What is the difference between msn and arnp

Instead, their training focuses on general aspects of nursing practice. The following table illustrates some of the differences between CNLs and NPs, as well as some of the similarities:. The curricular objectives and training regimens for CNLs and NPs reflect the different roles and professional responsibilities that are central to these two nursing specializations. Students in MSN-NP programs choose an area of specialization in which to apply these core competencies as part of their didactic and clinical training.

For example, a family nurse practitioner would likely take courses in childhood developmental, while a neonatal NP would learn about complications in pregnancy and infant care. Licensure and certification are two different but related processes in the field of nursing. You may find that several NP programs are offered in online formats, as well, depending on the specialization of NP education you would like to pursue.

Perhaps the biggest differences — and the most important to consider when examining the MSN vs. NP — lie in their potential career outcomes. With an MSN degree, you can qualify for work in a variety of different settings, including hospitals, private practices, laboratories, and long-term care facilities.

While MSN graduates can also pursue advanced clinical nursing positions, a Nurse Practitioner is mainly responsible for providing expanded, and often complex, clinical care. As a result, NP degree programs focus on teaching students how to perform specific tasks that RNs are not licensed to perform. Some of these advanced tasks can include advanced physical assessments, diagnosing and treating illnesses and infections, ordering and analyzing diagnostic tests, and writing prescriptions.

Depending on their years of experience, APRNs may practice independently. There are many factors that should be taken into consideration when choosing between an MSN vs. NP graduate degree program. For the most part, programs contain a combination of MSN core courses, such as Advanced Physiology, Advanced Pharmacology, and Advanced Health Assessment, and specialized training courses specific to the program concentration. MSN students must also complete a set number of clinical practicum hours to ensure they have received the proper hands-on training to practice professionally, and qualify to sit for the certification examination in their specialty.

While the PhD is more research focused, and aimed at prospective nurse scholars or scientists, the DNP is a practice doctorate, meaning it is intended for nurses who want to work in health care settings. Much like MSN programs, there are several paths students can take to earn a DNP based on their current level of educational attainment.

BSN to DNP students can expect to complete their program in three to four years of full-time study, or four to six years of part-time study. In most cases, a full-time MSN to DNP program will take one to two years to complete, while a part-time program usually takes two to three years.

These programs are relatively rare compared to other DNP paths, and generally take four years of full-time study to complete, or as much as six years on a part-time basis.

While these two tracks may lead to different professional outcomes, they typically contain very similar curriculums, and often only differ by one or two courses.