There’s often confusion around advanced nursing roles because of overlapping acronyms and scopes. Below, we’ve defined DNP, ARNP, and APRN, and highlighted their differences and similarities in terms of education, role, certification, and function.
| Acronym | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| DNP | Doctor of Nursing Practice | A terminal degree in nursing practice (not a role or license). |
| ARNP | Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner | A title used in some states (e.g., Washington, Florida) for licensed APRNs. |
| APRN | Advanced Practice Registered Nurse | A broad role category including NPs, CRNAs, CNMs, and CNSs. It’s a role/license, not a degree. |
What are the differences?
| Category | DNP | APRN | ARNP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Academic Degree | Professional licensure role | Alternate title for APRN |
| Educational Level | Doctoral (post-masters or BSN) | Typically masters or doctoral | Same as APRN |
| Scope | Prepares for leadership, clinical expertise, policy work, education | Direct patient care in advanced roles | Direct patient care in advanced roles |
| Used where? | Nationwide | Nationwide | Only in some states (e.g. WA, FL) |
| Includes | May be earned by APRNs or RNs | NP, CNS, CRNA, CNM | NP, CNS, CRNA, CNM (some states) |
| Licensure? | Not a license– it’s a degree | Yes | Yes |
| Prescriptive Authority? | No (unless practicing as APRN) | Yes (varies by state & role) | Yes (varies by state & role) |
In terms of similarities, DNPs, ARNPs, and APRNs all require advanced education (beyond RN) and extensive clinical experience. They share a commitment to patient care and can specialize in a variety of areas including family practice, acute treatment, and psychiatric mental health.
It is also important to note that one nurse often holds multiple titles. For example, a Family Nurse Practitioner in Washington might be called an ARNP and have a DNP degree. The role is APRN, but the state uses the ARNP title.
If you’re pursuing a nursing career, your desired role (e.g., Nurse Practitioner) determines whether you’ll become an APRN/ARNP, and the DNP is an optional degree that can enhance your credentials, especially for leadership or academia.
