Doctoral degree holders among advanced practice providers

Have you considered earning a doctoral degree as a PA or NP?

• Between the years of 2010 and 2020, the number of DNP students increased from approximately 6,600 to more than 35,000 [1]
• Most PAs with doctoral degrees are age 30+ and have been a PA for 5 or more years [2]
• 94% of DNP students report feeling moderate to extreme satisfaction with their decision to pursue a doctoral degree [1]
• PAs with doctorates are more likely to have a leadership role in the workplace [2]
• DNP graduates commonly work in clinical, administrative, and faculty positions [1]
• The vast majority of PAs with doctoral degrees (>90%) work primarily in a clinical setting; some propose that PAs pursue doctoral degrees to improve their leadership skills specifically [2]
• It is suggested that DNPs can add value to healthcare systems with their advanced training in evidence-based practice, organizational change, quality improvement, and leadership skills [1]
• 86% of DNP students [1] and 55% of PAs with doctorates [2] identify as female (!)