MSN vs. DNP: Which Advanced Degree Should You Choose?
If you’re comparing MSN vs. DNP degree options to advance your nursing career, there are some major differences to be aware of. Both are nursing degrees that can lead to advanced clinical roles, leadership positions, and greater professional autonomy, but they contrast in important ways.
What Are MSN and DNP Degrees?
Nurses who want to advance beyond their bachelor-level education can pursue either of these two degrees:
- A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is the traditional route for many advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles.
- A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal nursing degree designed to prepare nurses for the highest level of clinical practice.
Pursuing an MSN or DNP can prepare you for work in a range of roles and specialties. Below are some of the roles that require one of the above advanced nursing degrees:
- Clinical nurse specialist
- Nurse practitioner (NP)
- Certified nurse midwife (CNM)
- Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)
But how do MSN and DNP education paths compare to each other? And which degree should you choose for your goals? In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between DNP vs. MSN degrees, including education timelines, scope of practice, career options, and salary potential, so you can make the right choice for your nursing future.
MSN vs. DNP Compared
If you’re interested in the schooling to become a nurse practitioner or other advanced practice role, what should you know about these degree paths? Let’s look at the difference between MSN and DNP paths.
| Item | MSN Degree | DNP Degree |
|---|---|---|
| Program length | Typically 1–2 years full-time, but may vary by specialty and school | Typically 2–4 years full-time |
| Practice scope | Prepares students for an expanded scope of practice | Includes MSN-level practice, as well as advanced training in clinical leadership, systems improvement, and policy |
| Career outlook | The demand for APRNs is projected to grow by 35% within the next several years, which is much faster than average. | DNPs can work as APRNs as well as educators, leaders, and administrative staff, giving them even more versatility than MSNs. |
| Tuition cost | About $15,000–$43,000 | About $64,000–$172,000 |
How to Know If You Should Pursue an MSN or DNP Degree
What type of APRN do you want to be?
Some careers, such as becoming a CRNA, require a doctoral-level degree. Additionally, the AACN is advocating for the DNP to be the entry-level degree for nurse practitioners, but as of now, an MSN qualifies you for NP board certification.
Are you drawn to clinical care or healthcare leadership?
If your passion lies in one-on-one patient care, an MSN might suit you well. If you’re interested in influencing healthcare policy, systems, education, or quality improvement, a DNP might be a better fit.
Do you want to teach or influence policy?
Many academic or executive leadership roles prefer or require a DNP. If you want to teach at a university or advocate for change at a systems or governmental level, the DNP offers training in those areas. To work as a nurse educator, you may also want to consider a PhD in nursing.
How much time and money can you invest?
A DNP typically requires more time and a greater financial commitment than an MSN. Consider your current life responsibilities and whether you can realistically pursue a longer program now, or return for a DNP later. An MSN may be enough to prepare you for the career you want. Learn more about grants for nursing school.
Understanding MSN vs. DNP Salary Differences
On average, MSN-prepared nurses earn about $109,000 per year, compared to $116,000 per year for DNPs. But salary doesn’t just come down to your degree — it’s also determined by your facility, years of experience, location, specialty, and much more. For example, an experienced NP with an MSN may make more in California than a newer DNP-prepared NP in Arkansas.
If you’re curious about where you can earn the most, check out roles in the states with the highest salaries for NPs:
MSN vs. DNP FAQ
BSN vs. MSN vs. DNP: What’s the difference?
While the MSN and DNP are advanced degrees, a BSN is a prelicensure nursing degree. The BSN is a four-year degree offered at universities and colleges that includes essential coursework as well as clinical rotations. For many nurses, it’s their first nursing degree, and one that prepares them for licensure.
MSN vs. NP credentials: What’s the difference?
MSN is an academic degree, while NP is a professional role that requires board certification.
To become an NP, you typically need to decide between an MSN NP vs. DNP NP program. After graduation, you must pass a national board exam to practice. But not every MSN track is for NPs — for example, a nurse midwife has a different role but may also have an MSN degree.
What additional coursework does a DNP include?
The answer may depend on your program and focus. In general, DNP students take additional courses and may do projects in the following areas:
- Organizational leadership
- Regional and global population health
- Program planning for evidence-based practice
- Operations and quality management
- Healthcare economics
Do you need an MSN to get a DNP?
No, many students go from BSN to DNP in one track. These are sometimes called bridge programs, and they can be a great way to boost your career with one program.
Can I teach nursing with an MSN?
Yes, you can be a nurse educator with an MSN, especially if you teach at community colleges or as adjunct faculty. A DNP (or PhD) may be preferred for full-time faculty positions at universities, especially those with graduate nursing programs.
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