how many years is phd in nursing

DNP vs. Ph.D. in Nursing: What’s the Difference?

• DNP vs. PH.D. Nursing Compared

Duties and Responsibilities

• Education and Certification

Salary and Career Outlook

• Which Is Best?

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Nurses who have already earned a masters degree and are looking to pursue the next step in their education have two options: doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing.

Both degrees offer nurses a variety of professional opportunities, allowing them to utilize their expertise to benefit the field of nursing.

This guide outlines the differences in earning a DNP vs. a Ph.D. in nursing, and what opportunities lay ahead for graduates of either program. In understanding the roles and responsibilities of each, nurses can determine which degree is right for them.

DNP and Ph.D. in Nursing Key Similarities and Differences

A DNP and Ph.D. are both terminal degrees, meaning they are the highest degree a nurse can earn. Regardless of their choice of program, interested nurses need a bachelor of science (BSN) degree in nursing, an active and unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license, and clinical experience before gaining admittance to either doctorate program.

While a DNP and Ph.D. are both advanced degrees, they prepare nurses for different roles within the nursing field. DNP programs focus on educating nurses who want to pursue leadership roles in a clinical setting. Ph.D. programs provide nurses with an education to pursue academic or research-based positions.

What is a DNP?

A DNP is an advanced degree for nurses who want to become experts in clinical nursing. The degree is an alternative to research-centric doctoral programs, and provides nurses with skills and training to work at an advanced level in the nursing field.

What is a Ph.D. in Nursing?

Earning a Ph.D. in nursing prepares graduates for work either in academia or research settings. Graduates often pursue faculty positions with academic institutions or in a career that involves performing research in a medical laboratory.

Source: Payscale

Popular DNP Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The roles of a nurse with a DNP vs. a Ph.D. in nursing are fundamentally different. The former focuses on clinical work, whereas the latter is geared more toward research and education.

Their duties revolve around those two major areas. As such, DNPs are more likely to work with patients, while Ph.D graduates focus on educating nurses and analyzing medical practices.

What Can You Do With a DNP?

Nurses with a DNP are considered expert clinicians who are prepared for the highest level of nursing practice.

Upon earning the degree, nurses can choose to focus on leadership and administrative roles (e.g., nurse administrator, public health, healthcare policy, informatics) nursing education (e.g.,clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator), or clinical care (e.g.,certified registered nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner).

After earning a DNP, nurses’ responsibilities may include:

• Diagnose and treat patients
• Prescribe medications
• Order various diagnostic tests
• Handle patient complains
• Consult on complex cases
• Implement policy changes

Keep in mind that some DNP programs are for roles (clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator) that will not have authorization to perform some of the above responsibilities.

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

Nurses with a Ph.D. often focus on the areas of education and research. They may design studies and conduct research on clinical practices, nursing education, health systems, and public policy.

People with a Ph.D. in nursing often find employment in academic, business, or governmental settings. Overall, nurses with a Ph.D.can:

• Design, conduct, and publish research
• Develop new nursing knowledge and methods
• Utilize research results to improve nursing outcomes
• Write proposals and apply for grants to fund research
• Mentor and advise students
• Compose curriculum for nursing courses

Education Prerequisites

When looking to earn either a DNP or Ph.D., most programs require applicants to have similar prerequisites. Institutions often look for candidates who have attained an undergraduate degree, are actively able to practice nursing, and can meet certain academic requirements.

How to Earn a DNP

To apply for a DNP degree program, candidates need a BSN or master of science in nursing (MSN) from an accredited institution, a GPA of at least 3.0, and an active nursing license.

Once enrolled, students can choose an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role such as clinical nurse practitioner (CNP), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), certified nurse-midwife (CNM), or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA).

CNPs and CNSs then choose a population focus (i.e., neonatal, pediatrics, womens health, psychiatric-mental health). DNP candidates often focus on a research or capstone project throughout their entire program.

The program can last 2-4 years, and full-time students are able to earn their degree faster than their part-time counterparts. Students participate in courses on informatics, health policy, healthcare delivery systems, evidence-based practice, and project management.

Learners must also complete a total of 1,000 clinical hours, 500 of which can stem from a previous masters program that resulted in national certification. Learners with previous hours may become more common as some programs, like CRNA, transition from MSN to DNP-only.

How to Earn a Ph.D. in Nursing

To get accepted to a Ph.D. program, candidates need a BSN or MSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 to 3.5 minimum GPA, and an active nursing license. Applicants must also provide a CV or resume, professional references, and a personal statement.

The length of a Ph.D. program ranges from 4-6 years depending on the status of the student (full-time vs. part-time). The curriculum revolves around theory, analysis, and statistics, with students taking classes in grant writing, research design, and research methods. Since their work takes place within education and research, Ph.D. candidates are not required to complete clinical hours.

Upon program completion, DNP and Ph.D. graduates may benefit from a higher earning potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a steady need over the next decade for nurses with advanced training.

Ultimately, degree type, specialization, and population focus dictate the average annual salary and the type of demand nurses should anticipate.

$107,000 Average Annual DNP Salary

$99,000 Average Annual Ph.D. in Nursing Salary

DNP in Nursing Salary and Career Outlook

While the average salary of nurses with DNPs is approximately $107,000, their chosen specialization impacts their earning potential and demand. DNP-holders working a CRNAs average $164,340 per year, according to July 2022 Payscale data, while those who work in pediatrics earn $92,030 .

Not only do CRNAs earn the highest average salary, but they are also one of the most in-demand specializations; the BLS projects a job growth rate of 45%, significantly higher than the 9% average for all other professions.

Another main factor that influences DNP earning potential is years of experience. Entry-level nurses earn an average annual salary of approximately $87,000 , according to July 2022 Payscale data. Whereas those with more than 20 years of experience can earn upwards of $187,000 depending upon the specialization.

Ph.D. in Nursing Salary and Career Outlook

Much like nurses with a DNP, the salary of one with a Ph.D. varies based on focus. According to the BLS , nurse educators with a Ph.D. can receive upwards of $125,930 annually.

While all nurses with advanced degrees continue to be in demand, Ph.D. graduates who choose to become educators can especially benefit from this need. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing , nursing schools had to turn away over 80,000 qualified applicants in 2019 due to the shortage of educators.

Many states are looking to provide incentives to nurses who choose to become educators, thereby increasing the benefit of selecting this role.

DNP vs. Ph.D. in Nursing: Which Degree is Right For Me?

Deciding which degree works best depends upon a nurse’s personal and professional goals. The degrees lead nurses down two fairly distinct paths – one clinical and one research-oriented.

DNP and Ph.D. graduates are both in high demand and have above-average earning potential. The degrees differ in time commitment and responsibilities.

Nurses who prefer to work in a clinical capacity either directly with patients or in a nursing leadership role should pursue a DNP. Graduates often find themselves in a variety of clinical settings, such as hospitals, specialty practices, or public health offices.

Learners more interested in preparing future nurses or conducting research that aids in the development of new and effective nursing methods should pursue a Ph.D. Nurse Ph.D. graduates often use their expertise in settings such as colleges and universities, research facilities, medical laboratories, and government agencies.

Related Pages

Why Get a Doctorate in Nursing (DNP)?

Graduating with a doctoral degree in nursing can advance careers, increase salaries, and lead to rewarding jobs. Learn why and how to become a DNP.

Online DNP Programs of 2024

Explore the top online DNP programs. Learn about on-campus requirements, accreditation, cost, and program length while choosing your next career step.

Types of Nursing Degrees and Levels

Learn about the types of nursing degrees available and how to launch your career in this field. Explore in-demand job opportunities and earning potential.

Page last reviewed: May 6, 2022

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

You might be interested in

HESI vs. TEAS Exam: The Differences Explained

Nursing schools use entrance exams to make admissions decisions. Learn about the differences between the HESI vs. TEAS exams.

10 Nursing Schools That Don’t Require TEAS or HESI Exam

For Chiefs’ RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Nursing Runs in the Family

DNP VS. Ph.D. - 12 Key Differences Between DNP And Ph.D. In Nursing

Nursing is one of the few professions that’s associated with two different terminal degrees: the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.). The former degree is a clinical doctorate designed for advanced practice nurses who are actively working to improve healthcare outcomes in medical settings and who are championing the leadership role that nurses play in bringing about those outcomes. The latter degree is a research-focused doctorate designed to advance the science behind nursing practice. As of 2019, 40,271 nurses in the U.S. held DNP degrees according to statistics generated by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing while 6,994 nurses held Ph.D.s in nursing. If you’re an advanced practice nurse who’s interested in reaching the highest echelons of your profession, the DNP vs. Ph.D. in nursing quandary may be one you find yourself thinking about frequently. Keep reading to discover 12 key differences between DNP and Ph.D. in nursing.

What Is A DNP Degree?

What is a ph.d. in nursing degree, what concentrations are offered in a dnp degree, • family nurse practitioner (fnp):, • adult-gerontology nurse practitioner (agnp):, • pediatric nurse practitioner (pnp):, • neonatal nurse practitioner (nnp):, • women’s health nurse practitioner (whnp):, • psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (pmhnp):, • certified registered nurse anesthetist (crna):, • clinical nurse midwife (cnm):, • clinical nurse specialist (cns):, • nursing education:, • executive leadership:, • nursing practice:, • health policy:, • public health:, • nursing administration:, what concentrations are offered in a ph.d. in nursing degree, • clinical nursing research:, • public health policy:, • nursing science:, • healthcare innovation:, how many years does a dnp degree take to complete, how many years does a ph.d. in nursing degree take to complete, where can you work after earning your dnp degree, where can you work after earning your ph.d. in nursing degree, how much does a dnp graduate make, how much does a ph.d. in nursing graduate make, dnp vs. ph.d. in nursing: what is the difference, 1. the dnp focuses on clinical practice while the ph.d. focuses on academic research., 2. the ph.d. includes a dissertation project; the dnp includes a capstone project., 3. nursing ph.d. programs often involve a mentored teaching experience., 4. ph.d. programs prefer letters of recommendation that speak to the applicant’s academic history while dnp programs prefer letters of recommendation that speak to the applicant’s clinical experiences., 5. it takes longer to earn a nursing ph.d.., 6. dnp programs require a greater number of credits for completion of the degree., 7. dnps typically earn higher salaries than nursing ph.d.s., 8. dnps have a greater assortment of employment opportunities than nursing ph.d.s., 9. unless a nursing ph.d. is a certified nurse practitioner, his or her scope of practice is limited to bedside nursing., 10. nursing ph.d. graduates do not have to go through a periodic recertification process., 11. most universities will not offer tenure track teaching positions to dnps., 12. nursing ph.d. students are not responsible for completing a minimum number of clinical hours., conclusion - dnp vs. ph.d. in nursing: which one should you pursue.

Top PhD in Nursing Programs

What is a ph.d. in nursing.

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing and DNP Differences

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

Key Ph.D. in Nursing vs. DNP Differences

>> Related:  Top Online DNP Programs

Types of Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

>> Show Me DNP Programs

Online Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

Top Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

 1. University of Pennsylvania

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

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

Contact UPenn about this program:

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

Source: University of Pennsylvania

2. Duke University

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

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

Contact Duke University about this program:

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

Source: Duke University

3. Duquesne University

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

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

Contact Duquesne University about this program:

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

Source: Duquesne University

4. Columbia University

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

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

Contact Columbia University about this program:

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

Source: Columbia University

5. Rush University

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

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

Contact Rush University about this program:

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

Source: Rush University

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

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

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

>> Related: The Best Nursing Research Topics

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing Salary

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

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

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

How Long Do PhD in Nursing Programs Take?

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

What Will You Learn in a PhD in Nursing Program?

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing Program Requirements

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

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

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

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

Next Steps to Enroll in a PhD in Nursing Degree Program

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

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

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

By clicking “Join Now”, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. We will not sell or distribute your email address to any third party, and you may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

Skip to content

Our Culture

Diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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

Academic Programs

Admissions at a glance.

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

Research Centers and Programs

Research areas of focus.

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

Patient Care

Primary care services.

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

Global Health

Global opportunities for students.

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

Doctor of Philosophy

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

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

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

Program Design

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

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

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

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

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

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

PhD courses are offered in three major areas:

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

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

Concurrent with Coursework

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

Request a Sample Academic Program Plan

Qualifying Examination

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

 Kylie Dougherty, BSN, RN, M.Phil.

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

Dissertation

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

Scholarship Expectations

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

Joseph Belloir, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC

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

Preparation for Postdoctoral Fellowship: Research Career Next Step 

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

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

PhD Student Handbook

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

Request a PhD Student Handbook

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

Required courses (excluding electives).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total Credits:

Home / Getting Your Ph.D. in Nursing

Getting Your Ph.D. in Nursing

Becoming a ph.d. nurse, what does a ph.d. nurse do, ph.d. nurse salary & employment, ph.d. vs. dnp in nursing, helpful organizations, societies, and agencies, what is a ph.d. nurse.

A Ph.D. nurse is one who has completed a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing degree. A Ph.D., or doctoral degree, is the highest level of education a nurse can achieve. Different from a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which focuses on advanced clinical practice, a Ph.D. in Nursing program is a research and science-focused degree that prepares nurses for careers conducting important medical research that will advance the entire nursing profession and for teaching nursing at the college level.

In order to become a Ph.D. nurse, of course, nurses must complete a Ph.D. in nursing program, which generally takes 4 to 6 years to finish. An aspiring Ph.D. nurse must have a strong interest in conducting medical research and/or teaching future nurses. Strong leadership skills are also important, as many Ph.D. nurses go on to supervise and mentor other nurses, whether they work in scientific research, management, or teaching capacity.

What Are the Educational Requirements For a Ph.D. Nurse Program?

A Ph.D. in Nursing program is known as a terminal degree, meaning it is the highest level of education for the nursing profession (in addition to the DNP degree, another separate nursing doctorate program track). Prior to entering a Ph.D. program, nurses must complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. In some cases, applicants to a Ph.D. in Nursing program must also complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, which provides advanced education in nursing practice with courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and clinical practice.

Educational Prerequisites

Specific requirements to complete a Ph.D. in Nursing program will vary slightly from school to school. Schools offer Ph.D. in Nursing programs in traditional classroom formats, as well as online and hybrid styles that combine in-person study with online coursework. In addition to a variety of formats for Ph.D. in Nursing programs, students can also sometimes opt to take these programs on a full-time or part-time basis to suit their personal schedules.

The curriculum for a Ph.D. in Nursing program is research-focused, with coursework in advanced scientific research principles, data analysis, and statistical measurement. Ph.D. programs generally culminate in a dissertation and original research project. As an example of Ph.D. curriculum, below is a selection of courses offered by the Medical University of South Carolina as part of their online Ph.D. in Nursing Science program:

• Advanced Quantitative Research Methods
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Advanced Statistical Methods for Nursing Research
• Advanced Study Design and Methods
• Advanced Health Policy & Advocacy
• Research Team Leadership

A Ph.D. nurse conducts scientific research that advances the nursing profession. The knowledge that Ph.D. nurses gather and present as a part of their scientific research powers positive change in the quality of patient care and outcomes in the entire nursing field. In addition to their role as nurse scientists, Ph.D. nurses also teach and mentor nurses at the college/university level, working to shape the next generation of nurses.

What Are the Roles and Duties of a Ph.D. Nurse?

The majority of Ph.D. nurses pursue careers in either the research or teaching fields, so their day-to-day duties will vary depending on which career track they have chosen.

For a nurse researcher , typical duties may include:

• Identify research questions, and design and conduct scientific research in partnership with other scientists from various fields
• Collect and analyze scientific data and publish reports detailing findings
• Write proposals and apply for grants to help fund their research
• Establish and maintain quality assurance programs to ensure the validity of their data findings
• Train and supervise laboratory staff and other nurses or scientists

For a Ph.D.  nurse educator who has chosen to pursue a faculty position, typical duties may include:

• Plan, prepare, and revise curriculum and study materials for nursing courses
• Deliver lectures to undergraduate and graduate level nursing students
• Supervise students' laboratory and clinical work
• Grade students' classwork, laboratory, and clinical performance
• Mentor and advise students regarding their future work in the nursing industry

For faculty members who pursue department chair or administration roles, additional duties may include:

• Hire, supervise and conduct performance reviews of faculty members
• Assist with the scheduling of classes and professors
• Oversee department curriculum and provide quality control as to the content and materials of given nursing courses

Workplace Settings

A Ph.D. nurse can work in a variety of settings, depending on the career path he or she has chosen. A Ph.D. nurse may find employment at a hospital, medical laboratory, research facility, or university as a research scientist, or may work at a nursing school, college, or university as a faculty member or department chair. In some cases, a Ph.D. nurse may also work as a public health nurse in a government setting, helping to develop research-based solutions to public health issues.

Salaries for Ph.D. nurses vary based on the type of employment a nurse seeks after graduation. Nurse researchers, a primary career path for Ph.D. nurses, can expect a median salary of $90,000 according to Payscale.com. For Ph.D. nurses who pursue a teaching position, the median annual wage for post-secondary nursing instructors is $77,440 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2021. Geographical location, career length, and experience level are all factors that can influence a Ph.D. nurse's annual salary.

The nursing profession as a whole has a particularly bright employment outlook, with the employment of registered nurses projected to grow 9 percent from 2020 to 2030 according to the BLS. In addition, a large number of healthcare facilities are looking for nursing professionals with higher degrees, which means the demand for Ph.D. and DNP level nurses will continue to grow. In fact, the Institute of Medicine 's 2015 "The Future of Nursing Report" emphasized the need for more Ph.D. level nurses.

As there are two doctorate-level nursing program types to choose from, there may be some confusion as to the differences between a Ph.D. nursing program and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The primary difference between the two programs relates to nurses' career aspirations. A DNP program trains nurses to perform the highest level of nursing practice and to translate research into high-quality patient care, while a Ph.D. program prepares nurses to conduct cutting-edge research that will advance the science of nursing and patient care. In addition to research positions, a Ph.D. program prepares nurses for leadership and teaching positions at hospitals and colleges/universities. To simplify, a DNP is a nursing practice doctorate degree, while a Ph.D. is a research and teaching doctorate.

Other key differences between DNP and Ph.D. programs are curriculum and program length. A typical DNP program includes courses on advanced nursing practice, leadership, and management topics and requires patient care clinical hours as well as a final capstone project. A Ph.D. program includes coursework on research methodologies, data analysis, and healthcare leadership and policy, and requires students to complete original research and a dissertation. In general, a Ph.D. program takes longer to complete than a DNP program, with Ph.D. programs taking an average of 4 to 6 years to complete and a DNP program taking 3 to 4 years, but can be completed in as little as 2 years depending on the school and program chosen.

• American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• American Nurses Association
• International Association of Clinical Research Nurses
• National Institute of Nursing Research

FIND A NURSING PROGRAM

PhD and DNP Degrees

Home » PhD and DNP Degrees

Why Earn a PhD or DNP?

The two most common types of doctoral nursing degrees are the doctor of philosophy in nursing, or PhD in nursing, and the doctor of nursing practice (DNP). Nurses with a doctorate in nursing can teach and conduct research and have more opportunities for advancement. For nurses looking for a fulfilling career as a leader in the nursing profession, a PhD in Nursing or DNP degree are exciting options.

PhD and DNP Articles

What You Need to Know

Nursing Education

Search Programs

Search hundreds of nursing programs in just a few steps.

Our websites may use cookies to personalize and enhance your experience. By continuing without changing your cookie settings, you agree to this collection. For more information, please see our University Websites Privacy Notice .

School of Nursing

Nursing PhD Program

Enhance your career.

Focus your career on advancing science to improve health

Develop new knowledge.

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

Prepare for admission.

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

In its 29th Year

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

Advancing nursing science to build a healthier world

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Application deadline for Fall 2024 is December 31, 2023. 

Attend an Infosesssion

Application deadline for Fall 2025 is December 31, 2024.

Request Information

What Are They Saying?

OLGA JARRIN  (’2010) Faculty, Rutgers University

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

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

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

PhD Curriculum

Coursework requirements for all phd students.

The PhD Program in Nursing requires a minimum of 52 credit hours of coursework before the dissertation. The Plan of Studies below illustrates the scheduling of the required coursework.

PhD coursework is structured with a substantial core (31 credits) of nursing science and research methods to be taken in the School of Nursing.

This core will be expanded with elected statistics, research methods, and cognate courses in an outside field of study or minor area (15 credits) to be taken mainly outside of nursing in other Duke University departments. The student will choose elective courses with the guidance and approval of the supervisory committee. In addition, the supervisory committee may require the student to take courses above the minimum if the student needs additional coursework to support the dissertation research plan.

Additional requirements include a one-semester research practicum (1 credit) and courses that count towards a teaching certificate (5 credits).

PhD Program in Nursing Plan of Study

Preliminary exam (admission to phd candidacy).

The Graduate School requires submission of the Report of the Doctoral Preliminary Examination for all doctoral candidates by the end of the Spring semester of their third year. 

Part Four: DNP/Ph.D. Perspective on Seamless Academic Progression for Nurses

The lived experience of a nurse begins with a sound academic foundation that includes science and math, addressing individual biases, understanding a variety of cultures, and, most importantly, experience. Many nurses have taken the non-seamless academic progression into nursing, which involves various educational routes or entry levels. Entry levels into nursing may include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses (LPNs/LVNs), and Diploma in Nursing.

Why have so many chosen one or more of these pathways to reach their goal of becoming a registered nurse (RN)? Multiple factors may lead someone to select a particular entry-level, such as family obligations, educational costs, or limited seats within the nursing program. Even with the multiple entry levels into practice, the goal to increase BSNs in healthcare still needs to be met (Overholster, 2023). This post will briefly share a DNP/Ph.D. perspective on seamless academic progression for nurses as reflected in the National Academy of Medicine’s key message two, Nurses Should Achieve Higher Levels of Education and Training Through an Improved Education System That Promotes Seamless Academic Progression.

Seamless Academic Progression 

The growth of the nursing workforce depends upon seamless academic progression. Seamless academic progression allows an RN to obtain a BSN or MSN. Many hospitals/acute care settings require or prefer the baccalaureate degree nurse for various nursing roles to receive MagnetⓇ recognition. Examples of nursing programs that promote academic progression are LPN-to-BSN, RN-to-BSN, and ADN-to-MSN, providing a significant pathway to advanced practice nursing and faculty positions at the college level. Master’s degree-prepared nurses are knowledgeable clinicians, clinical healthcare leaders, members of academic institutions, health policy creators, and researchers.

Nursing leaders, including multi-generational students, must consider multiple factors when encouraging seamless academic progression. For example, nursing schools must innovate programs to meet learner outcomes through various methods and technologies. The learners may need various ways to meet competency, including low and high-fidelity learning experiences. Academic progression occurs as a result of not only meeting individual learning needs but also considering those previous lived experiences that may impact their approach to learning. Therefore, ensuring this is also met in the practice setting as the nurse’s transition is critical to the ongoing retention of nurses in the workforce (Groski et al., 2019).

Experiential Theory/Models

Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory defines the process by which knowledge is created as the transformation of experience. Experiential learning can be widely used to transition nurses to practice, especially those entering nursing as a second career. The legendary novice to expert theory aligns closely with experiential learning, recognizing that an individual develops by encountering situations to enable them to adjust to the social environment and adapt skills before they can progress to the next stage of practice (Benner, 2000; Graf et al., 2020).

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) released the updated Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education in 2021, which provides a framework for nursing practice and applied experience (2021). Ten domains with sub-competencies are listed and must represent nursing practice, supporting competency-based education. Competency-based education is outcomes-focused and builds on what the learner already knows and what is expected of the learner (Barnes et al., 2023; Gidden et al., 2022). With the ever-changing technology and innovation, this model is supported to facilitate seamless academic progression as the healthcare landscape evolves.

Patient Outcomes

The IOM report (2011) cited evidence that a higher proportion of BSN-prepared RNs in the workforce improves patient outcomes. Many nursing leaders understand that nursing is often a second career choice for some nurses, indicating that nurses enter the profession with baseline knowledge of human experience, customer service, and/or financial acumen. Research has shown that lower mortality rates, fewer medication errors, and positive patient outcomes are all linked to nurses prepared at the baccalaureate and higher degree levels. A more significant proportion of professional nurses at the bedside has been shown to improve patient outcomes for patients and staff (Aiken et al., 2017; Davis, 2012). Reducing barriers, such as the nursing skill mix, by adding assistive personnel without professional nurse qualifications, may contribute to preventable deaths, erode care quality, and nurse shortages (Angel, 2020).

As health care continues to shift to a population-focused, community-based approach to care, the health system needs RNs who can practice across multiple settings and function to the fullest extent of their license. Employers today seek nurses capable of providing high-quality direct care, complex clinical decision-making, care transition management, supervision of support personnel, guidance of patients through the maze of healthcare resources, and educating patients on treatment regimens and adopting healthy lifestyles. Moving nurses further along the educational continuum will help to ensure that RNs are well-prepared to meet these expectations.

Student Nurse Experiences

Providing the accelerated format and program outcomes in advance will better prepare our workforce to enter into expedited programs.“I am concerned about simply being in an accelerated program because this will differ greatly from my first degree” – Isabel, a female student, age 22, who majored in social and applied sciences (Davis, 2012). This is one example of ensuring that the expectations and models are provided to students across all generations. Many students entering nursing now have an undergraduate degree or work experience in another profession. The experience and prior degree supports moving these students through an accelerated process. However, some students accepted to these programs have yet to gain a previous degree or work experience.

Call to Action

Nursing education should serve as a platform for continued lifelong learning and include opportunities for a seamless transition to higher degree programs (AACN, 2016). Increasing the number of RNs in the nursing workforce can be accomplished by seamless academic progression. Facilitators that may promote seamless academic progression include financial incentives from healthcare institutions, flexible work schedules that will allow nursing students to provide for their families, and an understanding of the positive impact RNs have within the healthcare workforce. Healthcare leaders must understand the meaning of seamless academic progression, support nursing programs that provide seamless academic progression, and provide opportunities for seamless academic progression models across universities (Angel, 2020).

Amanda Garey, Ph.D., RN, NPDA-BC, EBP-C

Assistant Professor

University of Texas Medical Branch School of Nursing

1100 Mechanic St, Galveston, TX 77550

Email: [email protected]

Sharisse A. Hebert, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC

Prairie View A&M College of Nursing DNP Program Coordinator

6436 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030

Phone: (713) 797-7050

Email: [email protected]

Aiken, L. H., Sloan, D., Griffiths, P. et al. (2017). Nursing skill mix in European hospitals: association with mortality, patient ratings, and quality of care. BMJ Quality & Safety, 26 (7), 559-568. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjqs-2016-005567

Angel, L. (2020). Best practices and lessons learned in academic progression in nursing: A scoping review. Journal of Professional Nursing , 36 (6), 628-634. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2020.08.017

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2024 May 8). Academic Progression in Nursing: Moving Together Toward a Highly Educated Nursing Workforce. Position Papers and White Papers. https://www.aacnnursing.org/news-data/position-statements-white-papers/academic-progression-in-nursing

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2024 April 7). The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education . AACN Essentials. https://www.aacnnursing.org/essentials

Barnes, R., Remick, J., Hughes-Gay, M., Opsahl, A., Townsend, C., Lash, R., & Ellis, R. J. B. (2023). The AACN Essentials journey. Journal of Professional Nursing , 46 , 19-26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2022.11.010

Benner, P. (2000). From novice to expert. Pearson.

Davis, D. (2012). A seamless progression: Preparing accelerated second degree nursing students for entry into baccalaureate and masters nursing education. Journal of Doctoral Nursing Practice , 5 (1), 6. https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/seamless-progression-preparing-accelerated-second/docview/1011059328/se-2

Graf, A. C., Jacob, E., Twigg, D., & Nattabi, B. (2020). Contemporary nursing graduates’ transition to practice: A critical review of transition models. Journal of Clinical Nursing , 29 (15-16), 3097-3107. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.15234

Gorski, M. S., & Polansky, P. (2019). Accelerating progress in seamless academic progression. Nursing Outlook, 67 (2), 154–160. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2018.11.008

Giddens, J., Douglas, J. P., & Conroy, S. (2022). The revised AACN essentials: Implications for nursing regulation. Journal of Nursing Regulation , 12 (4), 16-22. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2155-8256(22)00009-6

Overholser C. D. (2023). Seamless academic progression in nursing education: A qualitative descriptive study. Nursing Education Perspectives , 44 (4), 205–209. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NEP.0000000000001109

Apply to PHD Nursing

Get to know about our PhD in Nursing program.

The application packet for the PhD Nursing can be secured from the National Graduate Office for the Health Sciences or downloaded at their website in this link: https://ngohs.upm.edu.ph/forms-and-manuals/  

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Scholastic record from any recognized institution of higher learning.
• Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a recognized institution of higher learning
• Master’s degree in Nursing or other health related fields. If the master’s degree is not in Nursing, the applicant must take relevant courses in the master’s level and pass the qualifying examination.
• At least 2 years of experience as a professional nurse in a hospital, community setting or nursing research unit . A certificate of employment or any document proving the minimum of two years is required.
• At least 2 examples of published work.
• Duly accomplished Application Form which can be downloaded in this link: https://ngohs.upm.edu.ph/forms-and-manuals/ .

Other Documents Needed

• Original copy of the official Transcript of Records
• Two (2) recommendations from former professors, supervisors or employers. The recommendation forms are included in the application packet.
• Receipt of processing fee paid at the UPM Cashier’s Office
• Certified true copy of college diploma with the seal of the university and the signature of the registrar in ink
• Birth certificate (original to be presented for verification)
• Marriage certificate (present original for verification), if applicable
• Four (4) passport size photos
• Photocopy of birth certificate and marriage certificate (for female applicant) (NSO paper)
• Essay on an 8 1/2’ x 11” sheet of paper describing your motivation for pursuing graduate study and your view of self directed learning as a method of instruction, and a description of your research interest.
• Outline of a dissertation proposal with an acceptable title

Application Processing Fees

There is a processing fee of Php 300.00 for Filipino applicants while a US$30.00 is charged for foreign. Here is the procedure in paying the processing fee .

Submission of Application

Once you have completed all the admission requirements and other required documents, you may submit your application to the National Graduate Office for the Health Science on or before the deadline in-take for each semester. Email submissions are accepted through [email protected] . 

Interview of Applicants

Competitive applicants will be invited for an interview by faculty members selected by the PhD Admissions Committee. The interview can be done in-person, or through internet-linked applications. The interview is a good opportunity for both parties to be clarified on the application information and research interests of the applicant. 

Basis for Admissions Decision

Admission to the PhD Nursing program is highly selective. In deciding for admission, the PhD Admissions Committee will consider a number of factors that would determine the applicant’s potential success in the PhD Nursing program. This includes performance in the baccalaureate and master’s degrees, previous employment, research involvement, and other personal qualifications. Using an objective review procedure and deliberation based on the submitted requirements, the PhD Admissions Committee will recommend selected applicants to the Dean of the College and the Director of the National Graduate Office for the Health Sciences.

Notification of Decision

Successful applicants are notified in writing by the Director of the National Graduate Office for the Health Sciences. They will also receive notification through email. Therefore, please make sure that you double check the contact information you indicate in your application form.

Following Admission Acceptance

Once you receive your admission acceptance letter, you are now ready to enroll in the PhD Nursing program. Your admission letter will specify the date and time of your enrollment, and the name of your registration adviser. Please make sure to enroll on the date specified so you can meet with your registration adviser and decide on a plan of study.

Request for More Information

Home About Us Admissions Academics Students Research Public Service Linkages Foundation Alumni News Contact Us

Student Resources

Enrollment Academic Calendar and Class Schedule Student Support and Resources Academic Policies and Procedures Student Evaluation of Teaching Return Service Scholarship and Financial Aid Office of Student Affairs Requests

Sotejo Hall (College of Nursing), University of the Philippines Manila, Pedro Gil St., Ermita, Manila 1000 Philippines

Business Hours

Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

(02) 8523-1472 (02) 8523-1477

(02) 8523-1485

[email protected]

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, a clinical doctorate, is offered in the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty. The program includes advanced nursing courses, support courses, clinical practica and clinical disquisition. 

• Disease Prevention
• Healthcare Administration
• Health Education and Promotion
• Nurse Anesthetist 
• Nurse Practitioner
• Private Nurse
• Public Health Official
• Travel Nurse

For individuals who

Are seeking an advanced degree. Want to work in many nursing-related fields, including as a registered nurse, nurse anesthetist, travel nurse and nurse practitioner. 

Looking for

Hands-on learning in state-of-the-art facilities. Rigorous STEM-based coursework. Hospital-based internship experience. 

Guidelines provided by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) are utilized in the curriculum. The graduate nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

RIT graduate pursues Ph.D. across time zones

Nastaran Nagshineh, center, defended her Ph.D. thesis at RIT in April. Faculty from RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses served on her thesis committee and include, from left to right, Kathleen Lamkin-Kennard, Steven Weinstein, Nathaniel Barlow, and David Kofke (a professor at the University at Buffalo). Mohamed Samaha participated remotely and appears on the video screen behind the group and alongside Nagshineh’s picture.

Nastaran Nagshineh is one of the first Ph.D. candidates to bridge RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses. Her accomplishment creates a path for future students at the university’s international campuses.

Nagshineh completed her Ph.D. in mathematical modeling while working full time as a mathematics lecturer at RIT Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, teaching as many as five classes a semester. She described her Ph.D. journey as “an exercise in perseverance” due to competing demands and long days. Rochester is eight hours behind Dubai, and the time difference meant many late-night classes and meetings.

“I saw this collaboration as an opportunity, rather than as a challenge, because my primary adviser, Dr. Steven Weinstein (RIT professor of chemical engineering), and my co-adviser, Dr. Mohamed Samaha (RIT Dubai associate professor of mechanical engineering), both have the same area of research interest,” she said. “They both worked toward my success.”

Nagshineh is one of 67 RIT Ph.D. students who defended their thesis this academic year and who will earn their doctorate. RIT awarded 63 Ph.D. degrees in 2023.

In 2020-2021, RIT’s Graduate School met and surpassed the university’s goal of conferring 50 Ph.D. degrees during an academic year. That number will continue to grow as students cycle through the seven new Ph.D. programs that RIT has added since 2017, said Diane Slusarski , dean of RIT’s Graduate School.

Meeting these goals puts RIT on a path toward achieving an “R1,” or research-intensive designation, from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Learning. RIT is currently ranked as an R2 institution . Many factors go into changing a university’s status, including research investment and maintaining a three-year average of 70 Ph.D. degrees awarded per year, according to Slusarski.

“We have met the goals of the strategic plan, and now we look forward to contributing to the research innovation in the future,” Slusarski said. “We want to help the new programs thrive and win national research awards.”

RIT’s emphasis on high-level research is seen in Nagshineh’s Ph.D. work. She applies mathematical modeling to the field of fluid dynamics. Her research has been published in top-tier journals and has gained notice, said Weinstein, her thesis adviser.

Weinstein describes Nagshineh’s accomplishments as “a testament to a fantastic work ethic and commitment” and is inspirational to younger students at Rochester and Dubai.

“The collaboration between RIT Dubai/Rochester has continued,” he said. “Another paper was submitted a few weeks ago with Mohamed Samaha and Nate Barlow (RIT associate professor in the School of Mathematics and Statistics) as co-authors, as well as Cade Reinberger, a younger Ph.D. student in my research group.”

Mathematical modeling is one of RIT’s newer Ph.D. degree programs, and Nagshineh is among its earliest graduates. The program has doubled in size since it began accepting students in 2017, Slusarski said. This past fall, the mathematical modeling program had 35 students, with two graduating this year.

Altogether, RIT has 13 Ph.D. degree programs currently enrolling 438 students, with computing and information sciences accounting for the largest with 117 students. RIT’s other Ph.D. programs include astrophysical sciences and technology , biomedical and chemical engineering , business administration , color science , electrical and computer engineering, imaging science , mechanical and industrial engineering , microsystems engineering , and sustainability .

New programs in cognitive science and physics will launch in the fall.

The growth in RIT graduate education—with more than 3,000 master’s and doctoral students—reflects a demographic change in the student population, Slusarski said. “We have a higher percentage of women in the graduate programs than we have for RIT undergraduate programs.”

RIT’s graduate programs enroll 42 percent women, according to Christie Leone , assistant dean for the Graduate School.

Nagshineh, who also holds an MS in electrical engineering from RIT Dubai, welcomes her role as a mentor to other women students on both campuses.

“As a young woman in an Arabic country, the power of women is often underestimated and undervalued, and I hope to serve as a role model to female students, especially those that question their path,” Nagshineh said.

She plans to continue in her career as a professor and a researcher. “I would like to pursue a research program where I can advise my own students and teach them more deeply.”

Recommended News

May 17, 2024

Top Teacher: Minnetonka sign language teacher Dr. Tracy Ivy   

KMSP-TV selects Tracy Ivy '09 (secondary education for students who are deaf or hard of hearing) as a Top Teacher.

May 16, 2024

Kim Shearer’s passion for planning spans five decades at RIT

Kim Shearer's journey at RIT, marked by strategic planning and dedication, led to pivotal roles in shaping the university's computing college, spearheading expansions, fostering diversity, and leaving behind unique touches like binary code lights and cryptic messages within the campus architecture.

May 15, 2024

RIT student-faculty developed video game ‘That Damn Goat’ now available for purchase on Nintendo Switch console

A video game created by RIT students and faculty has reached a long-awaited milestone. That Damn Goat , developed and published through RIT’s MAGIC Spell Studios, is now available for purchase on the popular Nintendo Switch gaming console.

RIT researchers expect a rise in deepfake use in political campaigns   

Spectrum News interviews Christopher Schwartz, research scientist in the Department of Cybersecurity, and Kelly Wu, computing and information sciences Ph.D. student, about generating and detecting artificial intelligence deepfakes.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Marie Fowler, 83, becomes Howard University's oldest doctoral graduate

Fowler earned her doctoral degree in ministry over the weekend. She already has her bachelors and two masters but wasn't sure at her age she could manage the work. She stayed the course.

Copyright © 2024 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.