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

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Admissions at a glance.

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

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Research areas of focus.

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

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Primary care services.

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Global opportunities for students.

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

Doctor of Philosophy

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

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

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

Program Design

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

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

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

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

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

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

PhD courses are offered in three major areas:

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

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

Concurrent with Coursework

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

Request a Sample Academic Program Plan

Qualifying Examination

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

 Kylie Dougherty, BSN, RN, M.Phil.

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

Dissertation

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

Scholarship Expectations

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

Joseph Belloir, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC

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

Preparation for Postdoctoral Fellowship: Research Career Next Step 

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

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

PhD Student Handbook

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

Request a PhD Student Handbook

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

Required courses (excluding electives).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total Credits:

PhD Program in Nursing

Phd program in nursing goals.

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

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

list of phd nursing programs

PhD Academic Calendar

list of phd nursing programs

PhD Admissions

list of phd nursing programs

PhD Financial Support

list of phd nursing programs

Current Research Grants

list of phd nursing programs

What Makes Duke Great?

list of phd nursing programs

Reasons to Choose Durham

Your work with our faculty will:

Socialize you to the role of nurse scientist;

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

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

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

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

Experience with standard and emerging research designs and methods;

Rigorous training in statistics; and

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

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

Study with Duke expert faculty focused on:

Acute & Long-Term Care Systems

Adaptive Leadership

Data Science

Digital Health

Decision Making

Disease Prevention

Family Caregiving

Health Equity

Informatics

Mental Health

Multi-level Interventions

Nurse-led Models of Care

Palliative and End-of-Life Care

Perioperative Care

Social Determinants of Health

Symptom Management

Specialty Populations

Premature and High-Risk Infants

Children with Acute and Chronic Illnesses

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

Older Adults

PhD Program in Nursing Description

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

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

Terminal Objectives

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

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

School of Nursing

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The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, relationships, confidence, critical thinking and analytical capacity essential for discovering and disseminating research-based evidence to support innovative solutions that lead to better health outcomes and advance the science of nursing.

What makes our program distinct?

The PhD in Nursing curriculum provides students two options to attend their course class sessions. One option is to be in the classroom with the faculty and the other option is to attend the class via a video connection with the students and faculty in the classroom. Students choose the one delivery method that works best for them. Please note that due to student  visa requirements, international students must attend courses in-person. Courses may use a HyFlex instruction format that combines synchronous in-person scheduled class sessions and asynchronous online learning activities.

At the start of their program (last week in August) and the last week in May, all students gather on campus annually for a four-day Doctor of Nursing Philosophy Immersive Experience (DIvE) focused on engagement, mentorship and professional development and a 1 credit academic course.

PhD students are eligible for significant financial assistance in their first two years through a combination of graduate assistantships and scholarships for students devoted full-time to their studies following the relevant recommended plan of study.

We also advocate for and support our PhD students with funding from a range of national sources. Current PhD students are supported with substantial grants from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Jonas Philanthropies.

The PhD in Nursing program is enriched by the vibrant research and academic programs at the School of Nursing and the university.

You will be carefully matched with faculty who are uniquely suited to help you develop your research focus and build an ongoing research program. Nationally-renowned faculty mentor PhD students throughout the program and build long-standing professional relationships beyond graduation.

Why a nursing PhD?

Across the country and around the world, demand for PhD-prepared nurses who can mentor future nurses and advance nursing science continues to grow. Our PhD program focuses on areas of science in which the health needs are greatest as described by AACN's strategic plan. We seek to admit students with exceptionally strong backgrounds in a major field of study such as nursing or the physical or behavioral sciences.

While many applicants are registered nurses with Masters degrees, we admit individuals who are not nurses to the PhD program if they desire to learning about and conducting research that contributes to nursing science. We also strongly encourage nurses with a BSN degree to apply. We support both types of students with additional formal coursework to be successful.

See admission criteria and application procedures

Length and commitment

Our past graduates have completed their degree in 4-5 years.

Full-time students follow the relevant recommended program plans typically take the required courses with a consistent cohort of students to foster peer support and learning.

Program Plans

Program Plan - MSN or DNP Prepared

Program Plan - BSN/Pre-Licensure Master's Prepared Nurse

Program Plan - Prior Degree in Non-Nursing Discipline

Information for international students

Inclusivity, Diversity and Equity

The School of Nursing welcomes and affirms all. We embrace the equity and diversity commitment of the University of Minnesota. Learn more on our  Inclusivity, Diversity and Equity  page. Read about our  Doctoral Education Pathway for American Indian/Alaska Native Nurses .

Get to Know Us

Osingada

Charles Osingada

A student in the PhD program

“We can take advantage of what is before us and improve on the delivery of services to clients living with HIV in developing countries.”

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list of phd nursing programs

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

Best Ph.D. in Nursing Programs – 2024

2024 - best ph.d. in nursing programs, which ph.d. in nursing program is right for me, on-campus vs. online phd in nursing programs, admission requirements & curriculum, which nursing careers require a ph.d., list of ph.d. in nursing programs.

Best Ph.D. in Nursing Programs – 2024

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

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

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

list of phd nursing programs

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

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

Texas Woman's University

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

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

list of phd nursing programs

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

Endicott College

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

  • Ph.D. in Nursing Online/Hybrid

list of phd nursing programs

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

Mercer University

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

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

list of phd nursing programs

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

University of Central Florida

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

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

list of phd nursing programs

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

William Carey University

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

  • Nursing Education - DNP to PhD Online/Hybrid

list of phd nursing programs

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

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

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

RELATED : Dual DNP/PhD Programs

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

Online Ph.D. Nursing Program Advantages

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

On-Campus Ph.D. in Nursing Program Advantages

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing Course Topics

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

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

Program Length

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

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

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

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

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

Jump to Your State Listings

University of alabama at birmingham.

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Campus

Arizona State University

  • Nursing and Healthcare Innovation, PhD Campus

University of Arizona

  • Nursing (PHD) Online

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)

  • PhD in Nursing Campus

Azusa Pacific University Monrovia

  • Nursing, PhD Campus

Loma Linda University

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

University of California San Francisco

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

University of California, Irvine

University of san diego.

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

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Hybrid

University of Northern Colorado

  • Nursing Education PhD Online

Connecticut

University of connecticut.

  • School of Nursing - PhD Program Campus

Yale University

  • PhD Program in Nursing Campus

University of Delaware

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Science Campus

Barry University

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

Florida Atlantic University

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

Florida International University

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

University of Florida

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

University of Miami

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Campus

University of South Florida

  • PhD Program in Nursing Science Campus

Augusta University

  • Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in Nursing Hybrid

Emory University

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Hybrid

Georgia State University

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

University of Hawai'i at Manoa

  • PhD Nursing: GEPN to PhD Pathway Online
  • PhD Nursing: Master's to PhD Pathway Online
  • PhD Nursing: Bachelor's to PhD and Master's to PhD Pathway Online

Idaho State University

Illinois state university.

  • PhD in Nursing Hybrid

Loyola University of Chicago

Rush university.

  • Nursing Science (PhD) Online

University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)

  • Doctor of Philosophy Campus

Indiana University Online

  • PhD in Nursing Science Online

Purdue University

  • PhD in Nursing* Campus

University of Iowa

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

University of Kansas

  • PhD in Nursing Online

University Of Louisville

Southern university and a&m college.

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Campus

Johns Hopkins University

University of maryland.

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

Massachusetts

Boston college.

  • Ph.D. in Nursing Hybrid

Northeastern University

  • PhD in Nursing

University of Massachusetts Amherst

  • Nursing PhD Campus

University of Massachusetts Boston

University of massachusetts lowell.

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

University of Massachusetts Medical School

Michigan state university.

  • Ph.D. in Nursing Campus

Oakland University

  • Ph.D. in Nursing

University of Michigan

  • Nursing, Ph.D. Campus

Wayne State University

  • Ph.D. in Nursing Online

University of Minnesota

Mississippi, university of mississippi medical center.

  • Nursing Education - DNP to PhD Online

Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Hybrid

Mizzou Online- University of Missouri

  • Nursing: Online doctorate Online

University Of Missouri Kansas City

  • Nursing PhD Hybrid

University of Missouri - St. Louis

  • Nursing PhD Online

University of Missouri Health

  • Interdisciplinary Nursing PhD Campus

Bryan College of Health Sciences

  • Education Doctorate with Emphasis in Nursing Education Hybrid

University of Nebraska Medical Center

University of nevada, las vegas.

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

Rutgers School of Nursing

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

  • Doctor Of Philosophy In Nursing, Phd Campus

Stony Brook University

University at buffalo.

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Online

North Carolina

Duke university.

  • PhD Program in Nursing Online

East Carolina University

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

  • Dual Doctorate PhD/DNP Hybrid

Kent State University

The ohio state university.

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

University of Cincinnati

  • PhD in Nursing Research Campus

Oklahoma City University

  • BSN-PhD in Nursing Campus

The University of Oklahoma

Oregon health & sciences university, pennsylvania, drexel university.

  • Nursing: MSN-PhD Joint Degree Program Campus

University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

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

University of Pittsburgh

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

  • Ph.D. in Nursing Science Online

University of South Carolina

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

East Tennessee State University

  • College of Nursing - PhD Program Hybrid

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center- Memphis

  • DNP/PhD Dual Degree Campus

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

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

University of Memphis

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

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

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

The University of Texas at Arlington

The university of texas at austin.

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

The University of Texas at Tyler

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

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

University of Texas School of Nursing at Houston

University of utah, george mason university.

  • Nursing, PhD Hybrid

Hampton University

  • Nursing, PhD Online

University of Virginia

Virginia commonwealth university.

  • Online Nursing PHD Online

University of Washington

  • PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science Campus

Washington State University Vancouver

West virginia, west virginia university, marquette university.

  • Ph.D. In Nursing Campus

University of Wisconsin-Madison

University of wisconsin-milwaukee.

  • Nursing BS to PhD Campus
  • Nursing Online PhD Online

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

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