Nursing Doctorate Degree
Q: 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?
A: 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