In this time of increasing focus on efforts around diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating a more diverse nursing and healthcare workforce is a goal that many would agree is worth pursuing.
A more diverse workforce positively manifests for all parties involved, whether doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, or other healthcare professionals. However, barriers to inclusion and diversity within the doctorally prepared nursing workforce are a challenge that some are beginning to address.
Advancing Equity in Nursing Education
Dr. Danielle McCamey, DNP, ACNP-BC, FCCP, is an expert critical care advanced practice clinician and the Assistant Dean for Strategic Partnerships at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. She is also the founder and CEO of DNPs of Color, an advocacy organization with a mission of inspiring more people of color to pursue advanced nursing education, particularly the Doctorate of Nursing Practice. In this regard, networking, advocacy, and mentorship are pillars of Dr. McCamey’s efforts to diversify the nursing workforce.
In terms of the representation of people of color in nursing, Dr. McCamey states, “We are not well-represented, as the literature shows, but we are much needed in order to close inequity gaps and advance health equity.”
And in the realm of the recruitment of people of color into the nursing profession, Dr. McCamey sees a path forward.
“We have to restructure our efforts so that we begin exposing the nursing profession early and consistently [to young people]. We must also remove financial and other barriers to access to nursing education, whether in the form of standardized tests or ensuring that we keep all pathways into nursing available, including CNA, LPN, ADN, and beyond.”
Expanding on the issue of nursing education, Dr. McCamey shares, “Honestly, nursing education needs to be free, and schools like Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) need to be given more funding resources and other administrative support to be able to accommodate more students of color.”
Filling the pipeline of the nursing educational system is key to keeping the nursing workforce robust and well-populated. Yet, we also must be certain that diverse cohorts of talented and dedicated individuals can visualize an avenue to fulfill their educational and career goals, including at the doctoral level.
Patients and Quality of Care
A diverse nursing workforce benefits both patients and healthcare workers alike. When it comes to quality improvement in patient care delivery and the experience of healthcare professionals, an article in the New England Journal of Medicine states, “Lack of workforce diversity has detrimental effects on patient outcomes, access to care, and patient trust, as well as on workplace experiences and employee retention.”
No matter how we break this issue down, increasing diversity has qualitatively and quantitatively positive benefits that are well worth the effort of undertaking such initiatives.
Studies of a concept referred to as “race concordance” or “race congruence” have shown that patients like to be cared for by providers and staff who look like them. As noted in an analysis published on the National Library of Medicine website, “Research suggests that race concordance between patients and providers is associated with positive outcomes such as higher levels of perceived patient satisfaction of care, quality of healthcare, and more trust in their provider.”
Improved outcomes are certainly something everyone working in healthcare can get behind, and when we have a highly trained and diverse workforce, reaching patients where they are with providers who look like them and understand their lives is astronomically beneficial.
A Vision for the Doctoral Nursing Degree Path
When discussing people of color pursuing advanced nursing degrees, including the PhD and DNP paths, Dr. McCamey states, “Exclusionary practices and gatekeeping within nursing along with lack of mentorship have often stood in the way.”
Dr. McCamey mentors many up-and-coming nurses entering the doctoral field, and she understands the power of those relationships based on her lived experience.
She continues, “From my personal experience, mentorship was key to understanding some of the rules of the game and navigating certain spaces, as well as advocating for resources to contribute to my success and advancement in the profession. Having an affinity with those who’ve gone before is crucial.”
In terms of doctoral education, Dr. McCamey states, “Historically, PhD-level nurses are those that generate new nursing knowledge and science, while DNPs generally translate that science into clinical practice. However, we also see more DNPs pursuing nursing science and research.”
For nurses who wish to pursue a doctoral-level education but are uncertain about the choice between a PhD and a DNP, Dr. McCamey shares her clear opinion:
“I am biased towards the DNP because it has made doctoral studies more accessible, specifically for nurses of color. Unlike a PhD track, the more flexible DNP curricula allow students to engage in other life obligations while also going to school.” She continues, “For many of us, this flexibility is vital since we support our families and communities, whether financially or in caregiver roles.”
Dr. McCamey states to attract more nurses of color into doctoral studies, “I would like to see more consistent branding and marketing of the valuable contributions DNP-prepared nurses bring to nursing practice. I also want to see more nurses who reflect the diverse communities that we serve.”
Embarking on a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP) is a significant stride towards advancing your career in healthcare. Amidst the increasing demand for advanced nursing professionals, selecting the right DNP program becomes crucial. The DNP program has many options: online, hybrid, and in-person.
However, before diving into the intricacies of program selection and study strategies, ask yourself this most important question: Why pursue a DNP degree?
Clarity on your motivation, the purpose of obtaining your doctorate, and your post-graduation plans sets the foundation for a successful journey. There are various potential roles for the DNP graduate, which include roles in nursing education, administration, health policy, nurse practitioner, or informatics. The DNP program prepares nurses to generate new knowledge through innovation of practice change and translating evidence to practice.
This article explores the top 10 tips for prospective DNP students, covering various aspects such as program selection, study strategies, the importance of a study partner, curriculum evaluation, cost considerations, and understanding program outcomes and final expectations.
Top 10 Tips for Success in a DNP Program
1. Research and Select the Right Program: Choosing the right DNP program is crucial. Consider factors such as accreditation, faculty expertise, and the program’s alignment with your career goals. Thorough research ensures a program that meets your expectations and provides a solid foundation for your future in nursing. Speak to other nurses in the current DNP program to get a sense. Selecting a program that meets your personal needs and that is flexible is imperative for your success.
2. Understand the Curriculum: Please read every detail in the curriculum before committing to a DNP program. Assess if the coursework aligns with your professional interests and career goals. A well-rounded curriculum ensures a comprehensive education and equips you with the skills needed in today’s complex healthcare environment. To be fully transparent, I purposely selected a doctoral program that did not have statistics because I did not want to retake it! However, the program did have a tremendously helpful economics course.
3. Evaluate Program Costs: Financial considerations are critical. Evaluate the overall cost of the DNP program, including tuition, fees, and any additional expenses. Look for potential scholarships, grants, or employer assistance programs to alleviate the financial burden. Most institutions have a payment plan that you can set up if needed. I did a lot of research before selecting my university. It was vital for me to have a physical university with an excellent reputation and history. I strongly recommend being strategic and not just paying extra money to have a prestigious school name on your resume.
4. Create a Realistic Study Plan: Balancing a DNP program with work and family commitments requires careful planning. Develop a realistic study plan considering your workload, responsibilities, and preferred learning pace. Creating a realistic plan can prevent burnout and reduce anxiety. I did most of my schoolwork at night because everyone was sleeping. Plus, I know that I function better at night.
5. Consider a Study Partner/Colleague support: A colleague or study partner can enhance your DNP experience. Collaborative learning fosters a supportive environment, provides different perspectives, and facilitates sharing resources and study materials. I had two close friends in the program, and having that continued support was instrumental to my success. We held each other accountable and called daily to check on each other to ensure we were ok or remind each other to submit assignments on time.
6. Utilize Online Resources: Use online resources and platforms to supplement your learning. Many DNP programs offer virtual libraries, discussion forums, and additional study materials. Embracing technology can enhance your understanding of the coursework and make your life easier. Please use all the resources you have available to you. Please learn how to do a proper library search for articles because it will save you hours of work. The librarian can be your best friend throughout the program.
7. Prioritize Self-Care: Balancing work, family, and a complex academic program requires self-care. Prioritize physical and mental well-being to sustain energy levels and focus throughout the DNP journey. This is harder said than done. I strongly recommend scheduling self-care time and activities. The DNP program is a rigorous program with high demands. Real talk: I cried several times and wanted to quit. However, I kept thinking of my kids, and my motivation kicked into gear.
8. Effective Time Management: Mastering time management is crucial for DNP success. Create a schedule that allocates dedicated time for coursework, work obligations, and personal commitments. Efficient time management ensures a well-rounded and fulfilling experience. It sounds silly, but please read the entire syllabus before your course begins.
9. Stay Proactive and Communicate with Professors: Maintain an open line of communication with your professors. Staying proactive ensures that you receive timely guidance, support, and feedback. I procrastinated during my DNP program, so I would not recommend it. Establishing a solid rapport with your professors can positively impact your academic journey. I sometimes found asking for sample examples for specific assignments helpful in understanding the expectations better.
10. Understand Program Outcomes and Final Expectations: Be clear about the DNP program’s ultimate expectations and ask many questions. Understand whether you must implement a study or present a project proposal. I had to submit my study to the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for approval. From personal experience, I strongly recommend creating a toolkit. I created a Stress Reduction Toolkit for Nurses. I often joked about using those same stress reduction strategies during the DNP program. Knowing the program outcomes ensures you are prepared for your academic journey and can confidently meet the final expectations.
I strongly recommend not comparing your DNP journey to anyone else. Please give yourself grace and be patient. I failed a DNP course, my DNP proposal course, and I was distraught. It was a long, complicated story that ended in a denied appeal from the Dean. I was distraught when it was happening; however, I realized that perhaps God had a different path for me. We know that not all paths are linear, and neither was mine. It taught me to be more patient and more precise.
I recently completed my DNP program in organizational leadership. My goal is to combine my experience in emergency medicine, education, and leadership into an exciting role where I can apply all my knowledge and skills. I am passionate about education, career development, and growth for all nurses, particularly novice nurses.
I am dedicated to improving workplace culture and wellness due to my previous experiences with toxic workplaces, discrimination, and bullying. My mission is to empower all nurses globally to pursue their personal, professional, and business goals. I started my DNP journey three years ago, and it has been a roller coaster ride. My experience of juggling a full-time job, a young family, and a business highlights that completing a DNP program is feasible and immensely rewarding with determination and a strategic approach.
Enrolling in a Doctorate Nurse Program can be overwhelming, but success is achievable with careful consideration and strategic planning. Integrating these top 10 tips into your DNP journey allows you to navigate the challenges and reap the rewards of advanced nursing education.
Remember, there is never a “right” time to start; it’s about finding the time that works for you and committing to the journey.
A nursing career offers many avenues for nurses of all stripes and interests to fulfill their professional goals. For some, earning a doctorate is a lifelong aspiration that they are keen to fulfill, and nursing offers three options for this accomplishment: the DNP, the PhD, and the Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS or DNSc).
Doctoral programs offer what is frequently referred to as “terminal” degrees since they represent the highest possible level of educational achievement in most disciplines (some areas lack a doctoral option. Thus, the master’s becomes the default terminal degree). Considering that a DNP is generally clinically oriented, and a PhD and DNS are geared towards academia and research, a nurse wishing to take their clinical knowledge and education to the highest pinnacle would do well to look at the DNP as a very promising direction.
If you’re wondering about the benefits of earning your DNP, there’s no time like the present to explore the career potential and professional development that such a high-level educational accomplishment can confer on your nursing career.
A Rigorous Education
One clear benefit of earning a DNP is that it offers an unequaled rigorous clinical training pathway. In some DNP programs, you can choose a clinical nurse specialist or educator track, or you can choose to focus on direct patient care as an expert clinician.
Your DNP program will provide a much deeper dive into the theory and science driving evidence-based advanced nursing practice. Your education may also steer you into organizational leadership, systems thinking, IT and technological advances in nursing and medicine, healthcare policy and advocacy, and quality improvement.
This form of doctoral education will enrich your understanding and professional perspective on multiple aspects of patient care, preventive medicine, population and community health, and other areas of study. Depending on the focus of the DNP program you choose, you may also gain a keener grasp of emerging ideas in nursing and medical science, the effects of climate change and the environment on populations around the world, the social determinants of health, and other trends to keep an eye on in the years to come.
With the promise of the most extensive clinical training possible for a nurse, doctoral education can open your mind and help you look at the world around you with a more discerning, critical, and perceptive eye. It will also deepen your understanding of identifying trends that can impact how you practice, the state of the broader healthcare system you are a part of, and your patient’s health and the well-being of larger communities and populations, including the most vulnerable.
DNP Earning Power and Job Opportunities, and Professional Parity
The Doctor of Nursing Practice designation demonstrates to your colleagues, your patients, and the world that you have pushed yourself to achieve the highest possible level of education as a nurse, accumulating more extensive knowledge and expertise.
In many job markets, nurses with a doctoral degree can sometimes command higher salaries than some of their masters-prepared counterparts. According to Payscale, DNPs earn an average of $112,000 annually, and NPs earn an average of $106,413, an arguably nominal difference.
However, CRNAs can expect to earn an average annual salary of $179,343. And since a DNP will be the entry-level degree for all CRNAs as of 2025, newly enrolled CRNA students have been automatically enrolled in DNP programs since 2022.
When applying for executive leadership positions, candidates with a doctoral education can have an advantage over their masters-prepared colleagues since a DNP education provides advanced training in organizational management, systems thinking, and the leading of multidisciplinary teams. Executive leadership positions include chief nursing officer (CNO), patient care director, nursing home administrator, director of nursing, or chief nursing information officer. As far as earning power, a CNO can expect to earn an average of $141,000 per year.
Professional Parity
Since many healthcare colleagues — including MDs, dentists, and physical therapists — are required to achieve a doctorate, earning your DNP can provide you with professional achievement and equality of standing regarding professional parity.
As a nurse with a DNP, you will find yourself collaborating with multidisciplinary colleagues, often in a leadership position. A doctoral degree can bestow a feeling of self-respect and the right to expect and demand equal treatment as a highly educated, knowledgeable, professional healthcare leader.
Achieving Your Highest Goals
Nurses are all individuals whose personal circumstances and preferences dictate what level of education will bring them a sense of achievement and satisfaction. An aversion to accumulating student loan debt can be enough of a deterrent for some nurses to advance their education. For some, an ADN, BSN, or MSN is enough to scratch their educational itch, and the idea of a doctorate feels foreign, excessive, or simply unnecessary to reach their career goals.
However, there are always some ambitious nursing professionals whose eyes have always been on the prize of a doctorate, whether for personal achievement, professional advancement, or a combination of these and other motivating factors. Doctoral education is an intense and enriching educational experience that some individuals look forward to with relish and excitement, if not a healthy dose of trepidation at the amount of work that completing their education will entail.
Whether for personal reasons, professional advancement, earning power, career mobility, professional parity, or simply as a quest for knowledge, earning a DNP can deliver a unique sense of accomplishment for each individual.
Only you can decide if the DNP pathway is right for you and your career. Before you take the plunge:
Do your due diligence.
Research your options.
Talk with those who’ve walked this route before you.
There are many benefits to earning your DNP, and you can make a prudent decision once you’re armed with enough information to choose from a place of wisdom and certainty.
