Keywords

doctoral nursing education, faculty, needs assessment, nurse educator preparation, nursing education

Authors

1. King, Tara Spalla PhD, RN
2. Melnyk, Bernadette Mazurek PhD, RN, APRN-CNP, FAANP, FNAP, FAAN
3. O'Brien, Tara PhD, RN, CNE
4. Bowles, Wendy PhD, RN, APRN-CNP, CNE
5. Schubert, Carolyn DNP, RN-BC, CNE
6. Fletcher, Linnea EdD, RN, CEN, TCRN
7. Anderson, Cindy M. PhD, RN, APRN-CNP, ANEF, FAHA, FNAP, FAAN

Abstract

Background: Current doctoral degree options may not meet needs of nurses desiring educator roles in academic or health care settings.

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess preferences for existing terminal degree options for nurse educators and determine the need for a new doctoral degree in nursing education.

Method: Nurses in practice, academia, and leadership nationwide (n = 826) answered a 19-item needs assessment survey regarding adequacy of and interest in terminal degree options.

Results: More than 60% reported current doctoral degrees available to nurse educators lack content in curriculum development and teaching-learning best practices in nursing. Most data supported a new terminal degree.

Conclusion: A primary factor in nurses choosing not to enroll in a terminal degree program may be limited availability of education aligned with career goals. The doctor of nursing education, a practice degree parallel to the DNP, could prepare nurses for academic and practice educator roles.