What Does a DNP Do? Roles & Responsibilities for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) represents the pinnacle of clinical nursing education, equipping nurses with the expertise to lead in complex healthcare environments.

The field of DNP practice has experienced significant growth over the past two decades. According to the figures we gathered from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), almost 72,000 nurses have graduated with a DNP since the endorsement of the practice doctorate in nursing in 2004. This growth reflects the increasing recognition of the DNP's role in addressing the complexities of modern healthcare.

For a comprehensive exploration of the Doctor of Nursing Practice role, including career pathways, educational requirements, and the impact of DNPs on healthcare systems, continue reading this article.

Key things you should know about becoming a DNP:

A DNP is the highest practice-focused degree in nursing, emphasizing leadership, evidence-based care, and systems improvement. DNPs can pursue roles such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse executive, or health policy advisor.
The median annual salary for DNP-prepared nurses is around $120,000–$135,000, depending on specialization and location.
DNP programs typically require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for entry.

Why pursue a DNP career in 2025?
What is the job outlook for DNPs?
What are the necessary skills for DNPs?
How do you start a DNP career?
How long does it take to become a DNP?
What are the most common specializations of DNPs?
How can you advance your DNP career?
How can I choose the optimal online DNP program for career advancement?
How do DNP salaries compare with other related fields?
Is the DNP degree a worthwhile investment?
What DNP certifications can boost your career prospects?
What are the alternative career options for DNPs?
How can I transition from an RN to a DNP role?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a DNP

Why pursue a DNP career in 2025?

Pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice career offers the opportunity to lead at the highest level of clinical nursing. Unlike a PhD, which focuses on research, the DNP emphasizes applying evidence-based practices to improve patient care and outcomes. Nurses with a DNP are trained to take on complex healthcare challenges, streamline systems, and implement policies that directly affect how care is delivered. This makes the DNP ideal for those who want to make a tangible difference in both individual patient lives and the broader healthcare landscape.

Another key reason to pursue a DNP is the expanded scope of practice and autonomy it offers. Many DNPs become nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, or nurse midwives—roles that often allow for independent or collaborative practice. In many states, DNPs can diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage treatment plans without physician oversight. This high level of responsibility translates to greater job satisfaction, increased earning potential, and stronger influence in healthcare decisions.

DNPs also play a major role in addressing leadership gaps in healthcare. They are often tapped for executive and administrative roles, including Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) or director-level positions. With a focus on health policy, quality improvement, and systems leadership, the DNP prepares nurses to guide organizations through complex regulatory and operational demands. These roles not only require clinical expertise but also strategic thinking and a deep understanding of healthcare economics and policy.

Finally, the DNP is a smart investment for those who value long-term career growth. As the healthcare industry increasingly prioritizes advanced degrees, the DNP is becoming a standard for top-level nursing roles. The degree signals a commitment to excellence, lifelong learning, and the ability to lead transformative change in patient care. Whether working in hospitals, community health, education, or government, DNP-prepared nurses are positioned for diverse and influential career paths.

All these would answer the common question: Do I need a DNP to be a nurse practitioner? Of course, you can also become an NP without a doctorate as long as you have obtained your master's degree in nursing.

What is the job outlook for DNPs?

The job outlook for Doctor of Nursing Practice professionals is highly positive, driven by growing healthcare demands and a national focus on improving care quality. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2025 projection shows a 40% job growth for nurse practitioners—one of the most common DNP roles—for the next decade. This rate is much faster than average and reflects a healthcare system that increasingly relies on advanced-practice nurses to fill critical gaps, especially in primary care and underserved areas.

DNPs are uniquely positioned to meet these workforce needs due to their advanced clinical training and leadership capabilities. Hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations are actively recruiting DNP-prepared professionals to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance outcomes. Their ability to implement evidence-based practices makes them especially valuable in achieving quality and safety benchmarks.

Beyond direct patient care, we also found that the demand for DNPs is rising in administrative, policy, and academic roles. Healthcare systems need leaders who can manage complex operations and adapt to policy changes, such as value-based care and population health initiatives. DNPs with expertise in informatics, systems leadership, and quality improvement are in high demand for executive and managerial positions. Additionally, many nursing schools are expanding DNP faculty roles to meet rising enrollment in advanced practice programs.

What are the necessary skills for DNPs?

Doctor of Nursing Practice professionals need a well-rounded skill set to lead in advanced clinical and leadership roles. Their responsibilities go beyond patient care, requiring expertise in systems thinking, policy, and team coordination.

Essential Skills

Clinical Expertise: DNPs must have deep knowledge of advanced nursing practices, diagnostics, and treatment planning. This helps them manage complex patient needs and deliver safe, evidence-based care.
Leadership and Management: DNPs often supervise teams, lead initiatives, or hold executive roles. Strong leadership skills help them drive change, manage resources, and influence healthcare delivery.
Health Policy and Advocacy: Understanding healthcare policy allows DNPs to shape legislation, improve care access, and promote patient safety. They use this knowledge to advocate for reforms at institutional, local, or national levels.
Quality Improvement: DNPs analyze data and lead initiatives that reduce errors and improve patient outcomes. This skill is key to implementing sustainable changes across healthcare systems.
Informatics and Technology: Using health IT tools to manage patient information and track care outcomes is a critical DNP function. Informatics supports efficient, data-driven decision-making and compliance.

General Skills

Critical Thinking: DNPs must assess situations quickly, interpret complex information, and make informed decisions. This is important in fast-paced clinical or administrative settings.
Communication: They must clearly communicate with patients, teams, and stakeholders to ensure coordination and understanding. Excellent written and verbal skills support collaboration and trust.
Adaptability: Healthcare is constantly evolving, so DNPs must adjust to new technologies, policies, and care models. Flexibility helps them remain effective in diverse environments.
Time Management: DNPs balance clinical, administrative, and leadership responsibilities. Good time management helps them meet deadlines and maintain high-quality care.
Collaboration: Working across interdisciplinary teams is a daily part of a DNP’s role. Collaboration leads to better patient outcomes and more cohesive healthcare delivery.

How do you start a DNP career?

Starting a Doctor of Nursing Practice career begins with earning a BSN and becoming a licensed registered nurse (RN). Most aspiring DNPs gain clinical experience before applying to a DNP program, though some programs offer direct-entry pathways for BSN holders. Gaining real-world nursing experience not only strengthens your application but also helps you understand which DNP specialization best suits your goals. For example, practicing as a cardiac nurse would help you decide whether cardiology or adult gerontology is something you'd want to specialize in. What does a cardiac nurse do, anyway? For more information, read our article on the topic.

The next requirement is certification in a chosen area of practice. This may involve passing national board exams specific to your specialty, such as family or psychiatric nurse practitioner roles. You must also obtain state licensure, which may vary depending on your scope of practice and location. Once licensed, you can begin working in clinical, leadership, or academic roles that match your training and interests.

To build a successful DNP career, it’s important to continue professional development through certifications, conferences, and advanced training. Joining professional organizations can provide networking and educational opportunities. Many DNPs also mentor others, contribute to healthcare policy, or teach in academic settings. With the right preparation and ongoing engagement, a DNP career can be both impactful and fulfilling.

What can I do with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing?

RN

RNs with a BSN provide direct patient care, administer medications, and coordinate treatment plans in hospitals, clinics, or home health settings. Check out these home health nurse requirements if you prefer to work with patients in the comfort of their homes.

RNs with BSNs often have more opportunities for leadership roles and specialized units than nurses with only an associate degree.

Median salary: $86,070

Nurse Manager

Nurse managers oversee nursing staff, manage budgets, and guarantee quality patient care within hospital units or clinics. A BSN is often the minimum requirement for this leadership role.

Median salary: $104,830

Public Health Nurse

Public health nurses focus on community education, disease prevention, and improving population health outcomes. They often work for local health departments, nonprofits, or schools. If this is a work setting you want to explore, you can look into the public health nurse requirements.

Median salary: $66,450

Clinical Research Nurse

Clinical research nurses support medical studies by monitoring patient participants, collecting data, and complying with protocols. BSN-prepared nurses in this field contribute to evidence-based practice and medical innovation

Median Salary: $88,200

Can you get a DNP job with just a certificate?

No, you cannot get a Doctor of Nursing Practice-level job with just a certificate. A DNP is a terminal degree that requires completing an accredited doctoral program, which includes advanced clinical training, leadership development, and a final scholarly project. Post-master’s certificates can boost skills or allow for specialization (e.g., in a new nurse practitioner role), but they do not replace the DNP degree itself. To qualify for DNP-level positions—such as advanced clinical roles, executive leadership, or academic faculty—you must hold the actual DNP credential.

An inadequate staff is one of the biggest problems in the healthcare system in the U.S.

How long does it take to become a DNP?

Becoming a DNP typically takes between 6 and 10 years, depending on your starting point and educational path. If you begin with a BSN, you can enter a BSN-to-DNP program, which usually takes 3 to 4 years of full-time study. This route includes advanced coursework, clinical hours, and a capstone project. Some students may take longer if they choose part-time study to balance work and personal responsibilities. For those interested in this accelerated track, many institutions now offer the cheapest BSN to DNP programs.

If you already have an MSN, you can enter an MSN-to-DNP program, which generally takes 1.5 to 2.5 years. Then comes the next question: What is a MSN? This option focuses more on leadership, policy, and evidence-based practice, since many MSN graduates have already completed advanced clinical training. The shorter duration makes it a popular route for experienced nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and other advanced practice nurses. However, program length still varies based on specialization and the school's requirements.

In total, reaching the DNP level from high school involves first completing a 4-year BSN, gaining at least one to two years of clinical experience, and then entering a DNP program. Some schools allow you to enter directly into a BSN-to-DNP track without requiring prior work experience, but having real-world practice often strengthens your application. Overall, the entire process is a long-term investment in clinical expertise and leadership development.

What are the most common specializations of DNPs?

DNP graduates can choose from a range of specializations that align with clinical, leadership, or academic goals. These tracks allow DNPs to focus their expertise on specific populations or healthcare needs.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive primary care to individuals and families across the lifespan. They diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage chronic conditions in clinics, private practices, and community health centers.
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): Those who wish to know how to become an adult gerontology nurse practitioner should know that this specialization is centered on caring for adults from adolescence through old age. They often work in internal medicine, long-term care, or geriatric specialty settings.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs deliver advanced care to infants, children, and adolescents. They perform well-child exams, manage pediatric illnesses, and educate families on child development and prevention.
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs assess, diagnose, and treat patients with mental health conditions across the lifespan. They may provide therapy, prescribe psychiatric medications, and work in outpatient or inpatient mental health facilities. You can take even the shortest PMHNP program for this concentration.
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): CRNAs administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgical, diagnostic, or obstetric procedures. This specialization requires intensive training and is one of the highest-paying nursing roles.

How can you advance your DNP career?

The next step is enrolling in a DNP program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). These programs typically require a BSN or an MSN, depending on the entry point. Many programs also require a final scholarly project that applies research to practice improvement.

What can I do with a Master of Science in Nursing?

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

NPs provide advanced care, including diagnosing conditions, ordering tests, and prescribing treatments. They often specialize in areas like family medicine, pediatrics, or mental health.

Median salary: $132,050

Nurse Educator

Nurse educators teach nursing students in academic settings or train staff in clinical environments. They develop curriculum, assess learning outcomes, and help shape future generations of nurses.

Median salary: $88,920

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

CNLs oversee patient care coordination, quality improvement, and safety initiatives in hospitals or large healthcare systems. They work closely with interdisciplinary teams to improve outcomes and streamline care delivery.

Median salary: $104,830

Nurse Informaticist

Nurse informaticists use data systems and technology to improve patient care, streamline documentation, and support decision-making. They act as a bridge between clinical staff and IT departments.

Median Salary: $107,600

What kind of job can I get with a Doctor of Nursing Practice?

CRNA

CRNAs administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgical or diagnostic procedures. DNP training is now the required standard for new CRNAs entering the field.

Median salary: $203,090

Clinical Nurse Executive

These DNPs hold executive leadership roles such as CNO, guiding hospital operations, policy, and quality initiatives. They combine clinical expertise with administrative strategy to improve outcomes and efficiency.

Median salary: $104,830

Nursing Faculty or Professor

DNPs in academia teach advanced practice nursing students and lead curriculum development at universities. They also conduct research and mentor future nurse leaders.

Median salary: $88,920

Healthcare Policy Analyst

DNPs in policy analysis work to influence healthcare legislation, advocate for reforms, and ensure that nursing perspectives are represented in policy decisions. They analyze data, collaborate with lawmakers, and drive changes that improve public health.

Median Salary: $72,800

Advanced education is needed for new NPS to perform their jobs.

How can I choose the optimal online DNP program for career advancement?

Online DNP programs offer flexibility and accelerated pathways for integrating advanced practice with leadership development. These programs can streamline the transition into high-demand roles by allowing professionals to continue their clinical work while pursuing academic growth. Evaluating program accreditation, curriculum intensity, and support services is crucial to ensure the choice aligns with your career objectives. For those looking to minimize time to completion without compromising quality, consider exploring the shortest online DNP program to balance efficiency with educational excellence.

How do DNP salaries compare with other related fields?

DNP salaries are among the highest in the nursing field, reflecting the advanced skills and leadership capabilities that come with this terminal degree. DNPs typically earn more than those with a MSN or those working in lower-level nursing roles, due to their extensive education, clinical expertise, and ability to lead in healthcare systems. When compared to other healthcare professionals with advanced degrees, DNP salaries are competitive, though they can vary depending on the specific role, location, and healthcare setting.

For example, NPs with a DNP earn a median salary of around $132,050 per year, which is significantly higher than the median for RNs with a BSN ($86,070). This increase reflects the autonomy and advanced clinical responsibilities that come with the DNP credential. NPs with a DNP can specialize in areas such as family practice, pediatrics, or mental health, and their salary often increases as they take on more complex patient care responsibilities or move into leadership positions.

In comparison to other healthcare leaders, such as Medical and Health Services Managers, the salary of a DNP in an executive leadership role is comparable. Coupled with a favorable CNO job outlook, these experts also receive a median salary as high as $104,830, which is in line with other healthcare managers overseeing clinical operations. While doctors and dentists generally have higher salaries, DNPs working in leadership roles often enjoy a more direct and collaborative impact on patient care, quality improvement, and operational efficiency, which is a unique aspect of the role.

When comparing DNP salaries to those in academic settings, DNPs who serve as nursing faculty or professors earn a median salary of about $88,920, which is lower than those in high-level clinical or executive roles but still above the average for general educators. The salary for academic roles can vary based on the institution, geographic location, and whether the position is part-time or full-time. DNPs working in academia also often enjoy a balance between clinical work and teaching, which is an appealing option for those passionate about shaping future nurses.

In terms of salary potential, DNPs also fare well when compared to other healthcare professionals with doctoral degrees. For instance, CRNAs earn a median salary of $203,090, reflecting the specialized and high-stakes nature of their role. While this is notably higher than most other nursing roles, it shows that the DNP's earning potential can rival other specialized healthcare providers, especially when working in leadership or highly specialized clinical settings. Therefore, DNP salaries are competitive and can vary widely based on the chosen career path, with significant potential for career advancement and salary growth.

Is the DNP degree a worthwhile investment?

Analyzing the financial impact of a DNP reveals that while the degree demands a significant investment in tuition and time, it frequently translates into leadership roles and enhanced earning potential that justify the expense over the long term. Strategic evaluation of program costs, available scholarships, and potential loan support—as well as careful assessment of clinical placements and network opportunities—can help ensure that the benefits align with your career ambitions. For nurses seeking an accelerated career pathway without an extended time commitment, exploring programs such as LPN to RN in 6 months may offer a pragmatic entry point into advanced practice roles.

What DNP certifications can boost your career prospects?

Earning additional certifications alongside a DNP can improve your expertise, expand your career opportunities, and increase your earning potential. These certifications demonstrate specialized knowledge in high-demand areas, making DNP professionals more competitive in the job market.

Board Certification for NPs: DNPs in nurse practitioner roles must pass national board exams specific to their specialty, but advanced certifications in areas like family, psychiatric-mental health, or adult-gerontology can increase job prospects. These certifications are often required for state licensure and are highly valued by employers.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): The CRNA certification is essential for DNPs specializing in anesthesia. This advanced credential allows nurses to safely administer anesthesia and is one of the highest-paying and most in-demand roles in the nursing profession.
Certified Nurse Executive (CNE): The CNE certification is for DNPs in leadership roles who want to demonstrate their ability to manage healthcare organizations effectively. It focuses on leadership, healthcare policy, and organizational management, helping to prepare DNPs for executive positions like CNO.
Certified Nurse Educator (CNE): For DNPs looking to teach, the CNE certification is a valuable credential. It demonstrates expertise in nursing education, including curriculum design, teaching strategies, and student assessment, making DNPs eligible for faculty roles at nursing schools.
Certified Clinical Research Nurse (CCRN): The CCRN certification is ideal for DNPs in clinical research, focusing on the management of clinical trials and patient care during studies. This certification highlights a nurse’s ability to conduct evidence-based research and improve healthcare outcomes.
Nurse Informatics Certification (RN-BC): For DNPs interested in health IT, the RN-BC demonstrates expertise in managing healthcare data, implementing electronic health records, and optimizing clinical workflows. This certification is increasingly important as healthcare organizations prioritize digital solutions and data-driven care.

What are the alternative career options for DNPs?

DNP graduates are highly skilled and versatile professionals, prepared to excel in a wide range of healthcare and non-clinical roles. Many DNPs pursue advanced clinical or leadership positions, yet the skills gained during their training allow for diverse career paths in education, policy, research, and health informatics.

What else can a DNP do?

One alternative career path is in healthcare consulting. DNPs can become consultants for healthcare organizations, helping them amplify care delivery and operational efficiency and implement evidence-based practices. This role may involve analyzing data, advising on best practices, and guiding healthcare leaders through system changes. Consulting can be done independently or as part of a larger firm, allowing DNPs to work with a variety of healthcare entities.

Another likely route is nurse entrepreneurship. DNPs with an entrepreneurial spirit can start their own businesses, such as private practices, health coaching services, or telemedicine platforms. They have the clinical knowledge to create innovative healthcare solutions or refine existing services, while their leadership training helps with business management. If you're a DNP asking, "What degree should I get to become an entrepreneur?" you can opt for entrepreneurship or business administration programs.

DNPs can also become patient safety and quality improvement officers. This role is focused on patient safety and quality improvement within healthcare organizations. They are responsible for identifying areas for improvement, developing strategies to prevent errors, and ensuring adherence to best practices. These professionals use their expertise to create safer healthcare environments, reduce harm, and improve the quality of care delivered to patients.

How can I transition from an RN to a DNP role?

To successfully transition from an RN role to a DNP position, it is crucial to assess your current qualifications and career objectives while selecting an accredited pathway that aligns with both clinical and leadership goals. Consider programs that offer streamlined progression, including direct-entry or accelerated tracks for experienced RNs. Exploring options such as the easy RN to BSN can provide a solid academic foundation with flexibility to advance toward a DNP. Moreover, integrating targeted certifications and leadership experiences will enhance your preparedness for complex healthcare challenges while ensuring a smooth transition to advanced practice roles.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their DNP Careers

"Becoming a DNP gave me the tools to lead change in my hospital and directly influence patient care outcomes. I now mentor staff nurses and lead quality improvement projects that make a real difference. It’s empowering to combine clinical expertise with leadership every day." – Rhonda

"My DNP prepared me to open my own clinic and serve an underserved rural population. It’s incredibly fulfilling to provide advanced care where it’s most needed, and I feel confident in every decision I make thanks to my training. This role has truly given me both independence and purpose." – Julia

"The DNP path challenged me intellectually and emotionally, but it gave me a deeper understanding of evidence-based practice and how to apply it at the system level. I now collaborate with administrators and policymakers to improve care delivery on a broader scale. I never imagined I'd have this kind of voice in healthcare." – Rachel

Key Findings

A PhD focuses on research, while the DNP emphasizes applying evidence-based practices.
NPs will see a 40% job growth between 2023 and 2033.
About 33% of healthcare establishments indicate staff inadequacy as among their biggest challenges.
Getting to the DNP level from high school involves first finishing a 4-year BSN, having at least one to two years of clinical experience, and then enrolling in a DNP program.
DNP-prepared NPs take home around $132,050 yearly.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a DNP

Can DNPs diagnose and treat patients?

Yes, DNPs can diagnose and treat patients, especially when they are licensed as nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists. With advanced clinical training and education, DNPs are qualified to assess patients, order and interpret diagnostic tests, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications. Their authority to diagnose and treat independently varies by state; in full practice states, DNPs can provide care without physician oversight, while in others, they may need collaborative agreements. This level of practice allows DNPs to serve as primary care providers, manage chronic conditions, and address acute health issues across diverse populations.

Will most entry-level NP positions require a DNP credential by 2025?

The push toward DNP-prepared practitioners is growing, but most entry-level NP positions are not expected to require a DNP credential by 2025. Many employers continue to accept an MSN as sufficient for entry-level roles, although a DNP may offer advantages in competitive markets or specialty settings. The transition toward a DNP standard is gradual, and regulatory or institutional changes will likely determine future requirements. For now, the DNP remains highly beneficial for leadership and advanced practice, but it is not universally mandated for entry-level NP positions.

What is the easiest nurse practitioner to become?

The easiest NP specialty to become is generally considered to be the FNP, due to its broad scope of practice, widespread availability of programs, and flexibility in employment settings. FNP programs typically have fewer admissions restrictions, offer more online options, and do not require highly specialized clinical rotations like acute care or anesthesia tracks. The curriculum focuses on primary care across the lifespan, making it more accessible for nurses without extensive critical care experience. While no NP path is truly “easy,” FNP is often the most straightforward and versatile route for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers.

What is the future of DNP?

The future of the DNP is poised for significant growth and influence within the evolving healthcare landscape. As the demand for advanced practice nurses rises, DNP-prepared professionals are increasingly recognized for their expertise in clinical leadership, evidence-based practice, and healthcare policy. With the aging population and a projected shortage of physicians, DNPs are well-positioned to fill critical roles in primary care, administration, and education. Their advanced training equips them to lead quality improvement initiatives, mentor upcoming nurses, and advocate for systemic changes that enhance patient outcomes. As healthcare systems continue to prioritize efficiency and patient-centered care, the DNP's role will be integral in shaping the future of nursing and healthcare delivery.

References:

AACN. (2023, July). About the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Retrieved May 6, 2025, from AACN.
BLS. (2025, April 18). Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners. Retrieved May 6, 2025, from BLS.
Indeed. (2025, March 26). 13 Doctorate in Nursing Practice Jobs You Can Pursue. Retrieved May 6, 2025, from Indeed.
Maryville University. (2023, August 31). Current Issues & Challenges Facing Nurse Practitioners. Retrieved May 6, 2025, from Maryville University.