The sunny state of California is appealing for a number of reasons, as is aspiring to the qualified credential of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), a role that promises not only higher paychecks but also versatility, senior-level roles, and greater expertise in healthcare.
However, knowing where to start can be a little confusing. The following article breaks it all down for you, answering questions like:
- Do I need to be an RN to become a DNP?
- What’s a BSN?
- Where can I get a DNP degree?
- How much would that cost?
- Do BSNs earn the same amount as DNPs?
We’ll also touch on the average salary for a DNP in California, as well as the NCLEX-RN exam and how to find an accredited DNP program.
So, You Want to Be a DNP in California. What Next?
First, you’ll need to start by becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), which means earning either an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
After gaining some clinical experience – usually one to two years – you can apply to a DNP program. These programs typically require a BSN for entry, though some also accept applicants with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). The DNP program itself will take about three to four years to complete if you’re studying full-time and includes advanced coursework in clinical practice, leadership, healthcare policy, and research. You’ll also work on a clinical project to demonstrate your ability to apply research to real-world healthcare problems.
Once you graduate from a DNP program, you’ll be prepared for a wide range of advanced nursing roles. In California, DNPs can work as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives, among other positions. These roles allow you to diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications, and take on leadership positions within healthcare organizations. Additionally, DNPs often earn higher salaries than their counterparts with only a BSN or MSN, with average salaries in California being quite competitive, especially in metropolitan areas like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Step One: Becoming an RN
To become a Registered Nurse (RN), you’ll first need to complete an accredited nursing program, which can be an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
The ADN typically takes about two years, while the BSN takes four years and offers more comprehensive training. After completing your nursing program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, which is the national licensing exam for RNs. Once you pass this exam, you’ll be licensed to practice as an RN. Gaining clinical experience is crucial, and many RNs start working in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings to build their skills.
How to Find an Accredited Nursing Program
Finding nursing schools involves several steps to ensure you choose a program that fits your needs and is accredited. But what does that mean?
Accreditation is a process in which an independent body evaluates a given program to ensure that it meets specific standards of educational quality, providing the necessary training and education to prepare students to become competent and licensed nurses.
Accreditation is also crucial for students’ eligibility to take licensure exams and for ensuring the program’s credibility and recognition within the healthcare industry.
Here’s how you can go about it:
- Research Accreditation: Start by looking for schools accredited by recognized bodies such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This ensures the program meets high standards and is recognized by employers and licensing boards.
- Use Online Resources: Websites like the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs offer comprehensive lists of accredited nursing schools. These platforms allow you to filter schools by location, program type, and accreditation status.
- Evaluate Online Options: Many accredited nursing programs offer online courses, especially for theoretical components. Check if these programs include necessary clinical practice components and whether they have partnerships with healthcare facilities near you for practical training.
- Visit School Websites: Once you have a list of potential schools, visit their websites to learn more about their programs, faculty, clinical opportunities, and admission requirements.
- Contact Admissions Offices: Reach out to the admissions offices of the schools you are interested in. They can provide detailed information about the application process, financial aid, and what to expect from their nursing programs.
Step Two: The NCLEX-RN Exam
The NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is a standardized exam that every aspiring registered nurse must pass to obtain licensure in the United States and Canada.
The test is designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for safe and effective nursing practice at the entry-level. The NCLEX-RN covers several categories, including Safe and Effective Care Environment, Health Promotion and Maintenance, Psychosocial Integrity, and Physiological Integrity. Questions are primarily multiple-choice, but you may also encounter alternate question types such as multiple response, fill-in-the-blank calculations, hot spots, and drag-and-drop. The test uses a computerized adaptive testing (CAT) format, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your previous answers. The exam can range from 75 to 145 questions, and you have up to 5 hours to complete it.
To sign up for the NCLEX-RN, you first need to apply for licensure through your state board of nursing and receive an Authorization to Test (ATT). Once you have your ATT, you can register for the exam with Pearson VUE, the official testing service, either online or by phone. The NCLEX-RN is known to be challenging due to its comprehensive nature and the critical thinking required to answer the questions correctly. Many candidates prepare by taking review courses and using practice tests to familiarize themselves with the exam format and content.
The pass rates for first-time test-takers are typically around 85-90%, which indicates a significant level of difficulty, but also that thorough preparation can greatly enhance your chances of success.
Step Three: DNP Programs in California, from the Most to the Least Expensive
If you’re looking to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in California, you’ll find a range of programs, ranging in cost, location, and specializations.
The most expensive programs tend to be at private universities. For example, the University of San Diego’s DNP program costs approximately $3,076 per unit, making it one of the pricier options. Another high-cost option is the DNP program at Samuel Merritt University, which charges around $1,590 per unit.
On the more affordable end, public universities offer competitive programs at lower costs. California State University, Fullerton, charges about $594 per unit for its DNP program, making it a more budget-friendly choice for many students. Similarly, California Baptist University offers its DNP program at $696 per unit. These programs provide excellent education and resources but at a fraction of the cost compared to some private institutions. Whether you choose a private or public university, each program has unique strengths and specializations, so it’s important to consider what aligns best with your career goals and financial situation.
What is “Per-Unit” Pricing?
The cost per unit, also known as cost per credit hour, is the fee charged for each academic credit that a student enrolls in. In higher education, each course typically carries a certain number of credit hours, which reflect the amount of instructional time the course requires. For example, a typical course might be worth 3 credit hours, meaning that if the cost per unit is $600, the cost for that course would be $1,800 (3 credit hours x $600 per credit hour).
This pricing structure allows students to calculate their tuition based on the number of courses or credit hours they take each semester. Full-time students usually enroll in a set number of credit hours per semester, often around 12 to 18. Therefore, knowing the cost per unit helps students estimate their total tuition fees for the semester or the entire program.
Don’t forget: in addition to your tuition, you’ll likely also be expected to cover additional costs like registration fees, technology fees, or lab fees – not to mention school supplies! Make sure to budget for that possibility while planning your educational journey to becoming a nurse in California.
BSN to DNP Programs in California
BSN to DNP programs in California offer an accelerated path for registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
These programs are designed to bridge the gap between undergraduate and doctoral education, allowing nurses to advance their clinical and leadership skills more efficiently. Typically, these programs take about three to four years to complete if attended full-time, but part-time options are also available. The curriculum combines advanced nursing courses with leadership, health policy, and evidence-based practice, along with extensive clinical training to prepare nurses for high-level practice and administrative roles.
Many universities in California offer BSN to DNP programs, including the University of San Diego, Loma Linda University, and the University of San Francisco.
These programs often feature a hybrid format, with a mix of online and on-campus classes, making them accessible to working professionals. Specializations are commonly available in areas such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Nurse Anesthesia, among others. Admission requirements typically include an active RN license, a BSN degree, and clinical experience. Completing a BSN to DNP program can significantly enhance a nurse’s career prospects, providing opportunities for advanced practice roles and leadership positions within healthcare organizations.
Is This the Cheaper Option?
The cost of becoming a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from scratch versus entering a BSN to DNP program in California depends on a few different factors, including tuition rates, program length, and whether you’re planning to attend or have already paid to attend a public or private institution.
Starting from zero typically means you would need to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) first, followed by a DNP program. This path generally involves more time and tuition costs, as it includes both undergraduate and graduate education.
On the other hand, a BSN to DNP program is designed for students who already hold a BSN and want to advance directly to a DNP. These programs are often shorter and more streamlined, focusing solely on the graduate-level coursework needed for the DNP. This pathway is usually more cost-effective because you are skipping the costs associated with earning a BSN separately.
In general, jumping into a BSN to DNP program is typically cheaper than starting from scratch, as it reduces the total number of years spent in school and the associated tuition costs. However, the exact cost difference will vary depending on the specific programs and schools you’re considering.
How Much Can I Earn as a DNP in California?
The average salary for Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) holders in California is distinctly higher than the national average for advanced practice nurses.
As of 2024, DNPs in California typically earn around $158,130 per year, with variations depending on the specific role, location, and healthcare setting. For example, nurse anesthetists, who are among the highest-paid DNPs, can earn significantly more, with average salaries reaching up to $197,760 annually.
Additionally, metropolitan areas such as San Francisco and Los Angeles often offer higher salaries compared to more rural parts of the state, reflecting the cost of living and demand for specialized healthcare services in these regions.
Do BSNs Earn Less than DNPs? Why?
Yes, BSNs (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) generally earn less than DNPs (Doctor of Nursing Practice).
The primary reason for this difference is the level of education and the scope of responsibilities associated with each role.
A BSN typically takes four years to complete and prepares nurses for entry-level positions in various healthcare settings. BSNs focus on providing direct patient care, coordinating with healthcare teams, and educating patients about health management. The average salary for a BSN-prepared nurse in California is approximately $110,000 per year.
In contrast, a DNP is a terminal degree in nursing that can take an additional three to four years beyond the BSN. DNP programs include advanced coursework in clinical practice, leadership, health policy, and evidence-based practice. DNPs are prepared for higher-level roles that often involve clinical specialization, healthcare administration, and policy-making. These advanced responsibilities and the higher level of expertise required lead to higher salaries, with DNPs in California earning an average of around $158,130 per year.
The increased earning potential for DNPs reflects their advanced skills and the expanded scope of practice, which allows them to take on more complex and influential roles within the healthcare system.
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 September 2024.