Please respond with a paragraph to the following question, add citations and references:

The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.) is research and science-oriented. It prepares graduates to establish new, evidence-based knowledge for the nursing profession. Ph.D. graduates lead research teams, design and implement studies that address disease trajectories and care systems (American Sentinel University, 2014). The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is focused on improving an understanding of the nursing practice. The curriculum accentuates clinical and leadership skills. Graduates are confident in translating nursing research into evidence-based practices of care this allows them to lead interdisciplinary care teams, improve care systems, and evaluate outcomes among specific patient populations (Loomis & Cohen, 2007).

In general terms, the DNP is a clinical practice degree while the Ph D. in nursing is a research-focused degree. There is no right or wrong choice between these two disciplines. Understanding that DNP students are committed to the highest levels of nursing practice while Ph.D. students have a focus on furthering research in nursing and improving health policies. The type of nursing that I am passionate about is direct contact with the patients and their families. Now that I have a better understanding between DNP and Ph.D., I might continue my education journey towards obtaining my DNP. While I appreciate what the Ph.D. nurse will provide to the future of nursing through research, I feel that I am better suited to put that research into practice to improve the delivery of healthcare.

American Sentinel University. (2014, October 1). DNP vs. Ph.D. in Nursing: The Difference and The Future of Nursing. Retrieved from http://www.americansentinel.edu/blog/2014/10/01/te...