Idaho State University will start offering a nurse practitioner doctorate degree this fall — its second nursing doctorate program.

"Nursing practitioners are key players in the current American health care work force. They will need additional education as they play an even greater role in the delivery of primary care under our new health care system," said Linda Hatzenbuehler, associate vice president and executive dean of the ISU Division of Health Sciences.

The Idaho State Board of Education approved the new Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at its February meeting.

Boise State University will offer a DNP degree focusing on indirect care, with emphasis in nursing care of populations, according to an ISU press release. ISU's program will focus on direct care advanced practice nursing.

"We look forward to working with BSU to bring practice doctoral education to the state of Idaho," said Mary Nies, associate dean of the Division of Health Sciences and the director of the ISU School of Nursing.

The DNP program at ISU will prepare clinical nurses for comprehensive practice that influences health outcomes for individuals, families, communities or populations.

The school plans to start a separate nursing Ph.D. program this summer, the first of its kind in the state. The Ph.D. will prepare students to conduct independent research, collaborate as scholars and leaders, and educate nurses. It will have a research emphasis and will be aimed at improving health care for rural and vulnerable individuals, families and communities.

ISU School of Nursing also offers masters degrees in nursing leadership and nursing education.