Climbing Mountains: DNP Students' Perspectives on the Pursuit of a Terminal Degree

Introduction:  The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree has been a topic of discussion in both the academic and clinical practice settings since its inception. Though expected to be the entry-level degree for nurse practitioners in coming years, many students enrolled in present programs are seasoned NPs who may have voluntarily chosen to pursue a terminal degree. For traditionally restrictive NP practice environments, such as the Southeastern United States, where earning the DNP degree may confer little or no change in economy or practice status, the return of experienced clinicians to the classroom is an interesting phenomenon that has not been well described in the literature. Does earning the DNP degree enable graduates to incorporate the AACN Essentials into daily practice? Does earning the DNP degree change their daily practice, including how they are viewed by colleagues, friends, and family?

 Purpose:  The purpose of this study is to describe the degree to which completion of a DNP program enabled students to incorporate specific competencies into clinical practice. The study will also explore DNP graduates’ perceptions of how earning the DNP degree facilitated change in personal practice and relationships, and created new opportunities for them as clinicians.

Methods:    An Alumni Survey (a paper instrument) will be sent to DNP graduates of University approximately 12 months after the degree is earned.

Results:  Results of the study have implications for educators in the recruitment and retention of future DNP students.