The Impact of Doctor of Nursing Practice Education on Career Advancement and Professional Satisfaction: A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Aim
To explore the impact of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) education on career advancement, job satisfaction, leadership competencies and contributions to healthcare systems.


Design
The study utilised a scoping review methodology based on Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) framework.


Methods
The search strategy was developed with an academic librarian to ensure thoroughness and relevance. Seven databases were searched using MesH terms. Inclusion criteria focused on peer‐reviewed studies examining DNP education's influence on career advancement, job satisfaction and leadership. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and themes.


Data Sources
Studies were selected based on their focus on DNP‐prepared nurses, nursing faculty or advanced practice nursing students in healthcare or academic settings, published between 2004 and 2024.


Results
Twenty‐one studies met the inclusion criteria, highlighting DNP education's role in fostering leadership, professional development and evidence‐based practice. Thematic analysis revealed the benefits of being a DNP graduate include contribution to professional development, contribution to leadership and contribution to the practice environment. The challenges to DNP graduates include underrecognition of competencies, high educational costs and limited academic opportunities that were also identified.


Conclusions
DNP education contributes to individual and professional growth, leadership development and healthcare system improvements. However, barriers such as financial constraints and inadequate recognition of DNP competencies must be addressed to maximise the impact of this educational model.


Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care
DNP education empowers nurses to lead healthcare innovations, enhance patient care quality and reduce disparities in health outcomes. Strengthening financial and systemic support for DNP graduates is essential for sustaining these contributions.


Impact
DNP education is a transformative force in nursing, offering significant opportunities for leadership development and healthcare advancements. Aligning DNP programmes with evolving global healthcare challenges can further strengthen their impact on the profession and patient care.


Reporting Methods
PRISMA‐ScR guidelines were followed.