I don't see why there should be a conflict between those who support BSN-to-PhD programs those who value clinical experience. I encourage the best and brightest nursing students to obtain advanced degrees immediately-moving directly from undergraduate to graduate education-but I also insist that they obtain a license work as nurses while they are in school. Doctoral graduates must be clinical experts.

We also need to ensure that faculty members maintain their clinical expertise.

Nancy Ridenour, PhD, RN, CS, FNC, FAAN