Nursing Doctorate Degree
Does anyone know the differences between a N.D., D.Ns., PhD., D.Ed.?
All are doctorate degrees that nurses seek. But I can not figure out
the differences? Which one is most recognized in nursing academics?
I think...but am not sure....that an ND and DNs are the same - a
doctorate in nursing. A D.Ed is a doctorate in education. A PhD is a
doctorate in general terms, so to speak....so you can have a
speciality in an area, such as a PhD in psychology or biology or
chemical engineering....whatever.
An ND is a Nursing Doctorate. This is a fairly new degree and is currently
offered at only a few schoolsl. A bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field is
required. Therefore, it is an entry-level nursing degree, much like an MD is
the entry degree to practice medicine. MDs also have a bachelor's degree before
they enter medical school. Same goes for lawyers, optometrists, etc. This is a
graduate degree. One can sit for their RN license after the 2nd year. The 3rd
year consists of post-licensure coursework and clinicals. The 4th year is a
paid residency incorporating outcomes and evaluations research. Graduates are
advanced practice nurses with specialties in case management. Other
specialties can also be obtained additionally which allow the ND to obtain
prescriptive authority. Case Western and the University of Colorado are two of
the schools offering this program.
A DNs is a Doctorate of Nursing Science.
A PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. This is a broad degree which enables one to
do research and teach in a university setting.
A D.Ed is a Doctor of Education. This is another type of teaching degree.
This is interesting. Thank you all for the replies. I already have my
BSN...for a couple of years. I dont think it is too soon to consider an
advanced degree. It seems like I can seek out the ND now. But
apparently I must get the MSN before the PhDs.
It looks like the ND is the clinical degree and the PhDs are the
teaching degrees.
Are there any doctorate nurses or doctorate students in this newsgroup?
I really would like to correspond.