Skip to main content
Home > Programs > Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) > DNP vs Ph.D. in Nursing

DNP vs Ph.D. in Nursing

Program Links

What is the Difference Between a DNP and a Ph.D. in Nursing?

While earning a Ph.D. in Nursing has been the traditional terminal degree path in the field, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree was introduced in 2006. The DNP differs from the research based Ph.D. in that the Ph.D. develops new knowledge whereas the DNP translates that knowledge into practice.

Some of the reasons nurses choose DNP as opposed to the Ph.D. in Nursing:

  • The DNP degree allows APRNs to translate evidence into practice.
  • The DNP degree expands APRN knowledge to address increase patient complexity by incorporating all factors that impact healthcare outcomes.
  • The DNP degree elevates APRNs to leaders and educators in academic and clinical settings.

Explore our DNP curriculum to discover more about Georgia Southern’s School of Nursing degree program.

Last updated: 6/23/2021

Contact Us

School of Nursing
Georgia Southern University

Armstrong Campus
Department 4158
11935 Abercorn Street
Savannah, GA 31419

Statesboro Campus
P.O. Box 8158
Statesboro, GA 30460

BSN
Armstrong Campus:
Phone:  912-344-2585
christyoneal@georgiasouthern.edu

Statesboro Campus:
Phone: 912-478-5242
Fax: 912-478-1159
crrogers@georgiasouthern.edu

ABSN
Phone: 912-344-2585
christyoneal@georgiasouthern.edu

RN-BSN
scarey@georgiasouthern.edu

Graduate Programs
Phone: 912-344-2973
chelseadoyle@georgiasouthern.edu

Administrative Secretary
Phone: 912-344-2554
kristygose@georgiasouthern.edu

Make A Gift

Clinical Internship/Practicum Experience Update

Many of the clinical programs offered by the Waters College of Health Professions require a clinical internship or practicum experience to fulfill degree requirements. Pursuant to the University's legal agreements, participants in clinical experiences are required to abide by the workplace rules of the clinical site. The University is aware of recent federal requirements that would mandate vaccination against COVID-19 for those working in certain settings, including health care. At this time, we expect that these new requirements may significantly impact our ability to locate a placement for students who remain unvaccinated. As always, WCHP will continue to make every effort to place students at clinical sites. However, please be aware that we may be unable to locate a site to accept unvaccinated students, which may cause a delay or inability to progress and complete the program of study.

School of Nursing • Georgia Southern University