What is a DNP?

What They Do

Nurses are in greater demand than ever before. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts 31 percent growth in jobs for advanced practice nurses between 2014 and 2024. Those who are interested in progressing to the highest levels of clinical nursing practice are earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. DNPs possess the advanced skill level and credentials to pursue nursing leadership roles in clinical settings.

Career Growth and Salary Potential

One career path a DNP may take is to work as a nurse executive in a hospital or clinic. Here are five other examples of careers for DNPs.*

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Nurses in this job are responsible for assisting an anesthesiologist with patients. They help with administering the drugs, setting IVs and monitoring the patient during surgical procedures. CRNAs earn an average annual salary of $135,000.

Nurse Researcher: Nurse researchers gather data and statistics to better understand health issues within specific communities. Using their research, they help develop or expand programs and initiatives that improve health outcomes. The average annual salary earned is $95,000.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner: Psychiatric NPs work side by side with psychiatrists to diagnose and treat patients with mental and emotional disorders. They work closely with patients and their families to educate and advise on treatment. It’s common for psychiatric nurse practitioners to work in mental health facilities, but they may also work in hospitals and private practices. The average annual salary is $95,000.

Certified Nurse Midwife: Nurse midwives are trained to treat women throughout pregnancy. They provide prenatal care and help patients make decisions about childbirth. Like obstetricians/gynecologists, nurse midwives can deliver babies. Nurse midwives earn an average salary of $91,000.

Pediatric Endocrinology Nurse: These nurses are specialists in both pediatrics and endocrinology. They treat children and teenagers who have conditions like diabetes. The average salary earned is $81,000.

*Career and salary information is from Nurse Journal. 

Education Required

Admission to Rivier University’s DNP program is open to advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) with a master’s degree or post-master’s certificate who have successfully passed the national nurse practitioner certification exam.