DNS - Doctor of Nursing Science also seen as DNSc
- Duration: Varies
- typically 3-6 years based on the program
- full-time or part-time status
COURSE FORMAT
About
The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS or DNSc) is a doctoral-level degree focusing on the advancement of nursing practice, research, and education. This degree is designed for nurses seeking to contribute significantly to the nursing profession through scholarly research, policy development, and leadership. The DNS prepares nurses for roles in academic, research, clinical, and healthcare policy settings, emphasizing the application of research to improve nursing practices and patient outcomes.
Admission Requirements
A Master's degree in nursing or a related field.
Active Registered Nurse (RN) licensure.
Clinical and/or leadership experience in nursing.
Additional requirements may include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and satisfactory scores on graduate admissions tests, if required.
Course Format
Program Structure and Content
The DNS program typically includes advanced coursework in nursing theory, research methods, statistics, healthcare policy, and leadership.
A significant component of the program is the dissertation, a substantial scholarly research project that contributes new knowledge or insights to the field of nursing.
Program Format
Offered in various formats including full-time, part-time, on-campus, and online.
The final phase involves conducting research and writing a dissertation on a relevant nursing topic.
Certification
The DNS is an academic degree and does not directly confer licensure or certification.
Graduates may pursue additional certifications for specific advanced practice roles, depending on their areas of expertise and professional goals.
Continuing Education
DNS graduates may engage in ongoing professional development through research, post-doctoral studies, and participation in professional nursing organizations.
Continuing education is crucial for maintaining professional competencies and staying current in the nursing field.
Other Resources
For specific information regarding Doctor of Nursing Science programs, including admission requirements, course offerings, and program duration, it is recommended to consult directly with universities offering these degrees. Professional nursing organizations and accreditation bodies can also provide valuable information and guidance for prospective doctoral students in nursing.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue roles as nurse researchers, faculty members in academic institutions, healthcare executives, and policy advisors.
The DNS degree prepares nurses for leadership positions in nursing education, research, and healthcare administration.
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Frequently asked questions
What agencies recognize the Doctor in Science (DNS)?
The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS) is recognized by the National Science Foundation and the United States Department of Education. Most colleges and universities are discontinuing the DNS degree in favor of the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing degree.
What are the differences between the Doctor of Education (EdD) and the Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS)?
The Doctor of Education (EdD) is an advanced degree in the education field that prepares graduates to succeed in leadership roles in higher education. The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS, DSN, DNSc, or DScN.) is an academic doctorate degree that, like the Ph.D. in nursing, is grounded in research and theory. Today, most colleges and universities are discontinuing the DNS degree in favor of the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing degree.
What are the differences between the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and the Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS)?
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a doctorate focused on science, research, and leadership of evidence-based practice. DNP programs spend a considerable amount of time concentrating on how to obtain data on population groups, using data for decision making, and evaluating a program's success. The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS, DSN, DNSc, or DScN.) is an academic doctorate degree that, like the Ph.D. in nursing, is grounded in research and theory. Today, most colleges and universities are discontinuing the DNS degree in favor of the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing degree.
What are the differences between the Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN) and the Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS)?
The Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN) degree has traditionally been recognized as a degree more focused on academic theory, rather than the practical application of skills in a laboratory setting. They will also, typically, have a thesis that could permit them easier admission to a Doctor of Nursing Practice program in the future. For this reason, the M.A. designation is great for future academics. The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS, DSN, DNSc, or DScN.) is an academic doctorate degree that, like the Ph.D. in nursing, is grounded in research and theory. Today, most colleges and universities are discontinuing the DNS degree in favor of the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing degree.
What are the differences between the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and the Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS)?
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate nursing degree that offers specialization in advanced clinical practice roles, research, administration or education. The MSN degree can provide general leadership knowledge or be more specialized spending on the individual program of study. The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS, DSN, DNSc, or DScN.) is an academic doctorate degree that, like the Ph.D. in nursing, is grounded in research and theory. Today, most colleges and universities are discontinuing the DNS degree in favor of the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing degree.