phd nursing fully funded

Fully Funded PhD Programs in Nursing

Last updated May 14, 2022

As part of our series  How to Fully Fund Your PhD , here is a list of universities that offer fully funded PhD programs in Nursing. A PhD in Nursing can lead to a variety of careers in academia, healthcare, and more.

“Full funding” is a financial aid package for full-time students that includes full tuition remission as well as an annual stipend or salary during the entire program, which is usually 3-6 years. Funding usually comes with the expectation that students will teach or complete research in their field of study. Not all universities fully fund their doctoral students, which is why researching the financial aid offerings of many different programs, including small and lesser-known schools both in the U.S. and abroad, is essential.

The  ProFellow database  for graduate and doctoral study also spotlights external funding opportunities for graduate school, including dissertation research, fieldwork, language study, and summer work experiences.

Would you like to receive the full list of more than 1000+ fully funded programs in 60 disciplines? Download the FREE Directory of Fully Funded Graduate Programs and Full Funding Awards !

Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis

(Sacramento, CA): Each student admitted to the doctoral degree program at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing receives generous financial support to cover in-state tuition, fees, and additional expenses. Students are also eligible to apply for additional funding through various external sources.

Boston College Connell School of Nursing

(Chestnut Hill, MA): We fully fund every full-time student’s tuition, fees, & insurance for three years. The Connell School and Boston College offer multiple opportunities to fund graduate education. CSON graduate students receive financial assistance through internal and external sources—including scholarships, fellowships, grants, teaching and research assistantships, and tuition remission.

Columbia University School of Nursing

(New York, NY): Columbia Nursing provides three years (eight semesters) of funding for tuition, related fees, health insurance, and a stipend for full-time Ph.D. students. The annual stipend amounts to $41,520.

Duke University School of Nursing

(Durham, NC): Ph.D. student tuition and 12-month stipends are fully funded for the first two years of the program. Tuition and 9-month stipends are fully funded in years 3-5 and students have the option to apply for competitive summer stipends in years 3-5. Additional financial support for health insurance and fees is available. 

Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

(Atlanta, GA): All full-time admitted students are granted a full tuition waiver and receive an annual stipend of $31,000 over 12 months in exchange for teaching and research services. These awards are renewed each year, contingent upon satisfactory academic performance, for a total of four years.

NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing

(New York, NY): Our full-time PhD students are guaranteed three years of funding, consistent with our peer institutions. Students receive tuition and stipend support for a three-year period; however, the College encourages and offers resources for students to prepare proposals for predoctoral funding either through the National Institutes of Health or other organizations.

The Johns Hopkins University School Of Nursing

(Baltimore, Maryland): Most full-time Johns Hopkins Nursing PhD students are 100% funded with a stipend for the first three years of study. Additional financial support is made available in the following years. 

The University of British Columbia

(Vancouver, BC, Canada): All full-time students who begin a UBC-Vancouver PhD program in September 2021 or later will be provided with a funding package of at least $22,000 for each of the first four years of their PhD. The funding package may consist of any combination of internal or external awards, teaching-related work, research assistantships, and graduate academic assistantships.

University of California Irvine Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing

(Irvine, CA): Financial support is guaranteed for the first four years of the PhD program. Funding sources are available in the form of fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, campus scholarships, and grant awards. Students are especially encouraged to apply for grant funding in years four and five.

University of California San Francisco

(San Francisco, CA): In-state tuition/fees and a stipend are covered for our Ph.D. students for the first three years. For the fourth and fifth years, funding support is contingent on scholarship and grant funding availability.

University of Michigan School of Nursing

(Ann Arbor, MI): The UMSN is committed to assisting students with the financing of their nursing education and as such offers an attractive funding package (e.g., full tuition support, monthly stipend, and health insurance) that enables students to study full-time (available to students in the 3-year Accelerated or 4-year Traditional Programs) while providing the opportunity to gain valuable research experience learning from their faculty research mentor.

University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

(Philadelphia, PA): Full-time doctoral students are funded for the first four years, which includes a living stipend and covers tuition, fees, and health insurance. Students may be funded internally or externally, depending on funding options available.

University of Rochester School of Nursing

(Rochester, NY): All full-time UR School of Nursing students are 100 percent funded with full tuition waivers and an additional cost-of-living stipend of $25,000 for the first four years of study. Additional financial support is facilitated in the following years through assistance with student applications for a wide range of funding for continued Ph.D. study and research.

University of Toronto, Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing

(Toronto, Ontario): The base funding package normally consists of 3 elements: Tuition fee, Award, and Teaching Assistantship. Overall, the minimum value of the base funding package is $17,250 plus the tuition fee, or approximately $25,050.

University of Virginia School of Nursing

(Charlottesville, VA): All admitted students to the PhD program are eligible to be awarded four years of scholarship to cover tuition, insurance, and fees, in exchange for serving as a GTA for 10 hours per week. 

Western University School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

(Ontario, Canada): Western guarantees minimum annual funding for doctoral students, from all sources, of $13,000 plus tuition. In addition to the financial support available from federal and provincial sources and research grant support, Western offers a variety of internal awards.

Yale University School of Nursing

(New Haven, CT): All students are fully funded, including tuition, healthcare, and a monthly stipend for 4 years. Students are mentored to seek additional funding for their dissertation, including NIH (F31), Sigma Theta Tau, and American Nurses Foundation, among others.

Need some tips for the application process? See my article  How To Get Into a Fully Funded PhD Program: Contacting Potential PhD Advisors .

Also, sign up to discover and bookmark more than 1800 professional and academic fellowships in the  ProFellow database .

© Victoria Johnson 2020, all rights reserved.

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Need your questions answered?

Transform the future of health.

Advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery with a Johns Hopkins PhD in nursing. This program will provide you with the knowledge and skills in theoretical, methodological, and analytical approaches that will enable you to conduct research to discover and apply knowledge in nursing science and health care. Most full-time Johns Hopkins Nursing PhD students receive 100% tuition funding and guaranteed compensation for the first four years of study.

The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing specializes in eight Areas of Expertise . With access to world-renowned nursing faculty in these specialties, cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with noted researchers throughout Johns Hopkins University, you’ll build the skills to develop and implement a scientific research program and launch your career. By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career.

A DNP Advanced Practice/PHD dual degree is also offered for students who wish to function at the highest level of nursing practice with focuses on both clinical practice and research.

Program Details

Tuition & fees.

Most full-time Johns Hopkins Nursing PhD students receive 100% tuition funding and guaranteed compensation for the first four years of study. Estimated Tuition Cost: $2,430 per credit See Cost of Attendance Details Financial Aid: There are numerous options for financing your education including grants, scholarships, and federal loans.  Learn more.

Upcoming Application Deadlines

Fall entry: November 15

Requirements

Admission criteria.

Graduate of an accredited Bachelor’s or Master’s in Nursing Program ( if applicable. Applicants holding a degree in a non-nursing related discipline will be considered on an individual basis)

A written statement of research goals including reason for interest in Johns Hopkins

Research interests that match faculty expertise and School resources

GRE scores are accepted but not required

A minimum scholastic GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

Interview with faculty (if moved forward by admissions committee)

Writing sample (publication or graded paper)

Resume or curriculum vitae

Three letters of recommendation (two academic, one professional)*

Official Transcripts (from all previous colleges/universities)

TOEFL or IELTS if English is not your native language

Information for applicants with international education

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses.

*References should be recent, written for the purpose of your application to this program and from professors who know you as a student or employers who know you as a professional in a job setting preferably in a supervisory role. Personal references from colleagues, friends, or family members do not meet the requirement. For PhD applicants, it is strongly preferred that a least one of your recommenders holds a PhD.

 No. 1 in the nation for its  Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP)

No. 1 (tied) in the nation for its Nursing Master’s Program (MSN)

No. 3 nursing school in the world, according to 2024  QS World University  rankings

Each student completes a core curriculum and works closely with faculty advisors to complete an individualized course of study that fulfills the student’s goals and develops the basis for a program of research.

Full Curriculum

Philosophical Perspectives in Health

Scientific Perspectives in Nursing

Quantitative Research Design and Methods

Qualitative Research Design and Methods

Mixed Methods Research Design

Grant Writing Seminar

Measurement in Health Care Research

Responsibilities and Activities of the Nurse Scientist

Statistical Methods in Public Health I

Statistical Methods in Public Health II

Statistical Methods in Public Health III

Theory and Concepts of Health Behavior

Symptom Evaluation and Management

Special Topics in Violence Research

Advanced Nursing Health Policy

Stress and Stress Response

The Evolving Roles of the Nurse Educator (online)

Statistical Methods in Public Health IV

Writing for Publication (online)

Advanced Seminar in Translational Research

International Health Systems and Research 3

Current Issues and Trends in Cardiovascular Health Promotion Research

Critical Applications of Advanced Statistical Models

Technology and eTools to Conduct, Facilitate, Implement and Manage Research (online)

• Scholarly Research Portfolio for PhD Students

Dissertation Seminar

Dissertation

Sample Course of Study

Statistical Methods in Public Health I & II

Research Residency – 15 hours per week

Comprehensive Examination

Dissertation Seminar*

Dissertation*

Electives (10 credits)

Research Residency – 20 hours per week

Teaching Residency – 10 hours per week

Activities and Responsibilities of the Nurse Scientist

Electives (9 credits)

Preparation for Doctor of Philosophy Board Examination

*PhD students having successfully completed the written Comprehensive Examination must be registered for at least three credits consisting of two credits dissertation advisement plus one credit dissertation seminar each semester they are progressing toward the degree. *Part-time students who have completed the Comprehensive Examination must register for two credits dissertation advisement plus one credit dissertation seminar each semester they are progressing toward the degree after completing half (10) the required elective credits.  *Up to a maximum of 6 credits can be transferred into the PhD Program. ** Per Doctor of Philosophy Board policy, students must either be registered during fall and spring semesters, or be on an approved leave of absence. ***Transfer of credit is granted on an individual basis. Please see the  transfer of credit policy  and ** complete the form  to make a request.

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

Join us soon for a tour, on-campus event or a virtual visit.

Request Information

Speak with Admissions to learn more about our programs.

Virtual Info Sessions

See recordings of some of our recent virtual info sessons.

Tuition & Other Costs

Financial aid.

View the costs for the PhD Program. 2024-2025

Scholarships & Grants: Grants are awards based on financial need that do not have to be repaid. Many students also benefit from scholarships and awards based on merit. Learn more.

Loans: Many students will avail themselves of loans to help finance their School of Nursing education. If necessary, we encourage you to borrow only what is absolutely essential to cover your educational costs. Learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

The research area in an admission application should be well-defined but not overly rigid. Candidates should demonstrate a clear focus within their field of interest, outlining specific research questions or problems they aim to address. The proposal should show a solid understanding of current literature and gaps in knowledge, indicating how their research could contribute to the field. While applicants may have a general idea of their methodology and potential outcomes, there should be room for refinement and adaptation as they progress in their studies. The research area should align with the program’s strengths and faculty expertise. Overall, the essay should reflect the applicant’s understanding of the issue, and critical thinking skills, and potential for conducting meaningful research, while still allowing for guidance and development throughout the program.

Although contacting a faculty member in your research area is not required, it is an opportunity to become familiar with researchers in your area of interest and to ask questions not addressed on the school’s website. While it can be helpful to have a direct match, students often have great success in the program when a piece of the research overlaps with the advisor.   If there is a particular faculty member whose work interests you, you may discuss this as part of your application essay.   The best place to start is with the PhD Assistant Director of Recruitment , Laura Panozzo at [email protected] and with a review of our most recent PhD virtual information session at https://nursing.jhu.edu/admissions/index.html .

Once you are admitted to the PhD program and decide to matriculate, the PhD Admissions Committee determines who will be your advisor(s). Generally, one advisor is selected, but in some instances-depending on your research area-two advisors are assigned, one of them serving as the primary advisor and the second serving as a co-advisor. One of the faculty would be your primary advisor and the second would serve as a co-advisor. We try to match students with faculty members who have similar research interests.

The PhD program prepares the nurse scholar to develop and conduct scientific research that advances the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery. The program is designed to prepare nurses for careers as research scientists, often in academic or governmental positions.

The DNP program prepares nurse leaders for evidence-based practice in both direct patient care and executive roles.   View Comparison Chart

View information about a unique opportunity to earn a dual-degree DNP/PhD.

The time needed to complete the program varies, depending on how fast you progress. Some students in our program finish their degree in three years, others take four years or longer.

Students whose native language is not English are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Johns Hopkins School of Nursing requires a minimum TOEFL-IBT score of 100 to be eligible for admission. More

The PhD program has a Biostatistics heavy curriculum so previous coursework in Biostatistics is helpful.  We encourage students that have not had previous coursework in this area, or have not taken the coursework in the past five years, to look for ways to strengthen that knowledge base before matriculating into the program.  Please reach out to Laura Panozzo, Assistant Director of Recruitment, at [email protected] for a list of resources to help you prepare while applying and before matriculating into the program. 

GRE scores are accepted but not required.

The PhD program is a full time, onsite program only. 

Students should expect to spend 15 hours a week on campus on their funded research residency in collaboration with their faculty advisor for all three years that they receive full funding.  Students should expect to spend an additional 15-20 hours per week on coursework.

Coursework completed outside the United States must be evaluated and translated into US equivalencies.  Official transcript evaluations must be submitted as part of the application process, and applications will not be considered complete until all evaluations for any work completed outside the United States are received.  The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing recommends WES-ICAP .

Pathway to PhD Nursing Scholars Program

PhD Program in Nursing

Advance equitable care and improve health outcomes across diverse populations with a phd in nursing..

Prepare to lead and transform nursing practice, policy and research to promote health equity and social justice with Duke University School of Nursing’s PhD Program in Nursing.

Our nursing PhD empowers you with the skills and confidence to develop and test nurse-led models of care that enhance the health of all people, especially those experiencing health inequities. You’ll learn to drive change in nursing practice, influence health policies and conduct research that champions health equity and social justice. Plus, PhD student tuition and 12-month stipends are fully funded for up to five years.

We pride ourselves on welcoming a select group of talented and diverse students each year. As a nursing PhD student, you’ll have the unique opportunity to work closely with our expert faculty members, benefiting from one-on-one mentorship alongside your formal studies.

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PhD Student Bios

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What Makes Durham Great

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PhD Program in Nursing Highlights

Our PhD in nursing equips you with exceptional expertise, setting the stage for transformative career opportunities in nursing science and leadership. Through coursework, unparalleled mentorship from expert faculty and exposure to hands-on research opportunities, our nursing PhD shapes the next generation of nursing leaders with a strong emphasis on championing health equity:

Connections with expert faculty: Our nursing PhD faculty will socialize you into the role of a nurse scientist, ensuring you gain the necessary knowledge and skills to launch a successful independent research program post-doctorate. Your connections with nursing research experts will prepare you for an entry-level role as a nurse scientist in various research settings, including academic, clinical or industry environments.

Empowering research opportunities: Gain experience in traditional and innovative research methodologies and thorough statistical training. Our PhD nursing program emphasizes the importance of mentored research and teaching experiences to enhance knowledge and skill development.

Championing health equity: The PhD Program in Nursing offers a comprehensive understanding of the philosophy of science, focusing on addressing complex health issues, especially those concerning health equity, social determinants and justice.

What Can You Do With a Nursing PhD?

Nurses with PhDs play a pivotal role in shaping the future of health care. Our graduates pursue post-doctoral education and move into leadership positions in academia, industry, research institutions and government, advancing nursing theory and practice.

With Duke University’s PhD in nursing program, you’ll be able to:

• Master key concepts in health equity and nurse-led models of care to improve health outcomes.
• Design and conduct research using interdisciplinary.
• Evaluate research with a focus on health equity and nurse-led models of care.
• Maintain ethics and integrity in research.
• Apply advanced methods to research design and analysis.
• Collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Publish and present research to advance nursing and promote social justice.

This expertise will prepare you to improve access and equitable health care through roles in:

• Academia: As faculty, PhD prepared nurses equip the next generation of nurses and nurse scientists, blending education, research and service, which may include practice and policy work.
• Leadership and advocacy: A nursing PhD positions you as a leader in clinical settings, health policy and governmental agencies, driving innovations in nursing practice, health care delivery and policy.
• Research: Lead the design and conduct of research studies, secure grants, analyze scientific data and disseminate findings through presentations and publications with your nursing PhD Our program prepares you to conduct high-impact research, design studies, write grant proposals and analyze data using a health equity lens.

With health care ranking among the most in-demand and fastest-growing fields, many of these opportunities offer excellent salary and growth potential. Professional nurse researchers, for instance, earn an average annual salary of $97,336, according to PayScale.com. Also, nursing instructors at colleges and universities can expect a median annual salary of $84,380, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the highest 10% earning more than $182,710.

PhD Program in Nursing Description

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

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

Terminal Objectives

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

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

Program Director

Sharron L. Docherty PhD, PNP, FAAN

As Vice Dean for Research, Dr. Sharron Docherty aims to improve outcomes for children, adolescents, young adults and families undergoing treatment for life-limiting and chronic conditions. Dr. Docherty studies how to improve care models, symptom management and decision-making from diagnosis through end of life. She has methodological expertise in using qualitative, mixed-methods, trajectory science and visualization methodologies for complex data exploration and intervention development and testing.

Learn more about Sharron Docherty:  Scholars@Duke

Meet Our PhD in Nursing Program Faculty

Get to know our distinguished nursing Ph.D. faculty. These renowned experts bring extensive knowledge and specialized research expertise to our Ph.D. program, ensuring that you’ll learn from leaders who are at the forefront of nursing science and innovation.

The Duke Difference

Earn your Duke nursing degree or certificate while you continue to work.

Discover our unwavering focus on creating innovative, nurse-led models of care.

Learn from experts in distance-based and hybrid education for over 20 years.

Learn & practice at one of the most advanced health systems in the world.

Our faculty are leaders in their field, with real world clinical experience.

We have exceptional students, learning alongside talented & dedicated classmates.

PhD Nursing Admissions

The Nursing Ph.D. Program employs a holistic admissions strategy to evaluate prospective students. Our team assesses an applicant’s unique experiences in addition to traditional academic metrics, considering a wide array of factors indicative of the applicant’s potential for academic and professional success.

If you need additional assistance, contact our admissions team by email or phone: 877-415-3853 .

Molly Fitzpatrick, BSN, RN was drawn to nursing because of the profession’s unique ability to be present for some of life’s most significant moments. She graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Nursing Honors Program in 2020. There she researched adjuvant therapies in management of breast cancer pain and completed her honors thesis on post vicarious growth in NICU nurses. After graduation, she completed a nurse residency on a COVID/Neuro/Stroke floor at Boston Medical Center. Since then she has worked in the Emergency Department, starting at New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center and most recently in Connecticut. She truly loves being an ED nurse but looks forward to returning to academia, and feels privileged to have the opportunity to do so at Duke. Molly chose to pursue a PhD in nursing because she believes nursing research has the potential to reduce health inequity, improve access to care, and improve the physical and mental well-being of our communities. While at DUSON, Molly hopes to focus her research on mental health in the pediatric and adolescent population, particularly in the school setting, and as it relates to social determinants of health.

Olivia Short, BSN, RN joins DUSON after three years as a clinical research nurse on neurological and maternal-fetal medicine studies, two of those years with Duke School of Medicine. Her passion for research blossomed during her senior thesis, where she tested the impact of biofeedback videogaming on stress and anxiety in young adults. This experience, alongside her own journey with PTSD, highlighted the importance of considering both internal and external factors in addressing anxiety, especially in low resource environments. Healthcare systems and providers play an enormous role in determining the evolution of long-term health outcomes of anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. Olivia recognized the pressing need to establish networks of trauma-informed care environments, where individuals can safely and actively shape their healthcare experiences and avoid re-traumatization and delayed or inappropriate care. Her research interests center around understanding the healthcare experiences of survivors of interpersonal violence, particularly those dealing with chronic pain and PTSD, and addressing individual and systemic barriers to improved care coordination. With a passion for holistic sexual health, Olivia aims to incorporate education on violence prevention, power dynamics, autonomy, and pleasure within the trauma-informed framework. Outside of her professional endeavors, she enjoys spending quality time with her partner and their cat Nutmeg. She spends as much time as she can doing activities that fill her cup such as cooking, reading fiction, camping, hiking, dancing, and playing piano.

Jolie S. Jemmott MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC earned her BSN in 2019 from Hampton University in Hampton, VA and her MSN in 2022 from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing in Philadelphia, PA. She has been a nurse for the last 5 years working and has worked in the areas of colorectal and psychiatry. Over the last year, Jolie has worked as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, working specifically in community mental health adult outpatient services. Jolie is passionate about working with those in marginalized and vulnerable populations experiencing mental health challenges. She decided to pursue a career as a nurse scientist to become an expert in the psychological underpinnings of African American substance-abusing men with dual diagnoses and developing the most successful treatment approaches for them and their families. Moreover, she wants to explore strategies to reduce substance use behaviors among African American men. Jolie’s primary goal for doctorate level studies is to become a professor at a research-intensive university and develop a program of research that makes a difference in improving mental health and health equity of substance-abusing populations. Through her research, she hopes to build a research program that continues to advance nursing knowledge, contributes to the health of vulnerable, marginalized underrepresented communities around the globe, and shapes the future of nursing science and healthcare.

Osborn Owusu Ansah, BSN, RN is a registered nurse from Ghana who has keen research interests in the fields of oncology and palliative care. He graduated from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and has since gained significant nursing experience from working across different healthcare settings in both Ghana and the United Kingdom for the past four years. His passion for oncology and palliative care research stems from the worrying statistics on the high mortality rates associated with cancer in sub-Saharan Africa and the low number of opportunities available for individuals to extensively study on the merits of incorporating palliative care into the healthcare system in Africa. Osborn’s purpose for pursuing doctorate-level studies is to acquire competencies that will help him discover and develop cost-effective interventions that can enhance symptom management and well-being of people with cancer.

Bridget Dobson, BSN, RN is passionate about eliminating sexual health education disparities, specifically related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual violence prevention, and promoting inclusivity regarding sexual orientation. Her goal is to research best forms of providing sexual health education that empower people of all communities, orientations, and abilities to make informed decisions about their bodies. She is also interested in taking advantage of opportunities in health policy and global health at Duke. Coming from Louisville, Kentucky, Bridget worked for over 2 years as a trauma surgical intensive care nurse, where she was able to observe the impact that social determinants of health had on patient outcomes. During this time, Bridget was involved in implementing a “Trauma Informed Care” education module on the unit to improve cultural competence amongst nursing staff. She also served as a research assistant for UL Health’s Nursing Education Department, where we she assisted in the data collection and collaborative manuscript for the study: Institution-Wide Moral Distress Among Nurses: Post-COVID-19 Pandemic. Bridget learned lessons in active communication and importance of community engagement when she volunteered with Kentucky Refugee Ministries. There she assisted residents in acclimating to the city through resource and conversational English education. Bridget is inspired to get involved in Durham’s community and discover how her research goals can impact sexual health equity on a larger scale.

Financial Aid for PhD Nursing Students

Ph.D. student tuition and 12-month stipends are fully funded for up to five years. As a Ph.D. student, you’ll receive a competitive package that should provide financial support (tuition, stipend, health insurance) for the majority of the time you are registered and working toward your degree. Ph.D. students are supported in various ways, including funding from the School of Nursing, Graduate School and other governmental and private sources.

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

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

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

The Fall 2025 application deadline is December 1, 2024.

Virtual Open House Events

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

Upcoming Meetings:

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

Previous Meetings:

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

In-Person Open House Event

Read here to see if you might be eligible to attend the Learning about Laney Preview Visitation event, a fully funded visit to Emory to learn about our graduate program, faculty, staff, and campus that is happening on Sunday Oct 6-Tuesday October 8 2024. Applications are due August 8, 2024 !

Program Contacts

[email protected]

Jean Harrell Graduate Program Administrator

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

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

Signature Areas of Focus

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

• Aging Studies
• Artificial Intelligence/Data Science
• Natural Disasters, Environmental, and Climate Science
• Cardiovascular, Brain and Biomarkers
• Women’s Health

Other Areas of Focus

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

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

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

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

Teaching Assistant Training & Teaching Opportunity Program

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

The Jones Program in Ethics

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

T32 Nurse Scientist Training Opportunities

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

Provisional Artificial Intelligence Track

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

Admission Requirements

Fall 2024 Application Deadlines

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

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

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

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

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

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

Interested in applying to Emory's PhD Program at the School of Nursing?

Application, meet our students.

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

Student graduate’s dissertations include:

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

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

Here are just a few job titles of our graduates.

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

Tuition and Awards

Full-tuition scholarships.

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

T32 Predoctoral Fellowships through Spring 2023

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

Charting Innovative Paths for Nursing Research & Scholarship

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

Students gave the following presentations at the Event:

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

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

How to Successfully Apply to Our PhD Program

Application process questions.

How Much is the Application Fee

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

When exactly is the application deadline?

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

May I request a fee waiver?

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

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

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

Do I need to submit non-degree transcripts?

Yes. Admissions committees consider your complete academic record. 

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

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

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

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

How should I submit my transcripts in the application?

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

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

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

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

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

Must letters of recommendation be submitted by the application deadline?

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

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

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

Can I reactivate my application from last year?

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

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

Additional Questions

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

No, but strongly encouraged.

Can I start the PhD program in the spring semester?

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

Can this program be completed in 3 years?

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

What are the fees students pay?

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

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

When do I submit the application for the T32 program?

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

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

Laney Graduate School requires WES services review.

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

No.  Students can apply to the program with a BSN

Can I work/ be employed outside the program?

Any work/employment has to be approved by the program

How many hours can I work if approved?

Students are allowed to work 10 hours a week

Accreditation

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

Featured Story

Emory nursing doctoral students receive prestigious NIH predoctoral fellowship awards

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Emory Nursing

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• PhD in Nursing & Health Science Program

Launch your research career at an NIH-ranked nursing school with a premier academic medical center in Rochester, New York.

• MS-PhD Combined Program
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The PhD in Nursing and Health Science program offers a rich and supportive learning environment for the next generation of nursing and health care scientists.

Program Cost

100% tuition waiver

For full-time PhD students plus annual stipend

Research Rankings

Ranked 31st among nursing schools in research funding from the National Institutes of Health

Priority Deadline

Applications accepted for fall entry only. Apply by Jan. 15 for priority enrollment and UR scholarship/fellowship consideration.  Refer to our application deadlines.

The PhD in Nursing & Health Science program at the University of Rochester sets itself apart by offering close mentorship from  nationally-recognized faculty . Part-time study is an option for interested applicants, and course meetings times have been consolidated to two days per week, where possible, to accommodate other commitments.  Plus, our collaborative learning environment is enriched by interaction with researchers across many disciplines — all of which allows you to learn how to make meaningful discoveries and innovations in a changing healthcare landscape.

As part of the University of Rochester Medical Center , the School of Nursing engages in groundbreaking interdisciplinary research through collaborative partnerships with nurses and other healthcare practitioners across the campus, region, and nation. The University of Rochester School of Nursing has a long history of research innovation and continues to pioneer new breakthroughs in:

Sexual Health & HIV Oncology & Palliative Care Healthy Aging Parent-Child, Adolescent & Transgenerational Health Cardiovascular Care

Quotation Mark What keeps me going is the notion that I'm helping patients. That in the future I will hopefully help more people with my research. And the support of the faculty, really. They know how to mentor, to push and challenge me as a student and to explore things that I might not recognize within myself. Faith Lambert, MS, RN, FNP-BC Research Interests: Adolescent & adult health, health disparities, HIV Meet PhD Students

Join the next cohort of PhD students

The PhD in Nursing & Health Science program admits a small cohort each fall. From day one, you will work closely with your mentor, receive assistance with coursework and grant writing, and work alongside your peers to discover how to pursue research that makes an impact.

Our PhD Students

Meet the Program Director

Marie Flannery, PhD, RN

Director, PhD Program in Nursing & Health Science Associate Professor of Nursing

Marie Flannery has directed the PhD in Nursing & Health Science program since 2022. She brings extensive clinical experience to her research, which focuses on older adults with advanced cancer and methods to improve symptom reporting and communication between individuals, healthcare providers, and family caregivers to enhance symptom management. Among her honors, she is the recipient of the 2014 Outstanding Oncology Nurse of the Year Award by the March of Dimes, the 2015 Conquer Cancer Foundation Merit Award by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the 2022 Cynthia N. Rittenberg Award in Nursing Excellence by Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer.

News & Stories

Two UR Nursing PhD Students Selected as Jonas Scholars

Jul 22, 2024

Faculty Q&A: Karen Stein, PhD, RN, FAAN

Jun 12, 2024

UR Nursing Researchers Present, Earn Prizes at ENRS

Apr 15, 2024

Connect With Us

Interested in earning your PhD? Connect with us to discuss the PhD degree in nursing and health science and the opportunities available at the University of Rochester. 

Request Info

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PhD in Nursing Science Program

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Vanderbilt’s PhD in Nursing Science prepares nurse scientists who will engage in multidisciplinary and team-based research that aims to transform the discipline of nursing through scientific discovery. Our students’ academic experience is closely aligned with our faculty’s scholarship and area of research focus. Graduates of our program conduct and disseminate research that responds to regional, national and international priorities. Vanderbilt University School of Nursing offers a rich array of resources through Vanderbilt University and the nonprofit Vanderbilt University Medical Center. PhD in Nursing Science student tuition is fully funded , covering up to four years of required didactic and research coursework. Additionally, admitted students receive annual stipends, for the same period, while enrolled in the PhD in Nursing Science program.  

PhD Webinar

Our webinars include an outline of the PhD in Nursing Science Program, program format, application process, components of funding, etc. Webinars are conducted throughout the academic year, and particularly ahead of a new application cycle (which open annually on August 1). Contact the PhD Program Manager to request information on upcoming live webinars. You may also click here to view a previously recorded webinar (August 10, 2022) .

 Why Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt provides an interdisciplinary, inclusive, collegial and supportive environment with close faculty interaction promoting team science. Our atmosphere is unique and stimulating, and includes rich mentoring experiences. Our faculty represent diverse backgrounds and are committed to preparing nurse scholars who can lead the nation in extending the body of nursing knowledge. Our research is organized into signature areas and include:

• Acute and Chronic Illness
• Data Science and Health Technologies
• Palliative Care Science
• Pregnancy Outcomes and Mother, Infant, Child and Family Health

PhD students benefit from close mentoring and collaboration with Vanderbilt faculty in the area of the faculty’s scholarly expertise and area of research focus. Collaborative and interdisciplinary experiences are further strengthened through the many resources available at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University and the School of Nursing.

PhD students are offered highly competitive financial aid packages that include full tuition scholarships and annual stipends for up to four years of full-time study. At the same time, students have a crucial role in the financial obligation of their PhD education. They are asked to make a continuing effort to obtain external grants and/or fellowships throughout the tuition and stipend support stage. In this, they are supported by faculty advisers who engage and support students as they seek and apply for external funding opportunities. Receiving competitive external fellowships and grants advance student success and distinction; students receive ample opportunities to enhance grant-writing expertise, which provide additional benefits well into their prospective careers.  

Admission to the Vanderbilt PhD in Nursing Science program is competitive. Students are selected on the basis of their scholastic preparation and intellectual capability. Admission to the program requires research and career goals that are consistent with the school's research foci and faculty expertise. We will only accept a student if we have faculty who are actively engaged in that area of research. For more information or to speak with someone regarding the program, please email [email protected] .

Program Overview

The PhD in Nursing Science Program at Vanderbilt University prepares diverse scholars for research and academic careers in public or private sectors of health care. Graduates of our program serve as global leaders in advancing the discipline and practice of nursing through research, education and health policy. Our ultimate goal—and the ultimate goal of nursing science—is to improve health and health care for all individuals, families and communities. Learn more . 

Yes I want to know more about Vanderbilt's PhD program.

PhD Resources

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McNelis to lead nursing science PhD program

Genomics course for doctoral nursing faculty seeks participants

VUSN Research Spotlight: Emma Clark

VUSN Research Spotlight: Deonni Stolldorf

VUSN Research Spotlight: Lori Schirle

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A world-class city filled with art and culture and an incredible campus that offers cutting edge resources–that’s what students receive at Penn Nursing. And that’s just the start. Penn Nursing and the wider university offer something for everyone, as well as a lifelong community.

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

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

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

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

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)

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

About the Program

The penn advantage.

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

Program Information

Program Length

Financial aid available?

Start Semester

Learning Format

Program Details

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

Click the link below to view the curriculum and sample plan of study for this program on the University catalog.

View the curriculum

Requirements

Minimum qualifications for the program.

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Nursing.

Application Deadlines

*Dates subject to change without notice.

Costs & Tuition

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

Learn more about the estimated cost of attendance by visiting the University’s Student Registration & Financial Services website. 

View PhD program costs

Program Outcomes

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

Levia Sutton PhD Student

“Penn Nursing is preparing me to become an impactful researcher and leader. My experience as a PhD student has been enriched by unparalleled mentorship, diverse resources, and a collaborative learning environment.”

Frequently asked questions, what is the difference between a phd and a dnp.

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

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

Approximately 6-12 applicants are accepted each year.

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

Please find our faculty’s research interests here .

Can I reach out to faculty for more information?

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

Is there a clinical component?

Is there an admissions interview.

Competitive applicants will be invited to interview.

When does the PhD program start?

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

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

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

Related Links

Program activities, future-proofing healthcare.

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

Ready to take the next step?

See yourself here.

Top PhD in Nursing Programs

What is a ph.d. in nursing.

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing and DNP Differences

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

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Key Ph.D. in Nursing vs. DNP Differences

>> Related:  Top Online DNP Programs

Types of Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

>> Show Me DNP Programs

Online Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

Top Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

 1. University of Pennsylvania

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

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

Contact UPenn about this program:

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

Source: University of Pennsylvania

2. Duke University

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

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

Contact Duke University about this program:

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

Source: Duke University

3. Duquesne University

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

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

Contact Duquesne University about this program:

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

Source: Duquesne University

4. Columbia University

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

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

Contact Columbia University about this program:

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

Source: Columbia University

5. Rush University

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

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

Contact Rush University about this program:

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

Source: Rush University

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

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

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

>> Related: The Best Nursing Research Topics

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing Salary

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

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

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

How Long Do PhD in Nursing Programs Take?

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

What Will You Learn in a PhD in Nursing Program?

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing Program Requirements

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

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

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

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

Next Steps to Enroll in a PhD in Nursing Degree Program

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

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

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

By clicking “Join Now”, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

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PhD Program in Nursing

Mentoring nurse scientists of the future is our priority.

PhD Program

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How to Apply

PhD in Nursing Science 

Drive the future of nursing through scientific discovery.

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

About the Program

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

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

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

Facts & Stats

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

Key Takeaways   

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

Who Should Enroll ?

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

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

PhD in Nursing

Preparing students for careers as scholars, nurse scientists, and academics ready to contribute to nursing science, knowledge, theory, and practice through systematic inquiry..

PhD in nursing students will, by graduation, demonstrate advanced knowledge of nursing, related sciences and humanities, and methods of inquiry, expand the research base of nursing theory and practice, and work with others to serve the Commonwealth, the nation, and the world by addressing major nursing and healthcare issues through research and in a scholarly manner. Every year, UVA's PhD nursing students earn grants to support their doctoral studies, and many publish and present around Virginia, the U.S., and internationally.

wide-ranging professional opportunities for PhDs

$108,306 average nurse faculty salary

PhD program is fully-funded

ranked among the nation's best

UVA's PhD in nursing program is focused on research, and the curriculum includes courses in qualitative, quantitative, and historical research. Over the course of the program, all PhD students submit a research proposal for peer review, and many submit proposals to the NIHNR's annual service awards competition.

Because research is a critical element of the PhD program, we seek to admit students whose scholarly interests are congruent with those of our faculty who pursue nursing science across topics in aging, health disparities and health equity, and healthcare technology. A list of faculty eligible to chair PhD student committees is available on the School's Faculty Directory page .

• World-class scholar-mentors exploring a rich variety of research
• 4 years' free tuition + generous annual stipends for ALL admitted students
• Powerful development of students' grant and scholarly writing, and ample opportunities and funding to present at major conferences
• Loan forgiveness programs if pursuing full-time careers in academia
• Deadline to apply:   December 15 (for entry the following fall)

Upcoming PhD Info Sessions

Phd info session sept 18.

Register for the live virtual info session on September 18th, 2024 at 5:30 PM

PhD Info Session Oct 23

Register for the live virtual info session on Oct 23rd, 2024 at 5:30 PM

PhD, Years 1 to 3 [full-time] - Fall and Spring Terms

PhD Tuition, Year 4+ [full-time] - Fall and Spring Terms

Supplemental Fees

PhD Tuition - January Term

PhD Tuition - Summer Term

All applicants for the PhD must possess at least a BSN. Many also possess an MSN and are nurse practitioners. Nurses who have earned other graduate degrees, including master's of public health, MBAs, or MS in health administration degrees, are also encouraged to apply.

To be considered for the PhD program, applicants must:

• Submit a completed application to the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences (not the School of Nursing) and pay an $85 application fee
• Have at least a baccalaureate degree in nursing from a nationally accredited program and a minimum "B" average
• Submit transcripts for all post-secondary work
• Submit three letters of reference that speak to the applicant's ability to pursue doctoral studies (two must be from doctorally-prepared nurse educators and one may be from a current or recent employer)
• Submit a CV reflecting professional achievements and productivity
• Submit an essay (1,000 words or fewer) describing the applicant's educational, research, and professional goals, including a specific description of the planned focus of study and a researchable topic for development
• Have completed a recent course in statistics (with software applications) and a statistics prerequisite (one option is to complete courses 1 to 3 of this series and submit a certificate of completion) 
• Be available for an interview with one or more faculty members (conducted in Charlottesville or via Zoom as needed)
• International applicants have  additional requirements  
• The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is no longer required to apply to the PhD program but applicants may provide scores if they choose (UVA's institutional code is R-5820)

All students admitted to the PhD program are eligible for four years of scholarship to cover tuition, insurance, and fees, in exchange for serving as a graduate teaching assistant for 10 hours per week. 

The School also offers financial support programs to students considering full-time faculty positions through the Nurse Faculty Loan Program and the Virginia Nurse Faculty Loan. Through the Nurse Faculty Loan Program, funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, an arm of the federal government, doctoral students may borrow funds for their academic expenses (tuition and books). If they become a full-time faculty member at any accredited institution, up to 85% of the loan (principal and interest) is forgiven.

Doctoral students enrolled in UVA’s PhD or DNP programs who are planning on teaching full-time in Virginia can apply to the Virginia Nurse Faculty Loan program. Students may be eligible to borrow up to $25,000 per year during the coursework phase of their programs. This loans is eligible for cancelation if graduates go on to teach full-time at any public or private nursing education program in Virginia for four years.

Required courses (32-33 credits)

• GNUR 8000: Seminar in Nursing Science (2 credits)
• GNUR 8110: Quantitative Research Methods (3 credits)
• GNUR 8120: Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods (3 credits)
• GNUR 8130: Statistical Methods for Health Care Research I (3 credits)
• GNUR 8140: Statistical Methods for Health Care Research II (3 credits)
• GNUR 8210: Scholarly Writing for Nursing Science (3 credits)
• GNUR 8220: Philosophy of Science and Development of Nursing Knowledge (3 credits)
• GNUR 8230: Historical Inquiry in Nursing (3 credits)
• GNUR 8410: Grant Writing Seminar (3 credits)
• GNUR 8435: Scholarship in Research Ethics (1 creditGNUR 9110: Research Practicum (1-4 credits; total of 4 credits are required)
• GNUR 9890: Dissertation Seminar (enroll post-comprehensive exam; 1 credit)
• GNUR 9998: Doctoral Research (enroll pre-dissertation proposal defense; 1-12 credits)

GNUR 9998: Dissertation Research (enroll post-dissertation proposal defense; 3-12 credits. A total of 12 credit hours of GNUR 9999 are required.)

Cognates (9-12 credits)

Requirement includes course work in a single field or combination of fields outside of nursing that complement the student’s major scholarly focus. Cognates plus electives must total at least 15 credits.

Electives (3-6 credits)

Electives are selected on the basis of individual interest and should complement the total program of study. Cognates plus electives must total at least 15 credits.

Research Practicum (4 credits)

Requirement includes a total of 4 credit hours in GNUR 9110. All 4 credits do not need to be completed in the same semester.

Dissertation (12 credits)

Dissertation is a culminating experience that requires the student to plan and implement a research study of significance to nursing.

Austin Stajduhar

Assistant dean for admissions (434) 924-0066 [email protected]

Set up a one-on-one admissions advising meeting

Kathryn Laughon, PhD, RN, FAAN, SANE-A/SANE-P

PhD Program Lead (434) 924-1985 [email protected]

Book a half-hour, one-on-one PhD admissions advising session

Want to learn more?

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Nursing, PhD

The mission of the doctoral program of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing is to develop scholars of the discipline of Nursing capable of building a program of research that advances nursing knowledge and contributes to the health of individuals, families, and communities.  

Graduates of this program will serve as leaders at the forefront of nursing research and its translation into practice locally, nationally, and globally. These nurse scientists will create new knowledge and be informed by a nursing perspective to enhance health and to develop and test innovations to improve outcomes of healthcare, with a priority on populations at greatest need.

The foundation of program success is the substantive match between the student and the faculty advisor. The educational experience focuses on the processes of exploring and examining substantive bodies of knowledge.  The researcher’s development is fostered through exposure to an array of philosophic and methodological aspects of nursing and related basic and applied disciplines.

Our full-time PhD students are fully funded for the first four years, which includes a living stipend and covers tuition, fees, and health insurance.

For more information: https://www.nursing.upenn.edu/academics/doctor-of-philosophy-in-nursing-phd/

View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs .

To earn the PhD, students must complete the 14 course units (CUs) in addition to satisfying several non-credit milestones.

The below requirements apply only to PhD students entering Fall 2018 and later . Students who entered in Fall 2017 and earlier should refer to the PhD Student Handbook for a complete listing of degree requirements.

Most students complete their coursework within three years and then will be on dissertation status until the final dissertation defense.

Program Milestones

• Qualifying Examination/MS-General Examination
• Candidacy Examination
• Dissertation Status
• Dissertation Defense

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

Sample Plan of Study

Dissertation status is full-time enrollment.

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Ph.D. Program Info

Ph.d. program focus.

The University of Michigan School of Nursing Ph.D. program, which began in 1975, produces leading scientists who advance knowledge for the discipline of nursing and the health sciences.

The program is predicated on a strong foundation of clinical expertise framed by a nursing perspective; education at the doctoral level builds upon and extends content acquired at the baccalaureate and master’s levels and emphasizes theory development and research skills.

Our graduates are clinically proficient and have advanced preparation in nursing and related sciences, as well as in research methods and data analysis.

As a student at the School of Nursing, you can take advantage of all of the disciplinary strengths of the University of Michigan. Our students have the opportunity to study physiological, psychological, and socio-cultural variables, alone or in combination, as they influence health outcomes supported by strong interdisciplinary methods and teamwork.

Meet our current Ph.D. students and recent graduates .

Applicants to the Ph.D. program have the opportunity to apply for a unique funding opportunity: the training program on  Complexity: Innovations in Promoting Health through Team Science (CHEeTAh) .

Find a mentor for current Ph.D. students

Find a faculty mentor to help you towards your goals.

Find a mentor

Apply for the Ph.D.

The Ph.D. program is open to post-baccalaureate or post-master’s applicants.  See the  application requirements  for this program.

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The curriculum

In order to meet the diverse needs of the field of nursing and the goals of the student, the course of study provides flexibility. The program prepares nurses who are competent in research design, data analysis and inferential processes, and thus capable of pursuing research related to the delivery of patient care and developing theory oriented toward the application of nursing practice.

The Ph.D. Program curriculum requires completion of coursework (42 credits), dissertation research (minimum 8 credits per term) and apprentice hours. The two broad areas of coursework are Statistics and Methods and Substantive Research Focus. Students without practice experience are required to take an additional praxis course. This course facilitates learning about how practice informs science, and students gain skills that help them to lead successful multidisciplinary research teams in the future.

The flexible curriculum aligns with American Academy of Collegiate Nursing Core Competencies for Ph.D. education. All Ph.D. curricular components are aligned with 13 core competencies to ensure that our graduates demonstrate competence in all phases of research/scientific methods, in-depth knowledge in a substantive area of science, and capacity to conduct research that is grounded in theory, practice and policy. After completing the required coursework, students complete a preliminary/candidacy exam and proposal defense.

Students attend several seminars that provide opportunities for student-student networking and mentorship across cohorts. These seminars are designed to orient students to academic culture and program expectations, establish strong mentor/mentee relationships, introduce students to numerous researchers/labs, and provide early access to resources that will foster their success at the beginning of their academic journey and beyond. The Peer Seminar (mandatory attendance required) is student-led and attended by students from all admission cohorts. It provides opportunities for peer review of scientific products, student-student mentorship and leadership training. The Research and Professional Development Seminar is attended by all first-year Ph.D. students and facilitates skill building in areas that foster academic success (e.g., CV development, scientific writing, public speaking, peer-review, leadership). These seminars foster strong mentor/mentee relationships; reduce anxiety, misinformation and misdirection; increase student retention and satisfaction; and foster steady progression to degree. The following quote highlights some of the major strengths of our program.

“UMSN's program is wonderful in many ways: We receive excellent and rigorous training, we are socialized as and have access to a community of leading nurse scientists, we are generously funded, and the program is highly efficient (full time and designed to complete in three to four years) for the motivated student.”  

– Elizabeth Umberfield, Ph.D., U-M School of Nursing Graduate

Core competencies

Graduates will be prepared as scientific scholars and stewards of the discipline. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

Scientific scholar

• Critically evaluate and synthesize the scientific literature to formulate new research questions to address gaps in current knowledge.
• Demonstrate mastery of study designs and ability to select a design that is appropriate to address specific aims.
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of causal inference, sources of bias and methods that can improve the rigor of research. 
• Understand key quantitative and qualitative analysis processes, principles and methods of measurement, data collection and data management in the design and conduct of research.
• Demonstrate an understanding of methods and processes of theory development and application.
• Demonstrate mastery of scientific knowledge in a substantive research area.
• Routinely guide themselves by diversity, equity and inclusion principles in scholarship and research.

Stewards of the discipline

• Understand the historic, philosophic and theoretical foundations, contemporary issues and trends for nursing science.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the evolving discipline of nursing science and the integration of theory, practice and policy. Articulate the contributions of nursing science for improvement of health and health care.
• Utilize professional and research ethics and judgment in the conduct of research.
• Show evidence of excellent written and oral communication in all aspects of the research process with articulation of implications for practice, public policy and future research.
• Participate in, engages with and begin to lead interdisciplinary teams.

 Program plan options

Students may elect to enroll as full-time students based on either a three-year (accelerated) or four-year (traditional) program plan. Students are required to enroll in three terms per year. These three- and four-year, full-time program plans are outlined below.

Please see table 1 for comparisons of the program plans.

 Table 1: Ph.D. program plan comparisons

Tables 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B below outline the funding packages available to students who elect a three- or four-year, full-time program plan beginning in the fall of 2024. Based on projections, the funding packages are estimated to be worth:

• $231,950 for an in-state resident in the accelerated three-year program.
• $297,820 for an out-of-state non-resident in the accelerated three-year program.
• $292,960 for an in-state resident in the traditional four-year program.
• $363,960 for an out-of-state non-resident in the traditional four-year program.

Our Office of Business and Financial Aid is available to answer questions about program costs at [email protected] . In addition, students may visit the registrar’s office website for current tuition rates.

Dissertation grants

All Ph.D. students are eligible to apply for dissertation grants from the Rackham Graduate School and UMSN. Grant awards typically range from $3,000 to $6,000. Students use the funding to offset the costs associated with their dissertation research (e.g., subject incentives, equipment and materials, computer software, publication fees). Students may also compete for other grants designed to support their scholarship. 

Ph.D. students at UMSN work hard. Full-time students should consider their responsibilities like a full-time job that requires approximately 40 hours per week of dedicated investment. However, we strongly value and support a satisfactory work-life balance for students with diverse backgrounds and personal lives — our students are successful regardless of who they are or what they like to do. For example, our students represent those who are:

• Novice or experienced nurses.
• BSN-prepared or already have earned a graduate degree.
• Parents, married, partnered or single.
• Accomplished athletes.
• Musicians or artists.
• Members of an underrepresented minority community.
• Living in Ann Arbor or commuting regularly.
• Clinically active (limited to eight to ten hours per week)
• Graduates of UMSN or other domestic or international universities.

Students interact and socialize with fellow cohorts and take advantage of the university’s vast extracurricular opportunities such as recreational sports, faith-based organizations, and musical groups, among others. Established students who “know the ropes” welcome the new students and encourage their new peers to stay connected via Facebook and other social media venues. Here’s what our Ph.D. students say about their work-life balance.

"The Ph.D. program is a whole new experience and requires adjustment to achieve a healthy work-life balance no matter who and where you are. However, the U-M School of Nursing Ph.D. community is special because we truly care about, support and mentor one another. Students find ways to connect, whether over the enjoyment of coffee, happy hours, or sports and outdoor activities. The Rackham Graduate School also shows a clear commitment to promoting students' well-being by providing various campus social events for all the graduate students throughout the year. During the Ph.D. program, I have served regularly at my church, played intramural sports, clinically practiced biweekly, and spent time with my family and friends."

– Grace Kanzawa-Lee, Ph.D., RN, Class of 2020

“We have a tradition of celebrating each other's accomplishments together. Several students have hosted writing retreats and get-togethers in their homes, and groups of students get together for IM sports and trivia nights.”

–  Elizabeth Umberfield, Ph.D., RN, Class of 2020

"I like to train for triathlons and practice yoga after I finish classes and research for the day. I'm able to find time for exercise with thoughtful time management. My mentor and other faculty members care about my work-life balance as well. They emphasize that wellness is a priority during graduate school."

– Alex Fauer, Ph.D., RN, Class of 2020

Perhaps more than with other degree programs, excellent Ph.D. programs rely on apprenticeship-based teaching and learning methods. Academic success in Ph.D. programs is not only an outcome of hard work, but outstanding mentoring is also a key to success. Because our faculty take mentoring very seriously, we created the Collaboration for Leadership and Innovation in Mentorship (CLIM) Program. The CLIM program targets four key domains of effective Ph.D. mentorship: 1. Mentor-mentee fit, 2. Individual training plans, 3.Multi-mentor teams and 4. Mutual benefit.

Mentor-mentee fit: Upon admission to our program, we match our students with dedicated mentors who have experience working with doctoral students, compatible personalities and work styles, and deep scientific expertise in areas related to the student’s scientific interests. Starting with the application process, applicants and potential mentors meet to initially assess work style, personality and scientific compatibility. Because optimal mentor-mentee matching is critical to the success of the dyad, we do not admit students who do not have an acceptable mentor match.

Individual training plans: Once a student has been matched with an ideal primary mentor, the pair works closely together to set mutually agreed-upon goals. The pair will attend training programs that assist the dyad to build a productive and mutually respectful relationship; develop, monitor and readjust (as needed) an individual training plan (IDP); consider multiple career options; and celebrate success. The primary mentor provides intensive one-on-one support to their mentee throughout the program and typically becomes a lifelong mentor.

Multi-mentor teams: Further, our Ph.D. students become members of large and productive research teams. Through these connections, students gain additional experience through engagement in broader research activities and learn about “team science.” This engagement facilitates support from a multi-mentor team of diverse scientific experts not only from within the University of Michigan, but also from national and international research networks. The following student quotes illustrate the depth of these phenomenal research-intensive experiences.

“I am grateful for opportunities presented throughout the nursing Ph.D. program to collaborate with researchers from the schools of Medicine, Public Health, Law and Business. I welcomed the chance to develop effective cross-cultural teams with students and professors in Zambia, Ghana, Ethiopia and Brazil. We maintain these diverse team relationships, and I am confident they will lead to many more fruitful international research endeavors in the future.”

– Dr. Julie Buser, Class of 2018

"As part of a multi-mentor team, I had the opportunity to conduct research at other universities and to work with well-known leaders in my area of research. Through this collaboration, I was able to study and publish with some of the top researchers in my field at both the national and international level."

– Dr. Monica Wagner, Class of 2017

Mutual benefit: The student and mentor work together throughout the program, and the outcome of this relationship is mutually beneficial. Students and mentors learn from each other. Mentors pass along their experience and scientific knowledge, provide opportunities for exploration and professional development, facilitate connections with key leaders in the field, and provide career coaching. Students can teach their mentors about contemporary research topics and methods, and provide valuable hands-on support as research and teaching assistants. As coauthors on papers, abstracts and grants, the mentor-mentee team advance the science more quickly. Lastly, faculty promotion and tenure is supported by this enhanced productivity, and the student is better positioned to move into postdoctoral fellowships or other competitive career opportunities.

We know that being a Ph.D. student can be stressful at times, and we have services in place to help with that. UMSN has an embedded staff clinician from Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). The CAPS counselor provides students with free and confidential short-term counseling to help address and overcome personal and interpersonal difficulties that interfere with the pursuit of academic and career objectives. Common concerns that CAPS staff work with students about include self-esteem, academic difficulties, test anxieties, stress, problems with relationships, sexuality, anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance abuse, suicide, and others. CAPS services are free, confidential and available to currently enrolled students. Services include: brief counseling for individuals, couples and groups; consultation to students, faculty, staff and parents; assistance with referrals to community resources; and crisis interventions.

Additional opportunities

Our Ph.D. students not only complete course work; students complete a variety of academic products that build scholarship and team collaboration skills. Our faculty assist students to write scholarly papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Student serve as first and coauthors on papers and abstracts; these student-authored publications demonstrate strong potential for future academic productivity as future scientists. Our students present their work at local, regional, national and international scientific conferences. All students write and submit a training grant and contribute to the submission of their mentor’s grants. Because of their scholarly productivity, our students are highly competitive applicants for a variety of career opportunities following graduation.

Clinical practice

Many Ph.D. students want to maintain their clinical practice expertise while in our program. Full-time students can chose to work a maximum of eight to ten hours per week at an outside clinical job.

BSN-Ph.D. students who have less than six months of clinical practice experience can participate in our Clinical Fellowship Program. Beginning the summer prior to starting the Ph.D. program, we work with the University of Michigan hospital system to place board-certified RNs in staff nurse positions. Following a full orientation, RNs work 40 hours per week on an inpatient unit that aligns with their interests. Students decrease their work hours to eight to ten hours per week upon starting the Ph.D. program in the fall.

Career opportunities

Once students obtain their Ph.D., many new career opportunities will become available. However, it is not always easy to decide on the best path. Our faculty mentors provide guidance based on what they have learned over time about their students’ unique talents. Faculty alumni frequently give seminar presentations that provide real-world perspectives about the job market for Ph.D.-prepared nurses. Further, the Rackham Graduate School has many resources to help emerging graduates find their way.

Informed by their dreams and talents, students can achieve their career goals with help from UMSN faculty. Our students are prepared to continue their research training as postdoctoral fellows. For example, some of our graduates have accepted fellowship positions at very prestigious universities (e.g., Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern California-Los Angeles, University of Pittsburgh). Others have been immediately hired into faculty positions at research- and teaching-intensive universities. Several graduates have taken high-level leadership positions as directors of nursing at large academic medical centers and become leaders at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Academy of Nursing, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, just as a few examples.

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PhD in Nursing Program

Florida's First Online PhD for Nurse Scientists

Post-Master’s Online Nursing PhD

Led by faculty experts at ucf.

Contribute to nursing’s future with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing degree from UCF. The online nursing PhD program will prepare you for a career at the forefront of nursing science where you’ll contribute to the body of knowledge and test theories, and lead research in the application of innovative strategies for clinical care and nursing education.

The doctoral program in nursing prepares nurse scholars to possess a body of knowledge about theory, processes and methods of inquiry in the discipline of nursing. The program allows students to contribute to disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge in nursing and healthcare from the basis of sound conceptual, methodological, and ethical decision-making.

Exclusive PhD Funding Opportunities

In addition to UCF graduate fellowship opportunities for full-time students, there is exclusive funding available for students planning to obtain a nursing faculty position after graduation and help address the nationwide shortage of doctorally prepared nursing faculty.

• UCF Graduate Fellowships  – More than $2M in fellowship funding awarded annually
• Nurse Faculty Loan Program  – Federal loan forgiveness program for nursing PhD students
• Nurse Faculty  PIPELINE Funding  – $150K awarded annually to cover tuition and fees

High Quality. Low Cost.

Expertise of nationally recognized faculty. Convenience and flexibility of UCF Online.

Now at a lower cost with reduced tuition through fee waivers for some campus-based amenities.

Distinguished   UCF Faculty. Esteemed UCF Degree. Options Designed for Working Professionals Like You.

• You fulfill the general UCF graduate admissions requirements ( see Admissions section of the UCF Graduate Catalog ).
• You are a licensed RN in the state in which you practice.
• You have an MSN and BSN degree from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent ( students without a MSN degree should refer to the BSN to PhD in Nursing program )
• Your research interests match faculty expertise .

The UCF Nursing PhD curriculum is delivered online with two multiple-day onsite intensives per year.

The program requires a minimum of 63 credit hours beyond a master’s degree in nursing. This includes:

• 39 credit hours of required courses that focus on foundational knowledge development, and research methods and experiences;
• 15 dissertation credit hours; and
• 9 credit hours of supporting courses that develop student expertise in the area chosen for their dissertation. PhD students are encouraged to seek out interdisciplinary supporting courses.

View Sample Plans of Study

Yes, you may pursue the Nursing PhD program at UCF from any location, both within or outside of Florida.

Note the Nurse Licensure Compact does not apply to PhD programs.

Visit our Doctoral Admissions page for details on the application process and requirements.

Please note:  The College of Nursing accepts the most qualified students based on evaluations of the applicant’s abilities, past performance, recommendations and match of  UCF research areas  with applicant’s career goals.

Access to Excellence

Renowned ucf faculty. esteemed ucf degrees. options designed for you..

We have 7 Nursing & Health (fully funded) PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

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Nursing & Health (fully funded) PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Innovative approaches to evaluating airborne metal particle exposure and health consequences in the uk using advanced mass spectrometry techniques, phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Unravelling Epigenetic changes in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: A Novel Approach Using Human iPSC-Derived Cardiac Organoids

Funded phd project (students worldwide).

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Understanding transitions and impacts on wellbeing within the UK fire and rescue service

Ai applications in health technologies, self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

Enhancing Healthcare Applications Through Cost-effective AI Solutions

Ageing, music, physical exercise and dementia: the amped project, shared decision making and psychosis – whose voice counts in the conversations about stopping or reducing antipsychotic medication.

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Our Culture

Diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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

Academic Programs

Admissions at a glance.

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

Research Centers and Programs

Research areas of focus.

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

Patient Care

Primary care services.

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

Global Health

Global opportunities for students.

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

Doctor of Philosophy

Phd admissions, estimated funding package.

• Columbia University School of Nursing provides three years (eight semesters) of funding for tuition, related fees, health insurance, and stipend.
• Estimated Funding Package for the PhD Program

Admission Criteria

• Bachelor's or master's degree in nursing, or 
• Note: Official transcripts from all institutions attended will be required prior to enrollment in the program.
• New York State RN licensure or eligibility
• International Applicants Only: TOEFL Exam Score

For our general application requirements, please visit the  Apply to the PhD Program  page.

Prerequisite Courses

Applicants must complete prerequisite coursework for an accredited college or university. It is required that completed courses have a grade of a C or better.  Note: Grades of C- or below are not sufficient as successful completion of the course. Applicants must plan their courses accordingly where if they need to retake the course, they have enough time to do so during the application process. This will guarantee completion prior to enrollment in the program.

• Graduate Level Health Policy Course - This type of course can vary. A pplicants may mail the Office of Admissions to request review and approval of a proposed health policy course or for suggestions for approved courses. 

Prerequisite courses are required to be completed by the start of the program, not by the application deadline.

PhD and MDE/PhD applicants may be invited to an interview by the PhD program. The timeframe on when interviews take place are as follows:

• PhD applicants - December 
• Accepted Applicants Admitted Students Days – January 

International Applicants

Columbia Nursing will fund international PhD students. Funding includes tuition and fees, Student Health Services health insurance, and a stipend. International applicants are encouraged to visit the Columbia University International Students & Scholars Office  for information about housing, Visas, and other topics.

Contact the Office of Admissions

• 212-305-5756
• [email protected]

Walk-in Hours: Mon, Tue, and Fri: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Appointments Only: Wed and Thu: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Note: We are not accepting any walk-ins or in-person appointments until further notice.

Join our mailing list and receive our digital brochure:

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Apply to the PhD Program

Florence S. Downs PhD Program in Nursing Research and Theory Development

Tab section offlorence s. downs phd program in nursing research and theory development.

• Eligibility

NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing is home to one of the first PhD nursing programs in the nation. The faculty is composed of some of the most lauded, published, and funded researchers in the profession. The College’s affiliations with hundreds of hospitals, private practices, clinics, professional journals, and other institutions provide a wealth of resources for PhD students.

The College’s PhD program in nursing research and theory development is designed to support students and guide them in achieving their academic and professional goals. The curriculum provides an excellent foundation in the philosophy of scientific inquiry, theory development in nursing science, quantitative and qualitative research designs, and methodological approaches to data management and analyses. Faculty members are dedicated to challenging and encouraging students to conduct groundbreaking original research and examine their own interests and passions for public service. There is a strong commitment by the faculty to conduct research that improves health and healthcare equity across the lifespan and mentor students committed to achieving the same goals.

Our PhD students come from all backgrounds and from all stages of personal and career development. However, they share one common thread: the excellence of their thought and dedication to the nursing field.

Why NYU Meyers?

• Our faculty are experts in their field and in mentoring PhD students for successful research careers.
• We facilitate networking and relationship building within nursing and related fields for long-term career development.
• Our students graduate with an average of four peer-reviewed publications each, setting them up for highly attractive post-doctoral fellowships or faculty positions.
• Alumni from our PhD program have become distinguished nursing leaders in the US and globally.
• We are consistently at the top of NIH-funded nursing schools.
• We guarantee all students four years of funding for tuition, stipend, and health insurance. That is above the rates of peer schools.
• Students have access to statisticians, prominent guest speakers, and other resources through the Pless Center for Nursing Research .
• Students have access to diverse patient populations across the New York metropolitan area and the globe through both public and private healthcare systems.
• Students live and work in New York City, taking part in its culture and events and becoming involved in the multitude of opportunities within its healthcare ecosystem.   

Environment

• We have an outstanding interdisciplinary environment that is designed to produce both independent investigators and those with team-based research skills.
• We encourage a supportive, collaborative environment amongst our PhD students who celebrate each other’s successes.
• Our students are encouraged to take advantage of the many classes, seminars, events, and resources available to students across campus.
• Behavioral Sciences Training in Drug Abuse Research
• Center for Precision Health in Diverse Populations P20
• Division of Special Studies in Symptom Management
• Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing
• Muriel and Virginia Pless Center for Nursing Research
• Occupational and Environmental Health T42
• Oral Health Initiative (OHNEP) 

Research areas

Adults & aging - domestic & international.

• Heart disease
• Geriatrics & care of older adults
• Minority health
• LGBTQ Health
• Social determinants of health
• Informatics for interventions
• Substance use
• Palliative care   

Children, Youth, & Families - Domestic & International

• Maternal-child health
• Children < 5
• School-age children
• Adolescents
• Chronic disease prevention & management
• Infectious disease prevention & management
• Addressing health equity in early life

Health Services Research - Domestic & International

• Structural disparities analyses
• Community-based care delivery
• Home health care
• Hospital-based care
• Health policy
• Deployment (e.g. staffing)
• Informatics for Health Systems
• Interprofessional care
• Occupational Health

Please review the Academic Bulletin.

Post-BS to PhD entry point

All applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A minimum grade point average of 3.0 from an NLN or AACN accredited Bachelor’s program in Nursing. 
• The ability to demonstrate professional performance or contribution to nursing as evidenced by research efforts, publications, presentations, membership in professional organizations, honors/awards, community service, or letters of recommendation. 
• As of Fall 2021, GRE scores are no longer required as part of the application for the Florence S. Downs PhD program in Nursing Research and Theory Development . Prospective students may still submit GRE scores if they have them as part of the application.

Post-Master’s entry point

• At least one degree (bachelors or master's) in nursing
• A minimum grade point average of 3.0 
• The ability to demonstrate professional performance/contribution to nursing as evidenced by research efforts, publications, presentations, membership in professional organizations, honors/awards, community service, or letters of recommendation

For students with international credentials

If your academic credentials are not in English and/or are from a foreign school with a grading system not based on a 4.0 overall GPA, we require an international transcript evaluation and translation. Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc (ECE) is the preferred service. ECE prepares evaluation reports that identify the United States equivalents of educational qualifications earned in other countries. To request an evaluation report, you must complete and submit an application form, along with all required documentation and all applicable fees. ECE will complete most evaluation reports in approximately 15 to 20 business days from the date they receive all required documentation and fees. They also offer one-day, five-day, and 12-day Rush Service and Express Delivery. Please visit the  ECE website  for more information.

Technical standards requirements

Applicants must meet the  Technical Standards for Core Professional Nursing Competency Performance  in order to be eligible for admission to, progress in, and graduate from the nursing program.

Criminal background check policy

Please be advised that prior to or during clinical learning experiences at an acute or community and/or school-based health care facility, that facility may require a criminal background check in order to meet the facility's clinical placement policy or requirements. Such checks may be conducted by the facility or the student may have to independently obtain a criminal background check that meets the facility's requirements. We do not conduct criminal background checks.

Equal opportunity statement

NYU Meyers does not discriminate due to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender and/or gender identity or expression, marital or parental status, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, veteran or military status, age, disability, or any other legally protected basis. Prospective students of diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds are encouraged to apply for all of our programs.

Contact the Office of Admissions

For any questions regarding the PhD program, please contact NYU Meyer's Office of Admissions at [email protected] or 212-998-5317.

PhD curriculum total program (46 credits)

Students must have the equivalent of three years of full-time study to earn a PhD in New York State. This requirement can be met by course load, course load, and equivalencies, or by maintenance of matriculation after finishing coursework and working at least 40 hours per week on a dissertation. See PhD handbook for rules and explanations of full-time status and below for the curricula.

Access application for all graduate programs

Application deadlines

The application for Fall 2024 will be available September 15.

Fall 2024 Deadline: December 15, 2023

Please note: All application materials, including letters of recommendation, must be submitted by December 1st at 11:59 PM EST . Applications that become complete after this time may not be reviewed. 

Mandatory Interview Day:  January/February 2024 (exact date TBD)

Application requirements

Access the application for our PhD program . All applicants to our PhD program are required to submit the following documents at the time of application:

• One (1) transcript from each post-secondary school attended. We can review applications with unofficial transcripts. Admitted students will be asked to submit official transcripts prior to beginning coursework at NYU Meyers.
• A two- to three-page personal statement.
• At least three (3) letters of recommendation.
• RN (and NP, when applicable) license and registration certificate.

Supplemental materials

Please attach the following original documentation to demonstrate professional performance/contribution to the nursing field:

• A list of research, writing/publications. Please submit no more than two papers that are most illustrative of your ability. If you are not published, you may submit papers from previous academic work and/or forward additional letters of recommendation.
• A list of professional organizations or student groups in which you are involved. Acceptable documentation includes program listings or letters from colleagues.
• A list of honors from professional societies; a duplicate copy of the honor is acceptable.

The above information should be uploaded to the online application. If you do not have any of the above documents, you can select "no" to the application question which asks if you have any of these supplemental materials. 

Important Notes

Applications are reviewed by a panel of professors from NYU Meyers. Qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview in January/February.

Applicants who have attended a post-secondary institution outside of the United States are required to upload one (1) transcript from each post-secondary school attended and submit one (1) official course-by-course evaluation of each foreign transcript directly to our office at the time of application. Your application will not be reviewed without these documents. Please mail your official course-by-course evaluation(s) to the Office of Student Affairs and Admissions (complete address listed above).

For applicants whose native language is not English, a copy of your latest TOEFL or IELTS score is required. Admitted students will be asked to submit official test scores prior to beginning coursework at NYU Meyers. We require a minimum TOEFL internet-based score of 100 on TOEFL with no less than 22 on the writing.

We encourage you to fill out a FAFSA form at the time that you apply.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early. All deadlines listed are 'in-office' deadlines, not postmark deadlines. It is always to the candidate's best advantage to apply early, especially when applying for financial aid. Should any of the dates listed fall on a weekend, the deadline will be the next working day.

After submitting your application, you may check on your admissions status using your application login. Should you have any questions about the admissions process, you are encouraged to call the Office of Student Affairs and Admissions at (212) 998-5317.

Application fee

The application fee is $85. Your application will not be processed until your application fee has been paid. Application fees are non-refundable and must be received by the stated application deadlines.

Fee Waivers

NYU Meyers waives fees for applications based on financial hardship or US military service/US veteran status. To request that the application fee is waived, please submit a request to  [email protected]  before submitting your application. The request should include your full name and the program to which you are applying. We will notify you via email when your request for an application fee waiver has been approved. 

Do I need to know exactly what I am going to do for my dissertation research?

Students should have a general idea of their area of research interest, to make certain that an appropriate NYU Meyers faculty member can mentor you. Acceptance into the PhD Program is dependent on a strong "match.” As students progress through the first year of full time study, however, their ideas evolve as they learn more about the research process.

The maximum time to complete the PhD at NYU Meyers is seven years. Will it take me seven years to complete the PhD program?

Absolutely not! Seven years is the absolute maximum that is allowed, and is not encouraged. The college’s goal is to prepare graduates to conduct real-world research that benefits the profession and our patients. Many students can complete the PhD in fours years. Students work closely with advisors to ensure that barriers to completion are identified and addressed to ensure timely completion of the program.

What funding sources are available to me?

Most students receive tuition and stipend support for a four-year period; however, the College encourages and offers resources for students to prepare proposals for predoctoral funding either through the National Institutes of Health or other organizations. Federal traineeships and loans are also available. Other funding sources include scholarship funds from private grants and gifts. The Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) provides an important option as well. The NFLP is a loan cancellation program with a post-graduation obligation.

How do I apply for financial aid?

Does the college offer a post-doctoral program.

New York University has a Postdoctoral and Transitional Program for Academic Diversity Fellowship and we have had several postdoctoral students placed here at the College through this fellowship. NYU Meyers faculty with grant funding will also hire qualified candidates into research-intensive post-doctoral positions. These positions are available based on current funding for faculty and inquiries can be made directly with them. We also accept individuals interested in developing an individual F32 application through NIH to support post-doctoral training.

What is the application deadline for the PhD program?

The final application deadline for the fall semester (September) admission is December 15. This is a hard deadline. We will not be accepting applications after December 15.

Is the GRE required for admission?

The GRE is not required or considered for admission to the PhD program.

Does NYU Meyers require any specific nursing licensure for admission?

US-educated PhD applicants must hold a current professional United States nursing license. These PhD students must maintain their nursing license while matriculated at NYU Meyers. International students are not required to hold a US license to study in our program.

How can I check the status of my application?

After submitting your application, you may check on your admissions status using your application login.

When will I know if I am admitted or not?

Applicants are notified of admissions decisions on a rolling basis. Typically the application review process takes between four and six weeks.

What is the minimum G.P.A. required for acceptance to NYU Meyers?

Applicants with an earned master’s degree must have earned a minimum grade point average of 3.0 from a NLNAC or CCNE accredited program. For baccalaureate students or those applying concurrently with the master’s program, the minimum grade point average is 3.5.

What are computer specifications recommendations for incoming PhD students?

Hardware recommendations are the following:

• Processor: Intel i7 (PC) or A1 (Apple) 
• Memory: 16 GB 
• Storage: 500GB SSD Drive

This hardware will allow you to efficiently run statistical and research software. 

If you are shopping for a new laptop, NYU Meyers highly encourages you to look at the offerings from the NYU Computer Store . The store has competitive pricing. 

CAPSI-Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2024/2025 for young African doctoral students (Fully Funded)

Application Deadline:  Monday, September 16 th , 2024.

Applications are now open for the 2024/2025 CAPSI-Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship . The Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at the Wits Business School (University of the Witwatersrand), with the support of the Mastercard Foundation invites applications for Doctoral Fellowship on the  Non-Profit Sector and its Contribution to African Economies  project. The aim of the PhD fellowship is to provide opportunities for young African doctoral students registered in African universities to participate in research on non-profit organisations and their contributions to African economies. The specific focus of the research project is ‘ The creation of dignified and fulfilling work for young Africans by the non-profit sector ’.

The CAPSI-Mastercard Foundation doctoral fellowship programme offers a maximum of five years of support to twenty (20) selected  full time Ph.D students . 

Requirements

To be eligible for the Fellowship Programme, applicants must:

• Be a female aged 35 years or below
• Be  currently enrolled as a full time student  in a relevant doctoral programme at an African university, focusing on themes and research aligned to the project.
• Have research interest in the  non-profit sector’s contributions to dignified and fulfilling work for African youth. 
• Demonstrate commitment to the programme and the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Be available to participate in the programme for its entire duration.
• In the first or second year of their PhD programme.
• Be nationals of any of the countries listed above and conduct research on any of them or some of them.
• The programme invites doctoral students exclusively from African universities in the 17 countries targeted by the project. These are Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

SUBJECT FIELDS

Social and behavioural sciences, including Economics, Development Studies, International Development, Non-profit or Philanthropic studies, Statistics and Actuarial Sciences, Management, Public Policy, History, Human Geography, or any development-related field.

The research should strictly focus on the project’s main objective; The Contributions of Non-profit Sectors to African Economies with specific focus on Dignified and Fulfilling Work for the Youth .  

• Each fellow will receive a fully funded fellowship, providing a full scholarship of up to $30,000 per year.

Application Procedure

Eligible candidates should prepare and submit the following as part of the application package:

• Current curriculum vitae (CV).
• A personal statement (maximum 500 words) outlining their research interest, motivation, and alignment with the advertised CAPSI Research programme.
• An outline of their proposed research project (Maximum 2500 words) covering the following.

             I. Background of study

            II. Problem Statement

           III. Research questions

          IV. Research objectives

          V.  Literature review and theoretical framework

          VI. Proposed methodology (covering research design, sampling and, data collection and ethical considerations)

4. A letter of recommendation from supervisor/proposed supervisor.

5. A copy of academic transcripts.

6. Proof of age ( e.g., passport, birth certificate, etc.)

7. Proof of admission or registration in an African University

The application must be sent by email to:  [email protected]  (applicants from West and North Africa),  [email protected]  (applicants from East Africa), and  eleanor.chipeta @wits.ac.za  (applicants from Southern Africa)  clearly marked “ PHD FELLOWSHIP IN THE NON-PROFIT SECTOR’S CONTRIBUTION TO AFRICAN ECONOMIES,   and copied to  [email protected] .  

• The deadline for applications is  Monday, September 16 th , 2024.
• Successful applicants will be notified by Friday, September 27 th , 2024.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the CAPSI-Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship

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