The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving and so is the need for advanced nursing professionals capable of leading change, improving outcomes and implementing evidence-based care. For registered nurses (RNs) looking to advance to the highest levels of clinical practice, earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is a pivotal step.
There are a number of unique advantages of earning a DNP degree, and nursing professional should understand how it differs from a PhD in nursing. Graduates of the St. Thomas University (STU) online DNP program also have a variety of careers they can pursue upon graduation, thanks to their earned skillset.
While both the DNP and PhD in nursing are terminal degrees, their focus and career outcomes differ significantly. The DNP is a clinical practice-oriented degree designed to prepare nurses for leadership roles in healthcare delivery, systems management and advanced clinical practice. In contrast, the PhD in Nursing emphasizes research, aiming to create new knowledge through studies and contribute to the advancement of nursing science. For those who aspire to make an immediate impact in patient care, healthcare policy or clinical leadership, the DNP offers a hands-on, applied approach to solving real-world challenges in healthcare systems.
5 Jobs for DNP Program Graduates
Graduates of STU’s online DNP program are equipped to pursue diverse, high-level roles in healthcare. Here are five career paths graduates can consider:
1) Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)
As the top executive for nursing services within a healthcare organization, a CNO oversees nursing practices, policies and patient care standards. These professionals are integral to aligning nursing operations with organizational goals, improving patient outcomes and fostering staff development.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a CNO is approximately $155,833. With the increasing complexity of healthcare systems, the demand for experienced nursing leaders remains strong.
2) Nurse Practitioner in Private Practice
DNP graduates who are licensed as nurse practitioners can open their own private practices, providing primary care or specialized services. This role allows for autonomy in patient care and the ability to address underserved populations.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual salary of $129,480 for nurse practitioners as of May 2023. Per the BLS, employment for NPs is projected to grow 40% from 2023 to 2033 — much faster than average.
3) Healthcare Policy Advocate
DNP-prepared nurses can influence healthcare policy at the local, state or national levels. As policy advocates, they work to shape laws and regulations that improve healthcare access, quality and equity.
Healthcare policy roles vary widely, but Salary.com reports an average annual salary of $154,500 for community health policy advocate. In terms of job outlook, the need for policy experts continues to grow as healthcare systems become more complex.
4) Clinical Nurse Educator
Clinical nurse educators play a vital role in preparing the next generation of nurses. They design and deliver educational programs, mentor students and integrate evidence-based practices into nursing curricula.
According to Indeed, clinical nurse educators earn an average annual salary of $103,898. The job outlook for the role is promising, as the demand for nursing educators is on the rise due to a growing nursing workforce.
5) Director of Nursing
As a director of nursing, DNP graduates oversee nursing departments in hospitals, long-term care facilities or other healthcare organizations. They manage budgets, implement policies and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations.
ZipRecruiter lists the average annual salary for directors of nursing at $108,675. This role is critical in ensuring quality care and operational efficiency, driving continued demand for qualified candidates.
Why Earn Your DNP Degree Online?
For busy working nurses, balancing career advancement with professional and personal responsibilities can be challenging. That’s where STU’s online DNP program excels. Designed with flexibility and convenience in mind, this program allows nurses to pursue their degree without pausing their careers.
STU’s online format enables students to:
- Learn from experienced faculty with real-world clinical expertise
- Access coursework anytime and anywhere, accommodating varied schedules
- Maintain income and gain valuable work experience while advancing their education
- Build a professional network with peers and mentors in a virtual environment
Earning a DNP degree online ensures nurses can enhance their skills and qualifications without sacrificing years of work, promotions or income. This seamless integration of education and practice makes STU’s program an ideal choice for ambitious nursing professionals.
Take the Next Step Today
A DNP is more than a degree: it’s a gateway to transformative leadership roles in healthcare. Whether a nurse is passionate about clinical practice, policy advocacy, education or administration, STU’s online DNP program provides the tools and knowledge needed to succeed.
By earning a DNP, nurses can contribute to the future of healthcare, improve patient outcomes and achieve their professional goals. Explore STU’s online DNP program today and take the first step toward a brighter future in nursing.
Learn more about STU’s online DNP program.
