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Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE)

Pursue your passion as a nurse educator and help shape the future of nursing..

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The online Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) is the first program of its kind in the country. Its launch comes at just the right time as we face an urgent national need for doctorally-educated nursing educators. This novel professional doctoral degree program is designed for master’s-prepared nurses who are passionate about educating nursing students and nurses and seek to become expert educators specifically in the clinical discipline of nursing.

This unique program emphasizes best practices in teaching and learning in nursing, curriculum design and development related to nursing education and clinical practice and nursing education assessment and evaluation—a combination not offered anywhere else in the country. 

You will choose from two specialization tracks to meet your specific goals:

• Academic nursing education
• Nursing professional development.

Whether you want to become an expert nurse educational leader in academia or healthcare, this program will prepare you to plan, implement and evaluate best evidence for nursing-specific instruction.

As a DNE student, you can expect to complete the program in five semesters (2 years) of full-time study or eight semesters (3 years) of part-time study, including summer semester coursework. The online DNE program consists of synchronous coursework, field experience/immersion hours to build competencies and a culminating final project.

Hear from current DNE student Rob Patton about how the program’s Nursing Professional Development specialization is helping him pursue his passion and shape the future of nursing.

Specializations

Academic Nursing Education

The academic nursing education track is developed for nurses with earned master’s degrees who seek to teach in college or university level academic nursing programs to prepare nurses for clinical practice at all levels.

Nursing Professional Development

The nursing professional development track is targeted to masters-level nursing professional development practitioners (NPDs) who seek doctoral preparation to educate nurses in healthcare settings to enhance healthcare outcomes.

Director, Doctor of Nursing Education Program

Assistant Director, Doctor of Nursing Education Program

What you'll learn.

As a graduate of the DNE program, you will gain the skills and competence to excel as a nursing educator. The following are expected outcomes for graduates of the DNE program.

• Translates and evaluates evidence-based principles of teaching and learning into the development, design, implementation, and evaluation of nursing education and practice for a diverse student population to transform the healthcare system 
• Demonstrates excellence in leadership roles for the development of practice models, policy, ethical principles, and competencies for nursing education and nursing professional development (NPD) 
• Applies evidence-based practice and translational science methodologies into educational scholarship to prepare graduates to be innovative and creative nurse educators prepared to drive change in nursing education and healthcare environments 
• Collaborates with interprofessional teams to implement and evaluate evidence-based teaching strategies to promote critical thinking and clinical decision-making in nursing 
• Demonstrates inclusion of wellness across multiple educational and practice settings for nursing students, faculty, NPD specialists, and organizations for improved health outcomes

Distance Education

State authorization for distance education can change. Please see this resource for the most accurate and up-to-date state authorization status for the DNE Program .

At this time, The Ohio State University College of Nursing is authorized to enroll distance learning students in many U.S. states. However, due to varying state laws and regulations, there are also many states in which we are not currently permitted to offer distance learning programs. Residents of these states are not able to participate in the programs. Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the University’s Online Programs State Authorization webpage or email us at [email protected] to find out whether their program of interest is available in their home state. Please check back often, as the College and University are aggressively pursuing authorization in all 50 states. Residents outside of the U.S. are not able to participate in distance learning programs. Admission into a program is granted at the time of initial acceptance into the program and is dependent on program availability in the state where the student is physically located at the time of admission. If a student moves to a state other than the state where the student was physically present when admitted into the program, continuation within the program will depend on the availability of the program within the new state where the student is physically present. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the institution of a change in physical presence.

Accreditation Status

The Ohio State University Doctor of Nursing Education Program (delivered via distance education) holds pre-accreditation status from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20037. 202-909-2487. Holding pre-accreditation status does not guarantee that initial accreditation by NLN CNEA will be received.

Application Deadline

• Autumn 2024 Opens: August 15 Deadline: March 1, 2024*

*Students interested in being considered for a fellowship or other available funding opportunities should have their completed application submitted by October 31.

Email [email protected]

• Undergraduate
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• BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
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• Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
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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.

Popular Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Enrollment: Nationwide

• DNP - Educational Leadership

At Purdue Global, discover a faster, more affordable way to earn your Nursing degree. Purdue Global is committed to keeping your tuition costs as low as possible and helping you find the most efficient path to your degree.

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

• MSN-to-DNP Path
• MSN-to-DNP - Family NP
• MSN-to-DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• MSN-to-DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN-to-DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
• Certificate - Family NP Primary Care Postgrad
• Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• See more Purdue nursing programs

Earn your DNP online, at your own pace, with FlexPath, our award-winning learning format. The faster you move, the more you save. Shape systems of care, solve complex health care problems, and educate future generations of nurses. No GRE required.

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Capella for details.

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY and WA.

• DNP - Family NP
• DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• DNP - Nurse-Midwifery/Women's Health NP
• DNP - Women's Health NP

• DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health (Post-MSN)
• DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health NP (Post-BSN)

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.
• MSN-to-DNP - Family NP Primary Care

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PhD Program in Nursing

Phd program in nursing goals.

The PhD Program in Nursing prepares nurse scholars who will advance nursing science and promote equitable health outcomes and care systems, with a focus on social determinants of health (SDOH). Students will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement, and evaluate innovative models of care that improve health outcomes across diverse populations. Graduates of the program will be prepared to lead and transform nursing practice, policy, and research to promote health equity and social justice. PhD student tuition and 12-month stipends are fully funded for up to five years.

At Duke University School of Nursing we admit a small number of highly qualified, diverse applicants that work closely with one or more faculty members in a series of mentored experiences supported by formal coursework.

PhD Academic Calendar

PhD Admissions

PhD Financial Support

Current Research Grants

What Makes Duke Great?

Reasons to Choose Durham

Your work with our faculty will:

Socialize you to the role of nurse scientist;

Ensure you gain significant knowledge and acquire the skills for launching a successful independent program of research post-doctorate; and

Prepare yourself for an entry-level role as a nurse scientist in a research setting (e.g., academic, clinical, or industry).

To help our students succeed, the Duke School of Nursing PhD Program provides:

A broad perspective on the philosophy of science and its application to solving challenging health problems facing our nation, particularly those related to health equity, social determinants of health, and justice;

Experience with standard and emerging research designs and methods;

Rigorous training in statistics; and

Mentored research and teaching experiences to reinforce knowledge acquisition and skill development.

In addition to addressing the standards of Duke University and ensuring the highest-quality PhD education, the Duke PhD Program in Nursing is designed to meet the indicators of quality in research-focused doctoral programs set forth by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Study with Duke expert faculty focused on:

Acute & Long-Term Care Systems

Adaptive Leadership

Data Science

Digital Health

Decision Making

Disease Prevention

Family Caregiving

Health Equity

Informatics

Mental Health

Multi-level Interventions

Nurse-led Models of Care

Palliative and End-of-Life Care

Perioperative Care

Social Determinants of Health

Symptom Management

Specialty Populations

Premature and High-Risk Infants

Children with Acute and Chronic Illnesses

Adults with HIV, Hepatitis C, Diabetes, Sickle Cell Disease, Cancer, or Cardiovascular Disease

Older Adults

PhD Program in Nursing Description

The program requires a minimum of 52 credit hours of graduate coursework. Students will work on research projects; it is expected most will graduate with several publications. Coursework is structured with a substantive core of nursing science and research methods to be taken in the School of Nursing. This core is expanded with elective courses that typically support the student’s dissertation and future research career. These can be taken in other Duke University departments or other Universities that have arrangement with Duke (i.e., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, North Carolina Central University). Additional requirements include research practicums and elective credits that may count towards specialty certificates (i.e., teaching, global health, data science, entrepreneurship, etc.).

In addition to course work, the PhD Program in Nursing will require each student to develop a scholarly portfolio, successful completion of a preliminary examination, and a dissertation. Students are expected to disseminate their work through scholarly venues such as publications and conference presentations.

Terminal Objectives

After the PhD Program in Nursing, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of health equity, social determinants of health (SDOH), and nurse-led models of care to improve health outcomes for a population and/or system of care.
• Apply conceptual models and theories from nursing and other relevant disciplines to design and conduct research.
• Use a health equity, SDOH, and/or nurse-led models of care lens to critically evaluate and synthesize research conducted in nursing and other disciplines.
• Demonstrate scientific integrity and ethics in research across phases of the research process.
• Apply appropriate methods and analytic strategies to design, conduct, and evaluate research across phases of the research process, from discovery to translation.
• Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams to perform research using socioculturally aligned approaches.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and other scholarly venues to advance the evidence base for nursing and healthcare, with a focus on promoting health equity and social justice.

Home / Online Nursing Education Degrees and Programs / Ph.D. Nursing Education Programs

Ph.D. Nursing Education Programs

What is a ph.d. nursing education degree, 2024 - best phd in nursing education programs, are online ph.d. nursing education programs available, nursing education ph.d. vs. other doctorate degree types, list of ph.d. nursing education degree programs.

If your career goals include research and advanced practice nursing, earning a degree beyond a bachelor’s is essential. You have the option of earning either a Master of Science (MSN) in nursing education or a doctorate degree, such as the Ph.D in Nursing Education. Your career goals and the length of time it takes to complete each program are the top considerations when determining which option is right for you. Luckily, online Ph.D. Nurse Educator programs are available for those who don't think they have the time for a doctorate degree of this caliber.

A Ph.D. nurse educator degree is a doctorate, meaning it's the highest degree level a Nurse Educator can obtain (with equal standing given to other doctorate types, as discussed below). The American Association of Colleges of Nursing endorsed changing the minimum entry-level requirement for nurse educators from a master's to a doctorate in 2004. Since then, it has been more challenging for people with an MSN to secure a nurse educator job due to high competition. Schools in all 50 states now offer nurse educator doctorates.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that nurse educators with the most experience and education earn approximately $125,000 annually. Examples of coursework you will complete at the doctorate level include:

• Care Systems and Chronic Illness
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research
• Research and Development
• Scientific Inquiry

All Ph.D. candidates prepare a dissertation they research, write, and defend. The process takes one to three years, depending on your interests and chosen topic.

NurseEducator.com's PhD in Nursing Education rankings are based on a methodology that takes into account a variety of important factors, including the completion rates, affordability, competitiveness, variety of programs offered, and the level of faculty experience. The rankings are designed to provide an objective and comprehensive look at the best nursing education programs in the world. We believe that the criteria used in our methodology accurately reflect the quality of the programs, and that our rankings give prospective students the best information available for making an informed decision. To learn more about our methodology, please visit our methodology page .

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is an accredited private university with over 20,000 students. It offers a wide range of degree programs, including a PhD in Nursing Education. It is one of the largest independent universities in the United States, and its diverse student body is composed of students from over 100 countries.

Liberty University

Liberty University is a private university located in Lynchburg, Virginia. Founded in 1971, Liberty is now the largest Christian university in the world, with over 110,000 students enrolled globally. Liberty offers a wide range of degree programs, including a PhD in Nursing Education. With an emphasis on Christian values, Liberty provides students with an education rooted in faith.

University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado is located in Greeley, Colorado and is a public university. With 14,902 students, it offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, including a PhD in Nursing Education. UNC has a strong commitment to student success and a tradition of excellence.

You have plenty of online enrollment options from the University of Alabama to the University of Wyoming. The hundreds of schools across the United States that offer this degree option typically do so either entirely online or as a hybrid program.

Before enrolling at a school, reflect on how you learn best and your preferences regarding whether to complete courses online or in person. If you work, have a family to care for, or both, you will probably find the online option most convenient due to the flexibility. You can watch lectures and complete assignments whenever it is convenient for you.

A mix between online and traditional on-campus delivery could be ideal if you value face-to-face interactions with professors and other students. Regardless of your chosen option, you should be aware that you must complete your clinical requirements in person.

Nurse Educator Ph.D. Prerequisites

Admissions requirements are usually the same for campus-based and online Nurse Educator Ph.D. programs. Typical prerequisites include:

• Completion of a BSN or MSN degree from an accredited institution
• Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in all previous college coursework
• GRE exam score
• Official transcripts from all previous schools attended
• Personal statement describing your career goals
• Unrestricted U.S.RN license
• Up to three letters of recommendation

Obtaining certification as a nurse educator can give you a competitive advantage. The National League for Nursing offers certification options for nurse educators and clinical nurse educators.

Below is the admissions process at Grand Canyon University , which is typical of schools offering this degree program. The process is the same for online and on-campus students, except for the requirement that students attending in-person classes schedule a campus visit before courses begin.

The first step at any college or university is to submit a request form that indicates the degree you prefer, whether you're interested in the online or hybrid option, and your timeline for starting your studies. Next, you should complete the school's application and attach all the above information. If you need financial aid, researching your options is the next step. It would help if you waited to hear from the school about your official acceptance.

According to the BLS, the demand for nurse educators is higher than average. Thanks to an aging population and increasingly complex health conditions, the agency does not expect the demand to lower anytime soon.

Students sometimes confuse this degree option with the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The focus of the Ph.D. nurse educator degree is scholarly research and inquiry, with the purpose of expanding knowledge about nursing. In contrast, students pursue the DNP degree to improve patient outcomes. The primary focus is obtaining higher-level skills in nursing.

Regarding coursework, DNP candidates focus on advanced practice nursing, evidence-based nursing, and developing leadership skills. Typical courses in DNP programs include:

• Administration and Budget Planning
• Clinical Diagnosis
• Disease Management
• Healthcare Policy
• Healthcare System Transformation

Besides the Ph.D. and nursing education DNP , students have the option of one other doctorate degree as well: the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in nursing education . This degree type is suited for academia, advocacy, and policy, and is not as widely available as the other doctorate degree pathways.

Earning a Nurse Educator Ph.D. doesn't limit you to working only in the field of education. The whole purpose of obtaining the doctorate in the first place is to widen your career options. Here are some popular job titles for people with this advanced credential:

• Clinical Nurse Educator
• Nursing Curriculum Coordinator
• Nursing Education Consultant
• Nursing Professional Development Specialist

Nurse Educator Ph.D., DNP, and Ed.D. programs offer a terminal degree, meaning you have earned the highest degree available.

Nurse Educator Degree Type Comparison

In search of an online or campus-based Ph.D. Nurse Educator program near you? Explore our state-by-state listings below.

Jump to Your State Listings

• Nursing Education Ph.D. Online
• Ph.D. Nursing Education Online

University of Las Vegas, Nevada

• Ph.D. Nursing Education Track & Post-MSN Accelerated Nursing Education Track Online
• Ph.D. in Nursing Education Online

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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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As part of a cutting-edge, research-intensive university with top-ranked schools of nursing, medicine, public health, pharmacy, dentistry and social work located within steps of each other and adjacent to the renowned UNC Hospitals, the School of Nursing provides a diverse, energetic and collegial environment for participating in world-class interprofessional education, scientific inquiry and practice opportunities.

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Applications for 2025 will open in August, please check back later for more information.

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Pre- and Postdoctoral Fellowships at Carolina Nursing: Preventing and Managing Chronic Illness

At Carolina Nursing, our pre- and postdoctoral T32 funding will support research aimed at preventing and managing chronic illness using multilevel, theory-based interventions that target behaviors, environmental factors, and personal determinants that increase the risk of illness onset, greater burden, and poorer outcomes.

Interested in learning more? The article linked below summarizes how our T32 grant will prepare nurse scientists using community-engaged intervention mapping.

Interested in learning more about our new PhD curriculum? Please check out the new  PhD curriculum map here .

Our vision is to prepare a diverse group of graduates who are highly capable and driven to engage in a career devoted to research and scholarly scientific activities that enhance the health of individuals, families and communities; using biobehavioral, psychosocial and ecological approaches; that increase the effectiveness of health care systems; and further the translation of research into practice.

The PhD program in Nursing at UNC is one of the best in the country.  We:

• Prepare nursing scholars to conduct scientific studies consistent with the program vision: to enhance the health of individuals, families and communities; increase the effectiveness of health care systems; and further the translation of research into practice.
• Have consistently been identified as one of the top Schools of Nursing in the country. A variety of faculty research grants provides multiple opportunities for research training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional development. These opportunities provide an outstanding training context to ensure that our graduates are prepared to assume scientific leadership roles early in their research careers.

• Are part of a cutting-edge research-intensive university, with a wonderfully rich and diverse environment within which to conduct research.

• Are part of an extraordinarily strong health science division that includes public health, pharmacy, medicine, social work and dentistry – all of which are located on the main campus of the University.
• Are part of a University that is home to 121 interdisciplinary research centers, institutes, and initiatives that bring faculty together across campus to collaborative research-focused areas. SON faculty, doctoral students, and postdoctoral fellows are highly active members of many of these centers.

Among the many outstanding resources that are available to our PhD students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the following are housed within, and managed by the School of Nursing:

• The  Biobehavioral Laboratory (BBL)  assists with the development of biological and behavioral measuring techniques for the study of chronic illness and nursing intervention outcomes.
• The T32 research training grant on Prevention and Management of Chronic Illness provides extensive opportunities for doctoral and postdoctoral trainees to be involved in funded studies. Continued funding has been sought for the T32 research training grant in Health Care Quality and Patient Outcomes, which is also designed to support doctoral and postdoctoral trainees.
• The  Office of Research and Scholarship (ORS)  assists in grant development, preparation and submission.

To provide adequate mentoring, we want to assure that your planned research aligns well with the scientific expertise of one or more faculty members. This is what we refer to as a faculty-student “match”.  This match may take a number of different forms. One type of match occurs when you are studying the same problem as is the  faculty member  – say, cardiovascular disease, or cancer, or increasing access to care for diverse populations. Another type of match occurs when you are using the same methodological approach as the faculty member – this might be qualitative or quantitative, cross-sectional or longitudinal, or observational or experimental. Another kind of match occurs when you are studying similar populations, say, children or the elderly. 

We provide an opportunity for you to communicate your research interests to selected faculty before you decide to apply, so please take some time to explore our Areas of Expertise to learn about the current research taking place at Carolina Nursing.

If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to  email the Office of Student Affairs .

Associate Dean, PhD Division & Program

Cheryl Jones, PhD, RN, FAAN

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Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education The Science of Teaching Care

Credit Hours

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Advance the Nursing Profession with our Ph.D. in Nursing Education

Are you interested in influencing the field of nursing and taking the discipline even further? Nurses who are prepared with a Ph.D. are needed to steward the discipline and educate the next generation of nurses. Prepare to conduct original research, generate new ideas, design, implement, and communicate findings to lay audience programs for nurses — including formal academic programs that lead to a degree — with Liberty’s Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education degree.

Our doctorate in nursing education is a great credential to have to advance or alter your career path. It can provide both the knowledge and research experience that is important to become a faculty member at a university or educator in a medical facility. You could become a professor of nursing or pursue other educational opportunities within healthcare — or go into hospital administration, health policy advocacy, or nursing research.

Nursing education is a growing field that needs educators who are passionate about patient advocacy and the advancement of excellent healthcare policies and processes. Apply your current experience to your studies and gain the knowledge you need to lead in advancing the nursing profession with a Ph.D. in Nursing.

Licensure requirements may vary and are subject to change without notice. View your state’s requirements here: licensure/certification requirements .

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• Private Nonprofit University
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• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Ph.D. in Nursing Education Online Degree?

By choosing Liberty to pursue your doctoral degree, you’re choosing a university that is accredited, Christ-centered, and flexible with course scheduling. When you choose any of our online degree programs, you’re choosing excellence that is grounded in integrity.

Liberty University is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ). This means that you can be confident that you are receiving a world-class education that has met rigorous education standards.

We understand that you may have family, career, and community obligations — so our program is designed to work around your busy life and schedule. You can complete your doctorate in nursing 100% online, in a flexible 8-week course format. Optional synchronous online sessions are delivered most weeks of the semester to allow you to maximize engagement with faculty, classmates, and the program.

At Liberty, our mission is to Train Champions for Christ . All of our programs are taught by Christian faculty who are not only nationally recognized educational leaders but also professors committed to your personal and professional success.

What Will You Study in Our Ph.D. in Nursing Education Online Degree?

In this program, you’ll learn to design and lead effective nursing education programs for the next generation of medical professionals. Your coursework can help you become a confident leader, equipped to implement change and improvements to nursing education. Through multi-disciplinary courses and interactions with your professors, you can develop the skills you need to lead and collaborate with healthcare teams and create positive change.

Upon successful completion of our program, you can be more prepared to:

• Act as a professional nursing leader, role model, and mentor for those who wish to pursue advancement in nursing.
• Advocate for policies and programs that improve health outcomes for individuals and communities.
• Apply ethical decision-making and values to the nursing profession based upon a biblical worldview.
• Contribute to the science of nursing by creating original research and scholarship.
• Educate the next generation of nurse scholars to add to the global community of nursing professionals.
• Synthesize the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing in the practice of research

Potential Career Opportunities

• Health policy advocate
• Hospital administrator
• Nurse scientist
• Nursing professor/faculty member
• Nursing researcher

Featured Courses

• NURS 764 – Learning Theories and Teaching Methods for Nurse Educators
• NURS 765 – Curriculum Development and Program Evaluation for Nurse Educators
• NURS 766 – Advanced Evaluation Strategies for Nurse Educators
• NURS 784 – Assessment and Accreditation for Nursing Programs

Course guides available upon request

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Nursing .
• View the Graduate Nursing Course Guides (login required) .

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

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Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information for our Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education

Admission requirements.

At this time, our Ph.D. in Nursing Education degree is limited in certain states. Please view the licensure/certification requirements for your state. International students can contact the School of Nursing related to their degree interest.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Contact information for one recommender
• Statement of Purpose
• One year minimum experience as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurse Licensure verification will be conducted annually until the curriculum for the online Ph.D. in Nursing: Nursing Education is completed. As the student, you are responsible to notify the School of nursing should any restrictions be placed on your license.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

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Email for Questions

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Lynchburg, VA 24515

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Submit your application online or over the phone.

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Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sets this program apart from other similar offerings.

Our nursing faculty are nationally recognized educational leaders.

What does the career potential look like for this field?

With the growing demand for nurses, nurse educators are also in demand at all levels, and with a doctorate in nursing, you may find many employment doors opening.

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• Student Experience
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• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Doctoral Programs

• Dual Degree Programs
• Post-Degree Certificates
• Post-Doctoral Fellowships
• Executive Education
• Prerequisites for Health Professions
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Entry into Nursing Program
• MSN Healthcare Organizational Leadership
• MSN Healthcare Organizational Leadership/MBA Dual Degree
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advanced Practice
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Executive Track
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
• DNP: Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Pediatric Dual Primary/Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Nurse Anesthesia
• DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree
• DNP Executive/MBA Dual Degree
• DNP Executive/MPH Dual Degree
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
• Post-Master’s Healthcare Organizational Leadership CERTIFICATE
• Post-Master’s Nursing Education CERTIFICATE
• Post-Master’s Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner CERTIFICATE
• Post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner CERTIFICATE
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Need your questions answered?

Our doctoral programs prepare students to lead health care innovations and influence policy—founded on the science and theory of nursing, analytic principles, evidence-based practice, and strong leadership —at the highest organizational level. With access to world-renowned nursing faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration throughout the Johns Hopkins network, you’ll build the skills to develop and implement your research and clinical goals to change the future of healthcare.

find your path

DNP Advanced Practice

Become a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist in the DNP Advanced Practice track at Johns Hopkins Schoolof Nursing. Unlock the unlimited potential of an advanced nursing career and build close relationships with our world-renowned faculty. You will network with other emerging nurse leaders in your cohort and graduate ready to change the health care system and advance the nursing profession.

• Adult-Gerontological acute care np
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• DNP ADvanced Practice/PHD

DNP Executive

Get the analytic skills and evidence-based practice principles you need in the DNP Executive track at Johns Hopkins. You’ll address significant healthcare problems-defined by your interests and based on your experience-in real time and in your practice setting. You will forge your own intellectual path and wrap up your curriculum with an intense final project experience.

• DNP EXECUTIVE
• DNP Executive/MBA Dual Degre e

Advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery with a Johns Hopkins PhD in nursing. With access to world-renowned faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with noted researchers throughout Johns Hopkins, you’ll build the skills to develop and implement a scientific research program. By graduation, most scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career.

• DNP Advanced Practice/PHD

Dual Degree Options

The dual degree programs offered through the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing integrate cutting-edge nursing in collaboration with schools from across the university. The programs will position you to take on executive roles that employ systems-level thinking to improve population health or lead patient care at corporate levels.

• DNP ADVANCED PRACTICE/PHD
• DNP Executive/MBA
• DNP Executive/MPH

Do you know

The Difference?

“Prior to joining the PhD program, I felt like I was spinning my wheels. Now I feel empowered to advocate for what I know will help patients and have the tools and soon will have the credentials to do that.” Emily Hoppe

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Our Culture

Diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Learn about our commitment to social justice and health equality and anti-racism.

Academic Programs

Admissions at a glance.

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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Research areas of focus.

Explore the research areas of focus conducted by our faculty, postdocs, and students.

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Primary care services.

The ColumbiaDoctors Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Group, combines evidence-based practice with a personalized approach to provide quality care.

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Global opportunities for students.

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:

• Best Online Doctorate In Nursing Education Programs

Best Online Doctorate In Nursing Education Programs Of 2024

Updated: Jun 7, 2024, 2:37pm

Doctoral nursing programs offer the highest level of education you can earn in the nursing field, preparing you for an advanced teaching, research or leadership role while increasing your salary potential. If you want to maximize your impact on the future of nursing, consider earning a doctorate in nursing education .

You can even pursue a doctorate in nursing education online. The convenience of online learning allows you to earn your degree without sacrificing your current work or family responsibilities. An online degree could also be more cost-effective by cutting out the relocation and commuting expenses often associated with traditional on-campus programs.

We’ve used a strict methodology to rank the top universities offering online doctorates in nursing education based on credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We’ve also provided tips on how to find the right online doctoral program based on your goals, availability and budget.

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Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
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Our Methodology

We ranked 23 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online doctorates in nursing education in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of June 2023. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 72% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Degree Finder

Best doctorate in nursing education online programs, should you enroll in an online doctorate in nursing education, accreditation for doctorate in nursing education online programs, how to find the right online doctorate in nursing education for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctorates in nursing education, regis university, walsh university, bryan college of health sciences, ohio university-main campus, east carolina university, western connecticut state university, university of northern colorado, southern connecticut state university, liberty university, university of west georgia, featured online schools.

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Program Tuition

$995/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Nursing students looking to earn an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) while continuing to work professionally will find a convenient, flexible program at Regis University , based in Westin, Massachusetts. Learners can pursue either a B.S.N.-to-D.N.P. or an M.S.N.-to-D.N.P. program.

Enrollees in the M.S.N.-to-D.N.P. program can choose from three start times per year and earn their degree in 24 to 36 months without setting foot on campus. The program offers eight areas of nurse practitioner specializations: pediatrics, psychiatric mental health, women’s health, family, adult gerontology primary care, adult gerontology acute care, nurse leadership and nurse education.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $75
• Degree Credit Requirements: 27 to 64 credits (depending on specialization)
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Cultural perspectives in healthcare, instructional methods in nursing education
• Concentrations Available: Pediatrics, family, psychiatric mental health, women’s health, nurse education, nurse leadership, adult-gerontology (primary or acute care)
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, clinical hours required

$745/credit

The online M.S.N.-to-D.N.P. at North Canton, Ohio’s Walsh University prepares nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. Classes are offered in eight- and 16-week sessions throughout the year and are designed to accommodate busy, working professionals.

Students receive clinical placement support to find a clinical site and preceptor to complement their online coursework and complete clinical rotations. D.N.P. students can add a specialization to their degree with a post-M.S.N. family nurse practitioner or nurse educator graduate certificate.

• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 34 to 63 credits ( depending on track)
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare technology and data management, nursing leadership role and ethics in complex healthcare systems
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, residency practicum required

$743/credit

Bryan College of Health Sciences in Lincoln, Nebraska, offers an online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) with an emphasis in nursing and health professions education. The program aims to develop educators for leadership roles in education and practice.

Designed for working professionals with a master’s in nursing or another healthcare-related field, Bryan College’s doctoral degree allows students to finish in four years with no on-campus requirements. Learners can complete asynchronous work independently, except for three required video meetings per semester to meet with faculty and other students.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 50 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Education practice seminar, teaching and learning theories
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, education practicum required

$648/credit (in-state)

Ohio University-Main Campus ’ online M.S.N.-to-D.N.P. features two areas of specialization: direct patient care as an advanced practice nurse and indirect patient care as a nurse executive or nurse educator.

The part-time program serves working professionals. Most students take two to three courses per semester. Ohio University offers all coursework online, but students must attend three on-campus intensives at the school’s Athens or Dublin campuses. Learners in the nurse educator path must complete practicum experiences and a D.N.P. immersion.

• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 36 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Foundations of evidence-based practice, quality and safety in population health
• Concentrations Available: Direct patient care as an advanced practice nurse, indirect patient care as a nurse executive or nurse educator
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus intensives

$414/credit (in-state)

Located in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University offers three online pathways to a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing education. Applicants can start with a D.N.P, an M.S.N. or a B.S.N.; the Ph.D. requires 42 to 84 additional credits. The D.N.P.-to-Ph.D. program allows students to transfer up to 12 hours of previous D.N.P. coursework toward their degree.

Students entering with a B.S.N. complete an integrated M.S.N and Ph.D. curriculum, with optional concentrations in nursing education or nursing leadership. This pathway allows them to reduce the number of master’s level courses and finish faster.

Learners must attend on-campus summer immersion sessions.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 to 84 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time, part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Statistical reasoning in nursing, principles of measurement
• Concentrations Available: Nursing education, nursing leadership
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for summer immersion sessions

$954/credit

Western Connecticut State University ’s nursing faculty created its online Ed.D. in nursing education to prepare nurses for academic faculty roles. Most students graduate in three and a half years, taking two courses every semester, including the summer.

Courses are delivered entirely online through synchronous and asynchronous learning methods. Before the start of the program and each summer before years one and two, nursing students must attend a three-day, on-campus residency in Danbury.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 51 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Theories of teaching and learning in adult and higher education
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus residencies

$706/credit

The 66-credit, online nursing education Ph.D. program at the University of Northern Colorado prepares graduates for nursing faculty roles in universities and healthcare organizations.

Students must attend a five-day orientation in Greeley the summer before starting the program, but all coursework is delivered online. Students complete a dissertation in their fourth year.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 66 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: The professional role in nursing education, advanced nursing curriculum design
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an orientation

$1,002/credit

Headquartered in New Haven, Southern Connecticut State University ’s online nursing Ed.D program was designed for registered nurses with clinical experience and master’s degrees in nursing. The program focuses on preparation for nurse educators, teaching students the necessary skills to become academic faculty members.

The program consists of five major components: foundations of teaching in higher education, specialization in nursing education, leadership in nursing education, science of nursing education research and a dissertation phase.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Ethical/legal, political and social issues affecting higher education
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for a teaching practicum

$595/credit

Students of Liberty University ’s online Ph.D. in nursing education program hone the skills needed to become nursing professors or explore careers in hospital administration, health policy advocacy or nursing research.

Liberty University, based in Lynchburg, Virginia, allows students to transfer up to half of the degree’s required credits. The college also offers a military tuition discount for current and former service members. All courses run in eight-week, online sessions with optional synchronous meetings and no in-person requirements.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Learning theories and teaching methods for nurse educators
• In-Person Requirements: No

$241/credit

The University of West Georgia , based in Carroll County, offers a fully online Ed.D. in nursing education delivered through asynchronous coursework. Students in this program learn to apply field-specific knowledge and skills in modern educational environments to train aspiring nurses.

Applicants must hold an M.S.N. with a minimum 3.0 GPA in their graduate nursing courses. Full-time learners can expect to finish the Ed.D. in 11 semesters; part-time students typically finish in 14 semesters.

UWG charges online learners an “eTuition” rate of $71 per credit in addition to their base tuition rate.

• Application Fee: $40
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Current trends and issues in nursing education, distance education in nursing

Earning an online doctorate in nursing education can advance your nursing career , increase your salary and open doors to high-level teaching and administrative roles. However, online college isn’t for everyone.

Before enrolling in a program, understand how the classes operate. Some online programs require students to log on for live virtual instruction, which may not fit with your work schedule or personal commitments. Other programs allow you to watch lectures when they’re convenient for you. Some programs offer a mixture of live and recorded classes.

Also, consider how you learn. If you’re organized and self-motivated, online learning may suit you. However, if you prefer face-to-face instruction and the ability to interact with others, a more traditional in-person program is your safest bet.

Below, we explore other factors to consider when making your decision.

Colleges and universities undergo a third-party review process to determine if they meet quality standards set by approved accrediting bodies. This process, called institutional accreditation, assures students, college faculty members and employers that the school awards quality degrees. Departments within an institution can also apply for programmatic accreditation.

Institutional Accreditation

Always look for accredited colleges , especially if you plan to apply for federal student aid, which requires applicants to attend institutionally accredited schools. Institutional accreditation also impacts your eligibility for credit transfers, professional credentials and employment. Forbes Advisor only ranks accredited colleges and universities.

Programmatic Accreditation

Several of our top-ranked programs hold programmatic accreditation, which applies to individual degrees, programs and departments. Professional accrediting bodies evaluate degrees at the undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate levels to award this status.

Accrediting organizations for doctoral nursing education programs include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Accreditation and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

Find accredited education programs using the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation search tool .

Below, we discuss a few important factors to help you narrow down your prospective colleges.

Consider Your Future Goals

If you’re researching doctorate in nursing education online programs, you’ve already invested a great deal of time in your education and professional experience. To identify the right type of nursing degree , consider how you want to apply your investment in the long term.

If you’re interested in a teaching career, consider an Ed.D. degree , which will prepare you to instruct the next generation of nurses. A D.N.P. program , on the other hand, can further your clinical practice. Or, if academic research sounds more appealing, opt for an online Ph.D. in nursing education.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Minimum total tuition, which doesn’t account for additional fees, books or other resources, ranges from about $14,000 to $51,000 at our top-ranked schools. Earning your nurse educator degree may not be cheap, but resources are available to help alleviate the financial burden.

Apply for the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program if you’re a U.S. citizen and a registered nurse or nurse practitioner . This federal program aims to address the shortage of qualified nurses in underserved communities by offering loan repayment assistance.

If you commit to working in a critical shortage facility or as a nurse faculty member for at least two years, up to 60% of your qualifying student loans will be repaid. If you commit to three years, the government will pay up to 85% of your student loans.

You can also apply for federal student aid, including scholarships, grants and work-study arrangements , through the FAFSA® . Look for university-specific scholarships, assistantships and other funding opportunities as well.

What is a doctorate in nursing education?

A doctorate in nursing education is a teaching-based doctoral degree. This degree prepares healthcare professionals to teach future RNs and advanced practice RNs. Graduates can also serve as high-level academic or hospital administrators .

What is the difference between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. in nursing?

A Ph.D. in nursing is a doctoral research degree that prepares nurses for careers in scientific research. An Ed.D. in nursing prepares nurses for leadership roles in clinical settings.

Is it better to get a D.N.P. or a Ph.D. in nursing?

Which doctoral nursing degree is better depends on the nurse’s career goals, experience and interests. Those who prefer working in a clinical setting may prefer a D.N.P., which requires clinical hours. Those interested in teaching or conducting scientific research may prefer a Ph.D.

Can a D.N.P. call themselves “doctor?”

Yes, to an extent. Graduates with a Doctor of Nursing Practice have earned the highest degree in their field, like those with a Ph.D. or Ed.D. However, they are not medical doctors.

Suzie loves researching, interviewing experts and breaking down complex information into understandable and actionable advice to help others improve their lives. Based in Denver, Suzie and her husband are parents to a 14-year-old boy, a 12-year-old girl and two rescue dogs.

PhD in Nursing Science 

Drive the future of nursing through scientific discovery.

• School School of Nursing | Graduate School
• Duration 4 years, full-time
• Format Hybrid
• Enrollment Fall
• Tuition Fully funded, stipend provided

About the Program

Conduct multidisciplinary, cutting-edge research that will transform nursing with Vanderbilt’s PhD in Nursing Science degree . This four-year, full-time program prepares diverse scholars to lead the nation in nursing research, education and policy.  

The program is delivered predominantly online with limited campus visits once a semester, and its state-of-the-art curriculum emphasizes both clinical and health services research. All students receive a customized plan of study tailored to their specific research interests. Research is organized into the following signature areas: Acute and Chronic Illness, Data Science and Health Technologies, Palliative Care Science, and Pregnancy Outcomes and Mother, Infant, Child and Family Health.     

Student tuition for the program is fully funded, covering up to four years of research and coursework, and students receive annual stipends.    

Facts & Stats

• #8 U.S. News & World Report 2023 rankings of Best Value School
• #13 U.S. News & World Report 2023 rankings of National Universities
• 26% Ethnic racial student enrollment across all VUSN programs in 2020

Key Takeaways   

• Bene f it from a blended learning format that pairs online classes and coursework with periodic campus vi sits  
• Receive competitive financial awards, including fully funded tuition and an annual stipend  
• Conduct cutting-edge , multidisciplinary r e search alongside nationally and internationally recognized faculty w ho have a wide range of research foci  
• Learn with a n advanced curriculum that emphasizes both clinical and health services research   
• Launch your research or academic career with strong faculty mentorship and a personalized plan of study  

Who Should Enroll ?

The PhD in Nursing Science program is designed for diverse nurse scholars who are interested in pursuing research and academic careers in public or private health care. Admitted students seek to advance nursing through scientific discovery, and they hold bachelor’s degrees in nursing (or BSN equivalent) and master’s degrees in nursing (or a related field) or doctoral degrees in nursing (or a related field).   

Admission to the program is competitive and requires research and career goals that are in alignment with the School of Nursing’s research efforts and faculty expertise.   

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Doctor of Education (EdD) in Nursing Education

Courses start every monday, take the first step in your national university journey, 230k+ alumni worldwide, doctorate of education (edd) with a specialization in nursing education.

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. The Doctor of Education program (EdD) uses an applied, project-based approach to prepare professionals who seek to lead improvements in the strategy, practice, policy, and outcomes of educational practice. EdD research focuses on solving a problem in the workplace or in the professional field of education.

Why Earn Your Doctorate in Nursing Education with National University?

The Nursing Education specialization prepares educators and leaders for professional roles in nursing education. Recent shortages in nurses and nursing faculty have led to a growing demand for educators in the field. In this interdisciplinary program, you’ll take courses in the School of Education and the School of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing. The foundational coursework provides an in-depth understanding of research methods, statistics, and data analysis, while the specialty studies focus on instructional theory, evidence-based practices, evaluation methods, and the use of technology in nursing education.

Admission Requirements 

A conferred post-baccalaureate master’s degree or doctoral degree from a regionally or nationally accredited academic institution or an international institution determined to be equivalent through an approved evaluation service. Examples of acceptable doctoral degrees include Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Education (EdD).

In addition to the general requirements for admission to the EdD program, Nursing Education specialization applicants must provide a copy of the following:

• A valid and active RN license from the United States
• A master’s degree in nursing (MSN)

Dissertation Process

In addition to the foundational and specialization courses, each doctoral student is required to complete a high-quality dissertation through a systematic process assisted by faculty. An EdD dissertation is a scholarly documentation of research that makes an original contribution to the field of educational study. The step-by-step process requires care in choosing a topic, documenting its importance, planning the methodology, and conducting the research. These activities lead smoothly into the writing and oral presentation of your dissertation.

Courses and Sequence

The EdD in Nursing Education specialization requires 54 credits for degree completion. All foundation competency courses, specialization courses, and method coursework must be completed before beginning the Doctoral Comprehensive Assessment course (CMP-9601E). Upon successful completion of the comprehensive assessment, you’ll become an official doctoral candidate and may move onward to the sequential dissertation coursework. Additional credit hours may be allowed as needed to complete your dissertation research. If granted, additional courses will be added to your degree program in alignment with the SAP and Academic Maximum Time to Completion policies. The estimated time needed to complete this program is 33 months.

Course Details

Course listings.

Your communication abilities have a big influence on your professional reputation. In this course, you’ll develop skills to establish yourself as a competent professional with strong communication skills. You’ll learn competencies related to written, oral, and visual forms of communication appropriate to specific media and audiences. You’ll also explore how the iterative nature of preparing communications and integrating feedback into your work products can support your development and advancement as a professional.

Leadership during times of change can be challenging. This course supports your professional development as an effective leader of educational organizations during periods of change. You’ll explore strategies and techniques for self-reflection, evaluating culture, integrating stakeholder feedback, and incorporating data as part of improvement processes. To conclude the course, you’ll synthesize these skills to design a comprehensive improvement plan that addresses a specific problem within an educational organization.

• Specialization Course 1
• Specialization Course 2
• Specialization Course 3
• Specialization Course 4
• Specialization Course 5  (Nursing Education specialization only)
• Specialization Course 6  (Nursing Education specialization only)

In this course, you’ll develop effective search and writing strategies to create a scholarly review of literature. The course emphasizes how to: (a) use effective literature search strategies; (b) develop a scholarly synthesis of research literature; (c) organize research literature around identified themes, including a study problem, purpose, and theoretical perspectives; and (d) focus on developing a scholarly exposition that reflects divergent viewpoints and contrasting perspectives. The overarching goal is for you to understand strategies for surveying scholarly literature that avoid bias, focus on educational practice-based research problems, and address the requirements of a scholarly literature review.

This course introduces you to the research process by exploring its underpinnings, examining its paradigms, and investigating the foundations of qualitative and quantitative methodologies used in educational studies. You’ll identify criteria for the development of quality research studies that are ethical, accurate, comprehensive, cohesive, and aligned. Specific course topics involve the ethics of conducting research; data collection and analysis techniques; and issues of feasibility, trustworthiness, validity, reliability, transferability, and rigor. The goal is to familiarize yourself with the concepts and skills associated with conducting theoretical and applied research.

This course provides the foundational knowledge to become a critical consumer of statistical-based research and a skilled analyst of non-inferential quantitative data. Coursework focuses on understanding multivariate data, non-inferential and inferential statistical concepts, the conventions of quantitative data analysis, and interpretations and critical inferences in statistical results. You’ll use software applications to complete statistical computations and perform quantitative data analysis. The course culminates in a synthesis project to demonstrate your statistical skills and present your results using APA guidelines. 

Select One of the Following Two Research Courses:

A focus on qualitative research methodology and the designs and methods used to collect and analyze data in educational research. You’ll examine the principles of qualitative research and explore commonly used designs (also referred to as qualitative traditions or genres) with a focus on application and feasibility. Qualitative data collection and analysis methods will be examined for their suitability with regard to the research design selected. Alignment between qualitative designs and research methods, issues of trustworthiness, and the responsibilities of the qualitative researcher will also be explored.

Select One of the Following Two Data Analysis Courses:

This course builds on a foundational understanding of qualitative designs and measurements to focus on analyses of the data. Coursework takes you deeper into the skills and techniques necessary to ensure the appropriate analyses of qualitative data, including integrating relevant frameworks, verifying trustworthiness of the findings, and selecting suitable methods for presenting analyses and findings.

An exploration of advanced statistical principles and how to apply them to quantitative research. This course provides an overview of advanced statistical concepts used in empirical research, including inferential analyses. You’ll use SPSS software to perform advanced computations as you build independent, scholarly statistical skills. Coursework will emphasize multivariate data; the use, comprehension, and evaluation of sophisticated statistical concepts; and the proper presentation of statistical results.

The doctoral comprehensive assessment is your opportunity to demonstrate your preparation for entering the dissertation phase as a doctoral candidate. You’ll synthesize discipline-specific content with research designs and methods to create a prospectus for a problem of applied practice within an educational context. This prospectus will likely become the foundation of your dissertation. This course is begun only after all your foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.

In this 12-week course, you’ll complete all relevant subsections of Section 1: Foundation. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. Section 1 must be completed and approved by your committee in order to pass the course and move forward. If you do not receive committee approval of Section 1, you’ll be able to take up to three supplemental eight-week courses to finalize and gain approval.

In this course, you’ll compose all relevant subsections of Section 2: Methodology and Design, and complete your proposal. Both of these components must be approved by your committee in order to pass the course and move forward. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. If you do not receive approval of Section 2 and the completed proposal by the conclusion of this 12-week course, you’ll be able to take up to three eight-week supplementary courses to finalize and gain approval.

In this course, you’ll prepare, submit, and obtain approval of your Institutional Review Board (IRB) application before collecting data and, if applicable, executing your project modeling. You’ll also submit a final study closure form to the IRB. If you’re still collecting data at the end of the 12-week course, you’ll be able to take up to three supplementary eight-week courses to complete the required components.

In this 12-week course, you’ll complete the relevant subsections of Section 3: Findings, Implications, and Recommendations, finalize your manuscript, and disseminate your findings. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. The final manuscript, including Section 3 and the dissemination of findings, must be approved by your committee in order to pass the course and be eligible to graduate. If you do not receive committee approval on all components, you’ll be able to take up to three supplemental eight-week courses to finalize these requirements and be eligible to graduate.

Specialization Courses

NUR-7000 Nursing Education Theories and Concepts

An exploration of theories and concepts that provide the foundation for nursing education and adult learning. You’ll conduct analysis of theory development and examine multidisciplinary concepts applicable to nursing education and research. You’ll also review the current and seminal literature regarding nursing practice, education, and research, as well as the social sciences.

NUR-7001 Future of Nursing Education: Challenges for the Educational Leader

In this course, you’ll learn the future opportunities and challenges in nursing education from the perspective of a reflective practitioner. You’ll discuss the regulatory, ethical, and political challenges faced by instructional and supervisory leaders in nursing education. In addition, you’ll focus on how educational leaders explore and act upon the variety of challenges and opportunities in the field.

NUR-7002 Nurse as Educator

This course examines the evolving roles of the nurse educator within the ever-changing healthcare system and educational environment. You’ll focus on the educator as a teacher, leader, collaborator, mentor, and change agent. Principles underlying the teaching of adult learners will be examined and applied to classroom and clinical settings. By the end of the course, you’ll have formulated a personal working philosophy of nursing education.

NUR-7003 Evidence-Based Teaching in Nursing

A study of the foundational knowledge in nursing science, skills, and education for contemporary nursing education practice and scholarship. This course explores current, evidence-based andragogic practices to develop a basis for studying and applying nursing education disciplines.

NUR-7004 Teaching with Technology in Nursing Education 

In this course, you’ll learn the importance of utilizing technology in nursing education in the classroom and clinical settings. The goal is to provide an understanding of technology tools that can create diverse and meaningful learning experiences. You’ll examine current technology trends, including simulation, online learning, learning management systems, instructional design, Web 2.0 tools, computer-assisted learning, presentation software, EHRs, and videos. Through discussion and practice, you’ll refine your instructional skills in applying these tools as an educator.

NUR-7005 Assessment and Evaluation in Nursing Education

This course explores evaluation methods used in nursing education curricula. Coursework will include norm-referenced and criterion-referenced evaluation methods. You’ll identify criteria used to develop reliable evaluation measures and explore techniques for identifying cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains as they relate to education and nursing. Finally, you’ll examine current issues and research related to educational testing instruments, alternatives to standardized evaluation methods, and outcome measurement in education.

Program Outcomes

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program develops your abilities to lead improvements in practice within educational organizations. EdD learning outcomes include the ability to:

• Recommend policies advancing equity and social justice in educational organizations
• Select ethical and regulatory compliant actions supporting the mission and vision of organizations
• Develop leadership skills through the integration of theoretical constructs with professional practice
• Create strategic and tactical plans to improve organizations
• Construct theory-informed decisions for addressing complex problems of practice

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Home / Nursing Degree / Best Ph.D. in Nursing Programs – 2024

Best Ph.D. in Nursing Programs – 2024

2024 - Best Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

Which ph.d. in nursing program is right for me, on-campus vs. online phd in nursing programs, admission requirements & curriculum, which nursing careers require a ph.d., list of ph.d. in nursing programs.

Many nurses, after working at the bedside, seek different ways to utilize their knowledge and clinical skills. Some prefer to advance their career and become nurse practitioners and earn either an MSN or DNP . However, some nurses hope to take their knowledge and apply it to something a bit different than a clinical focus – research and education. Ph.D. prepared nursing helps address critical issues in healthcare and even helps shape policies and legislation.

Nursing knowledge in healthcare and research is essential. Nurses provide a unique perspective and use a patient-centered approach to various issues in healthcare. This perspective helps to benefit both patients and organizations and improves care outcomes. Since many who choose the Ph.D. in a nursing pathway do so to become educators, this degree type paves the way to shape the next generation of nurses.

Already have a nursing degree and looking to advance your education to a Ph.D. in Nursing? Bridge programs such as the BSN to Ph.D. , MSN to Ph.D. , and DNP to Ph.D . are available.

For highly skilled and ambitious nurses, the Ph.D. in Nursing pathway is the pinnacle of registered nursing education. Many RNs feel called to research and academia, and a Ph.D. can provide ample opportunities for success in these areas. There are few things more important than choosing the right Ph.D. program, which is why we have ranked the top online/hybrid Ph.D. in Nursing programs available across the country. Check out our rankings below and take the first step toward a high-level nursing career.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, visit our Methodology Page ( https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/ ).

Texas Woman's University

At Texas Woman's University in Houston, Ph.D. students become experts in nursing theory development and research methods as they embark on a journey to bolster the future of nursing. Many graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program go on to teach at the college level while others pursue a career in nursing administration or research.

• PhD in Nursing Science Online/Hybrid
• DNP to PhD Bridge Program Online/Hybrid

Recipient of Quality Matters Implementation Plan award. Offering hybrid or online-only degree completion options. The historical women’s college does admit men.

Endicott College

Through research, innovation, and collaboration, the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing degree at Endicott College enables nurses to become leaders both in and outside the world of academia. The hybrid program offers flexible weekend and evening in-person and online course delivery options.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Online/Hybrid

• A private college located outside of Boston.
• Includes a loan option for those looking to teach.
• Very low faculty-to-student ratios for each cohort.

Mercer University

Nurses can transition their bedside and clinical experiences into scholarship when they decide to earn their Ph.D. at Mercer University. The online terminal degree readies nurses for careers in education and research to advance the profession of nursing.

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing Online/Hybrid

• A dissertation is required to complete the degree.
• The program receives funding via the Nurse Faculty Loan Program.
• A private research university in Macon, Georgia.

University of Central Florida

Nurses can perform different professional roles aside from caring for patients in a hospital or clinical setting. From conducting original research to teaching, nurses can pursue their Ph.D. in Nursing online at the University of Central Florida. Students learn to contribute to the discipline as an academic.

• PhD in Nursing: BSN to PhD Online/Hybrid
• PhD in Nursing: MSN to PhD Online/Hybrid

• Only open to RNs licensed in Florida. • Students complete Dissertation / Doctoral Research. • One of the first universities to offer a nursing Ph.D.

William Carey University

William Carey University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Education Program (DNP to PhD). Nurses who think they’d like to make a career educating the next generation of healthcare professionals can enroll in this online program. Nurses can continue to work while earning this terminal degree.

• Nursing Education - DNP to PhD Online/Hybrid

• Can be completed in 2-3 years.
• There are four weekend meetings per year  (two synchronous online and two in-person)
• A private Christian university located in Hattiesburg, MS.

Selecting a Ph.D. program can be challenging. Each nurse has individual work and family demands, so the school needs to fit into the nurse’s busy life. There are a few considerations nurses should take into account when looking for a Ph.D. program:

• Online Learning vs. Classroom Learning – Selecting an online program vs. an on-campus program is a personal choice. While some prefer the convenience and flexibility of online learning, some enjoy face-to-face, interactive learning, along with peer support. Some programs are 100% online, and some require minimal campus visits (often referred to as "hybrid" programs). Whichever the learning method, nurses should choose the one right for them.
• Accreditation – National accreditation is critical when selecting a Ph.D. program. Proper accreditation ensures the school meets strict quality standards and allows the nurse to pursue future degree options. Also, nursing boards in some states require national (as opposed to local) accreditation for licensure. Students should look for accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( CCNE ) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing ( ACEN ) when researching schools.
• Program History – Some nursing programs, including online programs, are popping up left and right. Students should be cautious and do their research when looking at Ph.D. programs. Schools that have been around a long time tend to be more reputable, and they also likely have enough data (for example, graduation rates) that the student can use to measure the program’s success.
• Program Cost – Cost is a significant factor when deciding to return to school. Most websites are transparent with the tuition cost and associated expenses, so there won't be any surprises. Many schools offer financial aid options as well as the choice to attend part-time. However, students should also prepare for additional expenses such as immunization requirements, technology equipment requirements, supplies, parking fees, and graduation or university fees.
• Residency/Internship Requirements – Studying course material is one part of Ph.D. programs, but nurses must also apply what they’ve learned to real life. Nurses should make sure that whichever program they choose, they are able to meet the practicum requirements. Ensuring they have resources and mentors in the community and surrounding organizations is crucial to the student's success.

RELATED : Dual DNP/PhD Programs

As stated earlier, choosing an online program vs. an on-campus depends on the needs of the student. Below are some advantages of both online and on-campus programs:

Online Ph.D. Nursing Program Advantages

• Flexible schedule – Nurses can work around the clock. They may work weekends, holidays, swing shifts, and graveyard shifts. For this reason, a school must be flexible. Online programs allow nurses to study course material when they can as well as learn at their own pace. They can submit assignments and correspond with instructors and peers electronically, not having to wait until the class or the instructor's office hours.
• Tuition and Costs – An advantage of online Ph.D. programs is cost. In some cases, students may select a school that is based outside their state. Schools sometimes don't charge different tuition rates for out-of-state students in their online programs, which is a significant cost-saver and allows more education options. Students are encouraged to research this thoroughly, however.
• Accessibility and Convenience – As stated earlier, online programs are far more flexible than campus programs. At the touch of a button, students can access learning materials, peers, instructors, and online learning modules. They can study in the middle of the night, on holidays, on weekends, or whenever it's convenient. They are not limited to certain hours on certain days. Plus, they don’t need to waste time commuting, parking, and walking to class.
• Fast Completion – Many online programs boast rapid completion. While students need to be wary of schools that advertise this (specific curricula must be completed), some legitimate online programs do allow students to finish faster than traditional, campus programs. This is because students can study at their own pace. If eager to start out in their new role, online learning might be the way to go.

On-Campus Ph.D. in Nursing Program Advantages

While more and more online nursing programs are popping up, some students still prefer traditional campus learning. Some advantages of on-campus education include:

• The ability to interact face-to-face with peers and instructors
• Not having to worry about technology issues
• Not needing to spend extra money on electronic or technological supplies
• Accreditation is usually not a concern

While admission requirements for a Ph.D. in nursing program may vary between schools, prospective students may be required to:

• Hold a current, unencumbered RN/APRN license
• Hold a BSN or MSN from an accredited university (some schools allow admission for BSN nurses)
• Have completed a specific number of clinical hours
• Provide transcripts from all schools attended
• Have a GPA of 3.5 or higher (specific GPA requirements may vary between schools)
• Submit a written goal statement to include research career goals
• Interview with faculty

Ph.D. in Nursing Course Topics

Since the Ph.D. in nursing is more research and education-focused, the course topics differ from that of a more clinically-focused degree program (such as the DNP). Course topics may include:

• Qualitative and quantitative research
• Scientific inquiry
• Synthesis and application of nursing knowledge
• Research development
• Chronic illness and care systems

Program Length

The didactic/clinical portion of the Ph.D. program can take around 1-3 years to complete depending on if the nurse starts from a BSN or MSN. The first year is reserved for core courses, while the following year and beyond focus on electives specific to the student's goals and the completion of a teaching practicum. Students are also required to complete a dissertation as well; the dissertation period may take another 1-3 years to complete, depending on the student’s area of focus.

While some nurses choose to earn a Ph.D. to fulfill their educational goals, sometimes it is a requirement for certain positions. Examples include:

• Nurse educator or instructor
• Nurse or hospital administrator
• Research facilities
• Government and public health nursing roles

Some may even consider a Post-Doctoral Nursing Fellowship Program .

Popular with nurses interested in teaching and research, Ph.D. nursing programs have grown in popularity and are available at schools across the United States. Below you will find a state-by-state guide on available Ph.D. in nursing programs.

Jump to Your State Listings

University of alabama at birmingham.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Campus

Arizona State University

• Nursing and Healthcare Innovation, PhD Campus

University of Arizona

• Nursing (PHD) Online

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)

• PhD in Nursing Campus

Azusa Pacific University Monrovia

• Nursing, PhD Campus

Loma Linda University

• BS to PhD in Nursing Online
• MS to PhD in Nursing Online
• Nursing Science and Health-Care Leadership Doctor of Philosophy Campus
• UCLA School of Nursing Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Campus

University of California San Francisco

• PhD, Nursing Campus
• PhD in Nursing: Health Policy Campus

University of California, Irvine

University of san diego.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing- BSN to PhD Campus
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing- Post-MSN PhD Campus
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing- DNP to PhD Campus

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Hybrid

University of Northern Colorado

• Nursing Education PhD Online

Connecticut

University of connecticut.

• School of Nursing - PhD Program Campus

Yale University

• PhD Program in Nursing Campus

University of Delaware

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Science Campus

Barry University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

Florida Atlantic University

• PhD in Nursing Program Campus
• PhD in Nursing Program BSN to PhD Campus
• PhD in Nursing Program MSN to PhD Campus
• PhD in Nursing Program DNP to PhD Campus

Florida International University

• BSN-to-PhD in Nursing Campus
• PhD in Nursing: BSN to PhD Online
• PhD in Nursing: MSN to PhD Online

University of Florida

• PhD in Nursing Sciences Campus
• PhD in Nursing Sciences: BSN to PhD Campus
• Adult Gerontology NP: MSN to PhD Campus

University of Miami

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Campus

University of South Florida

• PhD Program in Nursing Science Campus

Augusta University

• Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in Nursing Hybrid

Emory University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Hybrid

Georgia State University

• Doctor Of Philosophy In Nursing Hybrid
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing Online

University of Hawai'i at Manoa

• PhD in Nursing Online

Idaho State University

Illinois state university.

• PhD in Nursing Hybrid

Loyola University of Chicago

Rush university.

• Nursing Science (PhD) Online

University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)

• Doctor of Philosophy Campus

Indiana University Online

• PhD in Nursing Science Online

Purdue University

• PhD in Nursing* Campus

University of Iowa

• College of Nursing PhD Campus
• College of Nursing PhD BSN to PhD Campus
• College of Nursing PhD MSN to PhD Campus

University of Kansas

University of louisville, southern university and a&m college.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Campus

Johns Hopkins University

University of maryland.

• Post-BSN to PhD in Nursing (without a master's) Campus
• Post-BSN with a Master's to PhD in Nursing Campus
• Post-Master's to PhD in Nursing Campus

Massachusetts

Boston college.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Hybrid

Northeastern University

• PhD in Nursing

University of Massachusetts Amherst

• Nursing PhD Campus

University of Massachusetts Boston

University of massachusetts lowell.

• Ph.D. in Nursing with Health Promotion focus Hybrid

University of Massachusetts Medical School

Michigan state university.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Campus

Oakland University

• Ph.D. in Nursing

University of Michigan

• Nursing, Ph.D. Campus

Wayne State University

• Ph.D. in Nursing Online

University of Minnesota

Mississippi, university of mississippi medical center.

• Nursing Education - DNP to PhD Online

Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Hybrid

Mizzou Online- University of Missouri

• Nursing: Online doctorate Online

University Of Missouri Kansas City

• Nursing PhD Hybrid

University of Missouri - St. Louis

• Nursing PhD Online

University of Missouri Health

• Interdisciplinary Nursing PhD Campus

Bryan College of Health Sciences

• Education Doctorate with Emphasis in Nursing Education Hybrid

University of Nebraska Medical Center

University of nevada, las vegas.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing; Nursing Education Online
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing; Post Doctor of Nursing Practice Online
• Doctor of Philosophy - Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Campus

Rutgers School of Nursing

Seton hall university, the university of new mexico, adelphi university, binghamton university, columbia university, nyu rory meyers college of nursing, pace university - pleasantville campus.

• Doctor Of Philosophy In Nursing, Phd Campus

Stony Brook University

University at buffalo.

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Online

North Carolina

Duke university.

• PhD Program in Nursing Online

East Carolina University

The university of north carolina at chapel hill, the university of north carolina at greensboro, north dakota, university of north dakota, case western reserve university.

• Dual Doctorate PhD/DNP Hybrid

Kent State University

The ohio state university.

• Post-Master's PhD in Nursing Campus
• BSN to PhD in Nursing Campus

University of Cincinnati

• PhD in Nursing Research Campus

Oklahoma City University

• BSN-PhD in Nursing Campus

The University of Oklahoma

Oregon health & sciences university, pennsylvania, drexel university.

• Nursing: MSN-PhD Joint Degree Program Campus

University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (MSN-PhD) Campus

University of Pittsburgh

Rhode island, university of rhode island, south carolina, medical university of south carolina.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Science Online

University of South Carolina

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science (Ph.D.) Campus

East Tennessee State University

• College of Nursing - PhD Program Hybrid

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center- Memphis

• DNP/PhD Dual Degree Campus

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) BSN to PhD Campus
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) MSN to PhD Campus

University of Memphis

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Online
• DNP to PhD Bridge Program Online

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

• Nursing PhD BSN to PhD Online
• Nursing PhD MSN to PhD Online

The University of Texas at Arlington

The university of texas at austin.

• Alternate Entry Doctoral (AE-PhD) in Nursing Campus
• Doctoral (PhD) in Nursing Campus

The University of Texas at Tyler

University of texas health science center at san antonio - ut health san antonio.

• BSN to PhD FT in Nursing Campus
• BSN to PhD PT in Nursing Campus
• Post-MSN FT in Nursing Campus
• Post-MSN PhD PT in Nursing Campus

University of Texas School of Nursing at Houston

University of utah, george mason university.

• Nursing, PhD Hybrid

Hampton University

• Nursing, PhD Online

University of Virginia

Virginia commonwealth university.

• Online Nursing PHD Online

University of Washington

• PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science Campus

Washington State University Vancouver

West virginia, west virginia university, marquette university.

• Ph.D. In Nursing Campus

University of Wisconsin-Madison

University of wisconsin-milwaukee.

• Nursing BS to PhD Campus
• Nursing Online PhD Online

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Today marks the 177th Commencement Ceremonies at Emory University! After the activities at the Quandrangle, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing will host a Degree Candidate Recognition Ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Emory Student Center. All events will be streamed live.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

Emory’s PhD program in Nursing is committed to improving human health, the experience of health, and the provision of health care through the discovery of new knowledge and its translation into practice. The program is designed to prepare researchers who want to revolutionize health care and improve health outcomes for diverse populations.

The Fall 2025 application deadline is December 1, 2024.

Virtual Open House Events

All virtual open house events will take place Tuesday evenings from 6-7 p.m. EST on Zoom. Use the links below to register.

Upcoming Meetings:

• 08/20/2024 : Tuesday, 6:00-7:00 PM (EST)
• 09/10/2024 : Tuesday, 6:00-7:00 PM (EST)
• 10/08/2024 : Tuesday, 6:00-7:00 PM (EST)
• 11/05/2024 : Tuesday, 6:00-7:00 PM (EST)

Previous Meetings:

• September 26, 2023
• October 24, 2023
• November 14, 2023
• December 12, 2023

Program Contacts

[email protected]

Jean Harrell Graduate Program Administrator

Emory University’s School of Nursing PhD program is a full-time, intense learning experience designed to develop the next generation of researchers who will change the face of health care. The program is interdisciplinary, drawing on the strengths of Emory University and its partners in areas as varied as the humanities, natural and social sciences, public health, engineering, law, and business.

At Emory, we offer a PhD track with a focus on data science in addition to our standard PhD curriculum. 

Signature Areas of Focus

Our program is built on the research strengths of our faculty in six signature areas:

• Aging Studies
• Artificial Intelligence/Data Science
• Natural Disasters, Environmental, and Climate Science
• Translational and Neuroscience
• Women’s Health

Other Areas of Focus

Emory nursing faculty are committed to supporting the learning and discovery for our doctoral nursing students. We have faculty who are renowned scholars within a diverse range of expertise in areas such as:

• Alzheimer's Disease
• Cardiovascular Health
• Caregiver Well-Being
• Data Science
• Environmental Health
• Farmworker Health
• Global Health
• Health Informatics
• Maternal/Child Health
• Mental Health
• Metabolic Disease
• Nurse Workforce and Quality of Patient Care
• Pain, Opioids, and Harm Reduction
• Palliative Care
• Sleep Research
• Symptom Science
• LGBTQIA+/Transgender Health

For additional information, please visit our Office of Nursing research page.

This video gives prospective students pragmatic guidance in selecting a U.S. research-intensive doctoral program in nursing.

Teaching Assistant Training & Teaching Opportunity Program

The PhD in Nursing trains students to teach through the Teaching Assistant Training and Teaching Opportunity Program , or TATTO, program. This program provides a short course offered in late summer before the second year, training and teaching assistantships and teaching associateships.

The Jones Program in Ethics

The Jones Program in Ethics (JPE) at Emory University provides students with a foundational, cross-disciplinary introduction to the question of ethics for their research, training and careers. It is a required, integral part of the curriculum in LGS doctoral programs: Learn more Link here:

T32 Nurse Scientist Training Opportunities

The Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing invites applications for full time study in the PhD in Nursing program, and applicants for postdoctoral traineeship funded by the T32 program. T32 pre-and postdoctoral trainees will participate in a tailored research training program , which aims to prepare nurse scientists acquire knowledge and skills to employ data science (DS) and/or emerging health information technologies (HIT) into their research.

Provisional Artificial Intelligence Track

Artificial intelligence (AI) and associated computational sciences (machine learning, natural language processing, cybersecurity, etc.) are fundamentally changing the healthcare landscape. Accompanying these changes are tremendous opportunities as well as profound ethical concerns and social impacts. View a summary of the program . View a provisional version of the courses of study .

Admission Requirements

Fall 2024 Application Deadlines

• Priority deadline: December 1, 2023
• Final deadline: January 2, 2024
• All applicants selected for an interview will be interviewed by video/zoom meeting, scheduled at a convenient time for applicant and faculty.
• Admitted applicants will visit campus February 5, 2024 to meet with faculty, other PhD students, and to experience Atlanta.

Applications are submitted through Emory's Laney Graduate School (LGS). For more about LGS admissions, click here .

For admission to the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program, Emory University seeks highly qualified applicants with the discipline and motivation to excel in interdisciplinary research. To be considered for admission, you must submit the following items:

• Completed application
• Submission of a Statement of Purpose that describes the applicant’s vision for what they want to study, who they want to study with, and why they want to study at Emory.
• Research interests that match faculty expertise
• Three (3) recommendations
• Satisfactory TOEFL scores (if applicable)
• Credential evaluations from any evaluator affiliated with NACES, The National Association of Credential Evaluation Services .  The most common ones are World Education Services , Educational Credential Evaluators , and Educational Perspectives .
• Transcripts issued by the registrar’s office from each post-secondary institution attended
• Resume or curriculum vitae

Emory University considers applicants who hold a BSN or MSN from a CCNE or NLNAC accredited program in the US or an international equivalent (Applicants holding a degree in a non-nursing related discipline will be considered on an individual basis).

Students entering with a BSN and intending to pursue advanced practice certification must be eligible for licensure as RN in Georgia by the end of the first year of study.

Application

Meet our students.

Meet our current and past doctoral students and learn a little more about how they impact the world of nursing research.

Student graduate’s dissertations include:

• Evaluating Stochastic Epigenic Mutations as a Potential Mechanism Translating Psychosocial Stressors into Risk for Postpartum Depression (Julianne Todd)
• Relationships among Dietary Patterns, Metabolites and Symptoms in Persons with Heart failure (Erica Nicole Davis)
• The Gut and Vaginal Microbiome in Pregnant Patients with and Without Urogenital Infections (Emily Faith Wissel)
• End-of-Life Care of Uong Adult Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Retrospective Cohort Study (Carolina Gustafson)
• LivFit with HIV:  Reducing inflammation and improving endothelial function with exercise adherence among older persons with HIV (Crista Irwin)
• Identifying and Addressing Healthcare Disparities in the Pediatric Acute Care Setting (Amy Rebecca Kolwaite)
• Sexual Dysfunction in Women with Gynecologic Cancer Pre-and Post-Radiotherapy and its Association with Obesity and the Gut Microbiome (Haerim Lee)
• Evaluation of Facility-Based Individual Differentiated Service Delivery Among Stable People Living with HIV in Nairobi, Kenya Using Mixed Methods Research (Rosemary Kinuthia)
• Relationships Among Strong Black Woman Belief, Coping Behaviors, Social Support, and Psychological Distress for Black Mothers after Stillbirth (Carrie Henry)
• The Influence of Postpartum Retention in Care on Mortality in Women Living with HIV (Jade McBroom)
• The role of the circulating registered nurse in communicating and fostering relationships and the impact on time spent in the operating room (Kent Haythorn)
• The Role of Vitamin D in Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy and Gene Expression within an African American Cohort (Sheila Jordan)
• Diabetes Management and Self-Care among Emerging Adults: Emerging Adult and Diabetes Care Provider Perceptions of Self-Management Influences, Visit Interaction, and a Tool to Enhance Diabetes Care at Visits (Rachel Wolf)
• Staying Alive in Little Five: Perceptions of Service Industry Workers Who Encounter an Opioid Overdose in Little Five Points, Atlanta (Sara Febres-Cordero)
• The Occupational and Health Histories of Undocumented Immigrants Receiving Frequent, Emergent-Only Hemodialysis (Daniel Smith)
• Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes of Adolescents with Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder in Psychiatric Residential Treatment (Amy Greenblatt)

A full list of student accomplishments is updated regularly (PDF) .

Here are just a few job titles of our graduates.

• Chief Nursing Officer with the Jamaican Ministry of Health
• Epidemic Intelligence Service, Center for Disease Control
• Pediatric Center for Wellness
• RTI International – Division of Public Health and Clinical Research
• The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Center for Pediatric Nursing Research and Evidence Based Practice

Tuition and Awards

Full-tuition scholarships.

All full-time admitted students are granted full tuition waiver and receive an annual stipend over 12 months in exchange for teaching and research services. The stipend is drawn from a combination of faculty advisor grant support, school support and student research grants received during the program. Stipends are renewed each year, contingent upon satisfactory academic and research performance, for a total of four years. Faculty and students work together to identify and apply for National Institutes for Health's National Research Service Award and other fellowships for stipend and research support funding during the doctoral program. Students also receive Professional Development Support Funds from Laney Graduate School to attend conferences and support research-related expenses.

T32 Predoctoral Fellowships through Spring 2023

The School of Nursing offers a research training program for selected predoctoral students to focus on developing and testing interventions to improve health outcomes of persons with or at risk for chronic conditions such as cardiovascular and neurological diseases, cancer, diabetes mellitus, HIV-AIDS, and asthma/COPD. Individuals selected as fellows in this training program receive a monthly stipend, benefit assistance, assistance for professional travel, and modest funds to support research related expenses. The Laney Graduate School also offers scholarships to PhD students.

Charting Innovative Paths for Nursing Research & Scholarship

Many of our students participated in the 11th Annual Georgia Nursing Leadership Coalition Doctoral Symposium, “Charting Innovative Paths for Nursing Research & Scholarship” at Emory Nursing Learning Center on 2/11/23.

Students gave the following presentations at the Event:

• Policing Mental Health: Race and Psychiatry in Atlanta Avi Wofsy – PhD Student, Emory University
• Childhood Trauma Exposure and Length of Labor: A Potential Oxytocin-Linked Contributor to Adverse Perinatal Outcomes in Black Birthing People Abby Britt – PhD Student, Emory University
• Personal Measures of Air Pollution During Pregnancy and Infant Head Circumference and Length at Birth Hina Raheel – PhD Student, Emory University
• Ways of Knowing: The Historical Intersections of Breastfeeding, Capitalism, and Whiteness Octavia Vogel – PhD Student, Emory University
• Bots and Fake Participants: Ensuring Valid and Reliable Data Collection Using Social Media Recruitment MethodsZ Roseline Jean Louis – PhD Student, Emory University

Many students presented posters. Hayden Herring, 1st year student, won 1st place for his poster.

How to Successfully Apply to Our PhD Program

Application process questions.

How Much is the Application Fee

$75 US.  The fee is non-refundable, and can be paid by credit card as part of the online application.

When exactly is the application deadline?

The deadline falls at midnight, U.S. Pacific time, on the deadline date of the each program. Nursing PhD program application deadline is January 1.

May I request a fee waiver?

Yes. Application fee waivers are processed through Laney.  The  application fee waiver page  explains our waiver policy.   https://www.gs.emory.edu/admissions/fee-waivers.html

Should I wait until I have my official test scores before submitting my application?

No.  Complete the online application at your earliest convenience.  When we receive your scores, they will be matched with your application.

Do I need to submit non-degree transcripts?

Yes. Admissions committees consider your complete academic record. 

If my undergraduate Degree is from Emory, Do I need to request a transcript from Emory?

Yes. You will need to upload one as part of your online application.  (If you are offered admission and accept, you will not need to submit an official copy, since we are able to verify the one you uploaded.)

If I participated in an exchange program while an undergraduate, do I have to request that transcript?

If you took some courses at a university as part of an exchange, like a study abroad program, and those course credits (course name, credit hours, and grade) are reflected on the transcript that includes your degree, then you do not need to submit a separate transcript from the university where you studied as part of an exchange. If you list that exchange experience as a separate educational experience on your application, you will need to upload either a separate transcript or a note explaining to us that the credits are included in another transcript. 

How should I submit my transcripts in the application?

Scan and upload them through the online application. Unofficial transcripts issued by the Registrar to you (the student) are acceptable.

You are required to submit one transcript from each post-secondary institution attended, present school included. International transcripts must be translated and notarized.  

Please do not mail paper transcripts.  If you are admitted and decide to attend Emory, then you will need to submit official copies of your transcripts before you can enroll. But for your application, the scanned, unofficial versions are all that's needed.

Does the recommendation letter have to be on the Emory form?

We encourage the use of the online recommendation system. If a recommender is unable to use this system, contact the program you are applying to for instructions.  You can find contact information on  our Degree Programs page .

Must letters of recommendation be submitted by the application deadline?

It is possible to submit letters of recommendation after the application deadline, but it is not advisable.  Most programs begin to review applications very soon after the deadline, and an application is not considered complete unless it has three letters of recommendation. 

Can I make changes to my application after I have submitted it?

No. Contact the graduate program to which you are applying for advice.  You can find contact information on  our Degree Programs page .

Can I reactivate my application from last year?

No. Applicants who wish to reapply must submit a new application, application fee, and supporting credentials.

Technical issues with the application: Email CollegeNet at  [email protected] . 

Additional Questions

Do you have to have your research focus before entering the program?

No, but strongly encouraged.

Can I start the PhD program in the spring semester?

NO.  This program begins with the fall semester matriculation only.

Can this program be completed in 3 years?

It can be done in three years if you are really focused.  But it will be challenging.

What are the fees students pay?

Enrollment, technology, health and wellness, athletic  and activity fees.  

Fall and spring you should be prepared to pay approximately$442, summer fees are about $351

When do I submit the application for the T32 program?

T32 application is due one day after the PhD program application, Jan. 2nd

Can I have my international transcripts reviewed by an agency other than World Education Services (WES)?

Laney Graduate School requires WES services review.

Do I have to have a master’s degree to enter this program?

No.  Students can apply to the program with a BSN

Can I work/ be employed outside the program?

Any work/employment has to be approved by the program

How many hours can I work if approved?

Students are allowed to work 10 hours a week

Accreditation

Emory University undergoes accreditation at the university level and throughout our colleges and schools to ensure our educational programs meet the highest standards. The Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is accredited by multiple organizations. For a list of accreditations, you can visit our Accreditations page.

Featured Story

Emory nursing doctoral students receive prestigious NIH predoctoral fellowship awards

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College of Nursing: PhD in Nursing

• College of Nursing
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• PhD in Nursing

Learning Outcomes

Minimum degree requirements, core curriculum, focus areas (15 credits), completion of the doctoral capstone, residency requirements, course sequence.

• Doctoral Writing Assessment

8-Year Maximum Time Frame

• Post-Master’s Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse Executive
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Education
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Informatics
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Program Website  

The PhD in Nursing program prepares nursing professionals for advanced careers in nursing research, practice, and education. With a focus on readying students to contribute to nursing science, advance knowledge in nursing practice, and improve healthcare services, practices, and policies, course topics include: research methods, theoretical and scientific perspectives in nursing, strengthen scholarly writing skills, enhance critical analysis of the literature advanced quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research design; quality improvement systems and leadership which culminates in the dissertation. The doctoral dissertation enables students to conduct and publish original research that contributes to the body of knowledge in their chosen specialty. Based on their educational and career goals, students will choose from among five focus areas: Nursing Education, Healthcare Administration, Interdisciplinary Health, Leadership, and Population Health.

Graduates of this program will be prepared to:

• Conduct research to generate findings that advance the knowledge and practice of nursing.
• Demonstrate advanced competency in research design and methodology to address social problems and needs.
• Engage in scientific inquiry that advances the knowledge base of research and practice in the profession.
• Evaluate the role of research and scholarship in the field of nursing in relation to its role in improving health interventions and advancing the development of related theory.
• Demonstrate leadership by generating new knowledge that promotes positive social change and addresses the social determinants of health.
• Contribute to the science of nursing through social change and social policy initiatives.
• Apply ethical decision making and values to the profession.
• Advocate for policies and programs that improve health outcomes by addressing the social determinants of health among culturally diverse populations.
• Demonstrate professional communication that supports the discipline and practice of nursing.
• Demonstrate the ability to act as a role model and mentor to others who wish to pursue the profession (stewardship).

The PhD in Nursing offers three entry options: BSN-PhD, Master's-PhD, and DNP to PhD Bridge Option. See specialization pages for details on minimum required credits by specialization and entry option.

• Foundation course (1 credits)
• Core courses (45 credits or 20 credits, depending upon BSN-PhD or Master's-PhD/DNP Bridge entry option)
• Research courses (20 credits)
• Doctoral Seminar (5 quarter credits)
• Focus area courses (15 credits)
• Dissertation (minimum 20 quarter credits, taken continuously until completion of the dissertation)
• Doctoral Writing Assessment (0 credits)
• Four PhD residencies

BSN-PhD entry:  This entry option is for registered nurses (RN) who have earned their bachelor’s in nursing degree.

Master's-PhD entry:  This entry option is for registered nurses (RN) who have earned their master’s in nursing degree or a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in a business or non-nursing health related field.

DNP-PhD entry:  This entry option is for registered nurses (RN) who have earned their doctor of nursing practice degree.

Foundation Course (1 credits)

Core courses (45 credits or 20 credits), bsn-phd entry students take 45 credits of core courses. see each focus area for msn level core course information..

20 credits of MSN level core courses based on the focus area

• Students may take this as a non-degree course.

Master's-PhD and DNP Bridge entry students take 20 credits of core courses.

Research courses (20 credits), foundation research courses (15 credits), advanced research course (5 credits).

• Students may take this a non-degree course.

Doctoral Seminar (5 credits)

See each focus area for course information.

Bridge Option for Students With a DNP

Focus area in healthcare administration, focus area in interdisciplinary health focus, focus area in leadership, focus area in nursing education, focus area in population health.

Students take this course for a minimum of four quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

• Complete Residency 1 as soon as you begin your program ; required in order to advance into RSCH 8110.
• Complete Residency 2 prior to entering NURS 8750.
• Complete Residency 3 prior to entering NURS 9000.
• Residency 4 General  (RESI 8404) OR
• Residency 4 Proposal Writing  (RESI 8404Q) OR
• Residency 4 Methods & Data Collection: Qualitative  (RESI 8404R) OR
• Residency 4 Methods & Data Collection: Quantitative  (RESI 8404S) OR
• Residency 4 Publishing & Presenting  (RESI 8404T) OR
• a  dissertation intensive  (DRWI 8500). Contact Student Success Advising to register. 
• Optional:  Complete a PhD  dissertation intensive  retreat (DRWI 8500) during your dissertation (in lieu of residency 4). Contact Student Success Advising to register.
• BSN-PhD Entry
• Master's-PhD Entry

Bridge Option for Students with a DNP

Bsn-phd entry course sequence.

The BSN-PhD entry course sequence is as follows.

Master's-PhD Entry Course Sequence

The Master's-PhD entry course sequence is as follows.

Students who start or readmit to doctoral programs at Walden University in the university catalog for academic year 2017 or later will complete the university’s required  doctoral writing assessment . Designed to evaluate incoming doctoral students’ writing skills, this assessment aims to help prepare incoming doctoral students to meet the university’s expectations for writing at the doctoral level.

Students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements  in the student handbook). Students may petition to extend the 8-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

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Marquette.edu // Graduate School // Programs  // Nursing

Nursing Ph.D. Program

Preparing for your ph.d. in nursing.

At Marquette University, you'll learn from world-renowned nursing faculty and build the skills to develop and implement scientific research that advances nursing education and practice. You'll be prepared to lead in nursing research, academia, and health care. 

The doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) program in nursing will prepare you as a nurse-scientist who takes the role of teacher and scholar. Your studies will emphasize synthesizing research findings to guide nursing knowledge development; developing, testing, and refining theories as a basis for nursing science; and designing and conducting research. 

The curriculum includes coursework in nursing science, research and statistics, education, individualized cognates, and dissertation work. You will be matched with a faculty mentor suited to help you build your research focus and work with you to create a personalized plan of study that's manageable and flexible.

Program Highlights

• Online courses with required in-person days each May for the PhD Intensives
• Full-time or part-time options with program plans to meet your lifestyle
• Expert faculty specializing in community-engaged research, person-centered research, and nursing education research
• Application Information
• Financial Aid

Ready to learn more about Marquette's Nursing graduate programs?  Request more information now  or  schedule a campus visit.

Speak with us

Carrie von Bohlen Office Associate, Nursing Ph.D. program (414) 288-3878 [email protected]

Application Deadline

January 15 for Summer (Preferred Start Term)

Application Requirements

Apply and submit all application requirements

  Apply to Nursing Ph.D. Program

• A completed application form and fee online .
• If coursework was completed within the United States, submit copies of all current and previous college/universities except Marquette 1
• If coursework was completed outside of the United States, a transcript evaluation is required. A copy of a course-by-course evaluation is approved for the application process. 2
• Three letters of recommendation from former professors or Ph.D. prepared nurses
• Resume or C/V
• A personal statement
• Sample of scholarly writing which may be a course paper or a publication with primary authorship.
• International applicants only: TOEFL score or other acceptable proof of English proficiency

1Upon admission, final official transcripts from all previously attended colleges/universities, with certified English translations if original language is not English, must be submitted to the Graduate School within the first five weeks of the term of admission or a hold preventing registration for future terms will be placed on the student’s record.

2Upon admission, an official course-by-course transcript/academic record evaluation must be submitted to the Graduate School within the first five weeks of the term of admission or a hold preventing registration for future terms will be placed on the student’s record. 

Kristina Thomas Dreifuerst, PH.D., RN, CNE, ANEF, FAAN 

• Teaching and research assistantships available for full-time students
• Tuition scholarships available
• NFLP funding available
• U.S. citizens and permanent residents may be eligible to apply for   need-based federal aid   (loans) to help fund their educational expenses as well.

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Diane White, PhD

Diane White, PhD, is the Founding Dean of the Antioch Graduate School of Nursing and Health Professions.

White holds a lifelong belief in access to high-quality healthcare education and a deep commitment to healthcare for all. As a nurse by training, a lifelong educator, and a practitioner, she is committed to re-imagining healthcare in the United States, transforming it into a system that works for all. She believes in preparing graduates to transform healthcare and play a pivotal role in advocating for health equity and access for all humanity.

Before beginning her academic career, White was a full-time nurse at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta in the surgical intensive care unit, where she cared for and about under-resourced individuals, families, and communities. Her mentor encouraged her to pursue an academic career, and she soon realized the impact she could make by helping more future nurses understand the social impacts that are affecting healthcare so that they, too, could care about their patients.

Before joining Antioch, White was most recently the Founding Dean of the School of Health Sciences at Georgia Gwinnett College, and her prior experience includes professor, department chair, and dean. She has a record of success in securing funds, creating programs, and building productive teams.

Among her many accomplishments, White founded the School of Health Sciences based on a culture of care, developed the first total prelicensure conceptual curriculum in Georgia, demonstrated expertise in experiential learning modalities, and engaged in remote and applied learning. She has designed simulation and clinical practice laboratories, led accreditation efforts, developed Health Science degrees, and collaborated with external partners.

White has a doctorate degree in nursing from Georgia State University and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing as well. Her most recent publications and presentations focus on areas such as emotional intelligence in nursing, creating a culture of care in nursing education, and fostering DEI in the nursing curriculum.

School of Nursing and Health Professions

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• Breiner School of Nursing
• Academic Colleges

Recognized as a leading accredited undergraduate and graduate level nursing program, Commonwealth University prepares future nurses for a wide range of careers in critical care, obstetrics, pediatrics, rehabilitation, trauma, home care, and other clinical specialties and case management. If you're ready to prepare for a challenging, fulfilling career in nursing, the Breiner School of Nursing at Commonwealth University can help you go further with your education.

The Breiner School of Nursing has an excellent reputation for preparing outstanding nurses by educating students to meet the ever-changing health care needs across the nation and globally. 

A common goal of our faculty is to graduate outstanding students who are ready and able to provide excellent nursing care and services using theory and evidence based practice. The programs prepare our students to make judgments and carry out nursing care based on critical thinking and research based knowledge for health promotion and maintenance, prevention of disease, and rehabilitation.

The Breiner School of Nursing is committed to providing excellent, accessible, affordable high quality nursing education and promoting the development of qualified students. The department values intellectual challenge, supportive learning environment, student success, ethical behavior and civility, civic responsibility, stewardship and service. Through real-world experiences and close interactions with faculty, students apply their knowledge from the liberal arts and sciences and nursing courses in a variety of clinical settings helping the student to gain diverse experiences and perspectives. The Breiner School of Nursing encourages students to participate in a variety of co-curriculum activities to develop teamwork, leadership and interpersonal skills.

Nursing Program Options

Nursing is a vital healthcare profession dedicated to the care and well-being of individuals across the lifespan. Nurses play a central role in providing medical care, offering emotional support, and promoting health and wellness. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals providing high quality patient care in multiple settings. They can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and even community outreach programs. 

The B.S.N. Program at Commonwealth University teaches a variety of concepts, theories, and skills that are utilized in contemporary nursing practice. 

Undergraduate Nursing

Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Course Delivery

  Bloomsburg

  Face-to-Face   Online   Hybrid

  Lock Haven

  Mansfield

  Clearfield

This is an innovative, fast-paced, two-year program leading to an Associate of Science in Nursing degree. It is designed to give you the hands-on clinical experiences needed to become an excellent nurse. In addition to your coursework, you will rotate through quality healthcare facilities, all within a reasonable distance from the Lock Haven campus.

LPN to RN Advanced Placement Program Course Delivery

This advanced placement program provides the LPN an opportunity to advance to an RN. It offers LPNs a pathway to career advancement, increased earning potential, a broader scope of practice, and the opportunity to make a more significant impact in healthcare. It is a valuable investment in professional growth and the pursuit of higher nursing qualifications. Students must have an LPN license prior to the start of this program. 

RN-BSN Course Delivery

Our nursing program is a nationally recognized leader in nursing education with a strong history of academic excellence, as well as the reputation of facilitating the adult learner to achieve their professional goals, making the online RN-BSN program a perfect fit for registered nurses interested in pursuing a BSN.

RN-BSN-MSN Course Delivery

Gain professional flexibility with Commonwealth University's RN-BSN-MSN program — administered through a nationally recognized leader in nursing education with a strong reputation of facilitating adult learners to achieve professional goals, making it a perfect fit for registered nurses seeking to continue their education toward the BSN and MSN. 

Learn More  

Our Master of Science in Nursing is recognized as a leading accredited program known for academic excellence and facilitating the adult learner to achieve their professional goals. 

Commonwealth University's progressive, challenging curricula — along with distinguished experienced faculty — provide vital knowledge and skills to develop competence in the multifaceted roles of advanced nursing practice. Graduates are prepared to pursue a career as an Advanced Practice Nurse, to assume leadership roles, and the opportunity to specialize in areas like population health, administration, nursing informatics, or school health. 

Master of Science in Nursing

Nurse Practitioner (MSN) Course Delivery

Whether you choose to specialize in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care or Family Primary Care, earning your Nurse Practitioner MSN degree from Commonwealth University's nationally recognized nursing program will prepare you to be a leader in healthcare across the lifespan of your patients.  

Public Health Nursing (MSN) Course Delivery

Commonwealth University's MSN in Public Health nursing prepares students with advanced knowledge for a multifaceted role and innovative problem solving to improve the delivery of health care, health education, and prevention either in a community or school health setting. 

Specializations:

Public Health Nursing

School Health Nursing

Nursing Informatics (MSN) Course Delivery

Take your nursing career to the next level with the 100% online MSN Nursing Informatics program. You’ll gain the advanced skills you need to meet the growing demands of today’s complex healthcare environment and provide superior patient care.

Nursing Administration Dual Degree (MSN/MBA) Course Delivery

Our 100% online, dual-degree Nursing Administration MSN/MBA program prepares you for a direct role in impacting the delivery of health care for specific populations. Social, ethical and political actions are emphasized to initiate and affect change regarding the development of health care policy. 

Our MBA program is AACSB accredited — the gold standard for MBA programs. It's the hallmark of excellence in business education and has been earned by less than five percent of the world's business programs.

Learn More 

Commonwealth University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares nurse leaders to apply advanced practice skills at the highest level of clinical practice. We offer both a Past Master’s DNP and a Nurse Anesthesia BSN to DNP program to help you attain your goals. 

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Post-Master's DNP Course Delivery

Pursuing a Post-Master's DNP program offers several valuable benefits for experienced nurse practitioners (NPs) and other advanced practice nurses such as clinical expertise, leadership and management skills, improved patient outcomes, higher earning potential, expanded scope of practice, teaching opportunities, and personal growth.

Nurse Anesthesia Course Delivery

In partnership with Geisinger, our Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Nurse Anesthesia program will prepare you as a nurse leader to apply advanced practice skills at the highest level of clinical practice to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist. Learn More

Explore Nursing at CU

Departmental mission statement.

The faculty of the Breiner School of Nursing accepts as its own the mission of Commonwealth University and recognizes education for professional nursing as an integral part of higher education. The educational process integrates concepts drawn from the liberal arts and sciences into the baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral programs in nursing to assist students in acquiring the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and professional behaviors essential to beginning or advanced practitioners of professional nursing.

Effective May 1992; Revised June 2011; Revised October 2020

Departmental Philosophy

The faculty believe that the person is an open system interacting with other systems – family, group and community. The person is a holistic being with biopsychosocial spiritual and cultural needs. As an open system, the person is in continuous and dynamic interaction with the environment. The person adapts to changes in this environment and grows throughout the life span. The faculty believe in the inherent worth and uniqueness of individuals and populations. Each person possesses human sameness yet reveals unique cultural, racial, religious, gender, lifestyle, genetic, and age-related characteristics. Each person has the right to be treated with dignity and respect in a nondiscriminatory manner.

Environment

The faculty believe that the environment is multidimensional, global, dynamic, and integral to persons and their biopsychosocial, spiritual, and cultural needs. Environment encompasses diverse sociocultural, psychological, technological, and physiological elements. These elements influence and are influenced by the interaction of legal, ethical, physical, economic, sociological, and political forces. People experience the environment as individuals, families, and communities who share common beliefs and values. Given the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between the person and the environment, nursing must be responsive to lifestyle and environmental factors that are major determinants of population health.

The faculty believe that health is a dynamic process across the life span, up to and including end-of-life. Individual and population-based health is defined and influenced by the health/illness beliefs, values, attitudes, and practices of individuals, families, communities, and populations. Health is defined by the individual. Dynamic relationships among evolving individuals, families, and communities and changing social and environmental contexts are critical determinants of health.

The faculty believe that nursing is a professional discipline that is both an art and a science. Nursing focuses on the person as individuals, families, communities, and populations in a caring and holistic manner. Nursing is a process of simultaneous, purposeful actions that are theory-based, contextual and grounded in critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and the scientific method. The goal of nursing is to promote optimal health and prevent disease and injury at individual and population levels. As practitioner, teacher, leader/manager, and consumer of research, the baccalaureate nurse values a sense of inquiry and participates in the process of retrieval, appraisal, and synthesis of evidence in collaboration with the person and other inter-professionals to guide practice and improve patient outcomes. At the master’s level, the advanced practice nurse assumes leadership as a practitioner, educator, manager/administrator, consultant, and researcher in specialized areas of nursing practice. The faculty believe that it is essential to educate nurses who view the profession as a scientific discipline possessing a belief system reflecting ethical values, practice according to professional standards, demonstrate concern for humankind, and commit to life-long learning, self-reflection and ongoing self-awareness development.

Effective May 1992; Revised May 1996; December 1999; December 9, 2005; April 17, 2009

Your support of the academic community is critical for its continued success. Gifts from our alumni and friends allow our faculty to mentor students in their research projects throughout the year and put our students in the best position to succeed by helping provide availability of the latest technology, research and teaching methods.

Your support makes a difference

Everyone needs a nurse at some point in their life, so please consider supporting the Commonwealth University Breiner School of Nursing with a monetary gift to help ensure that high quality nurses are there when you need them. Our nursing program is recognized as a leading accredited program, and it is also ranked as one of the most affordable in PA. Your donation can help increase funding for equipment, supplies, educational trips, and research opportunities that will enhance the critical thinking and technical skills of our students.

The Simulated Learning Lab (SLL) provides a learning environment for students to practice skills and critical thinking. The SLL contains numerous medium and high-fidelity adult and pediatric simulation manikins that allow students to critically assess and respond to varying patient situations they may not see in the clinical setting. The SLL also contains a simulated electronic patient record system for documentation practice and an automated medication dispensing system. The SLL is a vitally important environment for building confident nurses who can think critically.

Senior level students expand their political advocacy awareness by explaining the importance of being politically active and be competent in advocacy for patients and the profession in this ever-changing health care arena.  Additionally, Commonwealth University nursing students participate in community and public health fairs and programs providing education to various population aggregates, and your donation can assist in obtaining the materials needed for these educational projects.

Commonwealth University’s Simulated Learning Lab’s (SLL) purpose is to provide our nursing students with a safe and controlled environment to learn and practice the skills necessary to excel not only during their clinical experiences at BU but throughout their nursing careers. The SLL, located on the fourth floor of Old Science Hall, is equipped with hospital beds, various injection and task trainer models, numerous manikins of differing fidelities from newborn to adult, and computerized medication dispensing systems.

Students have access to a computer program that allows for practice in reading and documenting in an electronic medical record during simulated clinical scenarios. Students engage in skills demonstrations, practice sessions, and clinical simulations during their sophomore, junior, and senior years.

The SLL employs numerous undergraduate managers who are proficient at nursing skills and leaders within the program. Managers must maintain a high GPA, receive faculty endorsement, and remain satisfactory in clinical courses for employment in the SLL. The SLL additionally employs a varying number of graduate assistants who are current and exemplary in their own clinical practice.

The SLL Director and Assistant Director has nursing experience in fields ranging from home health to the emergency department and are available Monday through Friday to oversee and expertly assist our nursing students.

Skills Testing

Demonstrations of select, course specific skills are provided at the sophomore and part of the junior years. As the student progresses in their junior and through their senior year, skills will transition to independent learning. Students are required to complete readings within their skills book, watch assigned videos, and take an online quiz prior to most skills demonstrations. Students will then have free time throughout the week to practice prior to a designated testing time.

Students are responsible for reviewing the BSN handbook and D2L Brightspace for specific requirements related to dress, lab coats, and nurse packs when coming to the SLL for practice or demonstration. While the SLL remains a safe place to learn and make mistakes, point reduction policies are in place in order to foster student accountability, professional behaviors, and efficient use of SLL resources.

As part of the clinical curricular thread, undergraduate students complete simulated clinical scenarios during their sophomore, junior, and senior years.

Through the use of medium and high-fidelity manikins, and in some cases the use of standardized patients, pairs of students’ complete cases that include acute and chronic med-surg conditions, home health, school health, and prison or occupational nursing. Simulations are created around the psychomotor skills learned within the lab. The objective of simulation is to critically think about these acquired skills in order to safely apply them to their ‘patient’ in a safe and controlled setting. This process grows confidence in the nursing student as they continue and progress in a live clinical setting. Students will be provided with background information on their scenario prior to their simulation experience and will take part in a debriefing exercise following simulation.

SLL Resources

Nursing students may borrow various resources from the SLL including posters and models for health fairs, blood pressure cuffs, and various other client education materials for teaching projects. Additionally, nursing students have access to current course textbooks and small meeting rooms for group projects.

SLL Director, Gail Jasman , MSN, RN Nurse Instructor, Debra London BSN, RN

The Commonwealth U Difference

Commonwealth University Receives Transformational $5 Million Gift to Support Nursing at all CU Locations

• University-wide

Historic Gift Renames Critical Nursing Education Institution the Breiner School of Nursing

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Ed.D. vs. Ph.D.: Which Doctoral Degree is Right for You?

June 27, 2024

Assistant Provost, Doctoral Research and Student Success

Professionals who want to advance their careers in fields such as education, business, nursing and healthcare frequently consider further education. Earning a doctoral degree can be an effective tool for career advancement as well as a wonderful life and academic achievement.

When pursuing a doctoral degree, there are different tracks that prospective students can take. To help you determine what type of doctoral degree will best serve your career aspirations, here is a breakdown of the key differences between Ed.D. and Ph.D. degrees.

What is an Ed.D.?

An Ed.D., which is short for Doctor of Education, is a practitioner-focused degree that is designed for professionals aspiring to leadership roles in a variety of educational fields. You can typically complete an Ed.D. program in two to three years.

What is a Ph.D.?

Short for Doctor of Philosophy, a Ph.D. is a degree that is more heavily focused on research and theory.  Ph.D. programs typically take five or more years to complete. (As a personal example, I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from a research-intensive program that required a five-year, full-time commitment.)

What are the main similarities between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.?

Both degrees are at the doctoral-level and are considered terminal degrees. In other words, they represent the highest level of education that can be earned in a particular field. In addition, both degrees take multiple years to complete, and both degrees require a fair amount of writing and research.

What are the main differences between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.?

One of the primary differences between these degrees is that the Ed.D. is more focused on practical applications, while the Ph.D. is more geared toward theory and original research. Additionally, Ed.D. programs usually have a lower cost and shorter time to completion compared to Ph.D. programs.

What are some common career options for those with an Ed.D.?

The Ed.D. is an outstanding option for individuals who wish to lead others and implement change in their organizations. Moreover, the Ed.D. is a focused degree with a wide range of career options, including:

• College or university president
• Director of human resources
• Educational consultant
• Policymaker or analyst
• Superintendent

What are some common career options for those with a Ph.D.?

A Ph.D. degree is ideal for anyone interested in pursuing a career in research, academia, educational consulting or policy analysis. Career opportunities with a Ph.D. may include:

• Community developer
• Director of research
• Human resource manager
• Policy analyst
• Program manager
• Research analyst
• Statistician

What are the employment projections for doctoral degree holders?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , individuals who earn a doctoral degree in education have relatively high earnings and also have low unemployment rates.  In 2023, doctoral degree holders achieved median weekly earnings of $2,109 and a 1.2% unemployment rate. In comparison, master’s degree holders attained median weekly earnings of $1,737 and an unemployment rate of 2%.

Additionally, the job outlook is very strong for postsecondary teachers and postsecondary education administrators , two professions where doctoral degrees are often required. (Postsecondary education is defined as education beyond the high school level and is often tied to higher education institutions.) According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teachers in 2023 earned a median annual pay of $83,380 and there is projected job growth of 8% for 2022 – 2032.  For postsecondary education administrators in 2023, the median annual pay was $102,610 per year with a projected job growth of 4% for 2022 – 2032.

Is an Ed.D. or a Ph.D. better?

Both the Ed.D. and the Ph.D. are advanced degrees that represent the highest levels of academic achievement. Regardless of which path an individual ultimately chooses, there is high potential for career advancement.

Ultimately, the best option for you comes down to your preferred path, career goals and values.  If you are seeking a job as a researcher and scholar, a Ph.D. is better aligned to your goals.  If you are more interested in seeking leadership positions that blend practice with research, an Ed.D. may be an ideal path toward your personal and professional goals.

At a glance: Ed.D. vs. Ph.D.

American College of Education offers high-quality, fully online Ed.D. programs for under $24,000, designed to help students build their leadership capacity through practical applications of research theories. Learn more about our doctoral degrees here .

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Doctor of Nursing Practice project focuses on multidisciplinary collaboration to increase ICU patient early mobility

When considering a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) as the next step in their education, many nurses share concerns regarding the program’s final project. Unlike a traditional doctoral dissertation, the goal of a DNP project is to allow students to showcase their ability to translate knowledge and research into practical applications and solutions to real-world problems, impacting health care outcomes at a systems or population level.

At UC College of Nursing, students work with faculty advisors to choose a DNP project topic that relates to their advanced-practice specialty. The nature of projects varies and can include:

• A quality improvement initiative
• Implementation and evaluation of evidence-based practice guidelines
• Policy analysis
• Design and evaluation of new models of care or health care programs

To provide additional insight into the planning and steps of a DNP final project, we interviewed Paige Dahlke, BSN, RN, CCRN, an adult-gerontology acute care DNP candidate whose project ranked top at the college’s Annual Doctoral Student Project Showcase .

Dahlke received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Northern Colorado in 2016, before relocating with her husband to Dayton, Ohio where she worked closely with ICU nurse practitioners at Kettering Health Dayton.

“Watching my leadership exercise higher level thinking when making impactful decisions for patients inspired me to go back to school,” she says. “I enjoyed caring for critically ill patients and wanted to progress in my ability to care for them, so I decided the DNP in adult-gerontology acute care program was the path for me, since it allows me to not only care for patients at a higher level, but also implement quality improvement projects, teach and so much more.”

Given her previous work experience, Dahlke decided to pursue a quality improvement project focused on early mobility interventions for ICU staff.

Paige Dahlke, RN

“ICU patient care requires life-saving treatments that frequently relate to increased immobility. My literature review showed that prolonged immobility is detrimental to all systems and functional ability; even when patients recover from what landed them in the ICU, they’re still not doing great due to adverse effects such as ICU-acquired weakness,” Dahlke shares. “Getting patients up and moving leads to better patient outcomes, decreased length of stay, increased functional ability and better recovery after illness.”

Aware that the lack of collaboration among different disciplines providing patient care in the ICU is a consistent barrier to early mobility intervention completion, Dahlke decided to create and deliver an education module showcasing the safety and feasibility of early mobility interventions and shared a Level of Function Mobility (LOF) scale to assist in consistent care and seamless communication for care providers in the ICU.

Dahlke partnered with Kelsey Schweikert, BSN, RN, clinical nurse manager at Kettering Health, to present the education module and explain the LOF scale at the hospital’s ICU multidisciplinary meeting. She also showed where the LOF mobility scale and documentation for rating would be found in ICU patient rooms. To assess staff perceptions of the intervention and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dahlke collected surveys pre- and post-LOF scale use, in addition to data on length of stay and Morse Fall Risk Assessment before and after intervention and scale implementation. A statistical analysis showed an improvement in ICU length of stay, change in Morse Fall Risk and staff perceptions of early mobility. As the changes were not statistically significant, Dahlke concluded that, although the improvement in each of the metrics shows potential for the project, further evaluation—including longer implementation and additional resources—is necessary to potentially produce statistically significant results.

“My goal is to decrease the burden of one single discipline to complete early mobility interventions within the complex ICU,” says Dahlke. “A multidisciplinary approach will encourage collaboration and improve patient outcomes.”

When asked about her steps towards a successful DNP project, Dahlke praises the support she has received at the UC College of Nursing.

“Dr. Eilleen Werdman, my project chair, has been supportive of the project since day 1. DNP projects entail three well-defined phases—planning, implementation and data collection—each covered throughout the classes that walk you through the process for a successful project. You follow a well-defined process guided by faculty and your chair.”

Dahlke, who will welcome her first baby in July, graduate in August and move alongside her husband in September, is excited about her future professional options.

“I feel that the DNP has prepared me to do anything I want in my career. I may pursue cardiology or pulmonology, or another specialty. Even if I end up not going back to work in the ICU, I’m glad to have contributed to patient outcomes through my project,” she says.

Want to learn more about our DNP program? Let us know here .

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Pre-Nursing, Focus

Multi-talented and in demand health professionals..

Nurses are one of the most in demand health care professionals with a bevy of skills that promote health, prevent disease and help patients cope with illness. They are also hugely sought after — with demand for registered nurses expected to increase by 12% through 2028.

With a wide array of career options available in the field of nursing, students are encouraged to explore the options to determine which is the best fit for their career aspirations. You will study human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, healthcare ethics, medical terminology and more, which fulfill general education requirements.

The University of Idaho does not offer degrees in nursing; however the pre-nursing program is designed to help students gain admission to accredited nursing schools. Work with a Pre-Health Professions Advisor each semester to prepare for the nursing school of your choice.

This program is a good fit if you:

• Enjoy math and science
• Are a good problem solver
• Like to work with people and to help others
• Are interested in caring for people’s health

Career Outcomes

With this preparation track, you could become a:

• Registered Nurse
• Nurse Midwife
• Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Anesthetist

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Business Economics: General Option

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