoop. At present, either route is possible, making this an excellent opportunity for those considering their educational options.
The nursing shortage explained
In order to understand the debate over direct entry DNP programs, it’s important to know the context. In recent years, a shortage of nurses has become a pressing issue in the healthcare field, affecting care providers of all types. The nursing workforce is not being replenished quickly enough to meet demand, leading to overworked staff, burnout, and, in some cases, reduced quality of care for patients.
A scarcity of educational opportunities is one reason for the undersupply of nurses in the medical field. Many nursing schools are struggling to expand due to faculty shortages, lack of clinical placements, and inadequate funding. The rise of direct entry DNP program aims to address this by providing a more approachable path to a high-ranking, high-paid nursing career.
It should be noted that although the nursing shortage is a crisis that desperately needs to be addressed, at present it means there is a great number of work opportunities for those entering the field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for nurse practitioners (NPs) is expected to balloon by a whopping 40% by 2033, an uncommonly high number that indicates that those who are looking for enduring careers as nurses will be able to achieve them quickly.
Taking the next steps to pursue your DNP
While the state of California does not offer any direct entry DNP programs, those who live in the state who don’t wish to relocate are still encouraged to pursue their BSNs, followed by BSN-to-DNP programs, which are the next-fastest route to a terminal degree. Those who are dead set on the fastest path possible can find direct entry DNP programs in other parts of the United States.
FAQs
Are there direct entry DNP programs in the state of California?
At present, no. However, there are numerous BSN-to-DNP programs in California that can put you on an accelerated path to a high-ranking nursing career.
Do direct entry DNP programs award you the same degree as traditional DNP programs?
Yes. There is no difference between the doctorate degrees awarded by these programs, meaning graduates are eligible for the same top positions in healthcare organizations.
Can direct entry DNP graduates become nurse practitioners (NPs)?
Yes. Those who hold doctorate degrees are eligible for all forms of APRN certification (provided they have completed the appropriate coursework and field experience while in school).
How long do direct entry DNP programs take?
When taken on a full-time schedule, direct entry DNP programs take four to five years to complete.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures reflect state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2024.