phd nursing programs in nc

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School of Nursing

Phd program (now online).

The PhD in Nursing program is delivered in an online format, with both synchronous and asynchronous experiences. Students will be invited to campus 2-4 times per year for intensive interaction with School of Nursing faculty members. If students are unable to travel to campus, a synchronous online experience will be offered.

Program Goals

• Practice as nurse scientists to advance the discipline and nursing profession through scholarly inquiry.
• Assume leadership roles in promoting optimal health for ethnic minorities, women, children, and older adults.
• Meet the academic and healthcare industry needs for nursing scholars in North Carolina and the nation.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

• Evaluate knowledge of ethnic minorities, women, children, and older adults.
• Evaluate the impact of health systems and the environment on specific populations.
• Generate nursing knowledge related to health promotion and elimination of health disparities in ethnic minorities, women, children and older adults.
• Promote health and eliminate health disparities in specific populations through research.
• Advance nursing knowledge through the inquiry process.
• Demonstrate the art of caring in the nurse scientist’s role in academia and industry.
• Practice as a nurse scientist in promoting health and eliminating health disparities in health systems and specific populations.

Need financial support to earn your PhD?  Are you interested in becoming a nurse educator? Learn about our Nurse Faculty Loan Program .

Request more information

Dr. Susan Letvak Director of PhD Program Office: 207 Nursing and Instructional Building Telephone: 336-256-1024 Fax: 336-334-3223 Email: [email protected]

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• Curriculum/Plan of Study

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School of Nursing (GRAD)

At the graduate level, the School of Nursing offers the master of science in nursing (M.S.N.), the doctor of nursing practice (D.N.P.), and the doctor of philosophy in nursing (Ph.D.). 

Master of Science in Nursing

The master of science in nursing (M.S.N.) program prepares nurses for advanced practice nursing focused on direct patient care or as advanced specialists in health care leadership and administration.

Length of Program

The program of study varies from 33 to 46 credits of academic coursework, including clinical practice, a professional portfolio as a substitute for the oral comprehensive examination, and a master's paper (or in some cases, a thesis). Advanced practice students (i.e., nurse practitioner students) may purse the M.S.N. degree on a full-time basis, while students seeking preparation in health care leadership and administration may pursue the M.S.N. degree on a full-time or part-time basis.

Master's Program Curriculum

The curriculum includes professional, research,  clinical core courses and advanced nursing practice courses. The professional (NURS 746, NURS 790I) and research (NURS 740, NURS 992 or NURS 993) courses are required of all students. The clinical core courses and advanced nursing practice courses focus on the student's selected area of specialization and role preparation.

The program options offered reflect a combination of current practice trends as well as available faculty resources. Each student is admitted to a specific advanced nursing practice population or specialty area and assigned a faculty advisor appropriate to the student's educational and career goals. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for national certification examinations appropriate to their advanced area of preparation.

The M.S.N. program prepares nurses as (1) advanced practice registered nurses (i.e., nurse practitioners) focused on direct patient care or (2) as specialists in health care leadership and administration. The current advanced practice nursing population foci include adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner-primary care, and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. The Heath Care Leadership and Administration option is offered online and incorporates both with synchronous and asynchronous online learning. The nurse practitioner options are delivered in hybrid format, with a mix of face-to-face and online courses.

The M.S.N. program also includes advanced practice courses in adult oncology. Master's students may elect to take these offerings as electives or declare an oncology focus in addition to their primary population or specialty area of interest. A graduate certificate in nursing education (additional nine credits) is available for students who desire to develop these skills in teaching and learning along with their advanced nursing preparation.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

The Ph.D. program of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is grounded in our commitment to enhancing the health of individuals, families, and communities; increasing the effectiveness of health care systems; and furthering the translation of research into practice. Graduates of the program are prepared to advance the theoretical and empirical underpinnings of nursing science, engage in interdisciplinary inquiry, and disseminate knowledge. The Ph.D. curriculum reflects the goals of the National Institutes of Health to foster discovery and increase the knowledge base for improving the health of all populations and to reduce health disparities. The program emphasizes the integration of the biological and behavioral sciences; the development and testing of evidence-based, theoretically grounded interventions; and the improvement of health care quality and outcomes. Faculty research addresses three areas of emphasis: enhancing health in vulnerable populations, managing chronic health problems, and strengthening health care systems. Students work closely with internationally renowned faculty from nursing and other disciplines to develop the skills and expertise needed to launch their program of research and pursue a successful career in academic and health care settings.

Length of Ph.D. Program

The Ph.D. program of study is a minimum of 52 credits of academic coursework including a qualifying examination and a dissertation. Students may pursue the Ph.D. degree on a full-time basis only.

Ph.D. Program Curriculum

The Ph.D. curriculum in the School of Nursing includes the following components: coursework, a written qualifying exam, mentored research experience and the dissertation. The program of study for students incorporates both required and elective courses distributed as follows: core knowledge and competencies (20 credits), core research methods (17 credits), and elective courses in the student's substantive area or courses that support the development of methods or additional research practica (9 credits). Six of these credits must support the dissertation research from outside the discipline of nursing or be interdisciplinary. A minimum of 6 dissertation credits are required.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) program prepares nurses for the highest level of advanced practice nursing focused on direct patient care (i.e., nurse practitioner) or as leaders  in health care systems. Graduates receive preparation in such key areas as evidence-based practice, organization and systems leadership, finance, health policy, information technology, population health, quality improvement, patient safety, and translational research with the goal of improving patient and population health outcomes.

The program credits range from 60–73 credit hours for those with baccalaureate preparation and 36 credits hours for those with M.S.N. preparation. The program includes academic coursework, clinical practice, a qualifying examination, and a practice-focused scholarly project. Students with baccalaureate preparation may pursue the D.N.P. degree on a full-time basis, while students with M.S.N. preparation may pursue the D.N.P. degree on a full-time or part-time basis.

D.N.P. Program Curriculum

The B.S.N. to  D.N.P. program of study builds upon baccalaureate education and expands current M.S.N. education to prepare nurses for the highest level of professional nursing practice. Each student is admitted to a specific advanced practice or specialty area and assigned a faculty advisor appropriate to the student's educational and career goals. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for national certification examinations appropriate to their advanced area of preparation.

The following nurse practitioner population foci are available in the  B.S.N. to D.N.P pathway: adult-gerontology primary care, family, pediatric primary care, and psychiatric-mental health. The Health Care Leadership and Administration option prepares nurses as leaders in health care systems.

The M.S.N. to D.N.P pathway is for nurses who have completed the M.S.N. degree and are certified or eligible for certification as an advanced practice registered nurse (nurse practitioner) or a health systems leader. The M.S.N. to D.N.P. curriculum builds on the M.S.N. degree to achieve the highest level of nursing practice. This pathway is offered in online format that incorporates both synchronous and asynchronous learning.

A graduate certificate in nursing education (additional nine credits) is available for D.N.P students who desire to develop these skills in teaching and learning along with their advanced nursing preparation.

Following the faculty member's name is a section number that students should use when registering for independent studies, reading, research, and thesis and dissertation courses with that particular professor.

Distinguished Professors  

Jada Brooks (141) Cheryl Giscombe (31) Cheryl B. Jones (112) Saif Khairat (155) Ashley Leak Bryant (143) Shawn Kneipp (134) Sheila Santacroce (51) Suzanne  Thoyre  (45)   Mark Toles (142)

Professors  

Ruth Anderson Linda Beeber Cheryl Giscombe (31)   Cheryl B. Jones (112) Kathleen Knafl Shawn Kneipp (134) Jennifer Leeman (133) Mary Lynn (84) Barbara Mark Deborah Mayer Mary H. Palmer Marcia Van Riper (120)   Sheila Santacroce  (51)   Suzanne Thoyre  (45)   Margaret C. Wilmoth  (167) SeonAe  Yeo (108)  

Associate Professors  

Beth Black  Jada Brooks  (141)   Leslie Davis  (23)   Eric Hodges (16)   Saif Khairat (155)   Ashley Leak Bryant (143)   Cathi Propper  Natalia Rodriguez Villegas  (26) Patricia Silveyra Mark Toles (142) Debbie Travers Jessica Williams (168) Jessica Zegre-Hemsey (144)  

Assistant Professors  

Lorinda Coombs  (30)   Rachel Hirschey  (11)   Matthew LeBlanc Lisa Mansfield Rebecca Salomon Karen Sheffield-Abdullah  (002) Sandra Soto   Grace Wu  (12)   Rose Xavier  (19)  

Research Associate Professors  

Jamie Crandell   Todd Schwartz  

Clinical Professors  

Rumay Alexander  (020) Jennifer D'Auria  (085) Carol Durham  (111) Louise Fleming  (013) Theresa Raphael-Grimm  (121) Shielda Rodgers  (021) Victoria Soltis-Jarrett  (126) Meg Zomorodi  (070)

Clinical Associate Professors  

Jennifer Alderman  (145) Margaret Carman  (003) Jean Davison  (114) Julie Jacobson- Vann  (131) Maureen Kelly  (040) Rebecca Kitzmiller (150) Rhonda Lanning  (146) Carrie Palmer  (049) JoAn Stanek  (158) Megan Williams  (022) Lisa  Woodley  (164)

Clinical Assistant Professors  

Maureen Baker  (007) Susana Barroso  (027) Kandyce Brennan Amanda Brinson  (86) Michael Bury Susan Catchings  (025) Beth Cosgrove Cathy Crawford  (032) Suja Davis   (014) Stephanie Fisher Grace Gunderson-Falcone   Grace Hubbard  (062) Sharon Jackson   Ann Marie Jones  (017) Ashley Kellish  (005) Rachel McInerney  (018) Stephanie Machalicky  (028) Katherine Moore   Leigh Mullen  Katherine Peppers  (173) Audra Rankin  (024) Leslie Sharpe (159) Christa Seaman Elizabeth Stone   Nancy Thompson   Tracy Vernon-Platt  (147)

Clinical Instructors

Evi Bonilla Marlena Brokob   Marco Castro LaTonia Chalmers   Bethany Davis Ryan Lewis   Krystal Pendergraft-Horne   Megan Ross     Erin Stanley   Cara Winstead

Nurse Specialists

Patrick McMurray Lonna Patel Jordan Pope Brandy Reardon

Faculty Emeriti  

Ruth Anderson   Linda Beeber   Beth Black   Barbara Bunker   Margaret E. Campbell   Linda Cronenwett   Jo Ann Dalton   Molly C. Dougherty   Margery Duffey   Catherine I. Fogel   Cynthia M. Freund   Sandra G. Funk   Barbara  Germino   Joanne Harrell   Edward Halloran   Donna Havens   Carol C. Hogue   Margaret F. Hudson   George Knafl   Kathleen Knafl   Betty H. Landsberger   Patricia Lawrence   Vickie Lester Barbara Mark   Deborah Mayer Laura McQueen Margaret Miles   Nancy  Milio Helen M. Murphy Betty Nance-Floyed Virginia Neelon   Sonda Oppewal Julie Page Mary Palmer   Nilda Peragallo Montano Susan Pierce Barbara C.  Rynerson Margarete  Sandelowski Mary Schuler Anne Skelly   Lixin Song Ingrid Swenson   Eleanor Taggart Anita Tesh Debbie Travers  

Advanced Undergraduate and Graduate-level Courses

This course focuses on systems thinking and complexity, development of leadership roles and skills, and interprofessional communication and teamwork. All Carolina Core tenets are examined; however, leadership, quality and safety, and informatics are central foci. Majors Only.

In this course, all Carolina Core tenets are explored; however, there is a focus on population health and global health as essential components of nursing. Students will examine global health challenges as well as policy strategies of promoting health for all. Majors Only.

The third in a series of four on campus clinical courses with application of advanced clinical nursing skills and comprehensive health assessment to specialized populations. This course emphasizes application of leadership, pediatric and community health concepts. The clinical environment is simulated to provide the application of nursing principles and skills. Majors Only.

Fourth in a series of four on-campus clinical courses with application of advanced clinical nursing skills to specialized populations with a focus on transition to practice. The clinical environment is simulated to provide the application of nursing principles and skills.

Centers on management of adults experiencing complex health problems and focuses on application of evidence based practice and skill acquisition needed to care for acutely ill patients through transitions in an illness experience. Clinical experience in acute care settings provide application for clinical reasoning, clinical care, and knowledge integration. Majors Only.

This seminar allows students to explore how social determinants of health affect the health of populations.

Using selected theories of human psychosocial development, psychopathology, and psychotherapy, this course requires students to advance their use of therapeutic communication skills, examine the range and complexities of human emotional suffering, and apply methods of effective intervention. Majors Only.

The course emphasizes development of caring and critical thinking skills in providing evidence-based nursing care focused on reproductive health and care of childbearing families. Majors Only.

This course emphasizes development of caring and critical thinking skills in providing evidence-based, family centered, culturally responsive nursing care to infants, children, and adolescents throughout the care continuum. Majors Only.

Students apply evidence-based public health concepts to community practice to improve health and reduce disparities across the life span, emphasizing interventions using partnership strategies at individual, family, organizational, and policy levels. Majors only.

Majors only. The focus of this course is the development of knowledge and experience related to research or service learning and its application to the practice of nursing and health care.

This course will assist students in preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination through a strategic and systematic individualized plan of study that utilizes testing programs and other relevant resources.

This hybrid course, offered in collaboration with UNC Hospitals, focuses on collaborative management of critically ill adult patients. Students will gain advanced skills and demonstrate critical thinking to apply evidence based practice to care for critically ill patients across the continuum of care.

This course focuses on the cancer experience of individuals and families across the lifespan (pediatric to older adults). The cancer control continuum framework will guide content focused discussions on prevention and risk reduction, screening, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and end-of-life care.

This course, offered in collaboration with UNC Hospitals, focuses on the collaborative care of pediatric patients in the emergency department and in critical care units (NICU, PICU). Students will be introduced to advanced assessments and interventions utilized in these environments. Students will also discuss interdisciplinary challenges specific to pediatric emergency and critical care and investigate evidence-based solutions to some of these challenges. Majors only.

This course provides service-learning opportunities to apply nursing practice within the context of interprofessional care for vulnerable populations by participating with Student Health Action Coalition (SHAC) activities.

This course provides experiential educational opportunities to apply nursing practice through volunteer participation in select communities. Majors only.

Majors only. This interprofessional course focuses on understanding roles, teamwork, and communication to improve patient safety within the health care environment. National standards and initiatives will be the foundation of the course. Pass/Fail only.

A faculty-led experiential learning opportunity focusing on development and knowledge related to research, health care systems, or service learning and its application to nursing and health care. Majors only or permission of the instructor.

This course is intended for students who know no Spanish or so little that they feel the need to start over. Students with more than two semesters of college Spanish are not eligible. The course covers the curriculum of first-semester Spanish taught within a health context, with a focus on speaking.

Application required. An interprofessional, service-learning approach to studying maternity care. Students will receive professional doula training and volunteer as birth doulas within the Volunteer Doula Service Program at North Carolina Women's Hospital.

This intermediate course is the equivalent of the third semester of college Spanish. Students will hone their listening and speaking skills in class primarily through role-playing activities and class discussion. Activities center on an original film set in a health clinic in rural North Carolina.

Required preparation, third semester Spanish or equivalent. This advanced course reviews the grammar of the third and fourth semester of college Spanish. Students hone their listening and speaking skills through role-playing activities and class discussion. Activities center on an original film set in a Latino-run health clinic.

This course provides experiential educational opportunities to apply nursing practice through volunteer participation in select communities associated with UNC Health. Admission to the undergraduate nursing program required.

This course is designed to introduce students to rationale, research, and practices of mindfulness and self-compassion. Upon course completion, students will exhibit knowledge and skills related to mindfulness/contemplative practice/training, research evidence on mindfulness for enhancing provider self-care, patient/client engagement, and wellness (e.g., reducing stress, burnout, and fatigue; increasing resilience). Majors only; permission of the instructor for non-majors.

This course uses a case-based approach to assist students to identify and critically examine challenging issues in health care, develop presentation skills as well as critical thinking from an interprofessional perspective. Students will work in interprofessional teams on a global complex case. Using this approach, students will attain the knowledge necessary to analyze and present results for a comprehensive case at the individual, organizational, and community levels. Open to undergraduate students with permission from instructor.

Introduction to scientific inquiry, evidence-based practice, and nursing/healthcare innovations. Emphasis on: theory; ethics; problem identification; question development; design selection; data analysis and interpretation; statistical applications; and appraisal of research reports. Admission to an undergraduate BSN program and eligible to take required undergraduate nursing research course; the Hillman Scholars program; or PhD in Nursing Program required.

Cultivates students' development as nurse scientists, scholars, and leaders to improve health care quality, safety, and delivery, and to influence policies that promote health and strengthen health systems outcomes. Admission to the Hillman Scholars Program in Nursing Innovation is required.

Pilot test for new courses in the nursing program.

Students from a variety of health sciences-related disciplines gain an understanding of issues in working with dying and bereaved individuals of all ages and their families.

Permission of the program director. Majors only. Preparation of a two-semester honors project under the direction of department advisors.

Students will incorporate previously learned leadership concepts, clinical skills, therapeutic communication, and critical thinking to deliver quality nursing care, using evidence based practice, in varied settings with faculty and RN guidance. Preparing for the NCLEX-RN examination and strategies for successful transition from student nurse to registered nurse will be explored. Majors only.

Graduate-level Courses

Focuses on the principles and practice of scientific writing, with emphasis on research proposals, theses, research reports, dissertations, and articles for publication.

This course explores developmental changes in morphological processes and normal and pathologic physiology in humans from conception through adolescence. Physiological differences between infants and children and adults are emphasized.

This course explores the physiologic functions in humans throughout the lifespan. The broad-based content integrates pathophysiological concepts with emphasis on advanced practice nursing. Must be enrolled in School of Nursing Graduate Program.

This course will examine the principles of pharmacotherapeutic decision-making in advanced nursing practice, with application to the clinical management of common health problems specific to all age groups, encompassing a life span approach. Nursing majors only.

The course will examine the principles of pharmacotherapeutic decision making in advanced nursing practice, with application to the clinical management of common health problems specific to pediatrics.

Examines the principles of psychopharmacology and neurobiology for safe and effective psychotherapeutic management of individuals with psychiatric and mental health problems across the lifespan.

This course provides concepts in evidence-based psychopharmacological management of individuals across the lifespan for advanced nursing practice. Topics include neurobiological concepts, psychiatric diagnosis and treatments, rational decision-making, and the initiation, monitoring, and discontinuation of psychotropic medications in the treatment of psychiatric and substance abuse disorders in a variety of settings. Students will explore recent advances in neurobiology, genomics, and psychopharmacology. Nursing majors only.

This course is designed to prepare the advanced practice nurse to comprehensively assess pediatric clients using a diagnostic reasoning process.

This course examines the process of diagnostic reasoning as a framework to synthesize comprehensive assessment of patients throughout the lifespan.

This course introduces students to the role of the advanced practice psychiatric-mental health nurse. Models for assessment, intervention, and evaluation are explored and tested clinically.

Required preparation, graduate nursing program admission or instructor permission. This foundational course provides an overview of computer and information science concepts as applied to health care.

This course provides the essential concepts and strategies for research and quality improvement, and the impact of these methodologies on patient populations and care systems.

This course examines the role of nursing in health care leadership and policy. Students will gain competencies in the application of micro and meso level leadership tools. Students will apply these skills to the health policy development and advocacy as a means of impacting the health of populations at the local, state, and national and/or international level. Nursing majors only.

This course is an advanced, comprehensive assessment of an individual's health across their developmental lifespan that examines the interactions of developmental, biopsychosocial, and socio-cultural contexts of health.

This course examines the process of diagnostic reasoning as a framework to synthesize comprehensive assessment and disease prevention using lifespan concepts. Nursing majors only.

Graduate standing and successful completion of an undergraduate statistics course required. This course explores approaches to research problems in advanced practice nursing. Theories, methods, designs, measurement, ethical conduct, and skills in critical appraisal are emphasized.

Graduate standing required. This course provides an introduction to probability, statistical concepts, and analytical techniques useful in health care research and for interpreting the literature.

For Nursing students admitted to the Graduate School. Focuses on approaches for critical reading of research reports to evaluate the evidence base for practice.

Focuses on the translation of research evidence to support improved models of care delivery.

This course examines the current issues involved in managing diabetes mellitus in persons over their life span. Contributions of the multidisciplinary team are an important theme throughout this course.

This multidisciplinary course offers students the opportunity to gain a basic understanding of human genetics and explore the ethical, legal, and social implications of recent advances in genetics.

Graduate students only. Focuses on advanced concepts for nursing management of older adults and their families with an emphasis on interdisciplinary care.

This course for MSN, DNP, and PhD students provides an understanding of management of adults across the cancer continuum (prevention, early detection, treatment, and beyond [survivorship, palliative care, end-of-life care]) for advanced practice providers regardless of practice setting.

Focuses on the pharmacologic management of drugs used for therapeutic management and supportive care in adult oncology.

Admission to Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program or permission of the instructor required. This course focuses on an evidence-based approach for the advanced practice nurse, incorporating pathophysiology; prevention/detection; medical treatment; nursing management; and socioeconomic, ethical, and legal issues related to adult cancer care.

This interprofessional education course focuses on preparing healthcare professionals with the foundational skills needed to work in teams to effectively collaborate and coordinate care in population health. Admission to the School of Nursing graduate program or graduate students in any of the Health Affairs Schools with permission of instructor required.

This course will focus on advanced assessment, diagnosis and management of adolescents and adults seen in primary care settings.

Provides the opportunity for an in-depth examination of management strategies with selected health problems in adults. Also examines issues inherent in the management of women and elderly populations.

This course focuses on care of adults with complex health problems. Students will develop skills to assist with the successful transition into the role of an AGPCNP into health care systems.

Examines current advanced practice nursing roles issues, within the context of contemporary healthcare delivery, legal, and sociopolitical systems.

A clinical practicum in an ambulatory care setting that provides experience in the delivery of healthcare from age 13 through end-of-life, to individuals and their families.

Focuses on the evidence-based management of common acute, episodic, and chronic health problems in adult cancer patients for the oncology nurse practitioner.

Focuses on evidence-based nursing and medical management issues relevant to the care of patients and their families across the cancer continuum and practice settings.

This clinical capstone course prepares Adult Gerontology primary care nurse practitioner students to synthesize and apply concepts and knowledge critical for professional primary care advanced practice nursing with individuals, families and communities. Students' independent practice skills are refined in precepted clinical experiences.

This course focuses on the clinical management of older adults and their families emphasizing interdisciplinary care. Content includes physiologic, pathological, psychosocial and functional changes associated with aging; including social gerontological issues. Nursing majors only.

Uses a life span approach to examine principles of primary care management of childbearing couples and sexual reproductive health in women and men. Application is in community-based settings. Nursing majors only.

This course introduces fundamental concepts and models of population-oriented nursing practice and the central issues affecting that practice. Focuses on health disparities and underserved populations.

This course will focus on developmentally appropriate advanced assessment, diagnosis and family-centered management of infants, children and adolescents seen in primary care settings.

This capstone course emphasizes the comprehensive, whole-person approach to the clinical management of primary health care needs across the lifespan in the context of the individual, the family and/or the community.

Students will begin to explore the professional role of the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. The program begins with a developmentally focused examination of how to assess and manage common challenges in complex patient care, including the older adult and those with chronic conditions.

Focusing on unique aspects of prescribing in the acute care setting, this course will help the AG-ACNP student to understand specific knowledge related to prescribing for more complex and unstable patients, and establish a systematic approach to prescriptive stewardship.

This course will focus on content and clinical applications for more complex and critical conditions managed within the scope of Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner practice.

This final clinical course is intended to promote increasing independence in clinical decision making, risk stratification, and overall management of adult-gerontological patients with complex illness or injury in the acute care setting.

This final seminar course is designed to support the nurse practitioner in the transition from primary to acute care clinician. Students will explore the professional role of the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner as a pivotal member of interdisciplinary teams. Unique aspects of this transition will be examined, including collaborative relationships, the credentialing process, billing and coding, ethical challenges, and professional advocacy.

Admission to Nursing graduate program. Focuses on epidemiologic approaches for studying the impact of social, economic, and cultural inequalities on health and illness patterns at population and clinical levels.

The women's health care advanced practicum focuses on the synthesis and clinical management of primary health care and specialty health care problems of women.

This course concentrates on clinical management of pediatric primary care patients and their families with a continuing focus on advanced diagnostic reasoning.

The course focuses on advanced clinical management of pediatric primary care patients, emphasizing concepts of family-centered health care in selected child and adolescent health problems. Students function in an advanced practice role working with children, adolescents, and their families in primary care, or outpatient pediatric specialty settings.

This course prepares the advanced practice nurse to design, implement, and evaluate a coordinated system of interventions that aim to promote optimal health and development for infants, children and adolescents with complex conditions. Students will develop skills to assist with the successful transition into the role of a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner into health care systems.

Supervised practicum in an advanced practice role in a selected health care setting that provides primary care to infants, children, or adolescents.

This course is the capstone practicum for pediatric nurse practitioner students. It emphasizes the comprehensive clinical management of primary health care needs of children in the context of the family.

This course is the first of four in the sequence of intervention and case management courses. It builds on the skills of psychiatric mental health diagnostic formulation and provides a foundation for management of common behavioral health problems, psychiatric illness, and substance use disorders across the lifespan within a biopsychosocial framework.

Utilizing epidemiology, psychoeducation, case management, and health policy, students examine the scope of mental health problems and services for underserved populations.

This course is third of a four course sequence that focuses delivery of care across the lifespan by the PMHNP in the context of relationships and larger systems. The influence of families, peers, groups, communities and society on client mental health and psychiatric illness will be examined.

This course is the second of four in the sequence of intervention and case management courses for the PMHNP. It focuses on management of common psychiatric illnesses in childhood using a biopsychosocial framework.

This capstone course builds on and synthesizes knowledge gained in the previous semesters. Psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological interventions are integrated in the identification and management of complex psychiatric/mental health issues for diverse clients across the lifespan.

This is the final advanced clinical course for students to apply knowledge and skills in selected domains of the advanced practice of psychiatric-mental health nursing. Supervision, peer evaluation, seminar, and independent readings will enhance the experience.

The course focuses on the concepts relevant to health care informatics, the use of computerized information systems, and the use of computer applications to support clinical and administrative decision-making.

This course examines health care and nursing practice organizations, and the influence of the external and internal environment on these organizations. Roles and functions of nurses at different levels and in different types of health care settings are explored.

This course explores the knowledge and skills required for effective human resource management with emphasis on behaviors that promote and sustain an interprofessional health care practice environment. Nursing majors only. Admission to the Graduate School or permission of instructor required.

This course focuses on fundamental financial management concepts in health services organizations. Emphasis is placed on the financial environment and application of financial and managerial accounting and budgeting principles and methods to prepare nurse leaders and entrepreneurs for decision-making in simple to complex health services organizations. Nursing majors only.

Explores theories and methods for improving the quality, safety, and outcomes of care at patient and organizational levels, emphasizing the quality and patient safety movement, improvement science, and evidence based practice. Nursing majors only.

This course will prepare students for teaching in diverse healthcare and educational settings. Emphasis will be placed on the development of skills for teaching in nursing and healthcare to promote ethical, safe, and quality care. Must be a professional nurse enrolled in a graduate program at UNC-CH.

This course will examine curriculum development and evaluation in healthcare education for academic and clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on current contextual influences that facilitate curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation in diverse healthcare educational settings. Must be a professional nurse enrolled in a graduate program at UNC-CH.

This course explores complex health care systems' distinctive structures, processes, and outcomes and how internal and external environmental factors influence health care and nursing practice. Nursing majors only.

This course is designed to examine evidence-based strategies within health care systems, related to the management of resources, information systems, policies, and delivery of quality, relationship-centered care. Nursing majors only and permission from instructor required.

This course combines user-centered design theories, the science of systems analysis and design, and usability in health care, supported by real-world exercises in a simulated environment.

This course focuses on advanced assessment for identifying evidence-based interventions across a variety of healthcare settings. Emphasis is on the application of tools to implement changes related to care delivery and coordination at the client, unit, and organizational levels.

Advanced clinical nurse leadership course emphasizing collaboration with key stakeholders to implement evidence-based interventions and improve care delivery in clinical systems.

Prepares students for clinical teaching in diverse nursing education settings. Emphasis will be placed on the development of evidence-based clinical teaching skills designed to facilitate student learning and evaluation as well as safe, ethical, relationship-centered clinical practice of students. Must be a professional nurse enrolled in a graduate program at UNC-CH.

Special topics with an authority in the field.

Students engage in individualized, precepted clinical experiences and guided scholarly reflection. Students must be Hillman Scholars; licensed as an RN in NC and enrolled full-time in the PhD program. The first of two courses designed to enhance scholars' understanding of nursing practice and care delivery within clinical micro systems.

Second sequential course for doctoral students designed to extend scholars' understanding of nursing practice and develop identity as a nurse scientist. Scholars engage in individualized, precepted clinical experiences and guided scholarly reflection.

Introduces scientific reasoning, methods and ethical principles guiding scientific inquiry. Includes an introductory review of the literature and formulation of a researchable problem and purpose statement within a focused area of nursing inquiry. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Explores the structure and scientific premise of investigation through construction of Specific Aims using the National Institutes of Health guidelines for a grant application. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Foundational knowledge and methods needed to situate a particular scientific question within the current state of the science and create an argument for scientific innovation. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Knowledge and application of foundational scientific theory, design, methods and analysis to the creation of a research proposal within the National Institutes of Health proposal model. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Introduces the ontological and epistemological basis of nursing science and the application of syndemic thinking as a lens for conducting nursing science. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Examines the biological, physiological, psychological, and behavioral determinants of health and their interactions. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Examines social determinants of health at multiple levels, and their interactions, and characteristics that differentiate structural from non-structural social determinants. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Evaluates the interplay among biological, physiological, psychological, behavioral, and social determinants, whether the relationships are consistent with a syndemics framework, and the potential for novel relationships across determinants in these areas to advance nursing science. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Students develop competence in analyzing and applying philosophical and theoretical orientations in the conduct and critique of scientific and scholarly work. Majors only.

Student develops competence in identifying, organizing and critiquing the evidence in a focused area. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Student continues to develop the knowledge synthesis with a focus on synthesizing the evidence and writing the review for publication. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Examines interrelated changes in nursing, ethical and legal expectations, and the organization of health care and health policy. Ways that nurse leaders in health care organizations adapt to and challenge public policies throughout the policymaking process and consequences for organizations and for health, practice, research, and education are explored.

An in-depth examination of quantitative and qualitative descriptive and associational research, including design, sampling, measurement, data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of results. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

An in-depth examination of qualitative and quantitative explanatory and predictive research, including design, sampling, measurement, data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of results.

Focuses on the use of advanced regression techniques to analyze various types of response variables with multiple predictors, interaction terms, or longitudinal data. Permission of Instructor.

This course provides a foundation philosophy of science, examines the elements and utility of theory, and explores key theories of practice, including theories from nursing and other disciplines. Admission to Nursing graduate program required.

This course is an analysis of the theoretical principles of translating, disseminating, and implementing evidence into healthcare practice. Students will evaluate major theoretical and conceptual models in the fields of translational science, dissemination and implementation, organizational change, and quality improvement. Nursing majors only.

This foundational course is focused on identification of a practice problem and systematically searching, appraising, and synthesizing a body of evidence to support practice change. Nursing Majors Only.

This course focuses on evidence-based implementation and evaluation strategies for development of methodologies for planning, implementing and evaluating a sustainable practice change project that emphasizes quality and safety principles. Nursing Majors Only.

Serves as a synthesis hub to guide students in developing the cognitive and psychomotor skills needed to search the scientific literature, develop conceptual models, analyze data, and interpret findings. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Serves as a synthesis hub to guide students in developing the cognitive and psychomotor skills needed to complete a knowledge synthesis, hone select grant writing skills, analyze data, and interpret findings. Enrollment in the SON PhD Program.

Examines the major theoretical paradigms, perspectives, and issues in organization theory, particularly as applied to organizations providing health care services.

This course will apply ecological and developmental perspectives to research with children at risk for conditions threatening life/quality of life and resilience under risk. Emphasis is on critically evaluating conceptual models, designs, and methods, and responsible conduct of research aiming to understand, prevent, or manage risk.

Explores theoretical, methodological, and ethical issues related to research in families and health across the life span. Content includes family research related to health promotion, risk reduction, vulnerability, and health risk, and the family in the context of acute and chronic illness. Cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic issues are included.

Examines literature on quality of care -- effectiveness, safety, efficiency, equity, timeliness, and patient-centeredness. Critically evaluates conceptual frameworks, research designs, sources of data, analytic approaches, and implications for health care policy.

This course provides students with a foundation in professional communication of scholarly and clinical work through a variety of strategies. Nursing majors only.

This course provides a foundation for the application of core leadership principles to lead organizational change within complex and dynamic healthcare systems. Students will gain competencies in the application of macro-level leadership tools (e.g., organizational assessment, systems thinking, strategic planning, workforce management, and organizational policy development and analysis) to address service delivery challenges and drive organizational change, with a particular focus on quality improvement and patient safety initiatives. Nursing majors only.

This course prepares health care leaders to effectively select, implement and utilize health information systems for effective delivery of health care services and promote quality, safety and patient engagement.

This course examines the intersection of health policy development, advocacy and nursing as a means of impacting the health of populations at the local, state, national and/or international level. Emerging issues in health policy will be explored with an emphasis placed on transformational leadership principles as a means of influencing change. Nursing majors only.

This course allows the learner to examine personal values, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as they relate to successful leadership practices and behaviors in complex health care organizations. Nursing majors only.

This course builds upon foundational leadership knowledge to incorporate executive practices essential to successfully leading larger health care delivery systems and health professions organizations into the future. Nursing majors only.

Course and project hours focused on identifying an evidence-based clinical practice question and resources necessary to support the DNP Project.

Course and project hours focused on methodologies for planning and implementing the DNP Project.

Course and project hours focused on issues related to the implementation, evaluation, and dissemination findings of the DNP Project.

This course analyzes the complexities that contribute to the health of populations in a local to global context. This course will prepare leaders to integrate evidence-based approaches that impact the health of populations, building upon skills and knowledge developed throughout the program. Nursing majors only.

Knowledge, theories, and skills necessary for transition into an academic teaching role in university schools of nursing. Particular emphasis on the teaching-learning process as used in higher education.

Admission to the PhD program in nursing and successful completion of qualifying examination. Permission of the instructor for students lacking the prerequisites. Application of educational theory and methods in teaching activities with mentor. Provides opportunities to analyze course design, implement objectives, evaluate student competencies, and practice in teaching methods.

Required preparation, NURS 912 or graduate level theory course. In-depth exploration of selected programmatic research in nursing and related fields on prevention and management of chronic conditions in order to generate and evaluate treatment theory and intervention protocol.

Examines methodological, ethical, and practical issues in the design and implementation of theory-based intervention studies.

Proseminars are offered for one, two, or three credits. Topics differ each semester.

This course is designed to enhance the student's knowledge of relevant issues researchers face when planning, designing, and implementing research with an older adult population.

Explores the application of implementation science and other relevant theory, focusing on the role of the executive nurse in integrating innovations into complex systems.

This course examines economic and finance principles in health care from various perspectives including small to large healthcare organizations. Students will gain an understanding of the perspective of economics in the allocation of resources in the healthcare sector. Nursing majors only.

Explore components of and rationale for a pre-/post-doctoral training plan and its relevance for planning a research intensive career. Students will write a personalized training plan following grant criteria.

This course focuses on the application of statistical concepts to the analysis of health care data and includes evaluation and presentation of the results.

Required preparation, doctoral level qualitative methods course or NURS 977. Emphasizes the work of analysis and interpretation. Students apply relevant qualitative techniques to their own data.

Directs students to develop research skills related to the dissertation and to their future research.

This course focuses on the synthesis of knowledge related to advanced practice, practice leadership, and practice inquiry and is composed of a residency related to the DNP project.

School of Nursing

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Dean and Professor

Valerie Howard

[email protected]

Associate Dean, M.S.N./D.N.P. Division and Programs

Jennifer D'Auria

Associate Dean, Ph.D. and Postdoctoral Programs

Cheryl Giscombe

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Ph.D. in Nursing

General info.

• Faculty working with students: https://nursing.duke.edu/academic-programs/phd-program-nursing/faculty
• Students: 7-8 each year
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Part time study available: No
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: November 30

Rosa M. Gonzalez-Guarda Assistant Dean, PhD Program (Director of Graduate Studies) Duke University School of Nursing Box 3322 Durham, NC 27710

Phone: 919-684-8456

Email: [email protected]

Website:  http://www.nursing.duke.edu/

Program Description

The Ph.D. Program in Nursing will prepare strong scientists to conduct nursing research in the broad area of Trajectories of Chronic Illness and Care Systems. Graduates will assume roles primarily in academic and research settings. Our approach is to admit a small number of highly qualified applicants so that every student will work closely with one or more faculty members in a series of mentored experiences, supported by formal course work, to (a) ensure socialization to the role of research scientist; (b) ensure significant knowledge and skill acquisition for launching a successful program of research post doctorate; and (c) to prepare for an entry level role in an academic setting. Students will work on active research projects and it is expected that most will graduate with a record of publication. Each fall, students are admitted for full-time study to engage in rigorous research training for scientific careers in clinical or academic nursing. Students will receive tuition and stipend support.

• Nursing: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statistics
• Nursing: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Nursing: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Nursing: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadline: November 30

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores: GRE General (Optional)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

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

• Purposes and objectives for undertaking PhD study
• Research interests and career goals
• Strengths and weaknesses in the chosen field
• A description of prior research project or research participation and how this has influenced career choice and desire to pursue graduate studies
• Reasons for choosing Duke for PhD studies
• Name(s) of PhD Nursing faculty members in the School whose research program most closely fits with the applicant’s research interests.

Writing Sample None required

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

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

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PhD in Nursing

A phd in nursing for the future of health care.

Are you a nursing professional looking to make a larger impact on your profession? Maybe you’ve just graduated with your BSN and are interested in focusing on the theoretical and research-oriented side of nursing. Whatever your background, earning a PhD in Nursing from East Carolina University will give you the advanced research skills and philosophical knowledge to influence national, system-level change in health care and public health policy.

A nursing PhD program designed with you in mind

Whether you’re a working professional or a recent graduate who wants to join one of the top nursing PhD programs in the country without relocating, our 100% online PhD in nursing program lets you create a course of study that works with your life and work schedule without sacrificing practical experience.

When you join our nursing PhD program, you’ll enjoy the flexibility and freedom of fully online courses and hands-on learning during annual on-campus immersion experiences in your first and second years.

No GMAT or GRE required

A Top 10 online Nursing School

Fully online program

Why earn a Nursing PhD at ECU?

You’re probably asking, “What is a PhD in nursing?” Well, earning a PhD in Nursing lets you go beyond patient care settings to study the discipline of nursing from a theoretical perspective. You will dive into articles and literature written by researchers who survey the field of nursing and propose possible improvements or paths for the future. As one of the top-ranked online schools for nursing in the country — according to U.S. News and World Report — we give you the resources, support, and real-world experience to make lasting impacts on the world of health care.

Experienced faculty

Take advantage of our small class sizes to work closely with distinguished faculty mentors who have decades of experience as nurses, nurse educators, advanced practice registered nurses, and researchers. Courses are carefully designed to allow the flexibility of online delivery while providing opportunities for real-world practice through directed research and research practicums in your community.

Experiential learning

In addition to the integrated research projects in your courses, you’ll also get to travel to campus during summer for immersion sessions consisting of several days on campus. Not only will you get access to the cutting-edge resources and classrooms on campus, but you’ll also get to meet and spend one-on-one time with your professors and peers.

Commitment to social good

We at ECU pride ourselves on our values and dedication to fostering inclusion, diversity, and equity. Earning our PhD in Nursing will let you continue that mission as you influence and inspire others in health care to adopt new, socially conscious strategies and methods for caring for patients of all backgrounds.

Courses you will take in the nursing PhD program

What is a PhD in nursing without expertly created courses that prepare you to apply the latest theories to real-world settings? When you join the PhD in nursing program at ECU, you’ll benefit from several degree options, depending on your educational and professional background.

If you are coming into the nursing PhD program directly from a BSN program, you get to choose between two pathways that each blend doctoral curriculum with an MSN concentration that aligns with your professional goals. Choose either a nursing education concentration for a path to higher education or a health systems leadership concentration to take on more managerial and executive roles in health care.

Depending on your concentration, some of the courses you’ll take as you earn your Nursing PhD might include:

• Education Concepts, Theories, and Strategies in Nursing
• Nursing Philosophy and Knowledge Development
• State of the Science

View PhD in nursing program paths and curriculum

Hear from our nursing PhD program students

“I was afforded opportunities to develop leadership skills through campus organizations, engage in various research activities through a research assistantship, educate the next generation of nurses by teaching an OB simulation for baccalaureate students, and collaborate with students in my cohort for enrichment and support. I was mentored by wonderful faculty members who invested in me, genuinely cared about my well-being and success, and prepared me for my next steps.”

– Taylor Nelson Richardson, PhD, RN ‘22

What can you do with your PhD in Nursing?

You may still be wondering, “What is a PhD in nursing and what can I do with it?” Briefly put, graduating from ECU’s nursing PhD program will let you take an active role in helping nurses assist patients efficiently and caringly. You will have the skills and knowledge to go into higher education or take on leadership positions in hospitals and other healthcare institutions.

Achieve your career goals with ECU’s PhD in nursing program

By the time you graduate with your PhD in Nursing from ECU, you will have advanced mastery of essential skills to start making impacts on nursing and public health policy. You will also be qualified to:

• Teach nursing in higher education
• Increase your salary potential in your current job
• Begin an exciting career as a scholar and researcher
• Take on more responsibilities in your current organization or community

Where are Nursing PhD graduates working?

The expertise and experience our students gain at ECU help them to stand out from other job candidates and find the rewarding careers they desire. Past graduates work as:

• Military nurse leaders
• Deans of nursing programs
• Nursing program directors
• Directors of advanced clinical practice

Professional nurse researchers earn an average annual salary of $81,500, according to PayScale.com .

Nursing instructors and teachers in colleges and universities earn an average annual salary of $83,340, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

With a PhD in Nursing from ECU, you will also enjoy great job security, since the BLS predicts that health care will remain one of the fastest growing career fields in the country.

Get started on your Nursing PhD

Take the next step toward earning your Nursing PhD. Still asking, “What is a PhD in Nursing at ECU?” Want to learn more about how our PhD in nursing program prepares you to change the direction of health care? We have the resources to answer all your questions and help you get started.

Degree programs related to our nursing PhD program

If you are interested in a clinical or professional doctorate, you may be interested in learning more about our Doctor of Nursing Practice programs .

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Spartan Alert

Nursing, ph.d..

The 57 credit PhD in Nursing program is designed to develop nurse scientists and leaders who will create new knowledge through courses in philosophy/theory, research methods, and directed research study with the goal of reducing health disparities. Our inclusive, student-focused environment provides directed mentoring experiences with established researchers who focus on health promotion and health disparities in access to care, treatment, and outcomes for select populations, as well as health systems research. Electives are required for depth and breadth of study, as well as interdisciplinary perspectives with populations of interest.

Program Distinctions

• Graduates of the program include recognized nurse scientists, deans, health system and policy experts, faculty members at leading universities, and national leaders, such as Dr. Ernest Grant, president of the American Nurses Association.
• The program can be completed with three years of full-time study; part-time options are available.
• Consistently recognized by the National League for Nursing as a Center for Excellence in Nursing Education since 2005. 
• The School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

The Student Experience

• Students will have access to experienced research faculty who are dedicated to student success.
• Individualized mentoring by supportive faculty is available.
• Opportunities are available for research and teaching assistantships.
• There is a designated PhD student study space/lounge in the new Nursing and Instructional Building.
• Options are available to pursue courses to prepare for nurse education roles, including the post-graduate certificate in nursing education.
• There is a diverse student body, including international students.
• There are numerous nursing and graduate student organizations on campus, including Sigma Theta Tau International (Gamma Zeta Chapter), the Graduate Student Association, as well as an international student organization.    

After Graduation

• Successful candidates assume research and leadership roles in promoting optimal health for ethnic minorities, women, children, and older adults.
• Nurse Scientist
• Health System Leader
• Faculty Member/Academic Administrator
• Regulatory and Policy Position
• Clinical Scholar
• President/Director/Leader of National Organizations

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Current unrestricted licensure as a registered nurse in one of the 50 states or validated credentials by CGFNS for international applicants. Residents of North Carolina must hold unrestricted North Carolina licensure as a registered nurse.
• Plans of study are available for students with a bachelor’s degree.
• Three letters of recommendation.
• In addition to the application materials required by The Graduate School, applicants must submit a 300-word statement of research goals in the doctoral program related to promotion of optimal health for ethnic minorities, women, children, or older adults.
• Selected applicants must participate in an interview with graduate Nursing faculty to help you determine if our PhD program is right for you.
• Application deadline is April 1.

Want more information? Let’s get started!

Program details.

Degree Type: Doctoral

College/School: School of Nursing

Program Type: Majors & Concentrations

Class Type: Online

Learn More About UNCG School of Nursing

Similar Degree Offerings

• Nursing, D.N.P. Post-Baccalaureate Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration
• Nursing, D.N.P. Post-Baccalaureate Nurse Anesthesia Concentration
• Nursing, D.N.P. Post-Master's Nursing Concentration

Dr. Susan Letvak UNCG School of Nursing 336-256-1024 [email protected]

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• PhD in Nursing

2023-24 University Catalog

Nursing, ph.d..

The Ph.D. in Nursing requires 51 credit hours. Up to 15 credits may be transferred into the program.

Please refer to the enrollment requirements for all graduate nursing students.

For information regarding deadlines and requirements for admission, please see https://grs.uncg.edu/programs/ .

The Ph.D. in Nursing program is delivered in an online format, with both synchronous and asynchronous experiences. Students will be invited to campus 2-4 times per year for intensive interaction with faculty.  If students are unable to travel to campus, a synchronous online experience will be offered.  

The Associate Dean for Academic Programs reviews the credentials of each applicant in collaboration with faculty from each specialty area. Exceptions to the requirements can be made on the recommendation of the faculty. The Associate Dean for Academic Programs forwards the admission recommendation to the Vice Provost for Graduate Education who makes the final decision.

Applicants must have the following credentials:

• Upon admission to the Ph.D. program, students are expected to submit a current unrestricted RN license. International students must submit a nursing license from their home country validated by CGFNS.  Even though not required, Ph.D. students are recommended to obtain RN licensure in North Carolina in the event that the license is required for research assignments or, assistantships or dissertation data collection.
• An inferential statistics course within the past five years or permission by the Program Director. 
• Master’s degree in nursing from a school accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency.
• In addition to the application materials required by The Graduate School, applicants must submit a 300-word statement of research goals in doctoral program related to promotion of optimal health for ethnic minorities, women, children, or older adults.
• Selected applicants must participate in an interview with Graduate Nursing Faculty.
• Please refer to the preceding enrollment requirements for all graduate nursing students.

Degree Program Requirements

Required: 51 credit hours

Students Entering with a D.N.P. Degrees

Students who are admitted and enroll in the Ph.D. in Nursing who have completed a Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) degree may have up to 12 credits of course requirements waived from the 51 total credits required for the Ph.D. Each student's D.N.P. transcript will be evaluated and individualized plans of study indicating the courses to be waived will be developed based on previously completed course work in the student's D.N.P. program.

Required Withdrawal for Ph.D. Students

Students will become academically ineligible to continue if any of the following occur:

• Grades of U, F, or WF for any credit hours.
• Grades of C, C+, or B-in 6 credit hours.
• Degree requirements not completed within the time limit (7 academic years).

Required Milestones*

• Residency (Immersion)
• Plan of Study
• Preliminary Exams
• Research Competency
• Comprehensive Exam (Written & Oral)
• Dissertation Proposal
• Admission to Candidacy
• Dissertation Defense
• Filing the Final Approved Dissertation

General information about milestones for doctoral programs is available in Section III of the Graduate Policies page in the University Catalog. For information about how milestones are accomplished for a specific program, please refer to the doctoral program's handbook.

Nursing Schools in North Carolina

1-8 of 8 results

School of Nursing - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC •

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill •

Graduate School

• • Rating 4.4 out of 5   5 reviews

Doctoral Student: I am in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program, BSN to DNP track. I have had an excellent experience so far. The program is rigorous but I feel very supported by my program's lead faculty and program advisor. I am a mother of 4 and this program is still possible for none traditional students. I live 4 hours from campus. Most of the classes and meetings are remotely conducted. I have had to attend in-person 3 times the first year. I will have to attend a few times per semester this year. The structure of the program prepares you for your DNP project from the beginning. You are encouraged to find your own clinical, but they will assist. ... Read 5 reviews

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ,

Graduate School ,

CHAPEL HILL, NC ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I am in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program, BSN to DNP track. I have had an excellent experience so far. The program is rigorous but I feel very supported by my program's lead... .

Read 5 reviews.

Beaver College of Health Sciences

Boone, NC •

Appalachian State University •

Blue checkmark.

Appalachian State University ,

BOONE, NC ,

University of North Carolina at Charlotte College of Health and Human Services

Charlotte, NC •

University of North Carolina at Charlotte •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: The best part of my academic experience has been engaging in classes that are social work oriented, with other social work students. My undergrad background is psychology, so it's been an honor intensely studying my intended field. The assignments are beneficial to my learning and I appreciate all my professors efforts in building this generations social workers. My least favorite part has been the fact that I don't engage with the university as much as I'd like. With full time class, field placement, and work, I struggle to find time to truly connect with the university like other students. ... Read 4 reviews

University of North Carolina at Charlotte ,

CHARLOTTE, NC ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The best part of my academic experience has been engaging in classes that are social work oriented, with other social work students. My undergrad background is psychology, so it's been an honor... .

Read 4 reviews.

Thomas Jefferson University

Graduate School •

PHILADELPHIA, PA

• • Rating 4.68 out of 5   71

University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing

University of Pittsburgh •

PITTSBURGH, PA

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1

Radford University

RADFORD, VA

• • Rating 4.54 out of 5   24

Western Carolina University College of Health and Human Sciences

Cullowhee, NC •

Western Carolina University •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Alum: I really enjoyed that the classes were usually in the evening and worked well with my full-time job. In the MPA program, professors brought in experienced people or those currently working in the government and/or not-for-profit sector. These types of real life interactions created excellent opportunities for networking. ... Read 1 review

Western Carolina University ,

CULLOWHEE, NC ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I really enjoyed that the classes were usually in the evening and worked well with my full-time job. In the MPA program, professors brought in experienced people or those currently working in the... .

Read 1 reviews.

College of Health Sciences - Gardner-Webb University

Boiling Springs, NC •

Gardner-Webb University •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   3 reviews

Other: The workload is outrageous, but the teachers are really a great help. They continuously show that they care and want you to succeed. They are there for not only education, but they check in on our personal lives and mental health as well. My cohort has a group of about 50 individuals so I feel as if classes are smaller and more personal. I would recommend this program for anyone considering nursing as long as they have adequate time available. ... Read 3 reviews

Gardner-Webb University ,

BOILING SPRINGS, NC ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Other says The workload is outrageous, but the teachers are really a great help. They continuously show that they care and want you to succeed. They are there for not only education, but they check in on our... .

Read 3 reviews.

University of Mount Olive

Mount Olive, NC •

Niche User: I was in the Human Services degree program and I enjoyed it. I was able to work with a lot of good professors who cared about teaching and were very passionate about their job. There were a lot of different diversities in the class and I feel that gave a better learning experience finding out different views around the world. ... Read 3 reviews

MOUNT OLIVE, NC ,

Featured Review: Niche User says I was in the Human Services degree program and I enjoyed it. I was able to work with a lot of good professors who cared about teaching and were very passionate about their job. There were a lot of... .

• Find college scholarships

University of North Carolina at Pembroke College of Health Sciences

Pembroke, NC •

University of North Carolina at Pembroke •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: The coursework for the nursing program was very useful. I learned everything I needed to know about getting a BSN in nursing. I enjoyed having all online classes for the BSN degree. I did not have to go down to the campus to have to take the classes, which I liked. I felt that I did not have to do any useless coursework while taking these classes. They were all very useful in getting my degree. ... Read 2 reviews

University of North Carolina at Pembroke ,

PEMBROKE, NC ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The coursework for the nursing program was very useful. I learned everything I needed to know about getting a BSN in nursing. I enjoyed having all online classes for the BSN degree. I did not have to... .

Read 2 reviews.

School of Nursing - Barton College

Wilson, NC •

Barton College •

Barton College ,

WILSON, NC ,

San Francisco State University

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

• • Rating 4.19 out of 5   52

Mount Mercy University

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   9

Patricia H. Garman School of Nursing

D'Youville University •

BUFFALO, NY

Showing results 1 through 8 of 8

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Top 10 Best PhD Programs in North Carolina

North Carolina is the state with the 9th largest population in the US and has a knowledge-based economy that largely centers around banking, technology, and pharmaceuticals. Charlotte, NC is the second largest-banking hub of the country and the state currently has the 17th-largest economy , but is number seven for fiscal stability .

North Carolina was also named as the 13th best state for college education by the US News & World Report . The state is home to two of the country’s most prestigious institutions, Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The two schools are known for their rivalry, especially in basketball, with other North Carolina universities also well-known for sports, as well as excellence in higher education.

Table of Contents

Top PhD Programs in North Carolina

Duke university, fuqua school of business.

PhD in Business Administration

The Fuqua School of Business is part of the Duke Graduate School, which has around 2,500 doctorate students. The school has a research-based approach and aims to develop future leaders with exceptional analytical skills. This NC PhD program is offered in collaboration with other schools, including UNC-Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University.

• Courses include: Decision sciences, management & organizations, and operations management & strategy.
• Duration: 5 years
• Tuition: Full funding
• Financial: Fellowships, scholarships, federal work-study, and loans
• Delivery: On-campus
• Acceptance rate: 7.7%
• Location: Durham, North Carolina

The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, School of Nursing

DNP Healthcare Leadership & Administration

The School of Nursing at UNC-Chapel Hill is well-regarded  in the field of nursing and healthcare leadership, with particular expertise in elder care, mental/behavioral health, global health, as well as maternal, child, and family care. Their DNP in Healthcare Leadership & Administration is one of the best online  doctoral programs in North Carolina, offering a high degree of flexibility by combining synchronous and asynchronous learning approaches. Though the default program has a BSN to DNP track for students with an undergraduate degree, there is also an MSN to DNP track for nursing professionals who have a graduate qualification such as an APRN, MHA, MPH, or MBA.

• Courses include: Evidence-based practice and research, public policy and advocacy in health care, and pathophysiology for advanced nursing practice.
• Credits: 66-75
• Duration: 3 years
• Tuition: Refer tuition page
• Financial aid: Scholarships, student employment, and loans
• Delivery: Online
• Acceptance rate: 25%
• Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Wake Forest University, School of Medicine

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (PhD)

The highly-collaborative Department of Biochemistry at Wake Forest University works hand-in-hand with a range of centers for research, including the Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Center for Molecular Communication and Signaling, and the Center for Human Genomics and Personalized Medicine Research. This is one of the few PhD programs in NC boasting faculty with expertise in cancer research, including in areas such as nucleic acid metabolism and signal transduction in cancer and inflammation.

• Courses include: Advanced biochemistry, epigenetics, and genomics.
• Duration: 4.7 years
• Financial aid: Scholarships and loans
• Acceptance rate: 32%
• Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina

East Carolina University, College of Nursing

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing PhD

East Carolina University ranks high  in terms of ‘educate to career’, a measure of the economic value of its education. In short, this means that the school’s degrees equip you to build a successful career by providing you with valuable skills and making you more attractive to potential employers, encompassing high-quality education, affordability, and employability. While most doctoral programs in NC have a fixed number of credits and courses, this PhD in Nursing program allows interested students to pick up extra credits to study subjects outside of the basic course requirements.

• Courses include: Theory for the practice of advanced nursing, translational nursing sciences, and statistical methods for nursing research.
• Credits: 72-84 (54 for MSN to PhD and DNP to PhD tracks)
• Duration: 6 years maximum
• Tuition: $289.55 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, student employment, and military benefits
• Delivery: Distance education, on-campus
• Acceptance rate: 87.9%
• Location: Greenville, North Carolina

North Carolina State University

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Ph.D.

NC State is a public university that was been highly ranked by the US News & World Report for various factors, including being named #7 of the best value schools  and #26 for best engineering schools  in the USA. This is one of the few doctoral programs in NC in the field of aerodynamics or aerospace engineering, and offers specialized research areas covering aerodynamics, space exploration, vibrations & controls, structural mechanics, and thermal sciences.

• Courses include: Fluid dynamics of combustion, advanced solid mechanics, and principles of structural vibration.
• Credits: 72+
• Tuition: $505.28
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, student employment, assistantships, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 46.2%
• Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

The University of North Carolina Greensboro

PhD in Psychology

UNC Greensboro is a reputed institution that’s known as one of the best in social mobility  among the public universities in North Carolina. It also offers one of the few multi-track Psychology PhD programs in the state. As part of the program you can choose between four different tracks: clinical psychology , cognitive psychology , developmental psychology , and social psychology .

• Courses include: Biological psychology, adult psychopathology, and theory and methods of intellectual assessment.
• Credits: 71
• Tuition: $289.94 per credit
• Financial aid: Fellowships, scholarships, tuition waivers, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 87.5%
• Location: Greensboro, North Carolina

Appalachian State University, Reich College of Education

Educational Leadership (EdD)

Appalachian State University is one of the 17 schools that sit under the University of North Carolina System and is known for its inclusion and diversity. This is one of the few online PhD programs in NC in educational leadership, and offers a choice of five concentrations: educational administration, higher education, interdisciplinary studies, literacy in exceptionalities, and instructional technology leadership.

• Courses include: Educational organizations & technology, writing for the professional educator, and applied quantitative methods in education.
• Credits: 60
• Tuition: $304 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, federal work-study, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 79.5%
• Location: Boone, North Carolina

The University of North Carolina Charlotte, Department of Geography & Earth Sciences

PhD in Geography

The University of North Carolina Charlotte’s prestigious Department of Geography and Earth Sciences focuses on the theoretical and applied study of the earth’s physical, natural, and human aspects. A doctorate in geography is one of the least common PhD programs in North Carolina and this program is run by award-winning faculty who are expert in multi-disciplinary research.

• Courses include: Geographic information science, the restructuring city, and landscape assessment.
• Duration: 4 years
• Tuition: $240.94 per credit
• Financial aid: Grants, fellowships, graduate assistantships, and loans
• Location: Charlotte, North Carolina

Elon University, School of Health Sciences

Doctor of Physical Therapy

The US News & World Report ranked Elon #6  on its list of the most innovative schools in the country. Elon’s School of Health Sciences follows a highly inclusive approach to education and health services. It has a range on innovative projects such as its Anatomical Gift Program, Health Outreach Program at Elon (HOPE) Clinic, the Open-Door Clinic of Alamance County, as well as global learning opportunities. Their Doctor of Physical Therapy program is built around a unique modular curriculum, with each module consisting of several related courses.

• Courses include: PT profession in healthcare, neurosciences & neuromuscular P-problems, and prosthetics & orthotics.
• Tuition & fees: $42,241 per year
• Financial aid: Scholarships, fellowships, grants, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 71.7%
• Location: Elon, North Carolina

Carolina Christian College

Doctor of Ministry

Carolina Christian College is a private, not-for-profit institution that aims to provide education based on biblical principles, and to prepare a diverse student population to serve the ministry and community. The university’s Doctor of Ministry program has a hybrid format that combines online and on-campus education.

• Courses include: Old Testament survey, dynamics of Christian leadership, and communication of Biblical truths.
• Cost: $5,600 per semester
• Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, and veteran benefits
• Delivery: Hybrid
• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Location: Salem, North Carolina

Popular Majors for PhD Programs in NC

North Carolina’s universities offer a range of doctorate programs, so you’re unlikely to struggle to find a school offering your concentration of choice. Having said that, some doctorate majors are in more demand than others.

The most popular majors for PhDs in North Carolina include:

• Business Administration
• Nursing & Healthcare Leadership
• Biological Sciences
• Mechanical Engineering
• Earth Sciences
• Anthropology
• Political Science

Though not all of North Carolina’s universities offer each of these majors, many of its institutions offer doctorates in most if not all of the fields on the list. Some, such as aerodynamics and biochemistry, are only offered by a limited number of institutions. However, the schools that do offer these rare PhDs are typically leaders in their fields with award-winning faculty and a track record of excellence.

Final Thoughts

North Carolina has a number of noteworthy universities, offering valuable opportunities for independent research, eminent mentorship, and excellent networking while earning a doctorate in their field of choice.

If you can’t afford to commit to a full-time, on-campus PhD program in North Carolina, you should consider one of the many online PhD programs offered by the state’s renowned universities. Regardless of whether you are looking for an on-campus or online PhD, North Carolina has a range of excellent programs across various fields.

If you’re still not sure what PhD program is best for you, take a look at these excellent doctorate programs in Florida , or the best 1-year online doctorates , fully-funded PhDs , and cheapest online PhDs .

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Graduate Programs

In addition to a variety of undergraduate program options, Western Carolina is the leading provider in western North Carolina for master's and doctorate level nurse training. Programs are offered in a variety of formats, including hybrid in-person and online programs and fully online master's- and doctoral-level training, which allows nurses to pursue their graduate degree while continuing their career. In-person graduate-level coursework is offered at Western Carolina's instructional site in Asheville at Biltmore Park. 

Graduate Degree and Certificate Options

Students interested in graduate school can pursue multiple graduate tracks and certificate options through the School of Nursing. Admission and coursework for each track is unique, so please read these pages carefully:

• DNP FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER
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• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-MSN)

Health & Human Sciences Bldg Room 336 Cullowhee, NC 28723 Map Directions 828.227.7467  tel [email protected] - Please note the Graduate Program of Interest in your correspondence

WCU Prog. at Biltmore Park 28 Schenck Pkwy, Ste 309 Asheville, NC 28803 Map Directions 828.654.6499  tel [email protected] - Please note the Graduate Program of Interest in your correspondence

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Active and visionary thinking, the fearless advancement of innovation through creativity, and the pursuit of unrestrained scientific inquiry on behalf of people in need: this is how Carolina Nurses lead the profession and improve lives for the public good.

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Seniors are the most rapidly growing patient population in the US. Developing new methodologies for educating caregivers and improving tools for evidence-based care creates better health outcomes for aging adults.

Learn more about Aging and Elderly Care

Chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. At Carolina Nursing we focus on preventing and managing these conditions across the lifespan to improve health outcomes and save lives.

Learn more about Chronic Conditions

Investigating and addressing the factors that increase the risk of poor health outcomes in vulnerable populations is critical to creating health equity.

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From intensive care to the emergency department, our acute care research and programs focus on providing patients with the best treatment for sudden and severe illnesses and injuries.

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Cathi Propper , PhD

Dr. Propper, Associate Professor at UNC School of Nursing, investigates the intricate relationship between early stress and brain development. As the Principal Investigator for a National Institute of Mental Health-funded study, she explores the impact of toxic stress, poverty, negative parenting, and household chaos on gut microbiome development in young children. Dr. Propper aims to unravel the complex interplay between gut microbiota, brain structure, and psychiatric risk, paving the way for innovative early-life interventions to prevent or mitigate mental health disorders.

Read more about Dr. Propper’s work here .

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School of Education launches online Ed.D. for aspiring leaders across sectors and fields

With approval from the UNC System, the UNC School of Education has launched the University’s first fully online doctoral degree program — the Ed.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership — which will provide working professionals with knowledge, skills, and experiences to take a human-centered approach to leadership, delivering upon their organization’s goals and mission.

Created and delivered in collaboration with The Graduate School at UNC-Chapel Hill, the UNC Office of Digital and Lifelong Learning, and 2U, the Ed.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership program’s application is open as of today, March 20. The program’s first cohort of students will begin classes in fall 2024.

“For more than 130 years, the UNC School of Education has prepared leaders for classrooms, schools, and school districts but also institutions well beyond education,” said Fouad Abd-El-Khalick, Ph.D., dean of the UNC School of Education and Alumni Distinguished Professor. “Education happens lifelong and lifewide, and learning happens within successful organizations. Our faculty members have expertise in areas critical to organizational learning and leadership, and we believe this program is an incredible opportunity for professionals to advance their careers and organizations.”

Developed with input from working professionals in both private and public sectors and spanning various industries, the Ed.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership program is tailored to equip students with specialized courses in improvement science, change leadership, human-centered design, equitable and inclusive practice, research methodology, and more. It will also offer students practical opportunities to implement their learning directly into their professional endeavors.

The program will utilize a blend of interactive online classes, self-paced asynchronous lessons, and an in-person immersion experience on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus. During the immersion experience, students will have the chance to forge meaningful connections with faculty, staff, and fellow students.

The program culminates with a capstone project tasking students with identifying a complex or pervasive challenge faced by their organization. Students will then undertake comprehensive research and implementation efforts to address it and design effective resolutions.

“Our faculty members have intentionally shaped this program and designed its curriculum to prepare professionals with tools to provide immediate value for our students, for the teams they lead or are part of, and for their organizations,” said Thurston Domina, Ph.D., associate dean for academic affairs and director of graduate studies at the School. “When our students graduate, we anticipate they will find success in private companies, government and non-profit organizations, business and management consulting, human resources, project management, leadership coaching or development, and more.”

Carrol Warren, Ed.D., who joined the faculty as an assistant clinical professor on Jan. 1, will lead the program as its inaugural director. Prior to Carolina, Warren served as a teaching assistant professor and faculty fellow with an institutional research center at NC State University.

“Leadership of teams and organizations is a complex endeavor,” said Warren, “and we are excited to welcome students from an array of career stages, roles, organizations, and locations who are committed to that endeavor. I look forward to cultivating robust learning environments where our students and equally committed and expert faculty members engage in ways that ultimately work toward the greater good through human-centered leadership practice.”

Prospective students can begin the online application at online.unc.edu . Deadlines for the first cohort of students, which begins classes in August 2024, are:  

• Priority deadline: June 11, 2024  
• Final deadline: July 3, 2024  

For details about application requirements or to contact an admissions counselor, visit online.unc.edu/online-doctoral-programs/online-edd-organizational-learning-and-leadership .  

March 20, 2024

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Education school launches online doctorate in leadership

The UNC School of Education’s program for aspiring leaders across sectors will host its first cohort of students in fall 2024.

With approval from the UNC System, the UNC School of Education has launched the University’s first fully online doctoral degree program — the Doctor of Education in organizational learning and leadership.

The program was created and delivered in collaboration with The Graduate School at UNC-Chapel Hill, the UNC Office of Digital and Lifelong Learning and 2U. It will provide working professionals with knowledge, skills and experiences to take a human-centered approach to leadership, delivering upon their organization’s goals and mission.

Applications are open as of March 20, and the program’s first cohort of students will begin classes in fall 2024.

“For more than 130 years, the UNC School of Education has prepared leaders for classrooms, schools and school districts but also institutions well beyond education,” said Fouad Abd-El-Khalick, education dean and Alumni Distinguished Professor. “Education happens lifelong and lifewide, and learning happens within successful organizations. Our faculty members have expertise in areas critical to organizational learning and leadership, and we believe this program is an incredible opportunity for professionals to advance their careers and organizations.”

Developed with input from working professionals in both private and public sectors and spanning various industries, the new doctoral program is tailored to equip students with specialized courses in improvement science, change leadership, human-centered design, equitable and inclusive practice, research methodology and more. It will also offer students practical opportunities to implement their learning directly into their professional endeavors.

The program will use a blend of interactive online classes, self-paced asynchronous lessons, and an in-person immersion experience on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus. During the immersion experience, students will have the chance to forge meaningful connections with faculty, staff and fellow students.

The program culminates with a capstone project in which students identify a complex or pervasive challenge faced by their organization. Students will then undertake comprehensive research and implementation efforts to address it and design effective resolutions.

“Our faculty members have intentionally shaped this program and designed its curriculum to prepare professionals with tools to provide immediate value for our students, for the teams they lead or are part of, and for their organizations,” said Thurston Domina, associate dean for academic affairs and director of graduate studies at the school. “When our students graduate, we anticipate they will find success in private companies, government and nonprofit organizations, business and management consulting, human resources, project management, leadership coaching or development, and more.”

“Leadership of teams and organizations is a complex endeavor,” said Warren, “and we are excited to welcome students from an array of career stages, roles, organizations and locations who are committed to that endeavor. I look forward to cultivating robust learning environments where our students and equally committed and expert faculty members engage in ways that ultimately work toward the greater good through human-centered leadership practice.”

Prospective students can begin the online application at online.unc.edu . The priority deadline for the first cohort of students is June 11, while the final deadline is July 3. Details about application requirements are available online or by contacting an admissions counselor.

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