Ever wonder what the difference is between the new Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) and the Doctorate of Philosophy in nursing (PhD)? 
In short the focus of PhD education is to prepare the RN to create original research. In contrast, DNP education is to prepare the RN to apply existing research to nursing practice.
Being a nurse practitioner (NP) is NOT the difference. Also while some PhDs become skilled in applying research to practice & some DNPs do research,…their doctoral course preparation & final projects are quite different!
For more information: Here’s a great comparison chart from one doctoral program: https://nursingandhealth.asu.edu/degree-programs/doctoral-vs-phd-degrees-at-asu
Critical reflection: Based on your own personal career goals….
If you were to return for a doctorate, which would you find most useful?
Discovering Your Inner Scientist 
The DNP would be my choice for a doctorate degree because the research route involves a large portion of time not involved with direct patient care.
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Here’s an abstract that helps further to clarify the difference. Enjoy!
Guidelines for Doctor Nursing Practice (DNP) Capstone Projects https://stti.confex.com/stti/congrs13/webprogram/Paper55640.html
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