I want a beginner dslr nikon. have never used a dslr. have been shooting with a nikon s8100. My question is sh?

Entry-level does not necessarily mean beginner-level. Beginners would actually benefit more and learn faster with a more capable camera. As it is, entry-level model is actually a cheap model devoid of some automatic functions for those who either know exactly what they're doing or those who won't stray far from the one lens and Auto mode setting of the camera. If you are dead serious in getting into photography, get the best (and most expensive) model you can afford now.