The new degree program being offered by the UNC School of Nursing this academic year should be applauded.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program will provide nursing students with an additional opportunity to expand their knowledge of the profession.
The DNP is slated to become the highest form of education for a nurse. The continued education the students will receive will develop them as stronger leaders and team members that can impact any role they are placed in.
After the University was forced to cut nursing school enrollment by 25 percent in 2011, it was unclear in which direction the program would be heading.
The new degree shows a real commitment by the University to higher education nursing programs and the future of nursing in the state.
This pledge to nursing will reap benefits for UNC and the state as a whole. The added program and additional experience at UNC’s hospital will increase the incentive for nursing students to work in North Caroilna hospitals after graduation.
The program will also give us a competitive edge over East Carolina University, which is just implemented a DNP nursing program.
An expansion like this will allow the University to attract the highest talent nurses in the state and country. With technology always changes, it is important for nurses to continue their education.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program allows aspiring nurses to become masters in their field.
If the demand for nurses continues to increase, the introduction of this program at UNC will help students get better jobs and ensure better nurses.
