The Different Type of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP Programs Available
In the field of nursing, it’s possible to explore two different terminal degrees, and one of them is your Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The purpose of this degree is for equipping APRNs (advanced practice registered nurses) and nurse administrators with the requisite skills for implementation of the latest medical care practices that are evidence-based and help lead medical care profession teams across many healthcare environments.
A DNP is a practice-based doctorate while, in comparison, a Ph.D. in nursing is research-based. Furthermore, sometimes DNP programs are compared to Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) programs. An FNP is usually a specialty within a Master of Science Nursing (MSN) degree; however, some DNP programs have FNP specializations tied to the doctoral degree as well.
Those participating in Doctor of Nursing Practice programs will find that they are building on the knowledge gained during a traditional master’s degree program in nursing whereby instruction is provided in quality care improvement, evidence-based practice, leadership in health care settings, and clinical program development.
Types Of Doctor Of Nursing Practice Programs: Online, Hybrid, And Campus-Based
Students with interest in pursuing 12 month online DNP programs have several options for delivery ranging from fully online instruction to traditional campus-based programs. Students are given these options, so they have the flexibility to choose programs that fit their styles of learning. Finding the most affordable online DNP programs also allows them to balance their academics while maintaining responsibilities like career and family.
Here are the primary delivery options from which students can choose for 12 month online DNP programs:
- Online DNP Programs with Only Online Instruction: According to a Forbes article, many students, millennials especially, want to attend a DNP program that is offered entirely online. Students can receive their coursework – either pre-recorded lectures they can listen to or view coursework asynchronously anytime – or they can participate synchronously using virtual classrooms and live video lectures that allow students real-time interactions. There are also DNP programs whereby students can take online courses but are still required to attend a limited amount of campus-based orientations, immersion-based events, and workshops.
- Hybrid DNP Programs: These are often referred to as blended programs; hybrid degree programs mix campus-based training with online DNP learning. There are typically two types of hybrid programs for DNP, and they include those where students complete some classes online and some on-campus, and those where students take courses featuring both an on-campus and online component. Hybrid programs are designed for students with an appreciation for the flexibility online learning offers but would still want in-person interactions with classmates and faculty regularly.
- Campus-Based DNP Programs: When students participate in a traditional campus-based DNP program, they’ll travel to campus so they can join in training labs and attend courses. Under some circumstances, courses are offered in the evening or on weekends. That way, students can maintain their professional careers full-time while earning their degree.
Cheapest Online DNP Programs
When applying for 12 month online DNP programs, your current college advisor will work with you toward finding the affordable online DNP programs with the highest quality courses that will fit your lifestyle. Additionally, they’ll help shape your coursework to suit your future career goals and aspirations. Be sure to be upfront regarding your schedule, as well as how much time you can commit to your studies.