Reply To: The Value of the DNP; Job Market Outlook/Compensation

[Samuel]

Hi Avery,

The DNP certainly goes through more rigor than other graduate nursing degrees. However, there is not a big enough gap in practical terms as to what a DNP could do compared to an MS-NP. Now, a DNP should definitely receive compensation for roles that a master’s level nursing degree cannot achieve like leadership positions, but I do not think most DNPs are too concerned about the money. There is also a trend right now, in 2023, of professional nursing organizations moving away from master’s prepared NPsl; similar to how hospitals have a preference for BSN new graduates over ADN new graduates. I think MS-NP will eventually phase out of most major hospitals. DNPs will have more value by that time and should be compensated accordingly.