DNP and PhD: Living in Harmony

DNP and PhD level nurse leaders were active participants in a panel discussion related to the two terminal degrees for nurses. The panel was facilitated by Dr. Paula Webb, DNP, RN, NEA-BC (President, TONE and Associate Professor Texas Tech Health Sciences Center) and consisted of:

• Dr. Eryn Beard, PhD, RN, WHNP-BC, CCNE – Associate Professor Baylor University School of Nursing
• Dr. Donna Jackson-Arbuthnot, DNP, RN – Staff Nurse San Antonio Military Medical Center
• Lauren Olvera, DNP(c), RN, RNC-OB, SNM – Baylor University School of Nursing
• Dr. Stephanie Woods, PhD, RN – Associate Dean Texas Woman’s University Dallas

Opening comments for the discussion provided objectives for the two roles by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2014):

• PhD – to prepare nurses at the highest level of nursing science to conduct research to advance the science of nursing
• DNP – to prepare nurse leaders at the highest level of nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and translate research into practice

The panel identified differences in the two degree programs and curriculum, discussed the pros and cons of online and traditional courses and identified the outcomes and roles for graduates from each program. The 45 minute segment passed very quickly, with many questions remaining unanswered; however, attendees gained a great deal of information to assist in future educational opportunities and programs.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2014). Key differences between DNP and PhD/DNS programs. Retrieved from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/dnp/ContrastGrid.