Doctor of Nursing Science

Job Description

The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS, DNSc, or DSN) is a terminal, doctoral-level nursing degree focused on theoretical and academic research . It's considered equivalent to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing and is recognized by both the United States Department of Education and the National Science Foundation. While DNS programs are available worldwide, according to CareerProfiles.info , Wikipedia, they are less popular than PhD in Nursing degrees, and many institutions have discontinued DNS programs in favor of PhDs. Here's a more detailed breakdown: Focus: The DNS is a research-intensive degree aimed at advancing nursing practice, research, and education through scholarly work. Career Paths: DNS graduates are prepared for roles in academia, research, clinical settings, and healthcare policy, where they can contribute to improving nursing practices and patient outcomes through research and policy development. Equivalence: The DNS is recognized as equivalent to the PhD in Nursing, both in terms of its focus and the skills and knowledge gained. Current Trends: While still available, DNS programs are becoming less common, with many universities opting for PhD programs instead. This may be due to a desire to align with international standards and the growing prominence of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which focuses on clinical practice rather than research.