What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Nursing for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Considering the pinnacle of nursing education? A Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) is a transformative degree that propels nurses to the forefront of healthcare leadership and advanced clinical expertise.

This article serves as your comprehensive guide, illuminating the diverse and impactful career paths a DNP can unlock. We will navigate the essential information, from understanding the various advanced practice roles to exploring opportunities in administration, education, policy, and beyond, empowering you to envision the possibilities a nursing doctorate can offer.

Key Things You Should Know About What You Can Do With a Doctorate in Nursing

Doctorate in nursing program is a practice-focused doctorate, emphasizing the application of research and evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes and healthcare systems. Aspiring candidates should clearly understand how a doctorate in nursing with a doctor in nursing practice (DNP) focus differs from a research-focused PhD in Nursing and the specific advanced practice, leadership, education, or policy roles a DNP can lead to.
Doctorate in nursing offers various specializations, such as Nurse Practitioner tracks, Clinical Nurse Specialist roles, Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse-Midwifery, and leadership/administrative focuses. Aspiring candidates must thoroughly research the available specializations and ensure the programs they are considering are accredited by recognized bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Programs vary in structure, including the amount of clinical hours required, the curriculum focus, and the delivery format (online, hybrid, or on-campus). Aspiring candidates should assess their learning style, as well as work and personal commitments, and geographical constraints to identify a program that offers a suitable structure and delivery method.

What can you do with a doctorate in nursing for 2025?
What are the different advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles for doctorate in nursing graduates?
How can a doctorate in nursing qualify you to become a nurse practitioner?
Can a doctorate in nursing lead to a career in healthcare administration or management?
Can you teach nursing with a doctorate in nursing degree?
How does a DNP compare to a PhD in Nursing for a career in education?
What are the admission requirements for entering a DNP program?
What factors should I consider when selecting a DNP program?
Is an online DNP program a viable option for family nurse practitioners?
Can online programs fast-track advanced nursing specializations?
What are the different doctorate in nursing specializations available?
What is the average salary for nurses with a doctorate degree?
What is the job outlook for doctorate in nursing graduates?
Other Things You Should Know About What You Can Do With a Doctorate in Nursing

What can you do with a doctorate in nursing for 2025?

Earning a doctorate in nursing, also known as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, unlocks a diverse spectrum of high-impact career trajectories within the healthcare landscape. Primarily focused on advanced clinical practice, a DNP empowers graduates to become autonomous and specialized providers such as Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, and Certified Nurse-Midwives, delivering expert, evidence-based care directly to patients. Beyond direct care, the DNP curriculum cultivates crucial leadership, management, and policy skills.

Getting a doctorate in nursing opens doors to impactful careers in academia, where graduates can educate and mentor the next generation of nurses, and in research, where they can lead clinical investigations and translate findings into improved patient outcomes. The versatility of the DNP degree also fosters opportunities in entrepreneurship and innovation, allowing nurses to create new healthcare solutions and businesses. Ultimately, a DNP signifies the pinnacle of practice-focused nursing education, equipping individuals to be transformative leaders and advanced practitioners who significantly shape the future of healthcare delivery.

So just imagine being a community health nurse, for instance, and how earning your DNP could help improve your career. But what is a community health nurse in the first place? Check out a separate article on the topic.

What are the different advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles for doctorate in nursing graduates?

A doctorate in nursing degree provides a strong foundation for pursuing various Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles, each with a distinct focus and scope of practice. These roles generally require national certification in a specific area after completing an accredited graduate-level program. For those seeking a terminal practice degree in nursing, as of 2023, there were 433 DNP programs are currently enrolling students at nursing schools nationwide, offering a wide range of educational pathways.

Here are the primary APRN roles for doctorate in nursing graduates:

Nurse Practitioner (NP): NPs provide a wide range of healthcare services, often acting as primary care providers. They can diagnose and treat illnesses, conduct physical exams, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications, and educate patients on disease prevention and management. DNP-prepared NPs can specialize in various populations (e.g., family, adult-gerontology, pediatrics, women's health, psychiatric-mental health, neonatal) or acuity levels (primary vs. acute care).
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): CNSs are experts in a specific area of nursing practice, such as critical care, oncology, gerontology, or mental health. Their role encompasses providing direct patient care, serving as a clinical resource and consultant for nursing staff, developing and implementing evidence-based practice guidelines, leading quality improvement initiatives, and educating patients and families.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): CRNAs are advanced practice nurses who are certified to administer anesthesia and related care before, during, and after surgical, obstetrical, and diagnostic procedures. They work in various settings, including hospitals, surgical centers, and physician offices, and have a high degree of autonomy in their practice.
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM): CNMs provide comprehensive care to women, focusing on reproductive health, prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. They also offer newborn care and may provide primary care and gynecological services to women across their lifespan. CNMs often work in hospitals, birthing centers, and private practices.

While these are the four recognized APRN roles, the DNP degree can also lead to advanced roles that bridge clinical practice with leadership, education, or informatics, further expanding the impact of these highly educated nurses on the healthcare system. Since a nursing degree is an important prerequisite, consider the fastest RN to MSN program offered by nursing colleges.

Doctorate in nursing programs in the U.S. as of 2023

How can a doctorate in nursing qualify you to become a nurse practitioner?

Doctorate in nursing programs designed for aspiring NPs integrate advanced coursework in areas such as advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and differential diagnosis. These programs also emphasize evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and leadership skills essential for the NP role.

Crucially, DNP-NP tracks include a significant number of supervised clinical hours in a chosen specialty area (e.g., family, pediatrics, adult-gerontology, psychiatric-mental health, women's health). This hands-on experience allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings under the guidance of experienced preceptors.

Upon successful completion of a DNP program with a nurse practitioner focus, graduates are eligible to sit for national certification exams administered by recognized credentialing bodies such as the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Passing this certification exam demonstrates competency in the chosen specialty and is a prerequisite for obtaining state licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with the NP designation. Therefore, the comprehensive education and clinical training within a DNP program directly prepare and qualify graduates to meet the requirements for NP certification and licensure.

Can a doctorate in nursing lead to a career in healthcare administration or management?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can definitely lead to a fulfilling and impactful career in healthcare administration or management. While the DNP is a practice-focused doctorate, the curriculum often incorporates essential leadership, organizational, and systems-level knowledge and skills crucial for administrative roles. In 2023, post-baccalaureate DNP programs were offered in 299 schools, post-master’s DNP programs in 397 schools, and entry-level DNP programs (pre-licensure) in 8 schools.

Many DNP programs offer specific tracks or concentrations in areas like Executive Leadership, Healthcare Administration, or Nursing Administration. These programs delve into topics such as healthcare finance, organizational management, policy development, quality improvement, informatics, and strategic planning. As such, it's not surprising that clinical nurse leader jobs inspire some to pursue DNP degrees.

The doctoral-level education equips DNP graduates with the advanced competencies needed to lead teams, manage resources, implement organizational changes, and influence healthcare delivery at a broader level.

DNP-prepared nurses in administration and management can hold positions such as Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), Director of Nursing, Nurse Manager, Healthcare Administrator, Clinical Nurse Leader, and roles in quality and risk management. Their clinical background provides a unique and valuable perspective in these roles, ensuring that administrative decisions are grounded in an understanding of patient care and the needs of clinical staff. The DNP signifies a high level of expertise and leadership capability, making graduates competitive candidates for these influential positions within healthcare organizations.

The chart below illustrates the diverse landscape of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) education in 2023 by detailing the total number of programs available across different program types. This provides insight into the various pathways aspiring DNPs could pursue

Can you teach nursing with a doctorate in nursing degree?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree definitely qualifies you to teach nursing at various levels. This means you are not limited within the APRN career path. While a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing has traditionally been seen as the primary pathway for research-intensive academic roles, the DNP is increasingly recognized and valued for its focus on clinical expertise and the translation of evidence into practice, which are highly relevant to nursing education.

Both DNP program enrollment and the number of graduates saw an increase from 2022 to 2023, with enrollment rising from 41,021 to 41,831 and the number of graduates increasing from 11,149 to 11,718. This demonstrates a positive trend in the pursuit and completion of doctoral nursing education.

With a DNP, you can pursue a variety of academic positions, including:

Clinical Faculty: Your advanced clinical knowledge and experience make you an invaluable asset in teaching clinical skills, supervising students in practice settings, and bridging the gap between theory and real-world application.
Lecturer/Instructor: You can teach didactic courses, sharing your expertise in specific clinical areas, advanced practice topics, and healthcare systems.
Assistant/Associate/Full Professor: Depending on the institution's requirements and your scholarly activities (which can include practice-based research, quality improvement projects, and publications), you can progress through the academic ranks. Many universities value the practice-focused expertise of DNP-prepared faculty.
Program Director/Coordinator: Your leadership skills developed through a DNP program can lead to opportunities in directing and coordinating nursing programs or specific tracks within a nursing school.

The emphasis in DNP programs on evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership aligns well with the evolving needs of nursing education, which aims to prepare graduates who can critically appraise evidence and implement best practices.

While some research-intensive universities may still prioritize PhD-prepared faculty for tenure-track positions, many institutions highly value the expertise and practical knowledge that DNP-prepared educators bring to the classroom and clinical settings. Your real-world experience as an advanced practice nurse can greatly enrich the learning experience for nursing students.

How does a DNP compare to a PhD in Nursing for a career in education?

For a career in education, both a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing offer distinct pathways and strengths.

The PhD in Nursing is primarily a research-focused degree, designed to prepare nurse scientists who will contribute to the body of nursing knowledge through rigorous research. Graduates typically pursue careers in academia as research faculty, conducting studies, developing theories, and publishing their findings. They often teach research methodologies and nursing theory courses.

The demand for doctoral degrees in school hiring continues to climb, with 84% of all vacancies now requiring or preferring this level of education, up from 79.8% in 2023. This trend is occurring alongside a substantial number of long-term vacancies, as 531 positions (31% of the total) have been open for more than a year.

In contrast, the DNP is a practice-focused doctorate that emphasizes the application of research to improve clinical practice and patient outcomes. While DNP graduates are also qualified to teach, their expertise lies in translating evidence-based practice into educational settings, particularly in clinical instruction and advanced practice topics. They often serve as clinical faculty, bridging the gap between theory and practice, and may also hold leadership roles within nursing education programs, focusing on curriculum development and practice-based learning.

The choice between a DNP and a PhD for a career in education depends on whether your primary passion lies in conducting original research and advancing nursing science (PhD) or in educating future nurses with a strong emphasis on clinical application and evidence-based practice (DNP). When evaluating your options, consider the most affordable DNP programs.

Share of nursing schools that require doctorate degree for faculty

What are the admission requirements for entering a DNP program?

Applicants must hold a current, active RN license and a BSN from an accredited institution. Many programs also value clinical experience and a proven record of leadership in practice. For nurses transitioning from an ADN, enrolling in cheap RN to BSN programs can be an affordable pathway to meet admission prerequisites. In some cases, candidates with an MSN may be eligible for BSN-to-DNP pathways, while others must complete prerequisite coursework before starting the DNP curriculum. Submission of official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a well-articulated personal statement is typically required to demonstrate clinical competence, academic readiness, and a commitment to advancing healthcare practice. Some programs may also request standardized test scores or conduct interviews to further assess applicants’ suitability for the rigorous demands of doctoral-level study.

What factors should I consider when selecting a DNP program?

When evaluating a DNP program, focus on the program’s accreditation status, curriculum design, and available clinical practicums that align with your career objectives. Consider the expertise of faculty members and the institution’s partnerships with healthcare facilities to ensure robust, hands-on training. Analyze cost factors, including tuition, financial aid opportunities, and long-term return on investment, while also assessing the program’s reputation in terms of graduate outcomes and employment placement. For insights on institutional competitiveness, reviews, and admission trends, refer to our guide to the nursing schools easy to get into.

Is an online DNP program a viable option for family nurse practitioners?

Online DNP programs are structured to deliver rigorous, accredited curricula through flexible digital platforms while maintaining essential clinical components. These programs blend virtual coursework with designated clinical placements and simulation labs to ensure advanced practice competencies remain uncompromised. For candidates focused on the family nurse practitioner pathway, evaluating program outcomes, faculty expertise, and institutional partnerships becomes critical. Consider guidance resources such as the most affordable online FNP programs when assessing the balance of cost efficiency, educational rigor, and career readiness.

Can online programs fast-track advanced nursing specializations?

Online education models provide a dynamic approach to acquiring specialized skills without compromising work-life balance. Many accredited online programs integrate synchronous and asynchronous learning with required clinical placements to ensure that advanced practice competencies are met efficiently. For instance, targeted programs in women's health offer accelerated coursework and clinical practicums that align with the specialized demands of the field. Interested candidates may explore the quickest MSN women's health nurse practitioner online programs as a strategic pathway to expedite their career advancement while maintaining academic rigor and clinical proficiency.

What are the different doctorate in nursing specializations available?

While specific DNP program offerings can vary by institution, some universities offer the easiest online DNP programs for busy practitioners.

Here are some of the common and well-recognized DNP specializations:

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Roles

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Focuses on providing primary care to individuals and families across the lifespan. As of 2024 there were 307,390 nurse practitioners employed across the U.S. earning $132,000 on average.
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP): Specializes in the primary care of adults, with a focus on the aging population.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP): Focuses on the care of acutely and critically ill adult patients in hospital and intensive care settings.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): Provides care to infants, children, and adolescents, with options for primary care (PNP-PC) or acute care (PNP-AC).
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Specializes in the mental health needs of individuals and families across the lifespan, including diagnosis, treatment, and medication management.
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): Focuses on the comprehensive healthcare needs of women, including reproductive health, gynecological care, and pregnancy.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): Provides specialized care for newborns, including premature and critically ill infants.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): A specialized role focused on the administration of anesthesia for surgical and other medical procedures.(Note: Some institutions offer a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice - DNAP - as a terminal degree for this specialty).
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM): Focuses on providing care to women during pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period, as well as newborn care and women's health.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Focuses on a specific area of clinical practice (e.g., critical care, oncology, cardiology) to provide expert consultation, develop evidence-based practices, and improve patient outcomes.

Leadership, Education, and Other Non-Direct Care Roles

Nursing Administration/Executive Leadership: Focuses on developing leadership and management skills for roles in healthcare administration, such as Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) or Director of Nursing.
Health Informatics: Integrates nursing science with information technology to manage and analyze healthcare data, improve patient care, and enhance healthcare systems. A DNP with this focus is perfect if you want to further improve your MS health informatics salary.
Nursing Education: Prepares graduates to teach in academic and clinical settings, develop curricula, and lead educational programs.
Public Health Nursing Leadership: Focuses on leadership roles in public health organizations, addressing population health issues and developing community-based interventions.
Healthcare Policy: Equips nurses with the skills to analyze, develop, and advocate for health policies at various levels.
Quality and Safety Leadership: Focuses on leading initiatives to improve the quality and safety of healthcare delivery within organizations.

The availability of these specializations can vary depending on the DNP program and the institution's focus and resources. It's important for prospective students to research programs carefully to find one that aligns with their specific career goals. Some colleges offer accelerated DNP programs for nurses who prefer fast-track their studies.

In 2024, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) were active in several key roles within healthcare. The chart below quantifies the total number of APRNs practicing in each of these specialized areas.

What is the average salary for nurses with a doctorate in nursing degree?

The average doctorate in nursing salary can vary significantly based on several factors, including their specific role, specialization, years of experience, geographic location, and the type of healthcare setting they work in.

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn't provide specific salary data solely for DNP-prepared nurses, they do offer information for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), many of whom hold DNP degrees. As of May 2024, the median annual wage for nurse practitioners was $129,210, and for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), it was $223,210. Other roles for DNP graduates, such as clinical nurse specialists, nurse administrators, and nurse educators, also command competitive salaries, although typically lower than CRNAs but often higher than the median for registered nurses.

Note that these are median figures, and actual salaries can range considerably. Factors such as high demand in a specific specialty or location, years of experience, and additional certifications can lead to significantly higher earning potential for DNP-prepared nurses. For instance, nurse practitioners in certain metropolitan areas or with specialized skills in high-demand fields like emergency medicine or psychiatry may earn salaries well above the median. Similarly, leadership roles in large healthcare systems can also offer substantial compensation.

Annual salary of nurse practitioners in 2024

What is the job outlook for doctorate in nursing graduates?

The job outlook for doctorate in nursing graduates is exceptionally strong and projected to continue growing at a much faster rate than the average for all occupations. Several key factors contribute to this positive outlook:

High Demand for Advanced Practice Nurses: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 40% growth in employment for nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives from 2023 to 2033. This significant increase reflects the expanding need for highly skilled healthcare providers who can deliver comprehensive care.
Addressing Healthcare Shortages: DNP-prepared nurses, especially nurse practitioners, are crucial in addressing the growing shortage of primary care physicians, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Their ability to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications allows them to fill critical gaps in healthcare access.
Aging Population: The increasing number of older adults with complex healthcare needs and chronic conditions is driving the demand for advanced practice nurses who can provide specialized care and manage these conditions effectively. This is the reason why careers for gerontology majors are also on the rise.
Emphasis on Preventive Care: The healthcare system's growing focus on preventive care and wellness initiatives further increases the need for DNPs who are educated in health promotion and disease prevention strategies.
Expansion of Telehealth: The rise of telehealth and virtual care models creates new opportunities for DNP graduates to provide care remotely, increasing access for patients in various geographical locations.
Retirement of Experienced Nurses and Physicians: As a significant portion of the current nursing and physician workforce reaches retirement age, the need for well-prepared replacements, including DNP-educated nurses, will continue to rise.

This robust job outlook translates to excellent career opportunities, job security, and strong earning potential for nurses who pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree across various advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and academic settings.

Here’s What Doctorate in Nursing Graduates Have to Say About Their Careers

The DNP program was rigorous, but it empowered me to become a Family Nurse Practitioner and truly make a difference in my community. I now have the autonomy to diagnose and manage patient conditions, and the gratitude I receive from families is incredibly rewarding. This degree has not only elevated my practice but also my sense of purpose. Maria

Transitioning to a leadership role in healthcare administration after my DNP was a game-changer. I now have the knowledge and skills to influence policy and improve patient care on a larger scale. Witnessing the positive impact of changes I've spearheaded has been incredibly fulfilling, and my salary has also significantly increased, allowing for greater financial security. Ben

As a Clinical Nurse Specialist with a DNP, I've found immense satisfaction in mentoring other nurses and implementing evidence-based practices that directly improve patient outcomes in the cardiac unit. The advanced knowledge I gained has boosted my confidence and allowed me to become a respected expert in my field. It's a privilege to contribute to both the growth of my colleagues and the well-being of our patients. Sarah

Key Findings

433 DNP programs are currently enrolling students at nursing schools nationwide, offering a wide range of educational pathways.
As of 2024 there were 307,390 nurse practitioners employed across the U.S. earning $132,000 on average.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 40% growth in employment for nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives from 2023 to 2033.
As of May 2024, the median annual wage for nurse practitioners was $129,210, and for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), it was $223,210.
As of 2024 there were 307,390 nurse practitioners employed across the U.S. earning $132,000 annually.

Other Things You Should Know About What You Can Do With a Doctorate in Nursing

How does a DNP impact earning potential compared to other nursing degrees?

Earning a DNP typically leads to a significantly higher earning potential compared to ADN, BSN, or even MSN-prepared nurses due to the advanced knowledge and skills acquired for specialized roles like APRNs and leadership positions. The increased autonomy and responsibility associated with these roles are reflected in higher salaries, making the DNP a valuable investment for long-term financial growth in the nursing profession.

Can a DNP work in government or regulatory agencies?

Yes, absolutely. The advanced clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and understanding of healthcare systems gained through a DNP program make graduates highly valuable in government and regulatory agencies. They can contribute to policy development, regulation enforcement, public health initiatives, and healthcare administration at various levels.

Why should a nurse consider getting a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)?

For nurses, a DNP offers a pathway to advanced clinical practice roles with greater autonomy, expands leadership opportunities in healthcare systems, and often leads to increased earning potential. This terminal practice degree equips nurses with the highest level of education for clinical expertise and the translation of research into practice, ultimately enhancing their impact on patient care and the profession.

How does a DNP enhance career advancement opportunities?

A DNP significantly enhances career advancement by qualifying nurses for advanced practice roles with greater autonomy and responsibility, such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, and nurse-midwife. This advanced preparation also opens doors to leadership and administrative positions, as well as faculty roles in academic institutions, leading to increased professional opportunities and career trajectory.