phd in nursing qualification

PhD: Doctor of Philosophy

Good news! There are no application fees ever for PhD applicants!

For more than four decades, the University of Maryland School of Nursing's PhD program has prepared scholars and researchers to tackle the greatest challenges facing health care.

Learn more about research at UMSON:

• explore our faculty members' areas of expertise
• read  profiles on our nurse researchers
• browse our web directory , where faculty available to chair PhD student committees are noted as "accepting PhD students"
• see a list of  recent PhD dissertation projects

As a PhD student at UMSON, you'll:

• conduct important research that not only builds a foundation for your career, but also contributes to the advancement of nursing science
• study under accomplished faculty members from UMSON's organized research centers while taking full advantage of our state-of-the-art health sciences campus.

The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) is the state's public health, law, and human services university devoted to excellence in professional education, research, patient care, and public service.

How the Program Works:

• Half of your coursework is delivered in a seminar format with some online modules.
• The other half includes electives, practicum experiences, and dissertation research.
• Electives are available in varied formats across University System of Maryland schools.
• Full-time and part-time options are available.

You're an ideal candidate for the PhD program if you are a bachelor's- or master's-prepared nurse or other health-related professional who wants a research career focused on some of the most important disciplines, topics, and trends, including:

• Aging Populations
• Cardiovascular Health
• Health Systems Outcomes
• Implementation Science
• Women's Health and Birth Outcomes
• Occupational Health
• Pain and Symptom Science
• Palliative and End-of-Life Care

The UMSON PhD program was initiated in 1979 as the 16th doctoral nursing program in the nation. Every student is carefully chosen and matched to the faculty member who can offer the greatest opportunity to succeed in developing his or her research program. As a graduate, you will join a thriving group of alumni—many of whom hold key leadership positions in academia, research, and administration across the country. 

What You'll Do

After graduating from the phd program, you'll be prepared to:.

• Design, conduct, analyze, and disseminate research findings to expand knowledge in nursing and related disciplines
• Initiate, facilitate, and participate in interdisciplinary research with nurses and scholars from related disciplines
• Assume leadership roles in academic and health care settings

Courses You'll Take

For financial aid purposes, there are credit minimums for full-time status that may differ from the plans of study. See details .

In this Section:

• Full-Time Plan of Study All full-time students with Graduate Research Assistantships must consult with their advisor and the associate dean for the PhD program before registering to ensure that their credits align with the requirements of the GRA.

Part-Time Plan of Study

Full-time plan of study.

*Grant Writing Seminar: Offered only in spring.

**Research Rotation: A total of 2 research rotation credits are required for all students – 1 credit equals 3 hours/week or 45 hours over the semester.

***Research Practicum: A total of 6 credits of NURS 818 are required – these are intended to focus on the student’s research area where time is spent preparing for comprehensive exams, learning new techniques, conducting preliminary analyses, etc. As with NURS 819, for 1 credit students are expected to devote 45 hours over the semester. P - Prerequisite C - Concurrent

*Grant Proposal Writing: Offered only in spring.

Scholarship Opportunities

Your nursing education is an important investment. financial aid and scholarships can help make your goals a reality..

UMSON offers multiple opportunities to help you afford your graduate education.

Learn More About Financial Aid and Scholarships

All students receiving funds through the University must:

• be enrolled at least half-time (6 credits) in a degree-seeking program
• complete a  Free Application for Federal Student Aid  (FAFSA) each year by UMB's award priority deadline
• FAFSA Submission deadline:  June 30, 2023
• FAFSA School code:  002104

The  UMB Office of Student Financial Assistance & Education  is available to guide prospective and current students through the FAFSA application process and the financial aid award package.

Contact Us:

UMSON Scholarships and Grants Office 410-706-0489 | [email protected]

UMB Student Financial Assistance and Education Office 410-706-7347 | [email protected]

PhD Admission Information

Phd applicants apply through umb’s graduate school., in this section:.

• Qualifications
• Application Materials and Instructions  *There are  no application fees ever  for PhD applicants!
• Fall Enrollment:  Dec. 1

PhD applicants apply through UMB’s Graduate School . Your application and all supplemental materials must be received by this date.

Qualifications:

Applicants should possess a bachelor's or master's degree with a major in nursing or a related health field from a regionally accredited college or university or an equivalent degree from a comparable foreign institution.  For International Applicants or those with a degree outside the United States, please review the International Applicants webpage.

Application Materials and Instructions: 

There are no application fees ever for PhD applicants!

PhD applicants apply through UMB’s Graduate School. All applicants must satisfy the general requirements of the University of Maryland Graduate School and submit the following materials:

Submit/request these materials via the Admissions Dashboard .

If you have questions regarding the admissions requirements or process, contact  [email protected]  to avoid errors that could delay the processing of your application.

Recent Dissertation Topics

View the List of PhD Dissertations.

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PhD Program in Nursing

Mentoring nurse scientists of the future is our priority.

PhD Program

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Top PhD in Nursing Programs

What is a ph.d. in nursing.

• Ph.D. in Nursing vs DNP
• Types of Programs
• Top Programs
• Program Overview
• Is a Nursing Ph.D. For Me?

The Ph.D. in Nursing degree opens career opportunities for nurses as researchers, forging new and cutting-edge nursing practices for future generations. This article explores this terminal nursing degree, how to get it, and the top Ph.D. in Nursing programs.

A Ph.D. in Nursing is the highest degree awarded to nurses and one of two terminal nursing degrees. Ph.D. stands for Doctor of Philosophy, and Ph.D. in Nursing programs focus on evidence-based research.

Throughout their 4-6 year study, nursing Ph.D. students learn how to conduct, analyze, and publish nursing research. The degree culminates in students conducting an independent research project and writing a dissertation on it.

Ph.D. in Nursing and DNP Differences

A Ph.D. in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) are both terminal nursing degrees. However, comparing a  DNP vs. a Ph.D. in Nursing reveals distinct differences. Notably, the Ph.D. in Nursing prepares you for a science, academic, or research-focused career as opposed to a clinical one.

Key Ph.D. in Nursing vs. DNP Differences

>> Related:  Top Online DNP Programs

Types of Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

The United States is home to over 135 Ph.D. in Nursing programs, which you can attend in multiple formats at nearly every educational level. The types of Ph.D. in nursing programs include the following:

• BSN to Ph.D. in Nursing: These Ph.D. in nursing programs allow nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree to pursue a career in nursing research without first attending an MSN program.
• MSN to Ph.D. in Nursing: Designed for Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) trained nurses, these programs typically include core courses for the doctoral program, electives, and dissertation study.
• DNP/Ph.D. Dual Degree: These rigorous programs allow students to concurrently attain expertise in scientific inquiry and faculty practice and hone the practical skills of expert nurse clinicians. 

>> Show Me DNP Programs

Online Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

Are Ph.D. in Nursing programs available online? The answer is yes; you can find several online options to pursue this degree. Since a Ph.D. in Nursing focuses on scientific inquiry, it doesn't have the same onsite practical hours as other nursing degrees. 

Program dependant, you may still need to show up on campus a few times each year. However, for the most part, all you need to earn a Ph.D. in nursing is Wi-Fi, good study habits, and determination.

Top Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

Each Ph.D. in Nursing program is unique, offering its own benefits and features. We assembled the top five Ph.D. in Nursing programs nationwide following Nurse.org's proprietary ranking algorithm , which considers and ranks schools based on factors like:

• Tuition costs
• Program length
• Nursing school accreditation
• Admission requirements
• The variety of available programs
• Additional program accolades

 1. University of Pennsylvania

• Program Cost:  $46,934 per academic year
• Program Length:  4-6 years
• Application Due Date: Dec. 1st

The University of Pennsylvania boasts one of the top Ph.D. in nursing programs nationwide. To offset the expensive tuition, the university offers full-time students stipends during their first four years. In exchange, students may work as Teaching Assistants within UPenn's School of Nursing for up to 16 hours a week. 

Contact UPenn about this program:

• Phone: (215) 898-4271
• Email: [email protected]

Source: University of Pennsylvania

2. Duke University

• Program Cost:  Fully funded (up to 5 years)
• Application Due Date: November 30th

In 2023, U.S. News & World Report named Duke University the second-best graduate school for nursing. Duke's Ph.D. in Nursing program prepares nurses to become stalwart scholars. Graduates will build nursing science by leading multidisciplinary research that determines the relationship between chronic illness and care systems.

Contact Duke University about this program:

• Phone: (919) 684-3786
• Email: Contact Request Form

Source: Duke University

3. Duquesne University

• Program Cost:  $1,765 per credit
• Program Length:  3-4 years
• Application Due Date:  February 1st

As the first fully online Ph.D. in Nursing program, Duquesne offers a highly flexible education option to many students nationwide. Additionally, students attending the program may get to study abroad at the Duquesne campus in Dublin, Ireland.  The 56-credit program culminates in a dissertation proposal and final defense in which students orally defend their research thesis to the dissertation committee.

Contact Duquesne University about this program:

• Phone: (412) 396-6219
• Email:  [email protected]

Source: Duquesne University

4. Columbia University

• Program Cost:  Fully funded (up to 3 years)
• Application Due Date:  November 15th

Ph.D. in Nursing student at Columbia choose one of three major areas to study, which include Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Science, Analytical Foundations of Nursing Science, and Electives and Applications. The programming heavily focuses on publication, grantsmanship, presentation, and networking. In addition to their coursework, students participate in research experience and training.

Contact Columbia University about this program:

• Phone: (212) 305-5756
• Email: [email protected]

Source: Columbia University

5. Rush University

• Program Cost:  $1,344 per credit hour
• Program Length:  3-5 years
• Application Due Date:  March 4th

Rush University's Ph.D. in Nursing is fully online except for an on-campus orientation and summer intensive learning sessions. The program focuses on preparing nurses and non-nurses with graduate degrees to become leaders in clinical research and educators who influence healthcare policy. While many students keep working throughout the program, they often must take fewer hours while completing their dissertation.

Contact Rush University about this program:

• Phone : (312) 942-7100
• Email: [email protected]

Source: Rush University

What to Expect in a Ph.D. in Nursing Program

Nursing Ph.D. degrees focus on scholarship and nursing research. By the end of the course, you'll be able to conduct and publish evidence-based research that can alter the face of nursing practice and healthcare policy for future generations. 

Generally, these educational pathways combine graduate study and research activities and do not include clinical rotations. Instead, you will be required to complete a long-form research paper called a dissertation. To write your dissertation, you'll complete independent research based on a significant and relevant scientific inquiry in the nursing field. 

>> Related: The Best Nursing Research Topics

What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Nursing?

Ph.D. in Nursing programs prepare graduates to pursue careers in research and teaching, advanced clinical practice, health care administration, and policy.  Following graduation, your future may hold a career as a nurse scientist, as an administrator, as a nurse educator, or in establishing health policy.

Ph.D. in Nursing Salary

Healthcare workers who hold a Ph.D. in nursing earn an average annual salary of $100,00 or $60.45 per hour , according to Payscale . However, your nursing salary will vary depending on your career, employer, location, experience, and other relevant factors.

How Much Does a Ph.D. in Nursing Degree Cost?

Ph.D. in nursing programs range from $400 to over $2,300 per credit hour at more distinguished institutions. However, several universities will fund your Ph.D. tuition itself or through a federal research grant. Most often, these funding opportunities are only available to full-time students, while part-timers must pay the full tuition costs.

How Long Do PhD in Nursing Programs Take?

Most Ph.D. in nursing programs take between 4-6 years to complete. Your educational timeline will vary based on your previous education and whether you attend full or part-time.

What Will You Learn in a PhD in Nursing Program?

Since all Ph.D. degrees in nursing emphasize healthcare research, their curriculums will all share certain core elements, which include:

• The philosophical and historical foundations of nursing knowledge
• Review of existing and evolving nursing theory
• Methods and process of developing theory
• Research methodology and data management
• Academic, research, practice, and policy development

Your graduate nursing program will consist of several key milestones to reinforce your education. These include:

• Leadership strategies related to nursing, healthcare, and research
• Mentorship and working alongside faculty on their individual research programs
• Immersion experiences are designed to encourage leadership and scholarship.
• Each student will be required to complete a dissertation.

Ph.D. in Nursing Program Requirements

Each university sets its own entry standards, which vary based on the type of program . However, general Ph.D. in nursing admission requirements include the following:

• BSN, MSN, or non-nursing graduate degree
• Personal research statement
• A minimum GPA of 3.0
• Admissions interview
• Writing sample
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Letters of recommendation
• Unencumbered RN license
• Official post-secondary school transcripts
• TOEFL or IELTS scores

Is a Ph.D. in Nursing Degree Right for Me?

Your professional goals play a massive role in deciding whether to pursue a Ph.D. in nursing. If you're interested in scientific and academic nursing research, healthcare policy, or becoming a nurse educator, a Ph.D. in nursing is an excellent option. Remember, it will not qualify you for APRN positions, so if you have clinical aspirations, a DNP is the right doctoral nursing option.

Next Steps to Enroll in a PhD in Nursing Degree Program

Ready to start your educational journey toward earning a Ph.D. in Nursing? You can start working toward those goals today with these simple steps:

• Research Universities: Find a program that suits you based on your budget, attendance needs (e.g., part vs. full-time and in-person vs. online), and interests.
• Plan Applications: Understand the program requirements and application deadlines for each school you're applying to. Then, make a plan to collect and submit all the necessary materials and documentation on time.
• Prepare Properly: If a university considers you for Ph.D. candidacy, you'll attend an admissions interview. Planning and practicing this interview and paying close attention to why you chose the program and your research interests will optimize your chances of admission.

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

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PhD Admissions

Admission Requirements

A baccalaureate or master’s degree in nursing from a U.S. program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or an international program with commensurate standards is required for admission to the PhD Program in Nursing.

Post-baccalaureate Students

Applicants with a baccalaureate degree in nursing must demonstrate exceptional academic qualifications, have clear research-oriented career goals, and choose a dissertation topic congruent with the research program of a Graduate Faculty member in the School of Nursing. Applicants with baccalaureate degrees must complete a nursing research and a graduate-level statistics course.

Applying for Admission

The following admission materials must be submitted online to the  Duke University Graduate School . Prospective applicants should familiarize themselves with the Graduate School requirements.

Official, confidential transcript(s) of all college-level coursework.

Optional GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores - Applicants can submit GRE scores should they feel the scores enhance their application. [Taken within the past 5 years]. For a free online GRE guide, see  http://www.greguide.com / . For free online GRE practice tests, see  http://www.greguide.com/gre-practice-tests.html . Or visit Go Grad for the GRE Guidebook .

Three letters of recommendation. These letters should be solicited from individuals with doctoral degrees who can address the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for doctoral study.

English language proficiency test scores. Foreign graduates must submit either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International Language Testing System (IELTS) accepted, but IELTS is preferred.

Personal Statement. Applicants should submit a paper (1 - 2 typed pages, 12-point font, single-spaced) indicating:

Purposes and objectives for undertaking graduate study

Research interests and career goals

Strengths and weaknesses in the chosen field

A description of a prior research project or research participation and how this has influenced career choice and desire to pursue graduate studies

Reasons for choosing Duke for PhD studies

Name(s) of PhD Nursing faculty members in the School whose research program most closely fits with the applicant’s research interests.

The application and the $95 application fee must be received by December 1.

Holistic Admissions

The Duke University School of Nursing PhD Program is committed to holistic admissions. A holistic review is a university admissions strategy that assesses an applicant’s unique experiences alongside traditional measures of academic achievement such as grades and test scores. It is designed to help universities consider a broad range of factors reflecting the applicant’s academic readiness, contribution to the incoming class, and potential for success both in school and later as a professional.

Holistic review, when used in combination with a variety of other mission-based practices, constitutes a holistic admission process. Many colleges and universities have employed a holistic admission process to assemble a diverse class of students with the background, qualities, and skills needed for success in the profession.

As part of the Duke University School of Nursing PhD Program holistic review process, faculty review principles of holistic admissions prior to reviewing applications. The PhD Program Admissions Committee utilizes an adapted version of the Duke University Center for Exemplary Mentoring holistic admissions review rubric to guide the evaluation of each applicant.

Personal Interview

Applicants may be asked to interview by Zoom or come to campus for an interview. The School covers the costs for campus interview travel except for international travel. International applicants are interviewed via Zoom.

Duke University's Annual Clery Security Report as Mandated by Federal Statute 20 USC § 1092

The Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Safety Report include institutional policies concerning campus safety and security, as well as statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on Duke University property and on public property adjacent to campus and fires that have occurred in residence halls. A copy of this Report can be obtained by contacting the Duke Police Department at 684-4602 or writing to 502 Oregon Street, Durham, NC 27708, or by accessing:  duke.edu/police/news_stats/clery

Technology Requirements

Learn more on recommended computer specifications and Duke Office of Information Technology-supported software here .

Students with Disabilities: Duke University encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please get in touch with the Duke Student Disability Access Office  in advance of your participation or visit.

Nursing License

Students must hold a valid current nursing license in a U.S. state, preferably North Carolina. To obtain information about nurse licensure procedures for the State of North Carolina, consult the  Licensure/Listing Page of the North Carolina Board of Nursing website , or telephone the North Carolina Board of Nursing at (919) 782-3211. Exceptions to holding a U.S state nursing license for international students can be waived by the PhD Program Director.

All PhD in Nursing applicants are required to have a baccalaureate or master’s degree in nursing accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), or an international nursing program with commensurate standards.

Applicants are expected to have completed a graduate-level statistics course prior to starting the program. This course must have been completed within the last 5 years.

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Learn more about Admissions at Columbia Nursing, including important dates and deadlines, and how to apply to all of our programs. 

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Global opportunities for clinical practicum and research may be available for MDE and doctoral students at Columbia Nursing.

Doctor of Philosophy

Doctor of philosophy (phd), ignite your future with a columbia nursing phd.

The Columbia University School of Nursing PhD program is a full-time, research-intensive curriculum that prepares nurses for careers as nurse scientists who will conduct research across a broad range of populations and health conditions. Importantly, much of our research is focused on health disparity populations with the long-term goal of informing health policy and clinical practice across the lifespan.

Columbia Nursing provides three years (eight semesters) of funding for tuition, related fees, health insurance, and a stipend for full-time PhD students.

Program Design

Our PhD program provides students with an understanding of the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing science and a strong foundation in research methods (design, statistics, measurement, quantitative and qualitative methods) for clinical, translational and health services research. All students are mentored by research advisors with active programs of research as they move toward independent research and assume the roles of doctorally prepared nurse scientists.  

As a Columbia Nursing PhD student, you will learn to:

• Design, conduct, and report multidisciplinary research studies that increase knowledge to improve the health and well-being of patients and families across the lifespan
• Advance the state of the science in a substantive area of research through application of innovative and rigorous methods
• Promote health and well-being for individuals and families in the context of their communities
• Provide leadership in improving the health care delivery system at local, national, and international levels
• Collaborate with other professionals to evaluate and develop policies for delivery of health service
• Translate evidence accumulated through research into practice and policy at multiple levels

As part of Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), Columbia Nursing enjoys a unique collaboration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Mailman School of Public Health, and the College of Dental Medicine. CUIMC provides myriad opportunities for interprofessional collaboration in research . 

The PhD curriculum builds on the foundation of nursing science by bringing together practice, policy, translational research, and leadership. The core courses provide the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct relevant and well-designed research studies. Electives strengthen an area of clinical interest or intensify understanding of a specific research or analytic method. 

Both post-master's and post-BSN students admitted to the program will complete a minimum of 57 credits. The curriculum plan is designed to make it possible to complete the program in three years for those students with clearly defined plans for their dissertation research.

PhD courses are offered in three major areas:

• Theoretical foundations of nursing science
• Analytical foundations of nursing science
• Electives and application

Students must be registered as full-time for the duration of the program (typically three to four years). The minimum number of semester credits in required coursework is 37 (four semesters) for eligibility to progress to the qualifying exam. Six of the 37 credits required to be completed prior to the qualifying examination are elective courses tailored to the student’s dissertation topic and/or dissertation methods. The PhD program requires nine credits of elective courses. A minimum of 57 total credits is required for program completion. 

Concurrent with Coursework

• Research Experience (participating in faculty research projects and/or a research practicum)
• Research Faculty Training

Request a Sample Academic Program Plan

Qualifying Examination

The qualifying examination helped me to combine the content I learned in my courses and my research interests so I could further articulate my research question. Performing a scoping review on my topic of interest immersed me in the current literature and was crucial to the development of my dissertation. This experience prepared me to successfully work independently through the rest of my Ph.D.

 Kylie Dougherty, BSN, RN, M.Phil.

In addition to coursework, students must successfully complete a qualifying examination with written and oral components. The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is awarded after successful completion of the qualifying examination and the student enters doctoral candidacy status.

Dissertation

Students are expected to successfully defend a dissertation reporting original research. Four dissertation credits are required each semester during the dissertation phase of study. 

Scholarship Expectations

My advisor and the Columbia Nursing faculty provided me exceptional guidance throughout the PhD program to extend my learning beyond the classroom with the goal of becoming an independent nurse scientist. I learned valuable skills and knowledge to successfully obtain a NIH-funded predoctoral training award, present research findings at local, regional, and national conferences, and publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals with good impact factors.

Joseph Belloir, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC

• Publication: At least one manuscript published in an appropriate peer-reviewed journal.
• Grantsmanship: At least one grant application submitted to an appropriate funding agency or organization.
• Presentation: At least one abstract submitted for presentation as a poster or oral presentation at an appropriate professional meeting.
• Networking: Student will attend at least one regional or national research meeting.

Preparation for Postdoctoral Fellowship: Research Career Next Step 

The coursework and research mentoring at Columbia Nursing helped prepare me for the next steps in my education and career post-PhD. In addition to structured coursework and educational seminars, the school provided beneficial informal support and resources. Feedback sessions with both peers and faculty were very helpful in preparing me to present posters and presentations at research conferences. The school also provided funds for travel to conferences where I presented my research. The grant writing workshop and mock reviews of grant applications provided me with tools and feedback needed to successfully apply for additional funding for my research. Finally, interdisciplinary research collaborations with faculty provided me with opportunities to work with researchers from several disciplines to complete my dissertation.

Melissa Beauchemin, PhD '19, MS '10, RN

PhD Student Handbook

The Columbia Nursing PhD student handbook provides information to aid doctoral students in planning coursework and proceeding through all phases of the program.

Request a PhD Student Handbook

What is it like to be a PhD student at Columbia Nursing?

Required courses (excluding electives).

Building upon the foundations provided in the quantitative and qualitative research method courses, in this course students examine advanced methods and frameworks frequently used in studying health policy, health services research problems and comparative effectiveness research. In addition to a critical review of the methods, the course examines the relationship among science, policy and healthcare delivery, and identifies critical questions shaping the future policy research agenda.

Interdisciplinary research is an approach to advancing scientific knowledge in which researchers from different disciplines work at the borders of those disciplines in order to address complex questions and problems. Successful interdisciplinary efforts require mastery of specific competencies. This seminar will introduce students to competencies in interdisciplinary research through a combination of readings, case studies, and lectures in each necessary aspect, chosen from fields essential to successful interdisciplinary research. It is intended to assist learners to understand why and how different professional disciplines must work together to generate and disseminate knowledge. We will examine: different conceptualizations of interdisciplinary; barriers to and facilitators of interdisciplinary research; approaches, benefits, and limitations of collaboration and team science; methods for measuring interdisciplinary collaboration; the intersection of translational and interdisciplinary scientific strategies; and individual researchers' experiences with and evaluations of their own interdisciplinary scientific projects. Learners will develop a set of skills to be effective members and leaders of interdisciplinary research teams.

The student works with a faculty member or other scientist who is conducting a research project. The specific nature of the experience depends on the nature and stage of the research, but might include search and review of relevant literature, data collection, data analysis and/or grant preparation.

This course is intended for PhD students who are engaged in relevant scholarly activities that are associated with dissertation research.

This foundational course will examine the philosophy of nursing knowledge including foundations of nursing theory, concept development, and its application to research. Students will explore approaches to the analysis and development of concepts and the application of nursing concepts and frameworks to clinical practice and research. Ideas, assumptions, events, people, and writings are examined for their influence, inter-relationships, and significance to nursing. Types of reasoning will be evaluated within the context of nursing and health. Major theories, frameworks, and concepts of nursing and health and their implication for research will be discussed. The focus of the course will be on development of critical thinking skills in analyzing key elements of philosophies, concepts, and conceptual frameworks.

In this foundational course students will study the links between theory and the psychosocial and biophysical measures used in nursing research.  Students will employ the principles of classical test theory and item response theory to evaluate the reliability and validity of measurement.  Application of computational techniques will be covered in the lab portion of the course.  Course topics include types and uses of measures, item/scale development and validation, survey methods, reporting for publication, and the relationships between measurement and research ethics, cultural competency, and health disparities.

This course provides a foundation for quantitative research methods and design. Research process topics examined include: appraisal of the quality of existing evidence; identification of gaps in the literature; formulation of researchable questions and testable hypotheses; types of research variables; sampling designs and power analyses; and the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of various experimental and quasi-experimental research designs.

This course provides an in-depth examination of qualitative study designs and methods through a combination of theoretical discussion and hands-on practical experience. Topics include paradigm distinctions, theoretical perspectives, designs and methods, critique of research reports, and ethical issues in qualitative research.

The course is intended for PhD students who are engaged in relevant scholarly activities that are not associated with the required course sequence. Such activities must accrue more than 20 hours/week.

This course is intended to provide a hands-on introduction to delivering data visualizations to serve as a critical lens through which individual and population level health can be examined. The proposed course will combine concepts and theory in data visualization and exploration and practice to enable the student to gain the necessary knowledge to use graphics and statistics to explore the data, find and construct a narrative, and share findings in ways colleagues and decision-makes can readily understand and act upon.

This course is designed to provide the tools for the doctorally prepared nurse to evaluate, translate and integrate published research results into clinical practice. During the course, students will learn how to conceptualize clinical practice problems and transform them into answerable clinical research questions, how to search for the best clinical evidence, and how to assess clinical evidence using basic epidemiological, biostatistical and scientific principles. The course will culminate in a systematic review or meta-analysis of a body of research relevant to advanced practice nursing.

Total Credits:

PhD Education

Find Programs

There is no doubt that education is the path for a nurse to achieve greater clinical expertise. At the same time, however, the nursing profession needs more nurses educated at the doctoral level to replenish the supply of faculty and researchers. The national shortage of faculty will soon reach critical proportions, having a significant impact on educational programs and their capacity to educate future generations of nursing students.

Although the number of doctorate programs has continued to increase, the total enrollment of students in these programs has remained fairly constant, resulting in a shortage of newly minted PhDs to renew faculty ranks.  As a result, approximately 50% of nursing faculty possess the doctorate as a terminal degree. Furthermore, with many advances being made in the treatment of chronic illnesses, there is a continuing need for research that assists patients in living with their illness.  This research requires individual investigators who are prepared on the doctoral level.

One reason there is a lack of nurses prepared at the doctoral level is that, compared with other professions, nurses have more interruptions in their careers. Many in the profession are females who work as nurses while fulfilling responsibilities as wives and mothers.  As a result, many pursue their education on a part-time basis. Also, the nursing profession traditionally has viewed clinical experience as being a prerequisite to graduate education. This career path results in fewer individuals completing the doctorate at an earlier stage in their career, thereby truncating their productivity as academics, researchers, and administrators. To reverse this trend, many nursing schools have developed programs that admit students into graduate (doctorate and master's) programs directly from their undergraduate or master's programs.

Nursing Research

When nurses do research for their doctorates, many people tend to think that it focuses primarily on nurses and nursing care. In reality, nurses carry out clinical research in a variety of areas, such as diabetes care, cancer care, and eating disorders. 

In the last thirty years, advances in medicine have involved, for the most part, advancing treatment not cures. In other words, no cure for the illness has been discovered, but treatment for that illness has improved. However, sometimes the treatment itself causes problems for patients, such as the unwelcome side effects of chemotherapy. Nurses have opportunities to devise solutions to problems like these through research, such as studies on how to manage the illness and its treatment, thereby allowing individuals to lead happy and productive lives.

The Curricula

Doctoral programs in nursing are aimed at preparing students for careers in health administration, education, clinical research, and advanced clinical practice. Basically, doctoral programs prepare nurses to be experts within the profession, prepared to assume leadership roles in a variety of academic and clinical settings, course work and research, students are trained as researchers and scholars to tackle complex health-care questions. Program emphasis may vary from a focus on health education to a concentration on policy research. The majority of doctoral programs confer the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, but some award the Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS), and the Doctor of Education (EdD).

Doctoral nursing programs traditionally offer courses on the history and philosophy of nursing and the development and testing of nursing and other healthcare techniques, as well as the social, economic, political, and ethical issues important to the field. Data management and research methodology are also areas of instruction. Students are expected to work individually on research projects and complete a dissertation.

Doctoral programs allow study on a full- or part-time basis. For graduate students who are employed and therefore seek flexibility in their schedules, many programs offer courses on weekends and in the evenings.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for doctoral programs vary. Generally, a master's degree is necessary, but in some schools a master's degree is completed in conjunction with fulfillment of the doctoral degree requirements. Standard requirements include an RN license, Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores, college transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an essay. Students applying for doctoral-level study should have a solid foundation in nursing and an interest in research. Programs are usually the equivalent of three to five years of full-time study.

Selecting a Doctoral Program

Selecting a doctoral program comes down to personal choice. Students work closely with professors, and, thus, the support and mentoring you receive while pursuing your degree is as vital as the quality of the facilities. The most important question is whether there is a "match" between your research interest and faculty research. Many of the same questions you would ask about baccalaureate and master's degree programs apply to doctoral programs. However, in a doctoral program, the contact with professors, the use of research equipment and facilities, and the program's flexibility in allowing you to choose your course of study are critical.

Some questions to consider asking include: Are there opportunities to present research findings at professional meetings? Is scholarship of faculty, alumni, and students presented at regional and national nursing meetings and subsequently published? Has the body of research done at a university enhanced the knowledge of nursing and health care?

Other questions to consider include: Does the university consider research a priority? Does the university have adequate funding for student research? Many nurses with doctorate degrees make the natural transition into an academic career, but there are many other career options available for nurses prepared at this level. For example, nurses prepared at the doctoral level are often hired by large consulting firms to work with others in designing solutions to health-care delivery problems. Others are hired by large hospital chains to manage various divisions, and some nurses with doctorate degrees are hired to manage complex healthcare systems at the executive level. On another front, they conduct research and formulate national and international healthcare policy. In short, because of the high level of education and a shortage of nurses prepared at this level, there are a number of options.

Salaries are related to the various positions.  Faculty salaries vary by the type of institution and by faculty rank, typically ranging from approximately $80,000 at the assistant professor level to over $115,000 at the professor level.  Salaries of nurse executives also vary, with the lowest salaries being in small rural hospitals and the highest being in complex university medical centers. Consultant salaries are wide ranging but often consist of a base plus some percentage of work contracted. Clinical and research positions vary considerably by the type of institution and the nature of the work.  Needless to say, a doctoral education does provide individuals with a wide range of opportunities, with salaries commensurate with the type and level of responsibilities. 

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School of Nursing

Nursing PhD Program

Enhance your career.

Focus your career on advancing science to improve health

Develop new knowledge.

Builds sought after healthcare leaders that create measurable impact on society.

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Taking courses as a non-degree student is an excellent way to explore the program and think further about your own research ideas and direction.

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UConn's state-of-the-art doctoral nursing program allows you the opportunity to generate and test your own theory.

Advancing nursing science to build a healthier world

The UConn School of Nursing PhD Program in Nursing prepares nurses who promote health for all people through nursing science.

The faculty of the PhD Program in Nursing at the University of Connecticut (UConn) have a long-standing commitment to advancing the discipline of nursing through research and theory that promotes health among individuals, families, groups and communities across the lifespan and states of health.

The School of Nursing attracts top PhD students who work closely with leading faculty on research in a variety of specialty areas. Faculty research interests span areas such as health equity; symptoms, including pain and sleep disturbance; maternal child health; and support for diverse individuals, families, and communities with acute and chronic conditions from neonates through older adults. Our programs of research integrate behavioral and biological processes and address mechanistic questions as well as health-promoting interventions.

A PhD in Nursing prepares you to conduct research and to assume positions in a variety of settings. These may include faculty positions in university settings and leadership roles in academe, industry, clinical settings, and the government, to name just a few.

Graduates of the UConn PhD Program in Nursing routinely obtain competitive postdoctoral positions at prestigious universities and receive generous funding through the National Institutes of Health and other sources.

As a student in the UConn PhD Program in Nursing, you will join a diverse community of nurses and interdisciplinary peers, faculty mentors, and practitioners that will change your views, accelerate your career, and promote collaborative work over a lifetime.

The PhD Program in Nursing offers entry to applicants with a bachelor's degree in nursing (BS to PhD) or a master’s degree in nursing (Post-master’s to PhD). The PhD Admissions Committee evaluates candidates’ qualifications and the fit of their research interests with graduate faculty PhD mentors. Successful applicants must meet application criteria, have relevant experience, and clearly express research interests compatible with research faculty in the School of Nursing and/or affiliated faculty.

Please use the inquiry form on the right hand side of this page to contact us with any questions!

Application deadline for Fall 2024 is December 31, 2023. 

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Application deadline for Fall 2025 is December 31, 2024.

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What Are They Saying?

OLGA JARRIN  (’2010) Faculty, Rutgers University

“As a triple graduate of UConn School of Nursing I have been well prepared at each stage of my career, from working as a visiting nurse to leading an interdisciplinary research team on projects to improve...  READ MORE

Mallory Perry-Eaddy (’2019) Faculty, University of Connecticut

“The UConn SON BS-PhD program has been pivotal to my development as a nurse scientist. My education has provided me with a strong foundation in clinical inquiry..."  READ MORE

PhD in Nursing Programs – Doctorate in Nursing

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“The PhD is a great choice if you’re interested in the role of a nurse scientist in both an academic or clinical area. In academia, this would mean the scholar-teacher role, which includes engaging in research, publishing, and teaching nursing students. When considering a PhD program, prospective students should figure out whether a program meets their future goals, offers flexibility in learning (on-site or online), funding assistance, and opportunities to work as a teaching or graduate assistant.”  Rick Zoucha, PhD, Director of Nursing Education, Professor, and Chair of Advanced Role and PhD Programs, Duquesne University School of Nursing

A PhD in nursing provides advanced training for nurses interested in pursuing academic, leadership, and research positions within the healthcare industry. These programs focus on generating new knowledge and promoting evidence-based practice through original research findings in specialized areas such as healthcare administration and public health policy. Graduates of PhD in nursing programs may work as university professors or healthcare administrators or contribute to policymaking at the national level. 

Those seeking a PhD in nursing should note that this terminal degree takes several years of dedication and intense study to complete. Additionally, PhD in nursing programs typically require applicants to have a bachelor’s or a master’s degree and may have specific prerequisites such as clinical and leadership experience. Unlike a clinically-based doctorate of nursing practice (DNP), a PhD in nursing emphasizes scientific research to make a lasting impact in the healthcare field.

Earning a PhD in nursing can open doors to leadership roles in clinical settings or advanced positions in academia. These programs also offer opportunities for collaboration with experts within the field and for presenting findings at national conferences. While time to completion varies from two to six years, a PhD in nursing is a worthwhile investment that pays well. Salaries for nurses with PhDs vary based on several factors, including position title, employment location, industries, and experience. According to data from PayScale.com (April 2024), a self-reported aggregator of salaries, the average annual salary for a nurse researcher is $81,500. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers can earn $84,180, and the top-paying states are Massachusetts, Nevada, California, the District of Columbia, and New York ( BLS May 2022). 

Read on to learn more about PhD programs in nursing, including types of programs, accreditation, featured online programs, accreditation, admissions requirements, and three career options for this research-based nursing degree.

Featured Doctoral Programs

Ask the experts.

Ruth Taylor-Piliae, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN

Dr. Ruth Taylor-Piliae is a professor and the PhD program director (interim) in the College of Nursing at the University of Arizona. She is recognized internationally as a nurse scientist and mind-body exercise interventionist, with training in cardiovascular epidemiology and clinical trials. Her research is focused on promoting physical activity and improving patient-centered outcomes among older adults with heart disease and stroke through the implementation of innovative non-pharmacologic interventions such as Tai Chi.

Dr. Taylor-Piliae has received several teaching, research, and service awards, including the Suzanne Van Ort Peer Award for Graduate Teaching, the Extraordinary Faculty Award, the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Mathy Mezey Excellence in Aging Award from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing Council, and the Award of Distinction for Excellence in Research from Sigma Theta Tau International, Beta Mu Chapter.

NursingColleges.com: What is something you wish the public understood about nursing PhD programs and/or nurses with PhDs?

Dr. Taylor-Piliae: A PhD in nursing is similar to PhDs in other disciplines, and conveys that nurses with PhDs have the scientific knowledge to apply or create philosophy, theory, and research methods to answer questions that are important for humanity.

NursingColleges.com: What advice would you give to aspiring nursing PhD students?

Dr. Taylor-Piliae: Find a nursing-relevant topic or problem in need of inquiry that you’re passionate about, engage with the PhD program and faculty, and participate in as many research-related experiences as possible while a student.

NursingColleges.com: What does the future look like for nurse PhDs and/or nursing PhD programs?

Exciting and dynamic. The critical need for practicing nurses means there is equally the need for nursing scientific knowledge and those who generate it: the PhD nurse.

Rick Zoucha, PhD, PMHCNS-BC, CTN-A, FTNSS, FAAN

Dr. Rick Zoucha is the director of nursing education, professor, and chair of advanced role and PhD programs at Duquesne University School of Nursing. In addition, he is certified as a psychiatric-mental health clinical nurse specialist by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. 

Dr. Zoucha’s research interests include understanding various phenomena related to health and well-being in the Nicaraguan, Mexican American, African American, and African refugee and immigrant communities. He has served as PhD dissertation chair for studies seeking to understand cultural care phenomena related to people of the Puerto Rican, Taiwanese, Mexican American, African American, Peruvian, Dominican, Appalachian, and homeless cultures globally. 

Dr. Zoucha is a certified transcultural nurse-advanced and a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and the Transcultural Nursing Society. He was inducted as a transcultural nursing scholar in 2004 and bestowed the Leininger Award in 1998.

Dr. Zoucha: It is important to understand that a PhD in nursing is a terminal doctoral degree that prepares nurse scientists to create, translate and communicate new knowledge as leaders within institutions of higher education and outside of academia (AACN 2022). The PhD and DNP (doctor of nursing practice) are the highest degrees available in the nursing field. The focus and outcome of the degrees are different, and prospective students should have a clear understanding of these distinctions before pursuing their chosen degree. 

The DNP has a specific focus on nursing practice and uses current evidence to promote quality improvement and evidence-based changes usually in the clinical setting. The PhD emphasizes creating the evidence through research. There is an emphasis on research, scholarship, and inquiry as part of PhD programs and beyond earning the degree. 

Nurses pursuing PhDs and those who have PhDs are in the unique position to investigate simple to complex clinical problems that have the potential to promote health, well-being, and positive health outcomes for individuals, families, and populations. One of the primary goals of a PhD program is to promote a deep understanding and ability to engage in research through in-depth knowledge of research methods, commitment to a clinical phenomenon of interest, data analysis, and interpretation. This is critical in advancing nursing science now and in the future. 

The nursing profession needs more nurse scientists in both the academic and clinical setting to continue to promote healthy outcomes and prepare the next generation of nurse scientists and nursing faculty.

Dr. Zoucha: I advise aspiring PhD students to understand and be clear about the differences between the PhD and DNP degrees, including both the focus of each program and how the degrees can be used after graduation. 

The PhD is a great choice if you’re interested in the role of a nurse scientist in both an academic or clinical area. In academia, this would mean the scholar-teacher role, which includes engaging in research, publishing, and teaching nursing students. When considering a PhD program, prospective students should figure out whether a program meets their future goals, offers flexibility in learning (on-site or online), funding assistance, and opportunities to work as a teaching or graduate assistant. 

It’s important to look for a potential research match between faculty and the student-research and topic interest. Once you’ve narrowed your program choices down, a prospective student should ask to have conversations with both current students and or program graduates. Ask questions about the courses, the process, and faculty support in the program.  And most importantly, enjoy the chosen program!

NursingColleges.com: What does the future look like for nurse PhDs and/or nursing PhD programs? 

Dr. Zoucha: The future outlook of PhDs in nursing is excellent, and there are many opportunities to work in the academic setting in the role of a nurse scientist as a scholar/educator. This is especially true for nurse scientists working in clinical settings as well. 

PhD nurses in the clinical setting greatly assist in obtaining and maintaining Magnet status for healthcare institutions. Magnet status means hospitals are certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), where nurses are empowered to not only take the lead on patient care but also be the leaders of institutional healthcare change and innovation (ANCC 2021). Currently, there is a significant nursing faculty shortage in the United States, and PhD-prepared nurse scientists can fill this critical need.

What is a PhD in Nursing?

A PhD in nursing is a terminal degree, with the primary goal of adding original research findings to the scientific foundation of nursing and healthcare. Some nursing PhD programs offer specializations in high-priority areas emphasizing research and teaching critical attributes such as leadership, education, healthcare administration, interdisciplinary health, and public health policy. 

Please note that a PhD in nursing is a research-based degree, not a nursing licensure program. This means a PhD in nursing will not prepare students as nurse practitioners or other clinical APRN roles.

Types of PhD in Nursing Degree Programs

There are several factors to consider when choosing a PhD in nursing program, including online or on-campus programs, the type of degree required for admission, and specializations. 

On-Campus and Online Programs

PhD nursing programs are offered on-campus and online. Some PhD in nursing programs are hybrid, a blend of on-campus and online formats, due to in-person clinicals, laboratory requirements, and required weekend residencies. 

On-campus programs offer in-person convenience for students who live in or can commute to campus to complete their studies. By comparison, online degree programs are more accessible to students who don’t live near a college or university campus and are gaining in popularity. In fact, 40 percent of post-baccalaureate students exclusively took courses via distance education in 2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics .

Type of Degree Required for Admission

PhD in nursing programs admit students based on the nursing degree they currently hold: a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or a master of science in nursing (MSN). The two most common program titles are: 

• BSN-to-PhD in Nursing
• MSN-to-PhD in Nursing

PhD in Nursing Specialization Areas

Many PhD in nursing programs offer specialization areas, including but not limited to nursing education, healthcare administration, interdisciplinary health, leadership, and population health.

DNP vs PhD in Nursing: What’s the Difference?

A DNP, or doctor of nursing practice , and a PhD, or doctor of philosophy in nursing , are both advanced degrees for nurses. DNP programs heavily focus on clinical practice and leadership skills, while PhD programs emphasize research and academics. DNP programs typically take less time to complete than PhD programs, with DNP students completing about 75 credits compared to the 90 credits required for a PhD in nursing. As previously mentioned, DNP programs have clinical hour requirements, whereas most PhD in nursing programs do not. 

Many colleges and universities offer DNP and PhD programs. For example, the University of Central Florida offers two types of online doctoral degrees: a PhD in nursing , and two doctorates of nursing practice (DNP) degrees: an advanced track for clinical leadership roles and an executive track for those pursuing healthcare administration nursing roles. 

The PhD in nursing program is considered research-based, requires a dissertation, and leads to careers in research science. By comparison, the DNP programs are practice-based, require a final DNP project that demonstrates the application of advanced clinical and evidence-based practice and leads to careers in nursing case management, clinical nursing, and nurse practitioner clinical leadership.

DNP graduates often go on to work as advanced practice nurses or healthcare administrators, while PhD graduates often pursue careers in academia or research positions. Both DNP and PhD degrees are respected qualifications within the nursing field, but they lead to different career paths and opportunities. It is important for prospective students to carefully consider their individual goals before deciding on a DNP or PhD program.

PhD in Nursing Program & School Accreditation

Attending a PhD in nursing program that has received both types of accreditation can give students peace of mind that they are receiving a quality education. It also allows them to easily transfer credits, take out financial loans, and apply for licensure upon graduation.

Programmatic accreditation for clinical nursing degree programs, such as BSN, MSN, post-master’s certificate programs, and DNP programs, is provided by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). 

Institutional accreditation ensures that the school as a whole meets educational standards set by the six regional organizations approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA): 

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

It’s important to note that PhD in nursing programs only hold institutional accreditation, but may be housed in a school of nursing that also holds programmatic accreditation. For example, the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee’s College of Nursing offers an online PhD in nursing. The university holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the College of Nursing is programmatically accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Since the PhD in nursing is not clinically focused, it is only essential that this program has institutional accreditation, not programmatic accreditation. 

When considering a clinical nursing graduate or doctoral program, it is important to look for both programmatic and institutional accreditation. However, in the case of a research-based PhD in nursing, institutional accreditation is the most important factor in a research-based PhD in nursing.

Lastly, the NC-SARA (National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements) is a voluntary state-level agreement that allows institutions to provide distance education to students across state lines without seeking separate state approval. This is called state authorization status, and it helps improve access and flexibility for both students and institutions by simplifying the state approval process for distance education programs. Institutions offering distance education often advertise their NC-SARA status; if they don’t, please contact the program before applying. 

Ultimately, accredited PhD in nursing programs provide a strong foundation for successful nursing leadership and research careers across state borders.

Typical Admissions Requirements for PhD in Nursing Degrees

Overall, entry into a PhD in Nursing program is competitive and requires dedication to both academic and professional achievement. Admissions requirements for PhD programs in nursing vary depending on the university and program, but there are some common expectations. 

Most programs require applicants to have the following:

• A bachelor’s or master’s of science degree in nursing from a CCNE- or AACN-accredited program
• A copy of an active registered nurse (RN) license 
• An essay outlining the applicant’s career goals and potential contributions to the field of nursing
• Application fee
• Clinical hours verification form
• Evidence of research experience and expertise in the specialization area
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 
• Official transcripts
• One year or more of clinical nursing experience 
• Online application
• Standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT
• Strong letters of recommendation from previous professors or supervisors

Supervised Hour Requirements for PhD in Nursing Degrees

While supervised clinical hours may be valuable for those pursuing a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree, they are typically not necessary for those obtaining a PhD in nursing. The reason is that PhD in nursing programs focus on furthering scientific inquiry and gaining knowledge through research, rather than improving practical skills. 

In place of the clinical hours component, PhD nursing candidates complete a dissertation to demonstrate expertise in the field. It is important to note that supervised hours may still be helpful or even required for certain courses within a PhD in nursing program, but overall they are not mandated as part of the degree requirements.

Featured Online PhD in Nursing Degrees

Liberty University – PhD in Nursing Education

Liberty University offers a PhD in nursing education, designed for nurse educators who want to advance their careers and impact the next generation of nurses. The program is 100 percent online, with eight-week courses and the potential to transfer up to 50 percent of the degree’s credits. 

Students in this 60-credit PhD program take courses such as learning theories and teaching methods for nurse educators; curriculum development and program evaluation for nurse educators; advanced evaluation strategies for nurse educators; and assessment and accreditation for nursing programs.  

The nursing faculty at Liberty University are nationally recognized educational leaders, and as a Christian university, they are also committed to promoting personal and professional success for their students. With a PhD in nursing education from Liberty University, graduates will be well-equipped to become leaders in nursing education.

• Location: Lynchburg, VA
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Three years

University of Central Florida – PhD in Nursing

The University of Central Florida offers an online PhD in nursing for individuals looking to advance their careers in the field. The program offers two tracks: BSN-to-PhD and MSN-to-PhD, comprising 63 to 72 credits and 16-week terms. 

Coursework includes healthcare systems and policy; philosophical and theoretical foundations of nursing science; concept development in nursing; qualitative methods in nursing research and healthcare; quantitative methods for nursing and healthcare; and research approaches and designs for nursing and healthcare. The curriculum prepares graduates for leadership roles that contribute to the body of nursing knowledge through research. 

Graduates from this program can become nurse scientists, faculty members at a research-focused university, or leaders within healthcare systems or industries. While students can complete the program primarily online, there are two mandatory onsite intensives per year. With this PhD in nursing, individuals can continue advancing their careers and making a significant impact in the field.

• Location: Orlando, FL
• Accreditation: Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two to five years

Walden University – PhD in Nursing

As one of the leading online universities for PhD in nursing, Walden University offers a range of options and specializations for nurses at all levels. Whether students are looking to start their PhD journey with a BSN, MSN, or DNP degree, Walden University offers specializations in areas such as nursing education, healthcare administration, and population health so students can tailor their PhD program to align with their career goals. 

In addition to this flexibility, Walden University also supports its PhD students through dedicated mentors and access to research resources such as the nursing simulation lab and virtual clinical trials center. As a result, nurses can pursue their PhD while advancing in their careers and positively impacting healthcare.

The curriculum includes courses such as theoretical and scientific foundations of nursing research; effectively leading organizations in quality improvement initiatives; advanced theoretical and scientific perspectives in nursing; and transforming nursing and healthcare through technology, among others.

• Location: Minneapolis, MN
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: 2.5 to eight years

University of Arizona – PhD in Nursing

The University of Arizona offers a PhD in nursing program focusing on research in a clinical, academic, scientific, or industry environment. Coursework for the program is almost completely online, except for resident-intensive summer experiences. 

Students can pursue BSN-to-PhD, MSN-to-PhD, PhD-DNP dual degree, or post-DNP PhD paths, with individualized study plans. The program also offers three tracks in precision science, data and systems science, and health determinants science. With this PhD program, nurses have the opportunity to advance nursing science and improve health outcomes through research and innovation.

• Location: Tucson, AZ
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Four to six years

Indiana University – PhD in Nursing Science

Indiana University offers an online PhD program in nursing science, allowing students to earn their degree online or through a hybrid distance-accessible program. This 90-credit program accepts applicants with a BSN or MSN from accredited programs and prepares them for careers in nursing education, research, health systems, or clinical science. 

PhD students are paired with faculty mentors throughout the program and can choose from clinical nursing science, health systems, and nursing education concentrations. With this online PhD in nursing science, IU provides top-notch education with in-person campus residencies to advance the field of nursing and improve care for individuals and families across the lifespan.

The curriculum includes courses such as theoretical perspectives of nursing science; quantitative research design and methods; foundations of qualitative research; dissertation in nursing; biostatistics for public health; and nursing inquiry and scholarship: introduction to doctoral study.

• Location: Campuses across Indiana
• Expected Time to Completion: Two to six years

University of Missouri – PhD in Nursing

The University of Missouri offers a PhD in nursing, preparing individuals for research, leadership, and clinical roles depending on their specialization. The interdisciplinary program is made possible by the diverse academic backgrounds represented in the program. Though some on-campus visits are required, students can complete most courses online. 

Students can choose from three options for credit requirements: BSN-to-PhD (77 credits), MS-to-PhD (59 credits), or post-clinical PhD (48 credits). With this versatility, the University of Missouri’s PhD in nursing program prepares students for successful careers as clinical scholars, educators, and researchers.

• Location: Columbia, MO

Duquesne University – PhD in Nursing

The PhD in nursing program at Duquesne University offers a unique and exciting opportunity for those looking to advance their careers in nursing education, research, and leadership. With a focus on rigorous and intensive engagement, students will develop the skills necessary to become independent nurse scholars. 

The program also offers flexibility, with options for a three or four-year curriculum and a DNP-to-PhD track. Over the past 25 years, more than 100 nurses have graduated from this program and gone on to successful careers in the field. 

PhD students can choose to specialize in healthcare decision science or clinical nurse leadership and complete a dissertation research project on a topic of interest. Students also have the option to fulfill residency requirements at the Pittsburgh campus or Duquesne’s Dublin, Ireland campus as part of a study abroad experience. 

The curriculum includes courses such as state of the science and discovery; measurement issues; foundations of social and distributive justice in health policy; philosophy of science and theory; structure of nursing knowledge; and applied quantitative methods,

• Location: Pittsburgh, PA
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Three to four years

Jobs for PhD in Nursing Graduates

Nurse educator.

A nurse educator is a nurse with advanced education and training who educates nursing students and practicing nurses. Ever wondered why nursing careers are in demand but nursing program admissions are so competitive? According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing , one of the biggest reasons is a shortage of qualified nursing faculty. Nurse educators work in nursing schools, hospitals, or other healthcare settings as faculty members, clinical instructors, or nurse managers. In addition to providing educational instruction, nurse educators may also develop curricula, conduct research, and provide professional mentorship to new nurses. 

Becoming a nurse educator often requires graduate-level education at the MSN, DNP, or PhD level, and certification. The role can be gratifying as it combines clinical expertise with the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare. Nursing education is essential for providing safe and high-quality patient care, making nurse educators a valuable asset to the profession.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows nurse educators (postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers) are in demand, with a growth rate of 18 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is six times the national average (3 percent) and will create 15,600 new positions ( BLS May 2022). 

Nurse Scientist

A nurse scientist is a nurse dedicated to using scientific inquiry and evidence-based practice in nursing. They strive to integrate their research findings into clinical practice and contribute to the overall body of knowledge in the field. 

Nurse scientists often hold advanced degrees in nursing research and evidence-based practice, such as a PhD. In addition to conducting their research, nurse scientists facilitate and support others’ research efforts and provide staff development opportunities related to evidence-based practice. Nurse scientists are essential in improving patient care and outcomes by promoting a culture of clinical inquiry.

Whether their research field is patient-based, provider-based, or clinically based, nurse scientists can be classified as medical scientists or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). The BLS predicts a 10 percent growth rate for medical scientists and a staggering 45 percent growth rate for nurse practitioners . Both jobs are predicted to grow beyond the national average (3 percent) from 2022 to 2032, adding 11,600 new medical scientists and 118,600 nurse practitioner positions. 

Medical scientists (except epidemiologists) earn median annual salaries of $99,930, while nurse practitioners earn median annual salaries of $121,610, according to BLS statistics from May 2022—the latest data available as of April 2024. 

Medical and Health Services Managers

Representing a wide range of healthcare administration leadership roles, medical and health services manager titles include but are not limited to nurse managers, nursing directors, and the c-suite leadership title: Chief Nursing Officer (CNO). According to O*Net Online , an affiliate of the US Department of Labor, medical and health services managers’ responsibilities include directing, coordinating, supervising, and evaluating work activities of medical, nursing, technical, clerical, service, and maintenance personnel. 

Medical and health services managers in nursing have a DNP or PhD and several years of experience working as a nurse manager, hospital administrator, or in another healthcare leadership role. These individuals oversee the day-to-day operations of hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, medical offices, and other healthcare facilities, ensuring that they run efficiently and effectively while providing high-quality patient care. 

The BLS shows that careers in medical health and services management are predicted to grow by 28 percent in the coming decade, creating 144,700 new jobs from 2022 to 2032. The median annual salary is $104,830, with the lowest 10th percentile earning $64,100 and the highest 10th percentile earning $209,990 ( BLS May 2022).

Matt Zbrog is a writer and researcher from Southern California. Since 2018, he’s written extensively about the modern nursing workforce, conducting hundreds of interviews with nurse leaders, nurse educators, and nurse advocates to explore the issues that matter to them most. His Advocates to Know series focuses on nurse practitioners (NPs) who go above and beyond in changing policy and practice in important areas like veteran’s care, human trafficking prevention, and telehealth access. He regularly collaborates with subject matter experts from the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) to elevate issues that empower nurses everywhere.

Rachel Drummond, MEd

At NursingColleges.com, Rachel Drummond has applied her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to elucidate the importance of self-care for nursing students since 2022. Through her writings, she underscores the role of mental and physical well-being in fostering resilient and compassionate healthcare professionals.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog , inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.

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Online PhD in Nursing

Doctor of philosophy in nursing.

Submit your information to access a comprehensive digital program guide. One of our dedicated admissions counselors will contact you shortly to discuss next steps.

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PhD in Nursing

Lead as a scholar and educator.

With an online Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD in Nursing) from Wilkes University, you will achieve the terminal degree for advanced practice nurses. This online, doctorate-level program is designed to be taken on a part-time basis so you can balance your education with your professional career and personal life.

Our online PhD in Nursing is focused on research and will prepare you for a career in scientific inquiry aimed at developing new knowledge in nursing science. It will empower you for leadership roles and prepare you with the expertise to conduct research that will advance the nursing profession and improve nursing outcomes.

Admission Requirements

Applicants will be evaluated on an individual basis based on the following criteria.

• Master’s degree in nursing (3.0 cumulative GPA) with official transcripts from an institution with programmatic (ACEN, NLNAC, CCNE) and regional accreditation*
• A minimum grade of 3.0 for gap analysis courses only
• A current unencumbered RN license; APRN license if appropriate**
• Current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Letter of intent describing your professional goals, research topic and the reason for pursuing the Ph.D. degree
• Two recommendations from graduate-level nurses or faculty who can attest to your ability to be successful in a Ph.D. program
• Check state authorization  

These admissions standards represent the minimum eligibility requirements for programs. Admission committee members reserve the right to request additional information from candidates as needed for a more in-depth review of qualifications.

Transfer Credits: All graduate programs will allow 9 total transfer credits (must be a 3.0 or higher).

* Students who graduated from a non-programmatically accredited institution and meet all other admission requirements will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Admission is not guaranteed.

**Applications presenting a history of disciplinary action on professional licenses will be subject to an additional review process by the Special Licensure Discrepancy Committee of the University.

Applications are currently being accepted for Fall 2024

Get Started Now

PhD Program Outcomes

Online PhD students can expect a variety of beneficial program outcomes.  

Build critical knowledge as it relates to nursing theory, healthcare issues, nursing education and obtaining research funding:  

• Explore scientific philosophies and ethical theories as they pertain to the nursing profession.
• Analyze the concepts of evidence-based research on policy and politics that impact population health outcomes.
• Consider specific issues in science and ethics as they relate to nursing education.
• Learn about the current state of scientific research and major funding trends in nursing and healthcare.

Advance your research skills in qualitative and quantitative analysis while expanding on study design:  

• Learn the seven steps of the research process, focusing on the development of researchable problems, literature review, and hypothesis generation. 
• Develop the skills to write quantitative research questions and how to select appropriate research methodologies.
• Explore ways to apply qualitative inquiry as an approach to knowledge discovery. 
• Understand principles of measurement, instrument design and data collection methods. 

Develop a comprehensive dissertation  with the support of a dedicated chairperson:  

• Receive early engagement with a chairperson, providing structured guidance from start to finish, including dissertation research.
• Formulate a dissertation that answers a pertinent research question and contributes to the body of knowledge in nursing.  
• Develop a literature review and mode of inquiry for your dissertation as you prepare to defend your proposal. 
• Implement your study through data collection and analyze the results in preparation for your dissertation defense.

This seminar is online and focuses on the dissertation process and student orientation to the university and PhD program.    Course Prerequisites: Doctoral Standing   Credits: 1

The focus of this course is to prepare doctoral students to examine the development and organization of nursing knowledge. Philosophies of science, epistemologies and their influence on knowledge development in the discipline of nursing, and strategies for theory development and analysis are explored. Credits: 3 

To see the full program curriculum, access your free program guide .

• Time to Complete 3 years (on average — depending on dissertation)
• Courses 17 Courses (9 terms)
• Course Lengths 12 weeks

This course acquaints students with philosophical issues and nursing theories relevant to nursing education. An overview of central metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical system, considering specific issues in the philosophies of science and ethics that are of particular focus in nursing education. Credits: 3 

The nurse researcher contributes towards the development of healthcare policy and politics in local, state, national, and global healthcare markets. Application and analysis of evidence-based research on policy and politics will impact population health outcomes and the future of nursing education, research, and practice. Credits: 3

This course introduces students to the seven steps of the research process, focusing on the development of researchable problems, literature review, and hypothesis/question generation within the context of quantitative and qualitative research designs and methods. Credits: 3 

This course builds on the knowledge of philosophy, theory, and research process. The student, in consultation with his/her chairperson, begins the dissertation process. Credits: 3 

This course applies knowledge of statistical methods used in nursing research. Topics include parametric and non-parametric methods of data analysis and model building. Alternate approaches to analysis of data are considered. Credits: 3 

This course explores the current state of nursing research and the major research and funding trends in nursing and health care. Students will be engaged in preparing a fundable grant application for dissertation study and strategies used to publish research funding. Credits: 3

This course focuses on research methodologies that guide the design of studies, which collect and analyze quantitative data. The focus will be on writing quantitative research questions and selecting appropriate research methodologies. Focus is placed on descriptive, correlational, experimental and quasiexperimental designs as applied to nursing problems. Course Prerequisites: NSG 619, 621   Credits: 3

The focus of this course is on qualitative inquiry as an approach to the discovery of knowledge in the science of nursing. This course will focus on the scientific underpinnings, methodologies, and data analysis techniques in qualitative research for advancing nursing knowledge. Course Prerequisites: NSG 619 Credits: 3 

This course builds on the understanding of quantitative designs in nursing and health related topics. The course provides the opportunity for applied practice in quantitative methods using common statistical tests and SPSS.    Course Prerequisites: NSG 623   Credits: 3 

This course provides an overview of principles of measurement, instrument design, and data collection methods. Methods to critically evaluate and select theoretically congruent instruments are explored.     Course Prerequisites: NSG 621   Credits: 3 

The student, in consultation with his/her chairperson, writes chapters II and III of the dissertation proposal.   Course Prerequisites: NSG 615, 616, 617, 618, 619, 620, 621, 622, 623, 624, 625, 626   Credits: 3 

The comprehensive written examination is a series of questions that focus on the synthesis and integration of knowledge learned during doctoral coursework. Students demonstrate their ability and preparedness to move forward in the doctoral research program.    Course Prerequisites: NSG 627 and authorization from the PhD Program Coordinator to register for comprehensive examination Credits: 1 

This course focuses on completion of the first three chapters of the dissertation and submission of the proposal to the IRB committee(s) for approval. Students will then undertake proposal defense before continuing into dissertation implementation. Course Prerequisites: NSG 628   Credits: 3 

This course focuses on implementation of the student’s doctoral research study. After completion of the first three chapters, successful proposal defense, and IRB approval, the student, under guidance from their chair, begins the data collection process.    Course Prerequisites: NSG 629   Credits: 3 

This course continues with the implementation of the dissertation. Students complete data collection and analysis thus, finalizing chapters 4 and 5 and satisfying final defense.    Course Prerequisites: NSG 630   Credits: 3 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Julia Aucoin

Adjunct professor.

BSN, MN, DNS

Rebecca Cavill

Adjunct faculty.

Chris Coffman

PhD, APRN, FNP-BC

David Joseph Dittman

Linda Denke

PhD, RN, CCRC

Marcia J. Derby-Davis

Michelle Finch

PhD, RN, CPN, COI, CNE

Marie R. Hankinson

PhD, MSN, RN, CDP

Denise M. Korniewicz

Ph.D., RN, FAAN

Sharon M. Mills-Wisneski

Regina Prosser

PhD, DNP, RN-BC, CNE

Katherine Reeder

PhD, MSN, MEd

Jim Stobinski

PhD, RN, CNOR, CSSM

Joyce Victor

Associate professor.

PhD, RN, NPD-BC, CHSE-A

Chris Zarpentine

M.A., Ph.D.

PhD Faculty Research Areas

Obtaining a Ph.D. in Nursing online allowed me to work full-time while accomplishing my career and educational goals. The Wilkes faculty provided a caring learning environment and promoted academic excellence.”

Rebecca Cavill, PHD, CRNP

Wilkes University Passan School of Nursing Ph.D. program was designed for the working person. Because of the design, I felt my dream of obtaining the Ph.D. was indeed possible.”

Sonya Carothers, Family Nurse Practitioner

Regina Prosser , PhD, DNP, RN-BC, CNE

Compare PhD and DNP Programs

Adams traister, t.a. (2023)., cavill, r., & dittman, p. (2022)..

Sharon Mills-Wisneski

Faqs about the phd in nursing program.

The PhD in Nursing program consists of 17 courses (47 credit hours), which are completed over nine terms (three years on average, depending on dissertation).

Tuition for the PhD in Nursing program is $38,950 - $48,175. This total is based on the number of required courses for the program. An analysis of previous coursework may allow for fewer courses and in turn, a lower net cost when applicable.

Yes, financial aid is available to qualifying nursing students. Please fill out a form or schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn if you qualify for financial assistance. You can also give us a call at 888-413-5633 . We're happy to help!

All coursework is 100% online, including the mandatory one day orientation. Each course experience is primarily asynchronous.

• Nursing administration 
• Leadership skills relating to emotional intelligence/competency 
• Quality improvement 
• Risk Management and Patient Safety
• Cultural competency 
• Advanced practice 
• Maternal-child health 
• Clinical practice paradigms 
• Nurse competency 
• Theory-guided practice 
• Complex Healthcare Systems
• Diabetes and health care outcomes 
• Pain management 
• Congestive heart failure 
• Depression 
• Infection prevention 
• Cancer survivorship 
• Patient self-management 
• PTSD in veterans 
• Disparities in women’s health 
• Patient advocacy  
• Healthcare Policy
• Social Discriminants of Health
• Teaching/leading models and strategies 
• Innovation and technology in teaching 
• Educational practice gaps and assessment of learning needs 
• Interprofessional collaboration 
• Simulation 
• Minority students 

We support and applaud lifelong learning. Our online graduate nursing programs are a prime example. As a non-profit university, the success of our students is a high priority. We’ve developed our suite of online nursing degrees for working professionals who may not be able to fit a traditional education into their busy lives.

We’re proud to offer accredited and affordable online nursing degrees. You’ll find a supportive environment here as you work toward the next step in your nursing career. You will be set up for success in your program and profession! Need to know more? Click the links to the right to explore the site, or the link below to get in touch with an admissions counselor who can answer your questions.

Reach Out to an Admissions Counselor

We’re here to talk about everything Wilkes, everything nursing and anything you need to make the right choice for your career. We'll even help with the application process. Call us at 888-413-5633 or click the link below to fill out a form and start the conversation. We can’t wait!

Get Started

Requirements Not Met

To proceed with the Associate Degree in Nursing (R.N.) to M.S.N. program, you are required to have an associate’s degree in nursing and hold a current unencumbered R.N. license.

If you don’t meet these requirements but would still like further information, please contact us .

To proceed with the M.S.N. program, you are required to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and hold a current unencumbered R.N. license.

To proceed with either the D.N.P. , Ph.D. or the Post Graduate A.P.R.N. Certification programs, you are required to have a master’s degree in nursing and hold a current unencumbered R.N. license.

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Course type

Qualification, university name, phd degrees in nursing.

57 degrees at 31 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

About Postgraduate Nursing

Nursing is one of the most important health professions in the UK healthcare system anda PhD in nursing represents one of the highest formal qualifications available. This three-to-six-year course caters to registered nurse practitioners, aiming to become leaders in healthcare policy, academia andscientific research.

More than 50 PhD opportunities in nursing are available across various universities in the UK. These programmes seek candidates with a master’s degree in nursing or a related health field, bolstered by a significant professional background in clinical practice, education or research.

The programme adheres to the standards of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in the UK, ensuring that graduates uphold the highest professional and ethical standards in nursing.

What to Expect

A nursing PhD programme is primarily research-focused, allowing candidates to explore in-depth a specific area of interest, including advanced clinical practice, nursing theory, public health or innovations in healthcare policy and technology. Candidates work closely with experienced faculty advisors to develop impactful research projects, which contribute new knowledge and insights to the field of nursing. Assessment is primarily based on the successful completion and defence of a doctoral thesis, applying advanced research methodologies to solve complex healthcare problems and challenges.

Upon completion, PhD graduates in nursing are highly sought after and valued across various sectors, including healthcare providers, academic institutions and research bodies. They play pivotal roles in advancing nursing practices, formulating healthcare policies and shaping the future landscape of healthcare and the next generation of nurses.

Related subjects:

• PhD Nursing
• PhD Care of Dying (Nursing)
• PhD Community Nursing
• PhD Diabetes Nursing
• PhD Mental Health and Addiction Nursing
• PhD Midwifery
• PhD Nursing Specialisms
• PhD Nursing Studies
• PhD Nursing and Midwifery
• PhD Nursing: Specific Conditions
• PhD Practice Nursing

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

University of Hull

By choosing to research health, nursing or midwifery as a postgraduate at Hull you will be joining a vibrant and supportive research Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

PhD/MPhil in Bioscience (including Microbiology and Infection, Cardiovascular Science and Ageing and Lifelong Health)

Manchester metropolitan university.

RESEARCH CULTURE We undertake world-leading, innovative, multi-disciplinary research in bioscience and related disciplines. We conduct Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,850 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree

Cardiovascular Science MPhil/PhD

Ucl (university college london).

Our research is broad, spanning discovery-based laboratory science, clinical translation and experimental medicine, as well as healthcare Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £6,035 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,930 per year (UK)

Nursing MPhil/PhD

University of worcester.

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in Nursing. Research at Worcester has grown significantly in Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,950 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,475 per year (UK)

University of Essex

PhD in Nursing Studies offers you a unique opportunity to undertake research into the principles and practice of nursing. You will be Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree
• 7 years Part time degree

Diabetes, Renal, Endocrine & Metabolic Medicine Phd

University of glasgow.

Our aim is to better understand the mechanisms of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases affecting people with the conditions covered by our Read more...

• 5 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)

Cardiovascular Sciences PhD,MPhil - Protection

University of leicester.

The School of Cardiovascular Sciences offers supervision for the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - full-time and part-time Master Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Nursing Studies PhD

University of nottingham.

Our research has a truly international outlook and wide-ranging impacts on society, the economy, health and welfare, culture, public Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £5,100 per year (UK)
• 8 years Part time degree

PhD Applied Health Studies

University of plymouth.

Study for an ResM or PhD degree with the School of Nursing and Midwifery and join a supportive community of healthcare professionals Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,500 per year (UK)
• 4 years Part time degree: £3,030 per year (UK)

Public Health and Health Promotion PhD

Brunel university london.

Research profile Public Health and Health Promotion is a dynamic and cutting edge area of study. Our academics are research active and Read more...

Nursing PhD

London south bank university.

A PhD, by definition, is an original contribution to knowledge. It is distinct from a taught Masters in that your final output will be an Read more...

• 36 months Full time degree: £4,820 per year (UK)
• 48 months Part time degree: £2,892 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £4,820 per year (UK)

University of West London

A PhD in Nursing allows you to delve deep into the theory and research of why we do the things we do in nursing. Studying for a PhD with Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £3,995 per year (UK)

University of Brighton

Postgraduate students in nursing work across diverse practice settings and engage new theoretical perspectives with a view to enhancing Read more...

• 7 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Cardiovascular Sciences - PhD

University of birmingham.

Our Cardiovascular Sciences PhD/MSc by Research in the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences will provide you with the skills needed to Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,778 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,389 per year (UK)

Nursing, PhD

Swansea university.

High-quality research is crucial to improving health and well-being within our communities, and effective long-term policy and practice Read more...

• 6 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

PhD/MPhil Nursing

City, university of london.

Working closely with clinical partners from health and social care, world class researchers and experienced practitioners, this degree will Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £5,000 per year (UK)
• 3 years Part time degree: £2,500 per year (UK)

Midwifery MPhil/PhD

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in Midwifery. Research at Worcester has grown significantly in Read more...

Nursing and Health Sciences PhD

The Nursing & Healthcare School has a thriving community of postgraduate research students, from both the United Kingdom and overseas. Read more...

Cardiovascular Sciences PhD,MPhil - Intervention

Midwifery phd.

1-20 of 57 courses

Course type:

• Distance learning PhD
• Full time PhD
• Part time PhD

Qualification:

Universities:.

• King's College London, University of London
• The University of Edinburgh
• Ulster University
• University of Sunderland
• University of Oxford
• Keele University
• University of Manchester
• University of Liverpool
• Queen's University Belfast
• Lancaster University
• Robert Gordon University
• University of Hertfordshire
• Glasgow School of Art
• University of Exeter
• Abertay University

Related Subjects:

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Target Groups

This programme is suitable for a person who has a Master’s degree in Nursing or Master’s Public Health.

• Those wishing to progress towards qualification as a Doctor of Nursing and beyond
• The programme carries a Minimum credit of 360 at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 10

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Candidate must have a Master’s degree qualification
• The candidate should contact a potential supervisor to discuss their study
• Written the concept paper

Contact details :

Dr AP Okeyo Telephone no: 043 704 7585

Email: [email protected]

Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Fort Hare- East London Campus

Private Bag X9083 5 Oxford Street East London 5201

‘Let us in!' Howard U. nursing graduation cut off after venue reaches capacity

“i didn’t get to walk. i graduated magna cum laude and i didn’t even get to walk. i’m the class of 2020. i didn’t get to walk for my high school graduation and i didn’t get to walk for my college graduation", by walter morris, news4 reporter • published may 10, 2024 • updated on may 10, 2024 at 3:34 pm.

A graduation ceremony for nursing students at Howard University ended abruptly Thursday after the auditorium reached capacity.

Families filled Cramton Auditorium to watch students in the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences walk across the stage. But as they walked, dozens of loved ones were locked out, with some trying to push their way in.

Stream News4 now: Watch NBC4 newscasts for free right here, right now.

“Let us in! Let us in!” some chanted.

“While they were doing the keynote speaker, there was, like, loud banging, even before that, for like 10 minutes straight,” graduate Bria Flowers said. “Just like boom, boom, boom, boom, boom.”

We're making it easier for you to find stories that matter with our new newsletter — The 4Front. Sign up here and get news that is important for you to your inbox.

“Because of the size of the room and because our relatives sometimes do not know how to act, the fire department is now here to shut us down,” Dr. Gina S. Brown, dean of the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, told the crowd to a chorus of boos.

But D.C. Fire and EMS denied shutting down the ceremony.

"D.C. Fire and EMS did not shut down tonight’s event,” the department said in a statement. “At 6:42 p.m., we responded to the Cramton Auditorium for a medical local at the request of campus police. The patient was evaluated and refused transport, and D.C. Fire and EMS departed."

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“I’m confused why it got so crazy, how it got so quick, so bad so fast,” graduate Kiana Hamilton said.

A glass door broke during the commotion.

“Glass started getting broken,” graduate Halle Ragoonanan. “One of my classmate’s hands got cut.”

Howard said security removed someone from the building prior to the ceremony. That person returned and broke a window.

"This incident led to a disturbance among guests outside of the facility, resulting in a disruption of the program,” Howard’s statement said. “Guests in attendance were immediately dispersed following this incident."

One student was treated for a cut.

Ragoonanan said her heart was broken as she and her family looked to make up for moments they missed because of the pandemic.

“I didn’t even get to walk,” she lamented. “I didn’t get to walk. I graduated magna cum laude and I didn’t even get to walk. I’m the class of 2020. I didn’t get to walk for my high school graduation and I didn’t get to walk for my college graduation.”

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“All the money we spent,” another graduate said. “My father and grandmother came down from North Carolina.”

Some of those students will get to walk this weekend. The university’s main commencement ceremony is scheduled for Saturday.

The school plans to give individual awards to students Friday.

This article tagged under:

• News & Events
• Faculty & Staff

A world-class city filled with art and culture and an incredible campus that offers cutting edge resources–that’s what students receive at Penn Nursing. And that’s just the start. Penn Nursing and the wider university offer something for everyone, as well as a lifelong community.

Penn Nursing is globally known for educating dynamic nurses—because our School values evidence-based science and health equity. That’s where our expertise lies, whether in research, practice, community health, or beyond. Everything we do upholds a through-line of innovation, encouraging our exceptional students, alumni, and faculty share their knowledge and skills to reshape health care.

Penn Nursing students are bold and unafraid, ready to embrace any challenge that comes their way. Whether you are exploring a career in nursing or interested in advancing your nursing career, a Penn Nursing education will help you meet your goals and become an innovative leader, prepared to change the face of health and wellness.

Penn Nursing is the #1-ranked nursing school in the world. Its highly-ranked programs help develop highly-skilled leaders in health care who are prepared to work alongside communities to tackle issues of health equity and social justice to improve health and wellness for everyone.

Penn Nursing’s rigorous academic curricula are taught by world renowned experts, ensuring that students at every level receive an exceptional Ivy League education . From augmented reality classrooms and clinical simulations to coursework that includes experiential global travel to clinical placements in top notch facilities, a Penn Nursing education prepares our graduates to lead.

Honorary Doctorate for Penn Nursing Professor

Therese S. Richmond, PhD, RN, FAAN , the Andrea B. Laporte Professor of Nursing, received an honorary degree of Doctor of Public Service (DrPS hon) from the Board of Regents of the University System of Maryland . The honor, conferred during the School of Nursing’s convocation on May 14, 2024, recognized Richmond’s extensive research and preeminent role in exploring the critical issues related to gun violence and the resulting trauma on individuals and communities.

“I am deeply honored to receive this honorary doctorate and thank the Board of Regents for the recognition. Life is fragile and the impact of firearm violence on health and well-being is significant,” said Richmond. “We can reduce firearm-related harms through rigorous science, partnering with communities who bear the disproportionate burdens of these harms, and respecting differing worldviews.”

Richmond’s research and scholarship are grounded in understanding and overcoming health inequities experienced by individuals and families living in low-resource and often disenfranchised communities. She is committed to identifying and overcoming structural barriers that lead to and reinforce inequities. Richmond’s research has a dual approach. She partners with valuable community partners to examine the impact of living in pervasively violent, low-resource communities on families and rigorously producing data that can be used by agencies to inform programmatic initiatives to reduce inequity and improve health, well-being, and safety. She also has a substantive body of research that focuses on disparate outcomes after serious injury including PTSD and depression and to identify modifiable targets that drive disparities seen in transition to chronic pain after serious injury.

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Revolutionizing nurse work environment research, new, national leadership role for penn nursing professor is a first, now available from penn nursing: innovative, online psychedelic course, media contact, see yourself here.

Class of 2024 Commencement Event Schedule

The University will host numerous events honoring members of its graduating class of 2024 on Friday, May 17, Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19, with many events live streamed as well.

Friday evening events include the The Panuska College of Professional Studies (now the Leahy College of Health Sciences) Outstanding Graduate Awards Ceremony , which will take place at 4 p.m. in the Kane Forum of Leahy Hall. At 5:30 p.m., Kania School of Management will host a reception for their graduates on the 5 th floor of Brennan Hall.

Also on Friday evening, undergraduates will be recognized for academic achievement, leadership and service at Class Night , which begins at 7:30 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center.

On Saturday, May 18, at 9 a.m., the University will conduct a pinning ceremony for nursing graduates in the Byron Recreation Complex. A reception will follow in the lobby of the Long Center. The Donning of the Stole Ceremony will begin at 11:30 a.m. in the Byron Recreation Complex. A reception immediately follows the ceremony in the lobby of the Long Center. The Class of 2023 Legacy Photo will take place at 2:45 p.m. on the patio area near the Atrium of the Loyola Science Center. At 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, ROTC Army cadets will be commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army during a ceremony in the Kane Forum of Leahy Hall.

The Baccalaureate Mass begins at 4 p.m. in the Byron Recreation Complex.

Saturday evening, at 8 p.m., the University will host the President’s Reception for Graduates and Parents in the Byron Recreation Complex. Tickets are required to attend this event. 

On Sunday, May 19, the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony will take place in the Mohegan Sun Arena, Wilkes-Barre, at 11 a.m. Doors will open at 9:45 a.m. Shabana Basij-Rasikh , the co-founder and president of the School of Leadership, Afghanistan (SOLA), will serve as the commencement speaker . Basij-Rasikh ; Sister Mary Persico , IHM, Ed.D., the president of Marywood University; and Joseph M. Vaszily ’95, former University trustee; will receive honorary degrees at the ceremony.

At 12 p.m., noon, the University will hold the Doctor of Physical Therapy Graduation Awards Ceremony in the DeNaples McIlhenny Ballroom.

The University will hold its Graduate Commencement Ceremony at 4:30 p.m. in the Mohegan Sun Arena.

Guests attending the events at the Mohegan Sun Arena can review their security procedures , which include a clear bag policy and security checkpoints, to assist with alleviating the time required for entry to the commencement ceremonies. Tickets are not required for the undergraduate and graduate commencement ceremonies.

The University will live video stream several of the commencement events. Post on social media using  #Royals2024  for a chance to be featured on the  University’s commencement page . For additional information about the University’s 2024 commencement events, including live stream of events, visit scranton.edu/commencement .