Nurses positively impact their patient outcomes and the healthcare system, and one way to enhance that impact is through advancing their nursing degrees. But often, one thing that holds nurses back is feeling overwhelmed with the options for degree advancement and knowing where to start. First, you must know whether you want to pursue an MSN or DNP degree.
Below is information about both, including the differences between an MSN and a DNP and how to choose which one is right for you.
The Difference Between an MSN and a DNP
A nurse can pursue several paths to advance their degree, two of the most common being pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Completing an MSN prepares you for advanced practice in the healthcare field, whether in clinical practice, leadership, or education. On average, it takes 1.5-2 years to complete if you attend full-time. There are different types of MSN degrees; therefore, knowing your ultimate goals as a nurse is important to ensure you pursue the degree that best matches. Examples of MSN degrees include
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Nurse Midwife
- Nurse Leadership
- Nurse Educator
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
A DNP is a terminal degree and often builds on the curriculum of the MSN. On average, a DNP program takes 2-3 years to complete, but this does depend on whether your program is a BSN to DNP or MSN to DNP program.
Completing a DNP advances your nursing career and emphasizes applying research to implement evidence-based practice, improving patient outcomes, and impacting the healthcare system. DNPs can work in a clinical setting as an NP or CRNA, in leadership, such as a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), or in education, whether that be with a BSN, MSN, or DNP program.
So, what is the difference between MSN and DNP? While both can lead to similar jobs, two primary differences exist between an MSN and a DNP degree. The DNP is a terminal degree. A DNP also implements research into practice to improve patient outcomes and system-wide outcomes.
It is important to note that the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) reports that by 2025, CRNA programs must be doctoral programs. The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) supports that all NP programs should be doctoral programs. While this has not been implemented yet, this is the recommendation many professional nursing organizations support.
How to Choose Which One is Right for You
Now that you know the difference between an MSN and a DNP degree, how do you choose which path is right for you? Ultimately, the decision lies in your ultimate goal as a nurse. Many jobs overlap between an MSN and a DNP-prepared nurse. However, a DNP may have a slight advantage when looking at roles in leadership or as a nurse practitioner or CRNA.
Again, as of 2025, all CRNA programs will be doctoral programs requiring a DNP to obtain licensure. And keep in mind that many professional nursing organizations are pushing for NP programs to follow suit.
Knowing your goal as a nurse is the first step in determining which path is best for you when advancing your nursing degree. Regardless of whether you choose to complete an MSN or DNP degree, the job opportunities are abundant, and you will positively impact the healthcare system.
References
American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2023, July). About the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
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