doctor of philosophy (phd) in nursing

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

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

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

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

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

Our goal is to develop scholars of the discipline of nursing capable of building a program of research that advances nursing knowledge and contributes to the health of individuals, families, and communities.

About the Program

The penn advantage.

Home to some of the most forward-thinking scholars and researchers in the world, Penn offers the opportunity to work alongside faculty who are actively shaping the future of nursing science and healthcare. Our networks and longstanding clinical and community partnerships throughout greater Philadelphia and beyond provide uncommon access to research and practice resources.

Program Information

Program Length

Financial aid available?

Start Semester

Learning Format

Program Details

The program consists of seven core courses, two statistics sequence courses, and five concentration courses; each course is worth one course unit, or CU. Students will take three to four courses each fall and spring semester. Most students complete their coursework within three to four years and then will be on dissertation status until the final dissertation defense.

Click the link below to view the curriculum for this program in the University catalog or download a sample plan of study .

View the curriculum

Requirements

Minimum qualifications for the program.

BSN and MSN or Master’s degree in the field of Nursing.

Application Deadlines

Fall 2024 enrollment.

Deadline: December 1, 2023 Latest Decision Notification: mid-February

*Dates subject to change without notice.

Costs & Tuition

We are committed to assisting all full-time PhD students for four years of tuition, fees, living stipend, and health insurance. You may be funded internally or externally, depending on the options available. The doctoral program leadership will determine which funding is most appropriate for all incoming students. Students who choose part-time enrollment are responsible for paying for their own tuition, fees, and health insurance. Learn more about financial aid for PhD students .

The charts below outline costs based on the school year. For full-time doctoral students, after the first five years the reduced rate is charged until the Doctorate degree is awarded, or for a maximum of five additional years.

Full-Time: Fall 2023 & Spring 2024

Part-time per cu: fall 2023 & spring 2024, doctoral reduced rate: fall 2023 & spring 2024, program outcomes.

Our doctoral graduates go on to take coveted leadership roles in academia, healthcare, government, and related fields, and are integral to the growth of our profession.

Related Links

May 7 | 6:00pm

Spring 2024 Graduate Programs Info Session

May 22 | 6:00pm

June 14 | 12:00pm

Program Activities

Future-proofing healthcare.

How Penn Nursing’s PhD program is the key to unlocking innovative and equity-focused care and policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a phd and a dnp.

• Prepares nurse scientists to conduct research, develop the scholarship needed to advance the body of nursing knowledge, guide the practice of nursing, assume leadership in nursing and health care organizations, and participate in the development of social and health policy
• Methods and theories used to guide research
• Grant writing skills
• Technology used in research
• Statistical & other analytical methods
• Research traditions & methodologies
• Faculty role development
• Cognate areas of interest to guide research
• Clinical Requirements – No
• Research Requirements - Faculty guided research residency hours working on an established research project(s) to hone selected research skills
• Final Product - Original research project that makes a significant contribution to the science of nursing
• Academic faculty position which includes research, education, and service roles
• Research Scientist for healthcare organizations, industry or government agencies
• Principal Investigator on extramural research grants
• Leadership positions in health organizations, industry and government agencies
• Government advisor on health policy
• Purpose - Prepares expert clinical scholars to perform direct clinical practice, translate, disseminate and integrate evidence-based research into clinical practice and improve quality of health outcomes for individuals, populations and systems.
• Advanced clinical practice
• Clinical scholarship skills
• Technology used in practice
• Analysis of clinical outcomes
• Evidence-based practice
• Leadership role development
• Rural and underserved populations
• Clinical Requirements - No
• Research Requirements – No
• Final Product – Project based
• APRN in a variety of healthcare settings
• Academic faculty position which includes practice, education, and service roles
• Leadership positions in health care organizations, industry, government agencies
• Evidence-based Practice Coordinator
• Outcomes Manager
• Magnet Coordinator
• Quality Improvement Director

How many are accepted to the PhD program at Penn Nursing?

Approximately 6-12 applicants are accepted each year.

How can I get more information on the research faculty are doing for my application?

Please find our faculty’s research interests here .

Can I reach out to faculty for more information?

Yes, you are encouraged to reach out to faculty who align with your research interests and may be a good mentor during your PhD program. The PhD application is about looking at faculty’s research interests and how they align with yours. In your application, you should highlight these connections.

Is there a clinical component?

Is there an admissions interview.

Competitive applicants will be invited to interview.

When does the PhD program start?

The PhD program starts in the fall semester, and it typically takes 3-5 years to complete the program.

If I am an international applicant with an international RN license, can I still apply to the PhD program?

Yes, you may apply to the PhD program with an international RN license. The license must be valid at time of application.

Ready to take the next step?

See yourself here.

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 first 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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PhD (Post-master's Entry)

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Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

Prepare to lead in nursing research and education with a research-focused doctor of philosophy (phd) in nursing from cizik school of nursing at uthealth houston. we now offer two entry points to a rewarding career as a nurse scientist..

Nurses who hold a master’s degree can achieve the highest level of nursing education and pursue impactful research careers influencing health care.

Open the door to opportunities to create meaningful change. If you hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and are looking for a fast-track to a career in research, our BSN to PhD option is an ideal choice that can save you time and money.

Unparalleled Collaboration Opportunities

PhD nursing students at Cizik School of Nursing have unique opportunities to collaborate with expert researchers and clinicians within UTHealth Houston’ s seven schools and from affiliated institutions within the world-renowned Texas Medical Center .

Outstanding Faculty

Our faculty mentors are leading nurse scientists . Their top priority is helping graduate nursing students achieve their academic, professional, and research goals. Whether you are coming in with a BSN or a master’s degree, you will gain the skills to succeed in  PhD nursing courses that focus on the integration of research, theory, and practice.

Meet PhD Students

Hannah Zeller, Chantell Thompson, and Otit Fletcher have widely different backgrounds and research interests, and each chose the PhD program at Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston because of unique opportunities to study with outstanding faculty mentors in the Texas Medical Center.

Meet Dr. Maja Djukic

Maja Djukic, PhD, RN, FAAN, is the Assistant Dean for Research at Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston. Find out about her research into nursing workforce issues aimed at improving the work lives of nurses.

Diverse Patient Populations

Live, work, study, and discover in one of the most diverse metropolitan areas in the nation. Cizik School of Nursing PhD candidates benefit from many opportunities to begin meaningful programs of research that benefit specific communities and patient populations.

Supporting Scientific Discovery

The  Center for Nursing Research  at Cizik School of Nursing provides laboratory and administrative resources and support needed to prepare grant proposals, conduct research, and publish results.

Affordability Meets Excellence

At Cizik School of Nursing, we offer one of the  most affordable PhD programs in Texas. We also offer  scholarships to PhD students based on research interests in addition to academic performance and financial need.

Loan Forgiveness for Future Faculty

The Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) is low-interest federal loan forgiveness program offered by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for PhD students who plan to become faculty members. The three nursing education courses are required.  For eligibility requirements and application information, please contact Heather Bright in the UTHealth Financial Aid office at 713-500-3860.

PhD or DNP?

At Cizik School of Nursing, you can pursue a research-focused Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (DNP) or a practice-focused Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Learn more differences between these doctoral degree options.

Get Started toward Your Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

Build upon your master’s degree or Bachelor of Science in Nursing and take the next step on your health care journey at Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston. Earn a PhD in nursing from a nationally renowned nursing program. We are here to answer your questions and help you get started.

Request information: BSN to PhD entry

Request information: post-master's phd entry, apply today.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

PhD Program Overview

Application Deadline: November 1  Application Available: September 1  Program Start: Fall, once a year only  Length of Program: 4 years full-time  Degree Awarded: Doctor of Philosophy  Part-Time Study: YES  Distance Learning: Not at this time

Ranked #1 in Best Value PhD in Nursing Programs

( Value Colleges 2016 )

About the PhD

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing Doctoral program prepares students to become researchers and to assume advanced leadership roles in nursing and health care delivery. A combination of conceptual approaches, challenging interactions in seminar discussions, and work with active researchers produces a stimulating environment for scholarly development.

Each student selects a focus area based on their nursing background, interests, and goals. The focus area provides a broad structure for the student's individualized course of study. Courses from nursing and from non-nursing disciplines offer options for tailoring the program of study to a student's particular focus area. The program is designed to help students identify a dissertation topic, apply for research funding, and begin a lifelong research career.

PhD Resources

Objectives for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD and AE PhD) Program

The graduate of the PhD program in nursing is expected to:

• Conduct research to advance knowledge and practice in nursing and healthcare.
• Develop, test, and refine theories for nursing and healthcare.
• Participate as a scholar in the advancement of theoretical, ethical, and practice aspects of nursing and healthcare.
• Participate as a scholar in transdisciplinary teams to advance the science of nursing and healthcare.
• Assume leadership roles in practice, education, and policy arenas to promote high quality and innovative health care, especially in underserved populations.
• Accept responsibility and accountability for disseminating knowledge.

Program requirements for the PhD in Nursing include core courses and other courses to ensure preparation in a focused area of study. The PhD program prepares nurse researchers to make significant contributions to nursing knowledge and nursing practice through ongoing scientific inquiry and the dissemination of research findings.

Degree Plans (All files are in PDF format.)

• BSN to PhD Program of Work
• BSN to PhD Sample Schedule
• PhD Program of Work
• PhD Sample Schedule

There are various avenues for support during the doctoral program. Every student who applies by the November 1 deadline and is accepted into the PhD program, will be considered for a one-year Fellowship. Those applying after the November 1 deadline may also be considered for financial support. Monetary amounts range from $7,000 - $25,000, based on admission scores and full time/part time status. Competitive continuing fellowships are available after year one, based on timely academic progression and scholarly activities. Other small scholarship opportunities (usually $1,000-$2,000) may be available yearly through the School of Nursing. Doctoral students may work as Research Assistants, Teaching Assistants, and Assistant Instructors. These appointments have tuition and benefits assistance based on appointment hours/week.

Additionally, US citizen and permanent resident doctoral students can apply to the Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) . The NFLP is a loan-cancellation program funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Bureau of Health Professions. This program allows nursing schools to provide financial loans to students enrolled in advanced degree nursing programs and who intend to teach in a nursing program after graduation. This is not a need-based loan program; however, students must complete a FAFSA. For more information, visit UT Financial and Administrative Services - Nursing Faculty Loan Services page.

• UT Austin offers unique opportunities for interdisciplinary study ( doctoral portfolio programs ) in fields such as gerontology, Mexican American studies, and women's studies.
• Internationally recognized nursing faculty with over $10 million in NIH research funding.
• Nursing faculty at UT Austin have diverse backgrounds in preparation and experience.
• Thirteen of the current 26 graduate nursing faculty are Fellows in the prestigious American Academy of Nursing.
• The doctoral program emphasizes development of a sound foundation in nursing science.
• Participation in faculty research projects is an integral part of the doctoral program.

All students interested in applying for graduate study in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin must meet the admission requirements established by the University’s Graduate School and the School of Nursing. Applicants are expected to be graduates of accredited colleges or universities. Below are the minimum requirements for admission.

• Degree: A bachelor's or a master's degree in nursing from an acceptable accredited program or a comparable degree from a foreign academic institution.
• GPA : 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or comparable GPA in upper-division work (junior- and senior- level courses) and in any graduate work complete.
• Recommendations : 3 required
• Statement of Purpose
• Curriculum Vitae/resume
• Nursing License: Current RN licensure, if admitted.

All students applying for formal admission to the Master’s and PhD programs must complete the online application and submit the following application materials by the November 1 deadline .

Application for Admission

Complete online application for admissions and pay application fee at ApplyTexas.org . The application is only open between September 1st and November 1st. The online application is data entry only. All supporting application documents are uploaded on the My Status page after the application is paid and submitted.

* Recommendation : Complete online application, at minimum, 2 weeks prior to the November 1 deadline, ensuring all documents provided by the application deadline.

Supporting Documents

• Official transcripts dated one year or less, from all four-year institutions attended.
• See AE-PhD Application Checklist (PDF) for transcript upload procedures.
• Curriculum Vitae/resume.
• Personal Statement: Maximum two (2) pages. Readable font, 12-point, double spaced, 1-inch margins)
• Using our secure, personalized form, three (3) professional recommendations that attest to the applicant's academic ability, professional competency and personal character must be submitted electronically by each recommender.
• Written recommendations are not accepted.
• See the International Students webpage for English language requirements.

For additional details on how to prepare your graduate application materials and personal statement instructions, please view PhD Application Checklist (PDF).

Visit the Graduate Admissions webpage for additional information.

All materials must be submitted electronically to the My Status Check page that is available approximately 48 hours after the ApplyTexas.org application submission.

The School of Nursing Graduate Admissions and Progression Committee (GAPC) begin preliminary admission reviews after the November 1st deadline. All application materials are required to be submitted by the program’s application deadline; files that remain incomplete will not be reviewed or acted upon by GAPC.

If admitted, applicants will be notified of the admission decision by March. Decisions are communicated in the following ways:

• Offers of admission are sent via email by the School of Nursing.
• Official e-letters from the Graduate and International Admission Center notifying you of the admission decision of the Office of Graduate Studies are available on the application Status Check page.

NOTE: Email is the official means of communication for all university business.

If not admitted, applicants will be notified by the GIAC only.

Please feel free to email Graduate Student Services Office if you have questions about the admission process.

All files are in PDF format.

• Choosing a Quality PhD Program
• PhD Application Checklist

Nursing Schools

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Programs

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) represents a significant commitment to advancing in the field of nursing research and academia. The PhD in Nursing degree paves the way for a registered nurse to contribute profoundly to healthcare improvements, policy development, and the teaching of future nurses. PhD in Nursing graduates are primarily involved in teaching, research, leadership, and policy development within universities and colleges. Contrast this with the practice-oriented DNP doctoral degree which seeks to gain expertise in patient care and to assume leadership roles within the healthcare system.

In our list of nursing colleges we identify Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing programs by the acronym PhD . This doctoral level nursing degree program may be given a longer title by the college or university such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) program and Post-Master's Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) program depending upon your starting point. The degree title Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science (PhD) is also frequently used by colleges and universities.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Overview:

• Prepares the Registered Nurse (RN) for roles in education, research, and leadership.
• Highest level of nursing science education.
• Program lengths range from 4 to 6 years.
• Total tuition costs vary from $30,000 to $150,000.
• Focus is on nursing theory and research methods.
• A scholarly capstone project is required to graduate.

What is a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) degree?

A Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) is an advanced postgraduate degree focusing on research and academic scholarship in the field of nursing. It prepares nurses for roles in research, education, and leadership, with an emphasis on developing new nursing knowledge and theory. Unlike clinically focused degrees, the PhD in Nursing centers on theoretical knowledge, aiming to expand the discipline through rigorous research and scholarly inquiry.

What is the difference between a PhD and DNP degree?

The main distinction between a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) lies in their focus and end goals. The PhD is research-oriented, aiming at generating new knowledge and theory in nursing, while the DNP is practice-oriented, focusing on applying research to clinical practice.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD): Focuses on research, theory development, and knowledge creation.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Concentrates on applying research to improve clinical outcomes and patient care.

While the PhD prepares nurses for a career in research and academia, the DNP equips them for high-level clinical practice and leadership within healthcare organizations, such as hospitals, community health centers, and nursing homes.

Which colleges offer a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing degree?

PhD in Nursing programs are offered by a variety of educational institutions, including public and private universities, large research institutions, and specialized nursing schools. These programs are typically found at universities that offer a wide range of graduate-level programs.

Here are a few examples of colleges which offer PhD programs:

• California State University (Los Angeles, California)
• Columbia University (New York, New York)
• Georgia State University (Atlanta, Georgia)
• Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, Maryland)
• University of Florida (Gainesville, Florida)
• University of Illinois (Chicago, Illinois)
• University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
• University of Texas (Austin, Texas)
• University of Washington (Seattle, Washington)
• Vanderbilt University (Nashville, Tennessee)

Prospective students are encouraged to visit these college websites or others to explore their specific PhD in Nursing program information. By reviewing details about their nursing PhD program, including admission requirements, curriculum, faculty qualifications, and research opportunities, prospective students can better prepare questions for their chosen PhD nursing school.

How long does it take to complete a PhD nursing program?

The duration of a PhD in Nursing program can vary significantly, usually ranging from 3 to 5 years for full-time students. The length of the program often depends on the student's prior educational background, the specific requirements of the program, and the pace at which the student completes their dissertation research. Here are the usual pathways:

• BSN to PhD Nursing Programs: For nurses starting with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) , BSN to PhD programs generally span 4 to 6 years of full-time study. These bridge or fast-track programs cater to registered nurses aiming to pursue an advanced research-focused degree, bypassing the master's degree level.
• MSN to PhD Nursing Programs: For nurses possessing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) , MSN to PhD programs typically last 3 to 5 years of full-time study. The duration can vary based on the required coursework, research scope, and dissertation work. Part-time MSN to PhD options are also available, which may extend the time to completion to accommodate the schedules of working professionals.

It is crucial to understand that the PhD program's length can be affected by the chosen research area, necessary research activities, and the dissertation work needed to fulfill the degree requirements. Candidates should also examine each program's specified prerequisites and adjust the projected timelines accordingly.

Can you earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing degree online?

Yes, many institutions now offer online PhD in Nursing programs, providing flexibility for students who cannot attend traditional on-campus classes due to professional or personal commitments. These online PhD in Nursing programs often offer the same rigorous curriculum and are taught by the same faculty as their on-campus counterparts.

Common PhD in Nursing Program Admission Requirements

Admission into a PhD in Nursing program is competitive and requires applicants to meet specific qualifications. Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic background, a clear research focus, and a commitment to advancing the nursing profession. These standards are set to confirm that applicants have the ability to succeed in this demanding high-level academic pursuit.

Academic and professional experience prerequisites:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from an accredited program
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in undergraduate and graduate studies
• Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license
• Demonstrated research experience or scholarly work in the nursing field
• At least one to two years of full-time nursing practice experience preferred

Typically required application materials:

• Completed application form
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• Current resume or curriculum vitae
• Statement of purpose or research interest essay detailing academic objectives and reasons for pursuing a PhD in Nursing
• Two or three letters of recommendation from academic and/or research references

The admission process for a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) is highly selective, underscoring the need for a robust application that reflects your dedication to academic and research excellence. Beyond meeting the fundamental criteria, showcasing your research capabilities, academic achievements, and a clear vision for your research agenda can enhance your application. Prospective students should seek advice from admissions advisors at their chosen institutions for tailored guidance and to obtain the latest information on application requirements and deadlines.

Curriculum for Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Programs

The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) curriculum is structured to prepare students for leadership roles in nursing research, education, and policy. The program emphasizes rigorous research methodologies, theoretical foundations of nursing, and in-depth knowledge in a specialized area of study, aiming to produce scholars who can contribute to the advancement of nursing science. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of topics, from research methods and statistics to theoretical foundations in nursing and health policy, ensuring graduates are ready to tackle the challenges of the nursing discipline in various settings.

Core Curriculum Courses:

• Advanced Research Methods in Nursing
• Statistics for Health Research
• Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Science
• Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods
• Nursing Education and Curriculum Development
• Health Policy and Advocacy in Nursing
• Philosophies of Science in Nursing

Specialization Courses:

• Nursing Informatics
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Nursing Administration
• Public Health Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Gerontological Nursing

PhD in Nursing Dissertation:

• Must pass exams or assessments before proceeding to the dissertation phase.
• Develop a research proposal outlining objectives, methodology, and significance of the study.
• Perform actual research, including collecting data, analyzing results, and interpreting findings.
• Conduct an original research project that contributes new knowledge to the field of nursing.

The PhD in Nursing curriculum not only emphasizes the development of advanced research skills but also prepares students to be educators, leaders, and policy advocates in the nursing profession. Students engage in comprehensive research projects, leading to the completion of a dissertation that contributes significant new insights to nursing science and practice. This academic and research-focused approach ensures that PhD graduates are equipped to lead and innovate in nursing education, research, and policy development.

Clinicals for Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Programs

Clinical requirements in a PhD in Nursing program are typically minimal, as the focus is on research rather than clinical practice. However, some programs may require practical experience in a research setting. The nature and extent of these requirements can vary depending on the program's structure and the student's prior educational background.

• BSN to PhD bridge programs: These may include some clinical components to ensure that students, who are entering directly from a Bachelor's level, gain necessary clinical exposure and understanding that they might not have acquired. This experience can be crucial in informing their research, especially if they are focusing on clinical research topics.
• MSN to PhD programs: Students in these tracks often have extensive clinical experience from their Master's level education and professional practice. As a result, the emphasis in these programs may be more on advancing research skills rather than clinical practice, assuming that students already meet clinical competency from their MSN training.

It is important for prospective students to review the specific clinical and research requirements of the PhD program to which they are applying, as these can influence their training and preparation for their future roles in nursing research and academia.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Program Tuition Cost

The tuition cost for Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) programs varies widely, influenced by factors such as program duration, the type of institution, and location. In the United States, PhD in Nursing program costs can range from about $30,000 to over $150,000 for the total program, reflecting the diversity in program structures and institutional pricing.

Key factors affecting the tuition cost for PhD programs include:

• State Subsidized Tuition: Public universities often have lower tuition rates for residents of their state compared to non-residents, making PhD programs more affordable for those state residents.
• Public vs Private Institutions: Private institutions generally have higher tuition fees than public ones. This is due to private institutions' reliance on tuition and donations for their funding.
• Financial Aid Options: Financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans can help reduce the cost of PhD programs. Many schools offer financial aid packages, and there are specific funding opportunities targeted at nursing PhD students.

Prospective PhD in Nursing students should carefully consider these factors when assessing program costs. Investigating residency requirements for tuition purposes, understanding financial aid availability, and comparing public and private institution costs are vital steps in financial planning for a PhD program. Moreover, many institutions provide a detailed breakdown of tuition and fees on their websites, offering clear insights into the financial commitment required. Students should also consider the long-term benefits and career advancements possible with a PhD in Nursing, which may offset the initial educational investment.

Career Prospects after Completing a PhD in Nursing

Graduates with a PhD in Nursing are prepared for roles in academia, research, leadership, and policy-making. According to recent data, PhD in Nursing graduates can expect competitive salaries that often exceed those of typical nursing roles. Starting salaries often surpass $100,000 annually at the largest universities and can increase based on experience, research focus, academic position, and geographic location.

Job titles for PhD in Nursing graduates include:

• Nursing faculty or professor
• Healthcare researcher
• Nursing director or executive

These roles typically offer opportunities to influence nursing practice and healthcare policy on a broad scale.

Tips for Choosing the Right PhD in Nursing Program

Choosing the right Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program can significantly influence your career trajectory and professional fulfillment. Here are some tips to consider:

• Accreditation: Research the accreditation status of the nursing PhD program to ensure its quality and recognition.
• Reputation: Consider the reputation and ranking of the nursing school, as this can impact your education and employment prospects.
• Specializations Offered: Ensure the nursing PhD program you choose offers a curriculum and the resources that support your specific interests.
• Program Format: Look for flexible scheduling options that fit your needs, such as nights, weekends, and online classes, to accommodate your personal and professional life.
• Faculty Expertise: Look for programs where faculty members are leaders in their fields, with a mix of academic credentials and research experience.
• Dissertation Support: Investigate how each program supports dissertation research, through partner healthcare facilities, or on your own.
• Program Outcomes: Look for statistics on graduation rates, examination pass rates, and employment rates of graduates.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Consider the PhD program's total cost, any travel expenses, and the availability of financial aid.

Choosing the right Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program is a personal and strategic decision that requires careful consideration of multiple factors. By prioritizing accreditation, program format, specialization offerings, dissertation support, faculty expertise, program outcomes, and financial considerations, you can select a program that not only meets your educational needs but also propels you toward your professional goals in nursing.

Choosing to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing is a commendable and impactful decision that can significantly advance one's career in nursing and healthcare. This journey, while demanding, offers immense potential for personal and professional growth, and contributes to the betterment of patient care and the healthcare system at large.

Last updated: March 16, 2024

Nursing Degrees

References:

• PhD in Nursing Sciences . University of Florida College of Nursing, Academic Programs. Retrieved March 16, 2024.
• PhD in Nursing . University of Utah College of Nursing, Graduate Programs. Retrieved March 16, 2024.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) . University of Arizona College of Nursing, Academic Programs. Retrieved March 16, 2024.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) . University of Pennsylvania, Penn Nursing, Doctoral Programs. Retrieved March 16, 2024.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) . The Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Doctoral Programs. Retrieved March 16, 2024.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing PhD Program . UCLA School of Nursing, Academic Programs. Retrieved March 16, 2024.
• PhD in Nursing . Nursing Education Programs, American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Retrieved March 16, 2024.
• Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners . Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved March 16, 2024.

• Partnerships

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

YOU ARE BOUVÉ

Advance the science of nursing through innovation and interdisciplinary inquiry .

The PhD in Nursing program at Northeastern University prepares future nurse-scientists to advance nursing through innovation and interdisciplinary inquiry to improve the health of individuals and communities. Graduates are expected to lead research initiatives that advance nursing science through knowledge development and interdisciplinary scholarly inquiry.

Students will study with nursing faculty who collectively have a variety of expertise and interests and whose research addresses questions that extend across a broad health spectrum.

In addition, students have an opportunity to study with faculty from other Northeastern departments, as well as with other Boston-area researchers. This collaboration allows students to work across disciplines and to access populations and sites essential for completing a dissertation

Degree: Nursing PhD Application deadline: June 1 GRE: Required Study options: Full-time/part-time

Video: Chelsea Kirker, MSN, CRNA describes why she is doing a PhD at Northeastern

Chelsea Kirker, MSN, CRNA describes why she is doing a PhD at Northeastern

Post-master’s students  (also referred to as Advanced Entry)  will build on their prior degrees and clinical foundations by completing  48 semester hours , including the dissertation. 

Post-baccalaureate  students will complete  60 semester hours , including the dissertation.

On a full-time basis, students entering with a master’s degree can expect to commit a  minimum of three years  to completing the program; if entering with a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of four years. Both full- and part-time options are available to all students. Course descriptions can be found in the PhD Handbook.

Graduates are expected to lead multidisciplinary research initiatives that advance nursing and health care through knowledge development and interdisciplinary scholarly inquiry. Students will work with nursing faculty whose research address innovative questions that seek to advance knowledge for improvement of care. In addition, students will have an opportunity to collaborate with faculty across the broader Northeastern University community in addition to Boston area research and healthcare institutions. This collaboration allows students to work across disciplines and to access populations and research sites essential to the success of their original dissertation study.

The Baccalaureate, Master’s and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs at Northeastern University School of Nursing are accredited by the  Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ,  655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791

Handbooks and Manuals

Sample curriculum.

Sample curriculum, subject to change.

Prerequisites

Both post-BSN and post-MSN students are expected to show satisfactory completion of a basic statistics course . Note:  Post-BSN students will be required to take an epidemiology course as part of their PhD coursework.

Full-time Sample Curriculum

Research core.

8 courses, 3 credits each unless otherwise noted — 22 credits

NRSG 7700  Science of Nursing

NRSG 7705  Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations in Nursing Science

NRSG 7709  Qualitative Research Methods

NRSG 7712  Quantitative Research Methods

NRSG 7715  Measurement in Clinical Research

NRSG 7750  Health Care of Urban Populations

NRSG 7770  Research Colloquium (1 credit)

NRSG 7755  Intervention Research: Development, Implementation, and Evaluation

Research Practicum

2 courses, 1-4 credits each · 6 credits

NRSG 9984 Students are required to complete 6 credits of supervised research practicum with a seasoned researcher. The purpose of the practicum is to develop student research skills through engagement with an active research project. Students must have a viable MA RN license. Research practicum activities vary and may include any or all of the following aspects of the research process:

• Assisting/conducting critical literature reviews
• Developing proposals
• Developing human subjects guidelines
• Recruiting and consenting participants
• Collecting data
• Managing data
• Analyzing data
• Developing presentations
• Writing scholarly research paper(s)

Post-Bac Required Courses

In addition, post-baccalaureate students are required to take:

NRSG 5121  Epidemiology and Population Health

NRSG 7104  Foundations in Nursing Research (3

2 Elective Courses (6 credits)

Electives may be taken in nursing or in an area related to the student’s dissertation research, including appropriate methodology and statistics courses.

2 courses, 3 credits each · 6 credits

Cognates are courses that are taken outside the School of Nursing and should provide depth and breadth to the student’s phenomenon of interest.

PHTH 5210  Biostatistics

PHTH 6210  Applied Regression Analysis

Dissertation

4 courses, 3 credits each unless otherwise noted · 8 credits total

NRSG 9845  Dissertation Seminar 1

NRSG 9846  Dissertation Seminar 2

NRSG 9990/9991  Dissertation

Admissions Requirements

*Note: A Massachusetts RN license is required by matriculation in the PhD program in order to do the research practicum component of the program. If you are a registered nurse, you may enter the PhD program after completing a baccalaureate or a master’s degree. A degree in nursing is preferred.

To apply to the PhD in Nursing you will need the following:

Current U.S. RN License *

Minimum GPA of 3.0

Official transcript(s) of ALL college-level study-to-date resume

Personal statement  indicating applicant’s personal goals for obtaining a DNP and expectations of the program

A minimum GRE of 300 or equivalent  for the verbal and quantitative combined, should be taken within the last five years

Three letters of recommendation  that address your potential in a career in nursing research

Satisfactory completion of a basic statistics course

Personal Statement   describing your goals, your reason for pursuing a PhD in nursing and your research area of interest

For international applicants  TOEFL scores or IELTS scores

Got questions?

Amanda Choflet, DNP, RN, NEA-BC 617-373-3488 [email protected]

Graduate Admissions 617-373-2708

Past PhD Dissertation Topics

Utilization of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale for Postoperative Pain in Anesthesia Chris Gill

Understanding college students’ motivations for the use and discontinued use of fitness related technology in relation to their physical activity behaviors Jessica Wallar

Experiences of School Nurses Caring for Newly Arrived Immigrant and Refugee Children Jacqueline Brady

An Exploration of the Influence of Stigma and Trauma in the Illness Representations of those Veterans who Decided to Initiate Treatment for Hepatitis C Virus Casey Garvey

Toward an Understanding of Suicidal Ideation Among Career Firefighters Elizabeth Henderson

Mold Exposure Levels in Inner-City Schools and Homes: An Examination of the Relationship Between Fungal Exposure and the Prevalence Rate of Asthmatic Symptoms Among Children Ages 5 to 15 Evin Howard

New-onset Delirium among Elderly Acute Care Orthopedic Trauma Patients: Sleep Disturbance and Nutritional Status as Modifiable Risk Factors Susan Maher

Stress, Resilience and Reintigration Among Post-9/11 US Veterans: A Holistic Investigation Anna Etchin

Exploring the Issues of HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis and Sexually Assaulted Individuals Meredith Scannell

Charting the Path from Diagnosis to Treatment: A Grounded Theory Study of Ovarian Cancer Rachel Pozzar

Frequently Asked Quesions

What’s the difference between the dnp and phd programs.

Northeastern offers two different doctoral degrees in nursing: the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The PhD is a research-oriented degree, while the DNP is practice-oriented. Nurses interested in leadership might be interested in the DNP, whereas those interested in becoming nurse scientists would be a good fit for the PhD program.

What financial support is available for students?

A select number of competitive Graduate Assistantships are available for doctoral students. Graduate Assistantships cover tuition and include a stipend in exchange for working 20 hours/week as a research or teaching assistant.

NOTE: Graduate Assistantships are awarded each academic year.

Can I transfer credits towards the program ?

You may be able to transfer in up to 9 credits that have not been previously used towards another degree and were taken at the graduate level for a grade of B or better. Students must receive approval from the program director prior to transferring courses and must be enrolled in the program in order to begin the transfer process.

More information about Northeastern University’s transfer policy can be found in the  Bouve Transfer Policy.

Can I attend the program on a part-time basis ?

Full-time or part-time enrollment is available. Students who attend full-time complete the degree in five continuous semesters (21 months).

Students who attend part-time usually complete the degree in three years . Students must consult with the financial aid office to assure PT status is acceptable for loan eligibility . All students (full-time or part-time) must take the NRSG7100 Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice course as the first course which is offered in the Fall.

Can I speak with faculty in the PhD program that share my research interests ?

Yes, we would be happy to put you in touch with our faculty. Please send your query along with a description of research interests so that you can be appropriately matched to:

Dr. Rhonda Board Program Director [email protected]

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Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science program is designed to prepare nurse scientists with expertise in clinical-translational research methods to advance the scholarly discipline and to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the field of nursing.

As the most trusted profession and the primary caregivers in the healthcare setting, nurses bring a uniquely personal perspective to research. Nurses know that optimal patient health requires a whole-person approach that recognizes the interdependencies of the different, and sometimes deeply personal, aspects of a patient’s life. That is why our PhD program emphasizes the combination of translational science methods with traditional models for research to comprehensively address health and healthcare needs of local, national and global communities.

The PhD program is high-touch, and students will have a mentor in their area of research interest and have immediate immersion in research with the opportunity to work as a Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant on day one of the program. Students will work closely with their mentor throughout the program, who will help them develop expertise in their area of interest and develop into a scholar. Students are educated by nurse scientists conducting cutting-edge research in their respective fields. In addition to their course work, the student’s education will be enriched through research seminars in which students will have the opportunity to engage with leading scientists in and outside of nursing who are conducting novel and high impact research.

Program Highlights

Areas of focus.

• Guaranteed funding for the first four years of the program
• Guaranteed housing offer (visit UCI Housing for more information)
• Leading research faculty who incorporate interdisciplinary integrative health approaches to promote population health and well-being one person, one family, one community at a time
• Strong collaborative relationships across schools — from engineering to the arts — to create novel solutions for the health challenges facing underserved communities
• Commitment to using community-informed and community-based research methods to tackle population health needs with compassion, determination, and a keen understanding of the need for appealing, user-friendly approaches to providing healthcare
• Dedicated, one-on-one mentorship in research and teaching

UCI nursing science faculty conduct interdisciplinary research that incorporates integrative health approaches to promote population health and build healthy communities. The PhD program will specifically promote the development of scientific and theoretical expertise that contributes to scholarly endeavors in six key areas:

• Integrative health and wellness promotion
• Community health
• Philosophical and theoretical foundations in nursing
• Health services and practice
• Digital technology and health
• Health disparities and diversity
• You are passionate about developing and comprehensively testing new knowledge in a selected area of nursing science.
• You are excited about incorporating translational science into nursing research endeavors.
• You desire to provide leadership for the health and well-being of communities through translational science and the understanding of social, cultural, economic and political milieu within which knowledge translation operates.
• You desire the opportunity to contribute to interdisciplinary research initiatives in your area of expertise.

Research/knowledge development

• Utilize professional and research ethics and judgment in the conduct of research
• Conduct independent original research
• Critique and integrate different scientific perspectives in the conduct of original research
• Engage in and prepare to lead interdisciplinary research teams
• Situate their knowledge within the history and philosophy of science
• Conduct culturally and linguistically compentent scholarship
• Lead in advancing the discipline through scholarly and scientific contributions
• Provide career and research mentorship to others

Dissemination

• Communicate scholarship to professional, interdisciplinary, policy, and lay audiences
• Communicate scholarship through publications and presentations
• Demonstrate understanding of the influence of politics and policy on knowledge generation and implementation

Substantive area of specialization

• Demonstrate mastery of in-depth knowledge in a substantive area

The PhD in Nursing Science is a three to five-year, full-time commitment that includes a combination of formal courses, electives, independent study, teaching assistant assignments, formal examinations, and the completion and successful defense of a doctoral dissertation based on original research that contributes to the scholarly and scientific knowledge of the nursing discipline.

Early coursework will introduce you to theoretical foundatio ns in the nursing discipline and to advanced research methodologies in nursing, health sciences, and related fields. Elective and independent studies will contribute to expertise in areas of research leading to your dissertation.

Download sample  schedule of classes  

Application Details

OUR PROGRAMS

Must read links for prospective phd students:.

» About our Research and Researchers

» Faculty Research Interests Quicksheet

Prospective PhD Student Connection/Meeting Request Form

Which faculty mentor are you interested in meeting?

Contact Us!

Address Sue & Bill Gross Nursing & Health Sciences Hall 854 Health Sciences Road Irvine, CA 92697

Hours Monday – Friday 9:00AM to 4:30PM

Fill Contact Form Call:  949-824-1514

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• Scholarships and Financial Aid
• PhD Student Profiles

Ways to Study

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.

Apply Now | PhD

Deadlines for Fall 2024:

• August 10, 2023: NursingCAS Application opens.
• November 15, 2023 : NursingCAS Application Deadline
• November 28, 2023 : Supplemental Application* Deadline
• Program begins: August 2024

*A link to the UNC Supplemental Application will be sent to you by email within a few business days of submitting your completed NursingCAS application.

• Pre / Postdoc Fellowships
• Faculty Accepting New PhD Students
• Faculty Available for Advisory Committees
• Contact Admissions

[email protected] 919.966.4260

Information Sessions & Tours

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 Support and Consultation (RSC)  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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The Michigan Ph.D.

As part of an institution that is ranked #1 in research volume among public research universities, the U-M School of Nursing offers exceptional opportunities for Ph.D. students. Our robust research infrastructure will afford you access to the resources necessary to pursue your scholarly interests, including funding that enables you to be a full-time student, interdisciplinary connections with scholars throughout U-M and one-on-one mentorship from our world-renowned faculty.

Is a Ph.D. right for me?

Meet the U-M School of Nursing Ph.D. program director and learn more about what sets our program apart. Get the insight you need to determine if our Ph.D. program is right for you and how your identity as a nurse can continue to influence nursing practice within the health care system.  

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Explore the Michigan Ph.D.

In order to meet the diverse needs within the field of nursing and the goals of the student, this course of study provides flexibility. The program prepares nurses who are competent in research design, data analysis and inferential processes, and thus capable of pursuing research related to the delivery of patient care and developing theory, oriented toward the application of nursing practice. Learn more about important program details, including: curriculum, costs, dissertation grants and mentoring.

Program Info

Meet current students and alumni of our Ph.D. program and learn firsthand about their experience as Ph.D. students and their relationship with their U-M School of Nursing mentor.

Research at the U-M School of Nursing & Program Details

As one of the first nursing schools in America to offer a Ph.D. in nursing, we have a rich history of research and innovation. We work to develop researchers who will make discoveries that positively affect patients and the health care system as a whole. U-M School of Nursing aims to lead as an interdisciplinary partner in expansive areas dedicated to improving all aspects of health.

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Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing — PhD

The PhD in Nursing is designed for nurses who are driven to discover, challenge, and lead in healthcare science, policy, intervention, and technology. Auburn’s PhD students will work alongside scholars and scientists in many disciplines, developing innovative and practical solutions to the healthcare challenges of today and the future.

PhD graduates will provide leadership to the nursing profession: preparing new generations of professionals, expanding healthcare excellence in their communities and globally, driving innovative research and scientific advancement, and exploring new technologies and programs to create lasting health and wellness. 

There are two pathways for admission: MSN-PhD or DNP-PhD. Full-time PhD students can complete their plan of study in nine semesters. All graduate work towards a graduate degree must be completed within a period of 5 calendar years from enrollment in the first graduate course.

The PhD program is primarily online. Auburn uses a variety of state-of-the-art online and distance learning technologies and techniques to facilitate the program and enrich the student learning experience. PhD students are admitted in fall semester only. The application deadline is June 1.

Admission Criteria

• Possess a current, unencumbered RN license from your state of residence within the United States.
• Have earned a Master's degree in nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from an accredited nursing program with a minimum nursing GPA of 3.0 (MSN or DNP nursing courses are used to calculate the nursing GPA).
• Provide three professional references for the online recommendation form from individuals familiar with your capabilities for doctoral study and for future performance as a nurse scholar and researcher. Generally, two references from former professors are expected.
• Submit a Professional Goal Statement of approximately 750-1,000 words indicating your present research interests and career goals, including how the PhD in nursing will prepare you to achieve those goals. Describe any prior experiences that have prepared you for doctoral study (e.g., previous research presentations and leadership roles in practice, education, or professional organizations).
• Provide a writing sample (e.g., published paper or paper from previous degree program is acceptable).
• Provide a current curriculum vitae (CV) or resume.
• Complete an interview via telephone, on-campus, or video-conference.
• Submit all official transcripts to the Graduate School.

College of Nursing Specific Admission and Progression Information

Applicants must meet all College of Nursing admission criteria. Applicants may be admitted under fully approved status, or under provisional or exception status. Approved admissions meet all the criteria listed for the Graduate School and any additional criteria for the department, school, or college. Provisional or exception status admission may be granted for students who do not meet certain requirements for admission. Applicants admitted as provisional or as an exception will be fully admitted to the Nursing Graduate Program only when all requirements for admission have been satisfied. Applicants admitted as provisional or as an exception who fail to satisfy all requirements for admission within the specified time period will be dismissed from the Nursing Graduate Program.

Continuation Requirements:

All PhD students must take and pass a comprehensive examination before commencing their dissertation research. The PhD comprehensive examination can be taken once the student has completed at least 28 credit hours of PhD course work. The program will have an established pathway to degree completion.

The PhD in Nursing offers two track options, MSN to PhD and DNP to PhD.

MSN to PhD 

Dnp to phd  , print options.

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• PhD in Nursing

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

About the doctor of philosophy in nursing program.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing at the University of Louisville is designed to prepare nurse scientists who will assume various roles in education, research, leadership, and health policy.

Why Choose the UofL School of Nursing PhD Program?

• Three tracks for you to choose:
• Student-centered, encouraging, and inclusive learning environment
• A holistic admission-review process
• GRE is not required
• Our PhD graduates are highly sought-after and recruited academically and clinically

I welcome all the current and prospective PhD students!

Please contact me for any PhD-program-related questions:

Lynne A. Hall, DrPH, MSN, RN Professor and Associate Dean for Research Assistant Dean for the PhD Program University of Louisville School of Nursing 555 South Floyd Street, K-Wing Room 4056 Louisville, KY  40202 Office: 502.852.8385 Email: [email protected]

The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program can be entered with either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

The PhD in Nursing consists of at least 40 semester credit hours of coursework beyond an MSN degree or 55 semester credit hours beyond a BSN degree plus dissertation credit hours.

View Program Curriculum

The PhD program is offered in a hybrid format with five synchronous classes per semester. Some cognate courses may be offered in person or online.  Most courses are offered in a traditional semester long format; however, selected nursing core courses may be offered in an intensive format.

Full or part-time programs of study are available. Each student's plan of study includes required core courses and elective courses based on individual student interests. In addition to course work, students receive intensive mentoring by experienced faculty researchers. Emphasis is placed on developing relationships between established and developing scholars to facilitate student success in research, grant writing and dissemination activities.

Following completion of course work, students take a qualifying examination. A dissertation is required once coursework is completed and the qualifying exam is successfully taken. The dissertation may be completed in a traditional or manuscript option format.

Alumni Testimonials

Lisa Carter-Harris, PhD, APRN, ANP-C

Melissa D. Pinto, PhD, RN, FSAHM, FAAN

I consider studying as a PhD degree candidate at UofL School of Nursing (SON) as the best thing that has ever happened to me. I benefited from the intellectual stimulating environment and experienced faculty in the classrooms and outside the classrooms. The program opened my horizon and helped me shape my future as a PhD degree holder. Working as a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) provided me with invaluable experience and skills that are very handy in my current job as a nursing faculty. I attribute my success to the supportive, nurturing, and healthy culture of SON on both the academic and social level. As an international student and a GRA, studying and working in a diverse environment that UofL SON embraces, made life easy. There wasn’t even a moment that I felt like a stranger. I am grateful to be a student, a GRA, and forever alumnus of UofL SON.

Maryam Alaradi, PhD, RN

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The bachelor of science in nursing , master of science in nursing , doctor of nursing practice , and APRN certificate programs at University of Louisville are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

The University of Louisville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor, master, specialist, doctoral, and first-professional degrees (D.M.D., J.D., M.D.). UofL Accreditation

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Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) represents the highest level of formal education for a career in nursing research and the scholarship of discovery. It prepares scholars for expression and communication of the knowledge base in the profession of nursing. PhD graduates develop the scientific foundation, steward the profession, define its uniqueness, maintain its professional integrity and educate the next generation of nurses. The PhD in Nursing program at Stony Brook University (SBU) School of Nursing (SON) will have a strong scientific emphasis within the discipline of nursing and an understanding of the science of related disciplines and translation science. The program is designed in a broad, cross-functional perspective to prepare nurse scientists to collaborate across disciplines to solve complex problems and address multiple issues facing individuals, families, communities and populations. Translational and innovative research, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration at the highest level, will be foundational to the program. The PhD program in nursing will attract candidates oriented towards developing new nursing knowledge who will select an area of research congruent with interdisciplinary faculty expertise in basic and clinical sciences. A key strength to this program is the School of Nursing’s research partnerships with the five health professions schools of Stony Brook Medicine as well as partnerships with biomedical engineering and computational science, biomedical informatics, and basic sciences. Key areas of nursing science in which potential PhD students may focus include, but are not limited to; symptom science, health promotion and illness prevention, and self-management.

To foster success and promote transformational, far-reaching opportunities, students will engage in a diversified curriculum. The 54-credit curriculum is designed for Master’s-prepared nurses who aspire to research and academic roles within health care and educational settings. It will build on the foundation of research and scholarship gained at the master’s level. The full-time, cohort-based program, to be offered on-site (one day/week) with web- enhanced technologies, contains three phases: Coursework, Proposal Development and Dissertation. Coursework and proposal development will take two and one-half years to complete with an additional minimum of one year for dissertation completion. The PhD candidate will select an area of research congruent with interdisciplinary faculty expertise. The SBU intensive research environment provides opportunities for mentorship by faculty within and outside the SON. Our Office of Nursing Research assists faculty and doctoral students in meeting research goals by providing administrative support, grant preparation support and management, statistical consultation, and dissemination of research findings through poster/podium presentation and manuscript preparation.

PhD Program Outcomes

PhD Course Requirement

By Advisement

For more information please contact Theresa Wenz, PhD Program Assistant, at  [email protected]  or 631-444-3287.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing

Become a Nurse Scientist

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Nursing is a research degree designed to prepare nurse scholars to advance the art, science, and practice of the discipline. The competency-based curriculum is taught with a combination of online and intensive formats. Courses are completed online, and in addition, students will attend a one week (4-5 days) intensive experience in Denver. Students will travel to Denver once each semester (fall, spring, and summer) while completing coursework and two to three times during their dissertation research.

We offer three research foci to students pursuing the PhD in Nursing:

• Health Care Systems Research
• Caring Science*
• Bio-behavioral Sciences *Caring Science is not admitting for the Fall 2024 semester.

Curriculum / Outcomes / Career

PhD Pathways

• Out of State Applicants

The PhD program includes 42 credits of coursework and 18 credits of dissertation. All students must take the core courses in addition to selecting a focus in health care systems, caring science or bio-behavioral science.

• PhD program curriculum plan of study

The College of Nursing has three major pathways to the PhD. Applicants may enter the PhD program with a bachelor's in nursing.

• The post-bachelors BS-PhD pathway offers direct admission to the PhD program for applicants who already hold a bachelors degree in nursing and have completed the GRE. Coursework is individualized for each student. Email [email protected] to learn more about this option.
• The post-masters PhD pathway is designed for applicants who already hold a masters degree in nursing. Two to three years of post-master’s doctoral course work leads to the PhD dissertation and PhD degree. Applicants with a master's in nursing should follow all PhD program requirements for admission .

Expected PhD Program Outcomes

• Create new knowledge through the research process.
• Demonstrates commitment to the profession through publications and conference presentations or engagement in professional organizations.
• Examines multiple theories and methodologies for application to research problems.
• Engages with fellow scientists and students in scholarly discourse.
• Demonstrates ethical responsibility and action as a scientist.
• Considers research findings relevant to public health and healthcare policy.

Career Possibilities

The College of Nursing’s online PhD program equips nurses to conduct research and to engage in knowledge development and scholarly inquiry across a variety of roles and settings including:

• Scientist/Researcher
• Administrator
• Healthcare Policy Analyst

Please see the following notice: Nursing Certification Disclaimer

PhD Information Session

Interested in our other PhD track-options? We have info sessions recorded for Caring Science and Health Care Systems you can watch or attend a Prospective Student Event to learn more about our PhD program.

Research Advice for PhD Students

CU Nursing grad’s advice includes finding the silver linings: Emily Barr, PhD, RN, CPNP-PC, CNM, FAAN - (PhD '21)

Emily's research story »

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Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

Excellence in Nursing Science & Education

The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University, as a recognized leader in education in nursing, is committed to innovation through research. The  PhD in nursing is a research doctorate.  You will learn from the nation’s top nurse scientists. You will also work with these outstanding faculty to conduct interdisciplinary  Research  and scholarship in one of the following focus areas

• Symptom Science 
• Family/Community Care 
• Aging Across the Lifespan 
• Self­Management of Health and Illness 
• Neuroscience

During the admissions process, the School of Nursing works in collaboration with the  School of Graduate Studies , which awards all PhD degrees at Case Western Reserve.

Interested in a Clinical Doctorate? Find out the difference  here.

Program Highlights

• Five different  Entry Points and Scheduling Options : traditional format, fast-­track option, dual doctoral program, advanced standing for DNP graduates, and the dual­-degree MSN/PhD program.
• Outstanding clinical and research affiliations with the nation’s best hospitals: University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland Clinic, the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, and MetroHealth Medical Center
• Opportunities to collaborate with the school’s  Centers of Excellence
• Education courses   available to prepare PhD graduates to teach and mentor the next generation of nurse scientists

50th anniversary of the PhD program

The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing research doctoral program celebrated its 50-year anniversary in Fall 2022. To mark this momentous milestone, the nursing school hosted three virtual events that focused on the PhD program's past, present and future. (To view recording of these presentations, visit the links below.

• Featuring Bobbie Berkowitz, Shirley Moore and Jaclene Zauszniewski
• Featuring Elizabeth Madigan, Carol Musil and Ronald Hickman
• Featuring Shanina Knighton, Jill Bryne, Mary Dolansky and Greer Glazer

University of Tennessee Health Science Center Ph.D in Nursing

Graduate School (Nursing) • Memphis, TN •  

Graduate School (Nursing) • Memphis, TN

University of Tennessee Health Science Center Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.)

University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a public school. The College of Nursing has an application fee of $70 for U.S. residents. Tuition for the PHD program at University of Tennessee Health Science Center is Full-time: $671 per credit (in-state) and $989 per credit (out-of-state). The College of Nursing at University of Tennessee Health Science Center has 62 full-time faculty members. The total PHD enrollment is 27.

At-a-Glance

Programs Offered

Nursing Ph.D Program Admissions

Application fee (U.S. residents)

University of Tennessee Health Science Center Admissions

Applicants :

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Nursing Ph.D Program Cost

Tuition & Fees (In-State)

$671 Per Credit

Tuition & Fees (Out-of-State)

$989 Per Credit

Required Fees

University of Tennessee Health Science Center Cost

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Nursing Ph.D Program Student Population

Minority Students

International Students

University of Tennessee Health Science Center Student Body

Minority Enrollment

Black or African American

Hispanic/Latino

American Indian or Alaska Native

Not Specified is not included in this breakdown due to an enrollment of 0%.

Gender distribution (full-time) :

Nursing Ph.D Program Academics

Department Concentrations

• nurse anesthesia nurse-midwifery
• nurse practitioner: adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner: family
• nurse practitioner: pediatric primary care nurse practitioner: psychiatric-mental health, across the lifespan
• other majors dual majors

University of Tennessee Health Science Center Academics

• Dual Pediatric Primary Care and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Dual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner/Family Nurse Practitioner
• Dual: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner/Family Nurse Practitioner

Nursing School details based on 2023 data.

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Learn with us at Bloomberg Nursing, explore what we have to offer.

Enrolling at the Bloomberg School of Nursing at the University of Toronto is an excellent choice for anyone who is passionate about nursing. With top-notch education, practical training, and exciting career prospects, you’ll be well on your way to making a positive impact in the healthcare field!

Our Programs

Undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Graduate Master of Nursing

Graduate Post-Master Nurse Practitioner Diploma

Graduate Collaborative Specializations for Master’s and Doctoral Students

Graduate Doctor of Philosophy

Graduate Doctor of Nursing

General Information

The centre for professional development  is where you accelerate your skills.

Advance your healthcare career with flexible continuing education programs from the Centre for Professional Development at Bloomberg School of Nursing, UofT.

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Certificate Certificate in Nursing Education for the Practice Setting

Certificate Certificate in Palliative Care for Nurse Practitioners: Core Competencies for NP Practice

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Certificate Certificate in Hospital & Acute Care for Nurse Practitioners

Certificate Certificate in Mental Health and Addictions for Nurse Practitioners

Certificate Certificate in Clinical Leadership in Long-Term Care

Course NP-Primary Health Care: Nurse Practitioner Exam Prep Course

Course Advanced Ostomy Care and Management

Course Controlled Drugs and Substances: Essential Management and Prescribing Practices

Course Next Generation NCLEX-RN® Exam Prep Course

Course Review of Health Assessment Across the Lifespan

View all certificate programs & courses

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Centre for Professional Development Lawrence Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing University of Toronto 155 College Street, Suite 130 Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1P8

Current Students at Bloomberg Nursing, explore what we have to offer.

Current student resources, doctor of philosophy (phd).

Innovative, quantitative, and qualitative research that is leading the way not just for nursing but for healthcare around the world. This is Nursing in Action.

The Lawrence Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is designed to prepare scientists and scholars with the analytical and research skills required to expand their knowledge of clinical, theoretical, and health systems issues.

Program Information Sessions

Doctoral Programs Information Session

December 4: Admissions Q & A Workshop

December 11: Doctoral Programs Q&A Financial Workshop

What you will learn:

Gain a superior understanding of the theoretical foundations of nursing science

A broad appreciation of the relationship between nursing science and the scientific basis of other health disciplines

In-depth knowledge and specialization related to a selected aspect of nursing science

The ability to design and conduct research studies of relevance and importance to nursing science

Commitment to ethical scholarship and collaboration in furthering knowledge with a critical and objective perspective on research

The ability to contribute to the education of undergraduate and graduate nursing students

Note: Effective September 2020, students will no longer enrol in fields of study. (Effective Care and Health Outcomes, Nursing Health Systems, Critical Approaches to Health and Health Care).

Watch our 2023 Doctoral Program Information Session

Program format, full-time in-person.

Students normally complete the program in four years.

Combining access to renowned nursing researchers and mentors, the PhD program includes two years of course work and at least two years of work on the thesis/research project. In addition to required courses, students also attend a three-day research symposium where they connect with their peers and supervisor.

Program Overview

Why choose bloomberg nursing at u of t.

Bloomberg Nursing was one of the first post-secondary institutions in Canada to offer a graduate education in nursing. Our commitment to excellence continues with the brightest minds in nursing research, scholarship, clinical practice and health care administration. As a graduate of Bloomberg Nursing, you are not only prepared to succeed, you join a community of scholars advancing health care through innovative research and evidence-based knowledge translation that influences policy and practice nationally and internationally.

Full-Time Program

PhD students must enrol on a full-time basis. PhD students normally complete the degree in four years of full-time study.  All requirements for the degree must be completed within six calendar years from the date of the student’s enrolment in the program.

The required course components of the PhD program are offered in-class only.

Program Requirements

The PhD in Nursing is offered as a full-time program.

Successful completion of all required courses by the end of Year 2 in the program.

Students must successfully complete a minimum of 3.0 full course equivalents (FCEs) that include:

PhD Seminar (1.0 FCE)

Research methods course NUR 1079Y Research Methods for Knowledge Discovery (1.0 FCE)

One course (0.5 FCE) related to the substantive area of the field of study and thesis plans

One course (0.5 FCE) may be either a method or substantive area course as determined by the student and the supervisory committee.

Students must attain a minimum average standing at the B+ level for required courses.

Students are normally expected to complete all five required courses (3.0 FCEs) by the end of Year 2. If all required courses are not successfully completed (with a minimum average standing at the B+ level) by the end of Year 3, the Faculty of Nursing will normally make a recommendation to SGS for termination of registration.

For students who enrolled prior to September 2020:

Students must successfully complete a minimum of 3.0 Full Course Equivalents (FCEs) that include:

Field of study Course (0.5 FCE) that includes one of the following:

• NUR 1085H (for students in the critical perspectives in health and healthcare field of study)
• NUR 1086H (for students in the Nursing Health Systems field of study) or
• NUR 1087H (for students in the Effective Care and Health Outcomes field of study)

At least one method course (0.5 FCE) relevant to the field of study and to the dissertation plans

At least one course (0.5 FCE) related to the substantive area of the field of study and thesis plans

The fifth required course (0.5 FCE) may be either a method or substantive area course as determined by the student and the supervisory committee.

All PhD students should visit the  SGS site  on  PhD supervision.  It has important information on the topic of  student-supervisor relationship :  SGS PhD Supervision

Literature Review Paper

Successful completion of the literature review paper.

The literature review paper topic as well as type and format of the literature review paper must be approved by the supervisor (with signed documentation by the student and supervisor) by March 1 of Year 1. This agreement should specify the problem statement, the format/type of literature review that is appropriate to the field of study, and to the scholarly traditions within which the student’s research is situated.

The literature review paper must be submitted by September 30 of Year 2. The submitted literature review paper will be formally reviewed and evaluated by the supervisor and at least one additional thesis committee member. Written and verbal feedback about the submitted literature review paper will be provided to the student at a supervisory committee meeting. For the literature review paper to be considered a pass, both faculty members’ assessments of the literature review paper must be at the  successful completion or pass level . If both examinations are considered pass, the student may receive either a  satisfactory or excellent  rating at their supervisory committee meeting. If one or both paper reviews are rated unsatisfactory or not pass, then the student receives an  unsatisfactory  rating at the supervisory committee meeting.

If the student does not successfully complete the literature review paper first submitted, the student will have one additional opportunity to revise and rewrite the literature review paper, based on the feedback received at the supervisory committee. The student must resubmit the revised literature review paper by December 1 of Year 2. This revised literature review paper must be formally evaluated by the supervisor and one other thesis committee member (normally the same committee member who completed the assessment of the original literature review paper). The student will receive feedback about the revised literature review paper at a supervisory committee meeting. For the literature review to be considered a pass, both faculty members’ assessments of the literature review must be at the  pass  level. If both reviews are considered pass, the student may receive either a  satisfactory or excellent  rating at their supervisory committee meeting. If one or both reviews are rated  failure/not pass , then the student receives an  unsatisfactory  rating at the supervisory committee meeting.

If the student does not successfully complete the literature review paper on the second attempt, the Faculty of Nursing will normally recommend to SGS that the student’s registration in the PhD program be terminated.

Thesis Proposal

Successful defense of the thesis proposal, normally by the end of Year 2.

Students are normally expected to defend their thesis proposal by the end of Year 2 of their program. Students must successfully defend their thesis proposal no later than the end of Year 3. The format of the proposal will be similar to that of a modified tri-council grant application. Assessment of the thesis proposal consists of both the written proposal and the oral defence of the proposal. Students who do not successfully defend the proposal after the first attempt may have one additional opportunity to successfully present and defend the written proposal, and this must be accomplished before the end of Year 3 of the program.

If the student does not successfully defend the thesis proposal by the end of Year 3 (including a second attempt, if required), the Faculty of Nursing will recommend to SGS that the student’s registration in the PhD program be terminated.

The student’s dissertation will be defended in the PhD Final Oral Examination of the School of Graduate Studies.

Program Length : 4 years full-time; 5 years transfer-from-master’s

Time Limit : 6 years full-time; 7 years transfer-from-master’s

Admission Requirements

Applicants are admitted under the  general regulations of the School of Graduate Studies . Applicants must also satisfy the Graduate Department of Nursing Science’s additional admission requirements stated below:

Applicants must hold a master’s degree or its equivalent in nursing or related field with at least a B+ standing from a  recognized university .

All  English facility requirements  must be met at the time of application.

Applicants whose primary language is not English and who graduated from a university where the language of instruction and examination was not English must demonstrate proficiency in English. An interview may be required.

Please email  connect.nursing@utoronto.ca  for information on the PhD program and the application process including identifying a supervisor. Please note that meeting minimum admission requirements does not ensure admission to the program.

Transfer from the MN Program into the PhD Program

Exceptional students who are excellent candidates for the PhD program may apply to transfer from the MN to the PhD program. Students must currently be enrolled in the MN program at the Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto to qualify.

Candidates applying to transfer from the MN program must have:

1. agreement of an identified supervisor., 2.  completed the following :.

MN-Clinical : Four courses; two completed with a minimum grade of B+ and the following two required courses, both with a minimum grade of A:

History of Ideas in Nursing Practice: Clinical

Research design, appraisal, and utilization: clinical.

• 3 hour Tues: 1-4pm

MN-HSLA : Four courses; two completed with a minimum grade of B+ and the following two required courses, both with a minimum grade of A:

History of Ideas in Nursing Practice: Health Systems Leadership and Administration

Integrated approaches to research appraisal and utilization part 2.

MN-NP : Four courses; two completed with a minimum grade of B+ and the following two required courses, both with a minimum grade of A:

Research Design, Appraisal, and Utilization: Nurse Practitioner

Introduction to qualitative research: methodologies, appraisal and knowledge translation: nurse practitioner.

• 3 Sections with 1 hour optional tutorial Thurs. Section 6331 1pm-2pm Section 6332: 1pm-2pm Section 6333: 11am-12pm

Please visit our  How to Apply  section for detailed information on the application process and required documents.

Doing Qualitative Research: Design and Data Collection

• 3 hours/week

Intermediate Statistics for Health Sciences Research

Implementation science in healthcare, research methods for knowledge discovery, phd student/faculty seminars.

• 2 hours/week

Topics in Critical Perspectives in Health and Health Care

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Latest Testimonials

I was impressed by the dedication and expertise of the faculty members. Their commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment, combined with their wealth of real-world experience, truly set the […]

Rey Omar Mina

I was impressed by the dedication and expertise of the faculty members. Their commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment, combined with their wealth of real-world experience, truly set the stage for an enriching academic journey. The clinical rotations provided an invaluable opportunity to apply classroom learning to real-world patient scenarios. I had the privilege of working alongside experienced preceptors who provided invaluable guidance and mentorship.

The first year was hard and busy but transformational. The curriculum provided students with various ways of learning including lectures, online discussions, case studies, and simulation labs. Learning hands-on from […]

Tomoko Fukushima

The first year was hard and busy but transformational. The curriculum provided students with various ways of learning including lectures, online discussions, case studies, and simulation labs. Learning hands-on from instructors who are experts in their field at the simulation lab was priceless. I also learned from fellow classmates who bring the breadth of experiences in different fields. Although course work can be overwhelming sometimes, faculty is supportive of our learning journey.

Being a Doctor of Nursing student has led me on a journey of intellectual growth and discovery and through rigorous research, collaboration with esteemed peers from across Canada, and mentorship […]

Kandis Harris

Being a Doctor of Nursing student has led me on a journey of intellectual growth and discovery and through rigorous research, collaboration with esteemed peers from across Canada, and mentorship from accomplished faculty at the University of Toronto. This transformative experience is preparing me to contribute positively by bringing valuable insights, fearless innovation, engaged leadership, and expertise to my profession. 

Introduced at a time when learning health systems are unfolding across Canada, Bloomberg’s Doctor of Nursing program has commenced at a perfect time. During this program, I have gained a […]

Vanessa Wright

Introduced at a time when learning health systems are unfolding across Canada, Bloomberg’s Doctor of Nursing program has commenced at a perfect time. During this program, I have gained a greater understanding of interplay between health system structures and how nurses are ideal leaders and change agents to advance research and education within these settings. Most importantly, I have felt supported and encouraged by my supervisor, committee, professors, and classmates to continue to generate inquiry across academic and health organizations, situating myself as a lifelong leaner.  

I chose to attend Bloomberg Nursing at the University of Toronto for graduate studies to engage deeply with leading nurse scholars and learn within a community of emerging nurse leaders, […]

Calvin Tsang

I chose to attend Bloomberg Nursing at the University of Toronto for graduate studies to engage deeply with leading nurse scholars and learn within a community of emerging nurse leaders, progressing through the master’s program together as a cohort. The Master of Nursing program prepared me to take on leadership roles in advancing nursing practice as my cohort and professors challenge current notions to envision a dynamic future for nursing. I have benefited from the unparalleled networking opportunities that Bloomberg Nursing offers through placement opportunities that put into practice the concepts we learn in the classroom, and a robust and engaged alumni network that mentors the next generation of nurse leaders.

As a student, my most memorable learning experience took place in a second-year class on reflexive nursing practice. Prior to taking this class, I was unaware of reflexive practice and […]

Samantha Bulchand

As a student, my most memorable learning experience took place in a second-year class on reflexive nursing practice. Prior to taking this class, I was unaware of reflexive practice and many of the systemically rooted issues in nursing. This class shaped my perspective by encouraging me to reflect on my own positionalities, identities and experiences to better challenge and address issues in nursing such as systemic racism. This class truly inspired me to become as advocate for patient justice and nurse’s rights!

Meet the team

Bloomberg Nursing prides itself on providing our students with expert faculty in the field of nursing innovation and science. You will learn directly from nurses and nurse practitioners with a variety of clinical backgrounds.

Kristin Cleverley , RN, PhD, CPMHN(C)

Associate Professor CAMH Chair in Mental Health Nursing Research

Lisa Cranley , RN, PhD

Associate Professor

Craig Dale , RN, PhD, CNCC(C)

Cindy-Lee Dennis , PhD, FCAHS

Denise Gastaldo , PhD

Edith Hillan , RN, PhD, FAAN

Lindsay Jibb , RN, PhD, CPHON

Assistant Professor Signy Hildur Eaton Chair in Paediatric Nursing Research

Linda Johnston , PhD, FEANS, FAAN

Samantha Mayo , RN, PhD

Acting Director, Doctoral Programs Associate Professor RBC Financial Chair in Oncology Nursing Research

Linda McGillis Hall , RN, PhD, FCAHS, FCAN, FCNEI, FAAN

Katherine McGilton , RN, PhD, FCAHS, FCAN, FAAN

Professor – Status only (Primary)

Carles Muntaner , MHS, PhD, FCAHS

Sioban Nelson , RN, PhD, FCAHS, FCAN, FAAN

Monica Parry , MEd, MSc, NP-Adult, PhD, FAAN, FCAN

Elizabeth Peter , RN, PhD, FAAN

Martine Puts , RN, PhD, FAAN

Professor Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Care of Frail Older Adults

Jennifer Stinson , RN-EC, PhD, CPNP, FAAN

Professor – Status only (Primary) Mary Jo Haddad Nursing Chair in Child Health Research

Robyn Stremler , RN, PhD, FAAN

Acting Dean and Professor

Kimberley Widger , RN, PhD, FCAN, FAAN

Acting Associate Dean, Academic Associate Professor Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Pediatric Palliative Care

Amy Wright , NP, PhD

Assistant Professor

Related Programs

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Our accelerated, two-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program opens the door to a long and rewarding career in health care.

Master of Nursing

Our Master of Nursing program prepares nurses to be professional leaders in their chosen advanced practice field.

Post-Master Nurse Practitioner Diploma

A program designed for nurses who have completed a Master’s degree, preparing them for NP roles.

Collaborative Specializations for Master’s and Doctoral Students

Providing a multidisciplinary experience that enhances student expertise in their chosen graduate degree.

Doctor of Nursing

Thesis-based program.  Students learn to identify and investigate a challenge in healthcare or nursing education and design implementation and evidence-based strategies to improve outcomes.

Doctoral Degrees in Nursing

Table of contents.

What is a Doctoral Degree in Nursing?

A doctoral degree in any field is what we consider to be the terminal or final degree for that field. A doctorate is the highest degree you can possibly earn. When it comes to nursing, there are a couple of options to consider if you’re thinking about getting your Doctorate. Each has a different focus and specialization that uniquely supports the profession of nursing.

Doctor of Philosophy, PhD

The PhD is probably most likely what people think of when it comes to Doctoral degrees that are outside what a physician would have. There are numerous PhD focuses out there across many disciplines and professions, and they all focus on research within their field or specialty. 

The PhD in nursing is a research-focused degree with an emphasis on creating new knowledge as it relates to things like nursing practices, healthcare, patient outcomes, and education. These nurse scientists identify a problem, create a hypothesis, develop a way to evaluate that hypothesis through statistical analysis, and synthesize new evidence and knowledge based on their findings.

The PhD project has some great resources you can check out for more insight into what the Doctor of Philosophy is all about. 

Doctor of Nursing Practice, DNP

The DNP degree could be the doctoral degree most directly relatable to the practice of nursing at the bedside. Throughout the DNP academic program, the focus is on evidence-based practice and how to bring that practice to the patients. As a DNP, you are prepared to view potential problems in practice, identify the solution to that problem by investigating and reinforcing best practices, and assist in putting those best practices into action.

Another way to think of this is that the DNP can pick up where the PhD left off, because one complements the other.

A PhD-prepared nurse scientist conducts research and produces evidence from that research. The DNP-prepared nurse focuses on translating that evidence into practice to support optimal patient outcomes.

To learn more about the possibilities in achieving your Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree, check out Doctors of Nursing Practice .

Doctorate in Education, EdD

The EdD is, as you may have guessed, all about education. This is another degree that touches many different disciplines of education outside of nursing, such as those professionals directing school systems who seek to advance scholarly practices. 

The EdD is available with a focus on nursing education through some universities and colleges. Those pursuing their EdD with a focus on nursing will be prepared to be leaders and innovators in the academic preparation of future nurses.

If you’re interested, a great resource to check out the EdD options out there is EdD Programs .

What Can You Do With a Doctoral Degree in Nursing?

Any of the Doctoral degrees mentioned here likely have some elements to set you up for success as a leader in your field. Depending on what you want to do with your professional life, or what your current professional role includes, one of the Doctoral pathways could be better suited than the others.

Nurses with Doctoral degrees have knowledge and skills that support roles outside of what many might consider traditional and can include roles like

• Academic faculty
• Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN)
• Nursing science and research
• Clinical leadership
• Health executive 
• Health policy analyst
• Healthcare lobbyist
• Healthcare data analyst
• Health Writer
• Nurse consultant
• Health Program Director

Which Doctoral Degree is Right for Me?

Which Doctoral degree is right for you depends on you as a person, and the reasons you are considering it in the first place. The decision to pursue a Doctoral degree and the pathway to getting there should be guided by what you want to do with your degree when you’re done.

You don’t want to decide you’re going to get your PhD and then try and figure out what you’re going to do with it. You should be thinking in the reverse. Think about what roles you could see yourself in and make your decisions about which Doctoral pathway to pursue based on that. The last thing you want to do is labor through a PhD program geared toward research and academia when your true heart’s desire is to be a clinical leader.

If you think you want to be a member of the nursing faculty, then any of the three mentioned Doctoral programs will likely serve you well. If you want to be a nurse scientist focused on research, you would want to stick with a PhD. The end goal needs to justify the means.

Is a Doctoral Degree The Right Choice For Me?

If you’re thinking about someday pursuing a Doctoral degree you really need to make sure you want it badly enough to put in the work. Sometimes nurses like the sound of completing their Doctoral degree, but when it comes down to the work they run out of steam or they find it’s just too much with everything else in life they need to manage.

Completing a terminal degree is a tremendous amount of work. You will eat, breathe, and sleep school for a period of time, and it does get tiresome. By the time I finished my own DNP degree program I didn’t want to think about or speak about my chosen area of research at all. I was just plain sick of it for a while.

Trust me, there were many times throughout the program that I wanted to throw in the towel, but I’m very happy I didn’t. This is not meant to scare people, it is meant to make sure you have a realistic idea of what the expectations are. Ask around, and talk to some people you know who have been through it. See what their opinion on the workload is.

How Do I Get Started and When?

When and where you get started depends mostly on where you are now. Most Doctoral programs will require at least a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s level coursework to be completed as a component of their admission requirements.

There are some exceptions to this, especially with many of the APRN programs that have transitioned to DNP programs. For these programs, you can be accepted into the program with a Bachelor’s degree and work through the Master’s level coursework as a matriculated DNP student.

The timing of when to start depends a lot on what your life is like and what responsibilities you may be managing while also in school. Some people prefer to delay until their kids are in school or until some other major life event has passed. That is totally okay, and nobody is going to be able to make that decision better than you.

I will also say it’s never too soon or too late to start at least thinking about Doctoral programs if you’re interested, but you need to do your research.

You do not want to apply to and enroll in the first Doctoral program that shows up in your Google search. You need to research the program and think about its unique requirements and how they fit your needs.

Here are some things to consider when looking at programs:

• Does this program fit my future career goals?
• Does the enrollment timing of this program match the needs of me and my family?
• Do I need a program that is online, in-person, or a combination of both?
• Does the program have on-site residency requirements I might need to satisfy?
• How long is the program?
• How much is the program?
• What is the program’s reputation?
• Check out the faculty; are there any faculty members that have research interests that align with yours?
• What are the clinical or research requirements?
• Are you allowed to take any semesters off if needed?

Matt is a registered nurse currently working in nursing professional development specializing in supporting the development of current and future nurses. He obtained his Bachelors in Nursing from Utica College and both his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and Master’s degree in Nursing Education from Sacred Heart University.  Matt maintains two national board certifications as a Certified Emergency Nurse and a Trauma Certified Registered Nurse. Matt’s free time is mainly spent with his three children as they are always reliable in keeping him active.

Further Reading

What Type of Nurse Should I Be? How to Choose Your Specialty

Do Nurses Need Malpractice Insurance? Lawsuit Statistics and Advice

What Is a BSN, and What Can I Do With One?

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DNP Nurse Practitioner Major

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), academically prepared and employed as primary care and/or acute care providers in the U.S. health care system. In the University of Pittsburgh Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program applicants may select to be prepared in one of six NP specialty areas. NPs blend clinical expertise in health management and disease prevention to offer a wholistic perspective to health care. In addition, they use counseling and teaching skills to assist patients to make smarter lifestyle choices. This approach has been shown to lower healthcare costs and reduce hospitalizations.

Nurse practitioners serve as primary care providers in clinics, hospitals, home health care services, and outpatient care centers – many in traditionally underserved communities and regions. NPs are educationally prepared to autonomously diagnose and treat conditions, prescribe medications and order and interpret diagnostic tests, design treatment plans with patients, and teach patients about managing illnesses and understanding how to use their medications. State laws govern certification requirements and scope of practice: updated information can be found here . The U.S. government estimates that employment of nurse practitioners will grow by 35% by 2024.

In 2018 the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) made the commitment to move all entry-level nurse practitioner education to the DNP degree by 2025. The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing's six NP areas of concentration are listed below:

Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP on-site

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
• Family (Individual Across the Lifespan)
• Pediatric Primary Care
• Psychiatric Mental Health

Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP Distance Education format

The following BSN to DNP NP specialty areas are available via distance education for qualified students per Policy 438

Nurse Practitioner MSN to DNP On-site & Online

Beginning Fall 2017, out-of-state tuition rates for online cohorts will match the in-state rate, the online option is only available to applicants with a master’s degree in the same focus.

• Family (individual Across the Lifespan)
• Pediatric Acute Care

Additional Information

• Degree Program Application Deadlines
• Applying for Admission
• Tuition and Fees

Graduates of the NP major are eligible to sit for discipline-specific national certification exams. The particular course of study, credit and clinical requirements, and certifications are outlined on each of the concentrations’ Web pages. Each area of concentration requires successful completion of a comprehensive examination and a scholarly DNP project.

Accreditation Statement:

The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( https://www.ccneaccreditation.org ) from 02/24/2014 through 12/31/2024

Nurse Practitioner Licensure/Certification

Most US states require professional licensure/certification to be employed as a nurse practitioner (NP). In most states, in addition to graduating from an accredited NP program, graduates must take and pass a recognized national certification examination in their area of preparation to be eligible for licensure/certification. Please visit Nursing Licensure.org for state-specific requirements.