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Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE)

Pursue your passion as a nurse educator and help shape the future of nursing..

Admissions   |   Curriculum   |   Tuition   |   FAQs   |   Information Sessions

The online Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) is the first program of its kind in the country. Its launch comes at just the right time as we face an urgent national need for doctorally-educated nursing educators. This novel professional doctoral degree program is designed for master’s-prepared nurses who are passionate about educating nursing students and nurses and seek to become expert educators specifically in the clinical discipline of nursing.

This unique program emphasizes best practices in teaching and learning in nursing, curriculum design and development related to nursing education and clinical practice and nursing education assessment and evaluation—a combination not offered anywhere else in the country. 

You will choose from two specialization tracks to meet your specific goals:

• Academic nursing education
• Nursing professional development.

Whether you want to become an expert nurse educational leader in academia or healthcare, this program will prepare you to plan, implement and evaluate best evidence for nursing-specific instruction.

As a DNE student, you can expect to complete the program in five semesters (2 years) of full-time study or eight semesters (3 years) of part-time study, including summer semester coursework. The online DNE program consists of synchronous coursework, field experience/immersion hours to build competencies and a culminating final project.

Hear from current DNE student Rob Patton about how the program’s Nursing Professional Development specialization is helping him pursue his passion and shape the future of nursing.

Specializations

Academic Nursing Education

The academic nursing education track is developed for nurses with earned master’s degrees who seek to teach in college or university level academic nursing programs to prepare nurses for clinical practice at all levels.

Nursing Professional Development

The nursing professional development track is targeted to masters-level nursing professional development practitioners (NPDs) who seek doctoral preparation to educate nurses in healthcare settings to enhance healthcare outcomes.

Director, Doctor of Nursing Education Program

Assistant Director, Doctor of Nursing Education Program

What you'll learn.

As a graduate of the DNE program, you will gain the skills and competence to excel as a nursing educator. The following are expected outcomes for graduates of the DNE program.

• Translates and evaluates evidence-based principles of teaching and learning into the development, design, implementation, and evaluation of nursing education and practice for a diverse student population to transform the healthcare system 
• Demonstrates excellence in leadership roles for the development of practice models, policy, ethical principles, and competencies for nursing education and nursing professional development (NPD) 
• Applies evidence-based practice and translational science methodologies into educational scholarship to prepare graduates to be innovative and creative nurse educators prepared to drive change in nursing education and healthcare environments 
• Collaborates with interprofessional teams to implement and evaluate evidence-based teaching strategies to promote critical thinking and clinical decision-making in nursing 
• Demonstrates inclusion of wellness across multiple educational and practice settings for nursing students, faculty, NPD specialists, and organizations for improved health outcomes

Distance Education

State authorization for distance education can change. Please see this resource for the most accurate and up-to-date state authorization status for the DNE Program .

At this time, The Ohio State University College of Nursing is authorized to enroll distance learning students in many U.S. states. However, due to varying state laws and regulations, there are also many states in which we are not currently permitted to offer distance learning programs. Residents of these states are not able to participate in the programs. Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the University’s Online Programs State Authorization webpage or email us at [email protected] to find out whether their program of interest is available in their home state. Please check back often, as the College and University are aggressively pursuing authorization in all 50 states. Residents outside of the U.S. are not able to participate in distance learning programs. Admission into a program is granted at the time of initial acceptance into the program and is dependent on program availability in the state where the student is physically located at the time of admission. If a student moves to a state other than the state where the student was physically present when admitted into the program, continuation within the program will depend on the availability of the program within the new state where the student is physically present. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the institution of a change in physical presence.

Accreditation Status

The Ohio State University Doctor of Nursing Education Program (delivered via distance education) holds pre-accreditation status from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20037. 202-909-2487. Holding pre-accreditation status does not guarantee that initial accreditation by NLN CNEA will be received.

Application Deadline

• Autumn 2024 Opens: August 15 Deadline: March 1, 2024*

*Students interested in being considered for a fellowship or other available funding opportunities should have their completed application submitted by October 31.

Email [email protected]

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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..

Online PhD in Nursing

Doctor of philosophy in nursing.

Submit your information to access a comprehensive digital program guide. One of our dedicated admissions counselors will contact you shortly to discuss next steps.

• Program Features
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Applications are currently being accepted for next intake - Fall 2024

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Please visit our state authorizations page to see whether this program is available in your area.

PhD in Nursing

Lead as a scholar and educator.

With an online Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD in Nursing) from Wilkes University, you will achieve the terminal degree for advanced practice nurses. This online, doctorate-level program is designed to be taken on a part-time basis so you can balance your education with your professional career and personal life.

Our online PhD in Nursing is focused on research and will prepare you for a career in scientific inquiry aimed at developing new knowledge in nursing science. It will empower you for leadership roles and prepare you with the expertise to conduct research that will advance the nursing profession and improve nursing outcomes.

Admission Requirements

Applicants will be evaluated on an individual basis based on the following criteria.

• Master’s degree in nursing (3.0 cumulative GPA) with official transcripts from an institution with programmatic (ACEN, NLNAC, CCNE) and regional accreditation*
• A minimum grade of 3.0 for gap analysis courses only
• A current unencumbered RN license; APRN license if appropriate**
• Current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Letter of intent describing your professional goals, research topic and the reason for pursuing the Ph.D. degree
• Two recommendations from graduate-level nurses or faculty who can attest to your ability to be successful in a Ph.D. program
• Check state authorization  

These admissions standards represent the minimum eligibility requirements for programs. Admission committee members reserve the right to request additional information from candidates as needed for a more in-depth review of qualifications.

Transfer Credits: All graduate programs will allow 9 total transfer credits (must be a 3.0 or higher).

* Students who graduated from a non-programmatically accredited institution and meet all other admission requirements will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Admission is not guaranteed.

**Applications presenting a history of disciplinary action on professional licenses will be subject to an additional review process by the Special Licensure Discrepancy Committee of the University.

Applications are currently being accepted for Fall 2024

Get Started Now

PhD Program Outcomes

Online PhD students can expect a variety of beneficial program outcomes.  

Build critical knowledge as it relates to nursing theory, healthcare issues, nursing education and obtaining research funding:  

• Explore scientific philosophies and ethical theories as they pertain to the nursing profession.
• Analyze the concepts of evidence-based research on policy and politics that impact population health outcomes.
• Consider specific issues in science and ethics as they relate to nursing education.
• Learn about the current state of scientific research and major funding trends in nursing and healthcare.

Advance your research skills in qualitative and quantitative analysis while expanding on study design:  

• Learn the seven steps of the research process, focusing on the development of researchable problems, literature review, and hypothesis generation. 
• Develop the skills to write quantitative research questions and how to select appropriate research methodologies.
• Explore ways to apply qualitative inquiry as an approach to knowledge discovery. 
• Understand principles of measurement, instrument design and data collection methods. 

Develop a comprehensive dissertation  with the support of a dedicated chairperson:  

• Receive early engagement with a chairperson, providing structured guidance from start to finish, including dissertation research.
• Formulate a dissertation that answers a pertinent research question and contributes to the body of knowledge in nursing.  
• Develop a literature review and mode of inquiry for your dissertation as you prepare to defend your proposal. 
• Implement your study through data collection and analyze the results in preparation for your dissertation defense.

This seminar is online and focuses on the dissertation process and student orientation to the university and PhD program.    Course Prerequisites: Doctoral Standing   Credits: 1

The focus of this course is to prepare doctoral students to examine the development and organization of nursing knowledge. Philosophies of science, epistemologies and their influence on knowledge development in the discipline of nursing, and strategies for theory development and analysis are explored. Credits: 3 

To see the full program curriculum, access your free program guide .

• Time to Complete 3 years (on average — depending on dissertation)
• Courses 17 Courses (9 terms)
• Course Lengths 12 weeks

This course acquaints students with philosophical issues and nursing theories relevant to nursing education. An overview of central metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical system, considering specific issues in the philosophies of science and ethics that are of particular focus in nursing education. Credits: 3 

The nurse researcher contributes towards the development of healthcare policy and politics in local, state, national, and global healthcare markets. Application and analysis of evidence-based research on policy and politics will impact population health outcomes and the future of nursing education, research, and practice. Credits: 3

This course introduces students to the seven steps of the research process, focusing on the development of researchable problems, literature review, and hypothesis/question generation within the context of quantitative and qualitative research designs and methods. Credits: 3 

This course builds on the knowledge of philosophy, theory, and research process. The student, in consultation with his/her chairperson, begins the dissertation process. Credits: 3 

This course applies knowledge of statistical methods used in nursing research. Topics include parametric and non-parametric methods of data analysis and model building. Alternate approaches to analysis of data are considered. Credits: 3 

This course explores the current state of nursing research and the major research and funding trends in nursing and health care. Students will be engaged in preparing a fundable grant application for dissertation study and strategies used to publish research funding. Credits: 3

This course focuses on research methodologies that guide the design of studies, which collect and analyze quantitative data. The focus will be on writing quantitative research questions and selecting appropriate research methodologies. Focus is placed on descriptive, correlational, experimental and quasiexperimental designs as applied to nursing problems. Course Prerequisites: NSG 619, 621   Credits: 3

The focus of this course is on qualitative inquiry as an approach to the discovery of knowledge in the science of nursing. This course will focus on the scientific underpinnings, methodologies, and data analysis techniques in qualitative research for advancing nursing knowledge. Course Prerequisites: NSG 619 Credits: 3 

This course builds on the understanding of quantitative designs in nursing and health related topics. The course provides the opportunity for applied practice in quantitative methods using common statistical tests and SPSS.    Course Prerequisites: NSG 623   Credits: 3 

This course provides an overview of principles of measurement, instrument design, and data collection methods. Methods to critically evaluate and select theoretically congruent instruments are explored.     Course Prerequisites: NSG 621   Credits: 3 

The student, in consultation with his/her chairperson, writes chapters II and III of the dissertation proposal.   Course Prerequisites: NSG 615, 616, 617, 618, 619, 620, 621, 622, 623, 624, 625, 626   Credits: 3 

The comprehensive written examination is a series of questions that focus on the synthesis and integration of knowledge learned during doctoral coursework. Students demonstrate their ability and preparedness to move forward in the doctoral research program.    Course Prerequisites: NSG 627 and authorization from the PhD Program Coordinator to register for comprehensive examination Credits: 1 

This course focuses on completion of the first three chapters of the dissertation and submission of the proposal to the IRB committee(s) for approval. Students will then undertake proposal defense before continuing into dissertation implementation. Course Prerequisites: NSG 628   Credits: 3 

This course focuses on implementation of the student’s doctoral research study. After completion of the first three chapters, successful proposal defense, and IRB approval, the student, under guidance from their chair, begins the data collection process.    Course Prerequisites: NSG 629   Credits: 3 

This course continues with the implementation of the dissertation. Students complete data collection and analysis thus, finalizing chapters 4 and 5 and satisfying final defense.    Course Prerequisites: NSG 630   Credits: 3 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Julia Aucoin

Adjunct professor.

BSN, MN, DNS

Rebecca Cavill

Adjunct faculty.

Chris Coffman

PhD, APRN, FNP-BC

David Joseph Dittman

Linda Denke

PhD, RN, CCRC

Marcia J. Derby-Davis

Michelle Finch

PhD, RN, CPN, COI, CNE

Marie R. Hankinson

PhD, MSN, RN, CDP

Denise M. Korniewicz

Ph.D., RN, FAAN

Sharon M. Mills-Wisneski

Regina Prosser

PhD, DNP, RN-BC, CNE

Katherine Reeder

PhD, MSN, MEd

Jim Stobinski

PhD, RN, CNOR, CSSM

Joyce Victor

Associate professor.

PhD, RN, NPD-BC, CHSE-A

Chris Zarpentine

M.A., Ph.D.

PhD Faculty Research Areas

Obtaining a Ph.D. in Nursing online allowed me to work full-time while accomplishing my career and educational goals. The Wilkes faculty provided a caring learning environment and promoted academic excellence.”

Rebecca Cavill, PHD, CRNP

Wilkes University Passan School of Nursing Ph.D. program was designed for the working person. Because of the design, I felt my dream of obtaining the Ph.D. was indeed possible.”

Sonya Carothers, Family Nurse Practitioner

Regina Prosser , PhD, DNP, RN-BC, CNE

Compare PhD and DNP Programs

Adams traister, t.a. (2023)., cavill, r., & dittman, p. (2022)..

Sharon Mills-Wisneski

Faqs about the phd in nursing program.

The PhD in Nursing program consists of 17 courses (47 credit hours), which are completed over nine terms (three years on average, depending on dissertation).

Tuition for the PhD in Nursing program is $38,950 - $48,175. This total is based on the number of required courses for the program. An analysis of previous coursework may allow for fewer courses and in turn, a lower net cost when applicable.

Yes, financial aid is available to qualifying nursing students. Please fill out a form or schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn if you qualify for financial assistance. You can also give us a call at 888-413-5633 . We're happy to help!

All coursework is 100% online, including the mandatory one day orientation. Each course experience is primarily asynchronous.

• Nursing administration 
• Leadership skills relating to emotional intelligence/competency 
• Quality improvement 
• Risk Management and Patient Safety
• Cultural competency 
• Advanced practice 
• Maternal-child health 
• Clinical practice paradigms 
• Nurse competency 
• Theory-guided practice 
• Complex Healthcare Systems
• Diabetes and health care outcomes 
• Pain management 
• Congestive heart failure 
• Depression 
• Infection prevention 
• Cancer survivorship 
• Patient self-management 
• PTSD in veterans 
• Disparities in women’s health 
• Patient advocacy  
• Healthcare Policy
• Social Discriminants of Health
• Teaching/leading models and strategies 
• Innovation and technology in teaching 
• Educational practice gaps and assessment of learning needs 
• Interprofessional collaboration 
• Simulation 
• Minority students 

We support and applaud lifelong learning. Our online graduate nursing programs are a prime example. As a non-profit university, the success of our students is a high priority. We’ve developed our suite of online nursing degrees for working professionals who may not be able to fit a traditional education into their busy lives.

We’re proud to offer accredited and affordable online nursing degrees. You’ll find a supportive environment here as you work toward the next step in your nursing career. You will be set up for success in your program and profession! Need to know more? Click the links to the right to explore the site, or the link below to get in touch with an admissions counselor who can answer your questions.

Reach Out to an Admissions Counselor

We’re here to talk about everything Wilkes, everything nursing and anything you need to make the right choice for your career. We'll even help with the application process. Call us at 888-413-5633 or click the link below to fill out a form and start the conversation. We can’t wait!

Get Started

Requirements Not Met

To proceed with the Associate Degree in Nursing (R.N.) to M.S.N. program, you are required to have an associate’s degree in nursing and hold a current unencumbered R.N. license.

If you don’t meet these requirements but would still like further information, please contact us .

To proceed with the M.S.N. program, you are required to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and hold a current unencumbered R.N. license.

To proceed with either the D.N.P. , Ph.D. or the Post Graduate A.P.R.N. Certification programs, you are required to have a master’s degree in nursing and hold a current unencumbered R.N. license.

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50 Best Online PhD Nursing Programs [2024 Guide]

Looking for Online PhD Nursing Programs for 2024? Compare PhD vs. DNP and see which doctoral nursing program is the best fit.

With your Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice, your job prospects are positive with a projected faster than average job growth rate of 45%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

List of Schools Offering Online PhD Nursing Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Boise State University

Established in 1932 by the Episcopal Church, Boise State University is located in Boise, Idaho.

The 8-semester DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) in Leadership program is a flexible, online course delivered in a cohort model with other Master’s prepared nurses across the country. There are 4 on-campus Orientation/Executive sessions. Students take 5-6 credits per semester.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice in Leadership

Boise State University  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

2. Clarion University

Founded in 1867, Clarion University is located in Clarion, Pennsylvania.

The DNP course is a consortium program between the Edinboro and Clarion Universities. The online, 27-credit-hour, affordable Clarion and Edinboro Universities program is flexible and can be customized to match the student’s interest.

The courses can be taken over 5 semesters in a part-time format.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Clarion University ‘s programs are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

3. Delta State University

Located in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University was established in 1924.

The online DNP program is offered by the University’s Robert E Smith School of Nursing. There are different options for Registered Nurses, Post-Master’s FNP, and Post-Master’s non-FNP students, each with different credit hour requirements. Part-time options are also available.

Delta State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

4. Duquesne University

Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Duquesne University is a Catholic university established in 1878.

The online DNP program is ranked #83 for Best Nursing Schools for DNP in the country by U.S. News & World Report. It has three start dates in the year, and there is no GRE requirement.

There is an option to study abroad at Duquesne’s Rome and Dublin campuses. Other programs include PhD Nursing and PhD Nursing Ethics.

• PhD in Nursing
• PhD in Nursing Ethics

Duquesne University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

5. East Carolina University

Established in 1907, East Carolina University is located in Greenville, North Carolina.

The online/hybrid 36-semester hour DNP program provides two pathways to attain the degree – post-master’s and post-baccalaureate. Students are required to attend 1-5 day on-campus sessions at the beginning of every semester.

There are 5 core courses and 4 DNP project courses apart from the electives.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Hybrid)
• PhD in Nursing (Hybrid)

East Carolina University  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

6. Georgia College & State University

Georgia College & State University is located in Milledgeville, Georgia. It was founded in 1889.

The 95% online DNP program comprises 37 semester hours and 540 clinical hours. The program includes a mentored capstone project that focuses on translational and clinical research. The program can be completed within 7 years.

Georgia College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

7. Georgia Southern University

With its flagship campus in Statesboro, Georgia, GSU was established in 1906.

The 100% online only DNP program is spread over 6 semesters, with flexible schedules. Students can take 2-3 courses per semester, and the curriculum requirement is 37 credit hours. There are 9 electives offered in the program.

Georgia Southern University  is accredited by the Commission on Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

8. Hampton University

A historically black university that was established in 1868 by black and white leaders, Hampton University is located in Hampton, Virginia.

The post-master’s degree DNP program is delivered 100% online and requires a minimum of 33 hours of coursework (each course: 16 weeks) and 500 clinical hours. There are 3 campus residency sessions. The program can be completed in 2 years.

Hampton University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. Illinois State University

Located in Normal, Illinois, Illinois State University was founded in 1857.

The 34-hour online DNP program can be completed across 7 semesters and includes 18 hours core courses, 3 hours applied data analysis and management, 6 hours clinical residency, and 7 hours of a scholarly project.

Post-baccalaureate students must complete 1,000 hours of clinical work. International students must submit a Credentials Evaluation Service Report and English proficiency scores.

Illinois State University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Indiana University – Purdue University – Indianapolis

Located on the White River/Fall Creek, Indiana, this school was established in 1969 with a merger of the two universities.

The online DNP program is offered by the IU School of Nursing. It is a post-master’s degree 37-41 credit hour professional doctorate program. Additional intensive in-person course-related interactions are focused on policy and advocacy.

• PhD in Nursing Science

IUPUI  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

11. Indiana State University

Indiana State University is classified as a Doctoral/Research University. It was established in 1865 and is located in Terre Haute, Indiana.

The online DNP program is offered by the University’s College of Health and Human Services and is available across all but 15 states in the US.

The program has a 39-credit-hour requirement post master’s degree program, and students must complete 1,000 hours of supervised clinical preceptorship. There is no dissertation requirement.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

12. Johns Hopkins University

Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University was established in 1876.

The DNP program is available in Hybrid and Online formats, and students can choose one of two pathways.

Students can pick the DNP option that fits their career goals – the online local program that provides opportunities to work with Johns Hopkins faculty in Baltimore or the online with onsite immersion where students attend campus for 7 immersion sessions.

Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

13. Medical University of South Carolina

Established in 1874, the Medical University of South Carolina is located in Charleston, South Carolina. It is one of the oldest continuously operating medical schools in the USA.

The online DNP program is not available in 3 states across the country. It can be completed in 2 years. The university’s online programs were ranked #6 in the nation, #3 among public universities, and #2 for nursing programs for veterans by U.S. News & World Report.

The  Medical University of South Carolina  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

14. Missouri State University

Located in Springfield, Missouri, Missouri State University was founded in 1905.

The online DNP program for Anesthesia Practice and Nursing Practice programs are both delivered 100% online and can be undertaken while pursuing a career.

The program comprises 29 hours of doctorate coursework and 528 clinical rotation hours and will take a minimum of 5 semesters to complete.

• Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice

Missouri State University ‘s regional accreditation is through the Higher Learning Commission.

15. Murray State University

Murray State University was founded in 1922 and is located in Murray, Kentucky.

The 36-month DNP program curriculum combines distance learning and online learning, with the first year being 100% online. The second and third years are delivered in a hybrid format. Core courses are taught online, while specialty courses are delivered face-to-face.

Murray State University  is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

16. Northern Arizona University

With its main campus in Flagstaff, Arizona, Northern Arizona University was established in 1899.

The online DNP program is delivered by the University’s College of Health and Human Services. The program comprises 74-79 units of graduate-level course work and 1,000 hours of clinical practice, with a minimum of 240 hours to be completed at the Northern Arizona University.

NAU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

17. Northern Kentucky University

Located in Highland Heights, Kentucky, Northern Kentucky University was founded in 1948.

The100% online DNP program can be completed in 20 months. Students are required to complete 10 core courses of seven weeks length each over for 35 credit hours. The tuition is affordably priced, and multiple start dates are available throughout the year.

Northern Kentucky University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Established in 1856, the Northwestern State University of Louisiana has a colorful and interesting history. Located in Natchitoches, Louisiana, it is one of the oldest educational institutions in the state.

The 100% online DNP program is completed over 42 hours of coursework. Students must complete 1,000 hours of clinical work at an approved institution.

Northwestern State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. Ohio State University

Located in Columbus, Ohio, Ohio State University was established in 1870.

The online DNP program is delivered by the university’s College of Nursing. Students completing the DNP program are eligible for certification in one of the advanced practice specialties available. The program has limited authorization in some states and is not available in some states.

Ohio State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

20. Old Dominion University

Established in 1930, the Old Dominion University is located in Norfolk, Virginia. The online DNP program is offered by the university’s College of Nursing. Students are required to take 10 courses to complete the degree either on a full or part-time basis. Full-time students can complete the 37-credit course in 1.5 years.

• DNP – Advanced
• DNP – Executive

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

21. Radford University

Founded in 1910, Radford University is located in Radford, Virginia.

The post-master’s degree, 30-credit-hour, online DNP program can be done full time or part-time but must be completed within 8 years. Four different DNP concentrations are available.

The university offers a range of research resources, including tutoring in writing skills, online library compilation, etc.

Radford University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

22. Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville

Located in Edwardsville, Illinois, this branch was established in 1957.

The post-master’s degree, 30-credit, online DNP program is offered by the university’s School of Nursing in combination with the School of Business. The program is structured to be fully online with two on-campus immersion experiences and is conducted over 54 hours of coursework.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

23. Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University is a co-educational institution located in Denton, Texas. It was established in 1902.

The DNP program is available in a Hybrid format, combining both online study and classroom experience. It requires 46 hours, plus 500 hours of clinical work and a capstone project to complete. The program is offered at the university’s Dallas and Houston centers.

Texas Woman’s University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. University at Buffalo

The flagship institution of the State University of New York system, the University at Buffalo, was founded in 1846. It has campuses in Amherst and Buffalo, New York, and was originally founded as a medical college.

The online 5-7-semester post-master’s degree 36-credit-hour 100% online DNP program is offered by the University’s School of Nursing. Students must complete 400 hours of clinical work.

The  University at Buffalo  is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

25. University of Alabama

Located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the University of Alabama was established in 1820.

The 30 credit online DNP program usually takes about 1.5 years to complete. Students are provided with a faculty advisor to support them through the program.

The program requires one or two campus-based immersion experiences and 1,000 practice hours, of which 500 are part of a supervised program.

• EdD in Instructional Leadership – Nurse Education (Hybrid)

The University of Alabama is accredited and/or recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

26. University of Alabama – Huntsville

Established in 1950 as an extension of the University of Alabama, the University of Alabama – Huntsville is located in Huntsville, Alabama.

The 40-credit-hour fully online DNP program is taken over several semesters as determined by the Graduate Faculty Adviser. It offers two pathways: Post-baccalaureate and Post-Master’s degree. The program has one required Intensive in the Spring Semester.

UAH  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

27. University of Arizona

Located in Tucson, Arizona, the University of Arizona was established in 1885.

The 100% online DNP program has 7 concentration options and enables students who have completed the program to be licensed through the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Students must complete at least 500 hours of clinical practice. The program is not offered to students in some states.

• DNP – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – Executive Health Systems Leadership (Hybrid)
• DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – Nurse Anesthesia (Hybrid)
• DNP – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – Nursing Informatics (Hybrid)

The University of Arizona  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

28. University of Central Arkansas

Established in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas is located in Conway, Arkansas and is noted for courses in nursing, psychology, education, business, and performing arts.

The online DNP program is delivered over 6 consecutive semesters. Students are required to take 2 intensive on-campus days each year, take 2 courses each semester, with 15 hours per week for each 3-hour course.

The University of Central Arkansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

29. University of Central Florida

Located in Orlando, Florida, the University of Central Florida was established in 1963. UCF College of Nursing was adjudged among the Most Innovative in 2019-20.

The fully online post-master’s DNP program offers flexibility, convenience, and affordability. Students can take advantage of reduced tuition costs through fee waivers and campus amenities.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Advanced
• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Executive

The  University of Central Florida  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

30. University of Colorado – Colorado Springs

The University of Colorado – Colorado Springs was established in 1902.

The fully online 70-credit-hour DNP program can be completed in 3 years of full-time study and 5 years of part-time study. Students must also complete a capstone project and are required to complete 1,170 hours of supervised clinical coursework at a local medical facility.

UCCS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

31. University of Iowa

Located in Iowa City, Iowa, the University of Iowa was founded in 1847. It is the oldest university in the state and the first co-educational institution in the US. The School of Nursing is ranked #14 among the Best Nursing Schools for DNP by U.S. News & World Report.

The top-ranked, online/Hybrid DNP program is offered in a flexible, affordable format tailored to suit individualized schedules and preferences.

The  University of Iowa  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

32. University of Kansas

With its main campus in Lawrence, Kansas, the University of Kansas was established in 1866.

The post-master’s degree online DNP program requires 19 credit hours of DNP core courses. Students must fulfill at least 6 hours of the doctoral research project, 7 credit hours of specialty courses along with the university’s Research Skills and Responsible Scholarship requirement.

• DNP (Hybrid)

The  University of Kansas  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

33. University of Louisiana at Lafayette

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette was established in 1898.

The online DNP program is offered in collaboration with the Intercollegiate Consortium for Master of Science Nursing, with concentration as a Family Nurse Practitioner is available with a 42-45-credit-hour requirement.

Students can take the program across five semesters and is best suited for those living in Louisiana.

The University of Louisiana Lafayette  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

34. University of Mississippi

Established in 1844, the University of Mississippi is located in Oxford, Mississippi.

The flexible, online DNP program is offered by the university’s Medical Center School of Nursing. Students who have completed a master’s degree take 2-3 years. Course delivery combines online courses and intensive 1 or 2-day on-campus sessions each semester.

The University of Mississippi is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

35. University of Missouri

Located in Columbia, Missouri and established in 1839, the University of Missouri is the largest university in the state.

The online, 72-74.5 credit hour DNP program is offered by the University’s Sinclair School of Nursing. Students must complete 1,000 hours of supervised clinical hours, based on the emphasis area, and a DNP Scholarly Project.

• DNP – Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (Hybrid)
• DNP – Nursing Leadership and Innovations in Health Care (Hybrid)
• DNP – Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (Hybrid)
• DNP – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care (Hybrid)
• DNP – Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – PhD in Nursing (Hybrid)

The  University of Missouri  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

36. University of Nevada – Las Vegas

Established in 1959, the University of Nevada – Las Vegas is located in Paradise, Nevada.

The 100% online post-master’s degree DNP program comprises around 31 semester credit hours depending on the track chosen. Several specializations are offered. A loan program is available for qualified, eligible students. No GRE/GMAT is required. The program is not available in some states.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice: BSN – DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: BSN – DNP Nurse Executive
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: Post-Master’s Advanced Practice
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: Post-Masters Nurse Executive
• Doctor of Philosophy – Nursing

The  University of Nevada, Las Vegas  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

37. University of Nevada – Reno

Located in Reno, Nevada, this university was established in 1874.

The online DNP program is available either via BSN to DNP or as a post-master’s degree. The 30-credit-hour program can be completed in two years. Students can also take a 3-year study plan that also requires 30 credit hours.

The  University of Nevada, Reno  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

38. University of New Hampshire

With its main campus in Durham, New Hampshire, the University of New Hampshire was founded in 1866.

The online DNP program requires 8 core courses, 3 doctoral seminars, two on-campus residencies, and 1,000 advanced practice clinical hours, a publishable scholarly paper, a successful oral defense of the DNP project, and its acceptance by your DNP team. Cohorts are admitted bi-annually.

The  University of New Hampshire  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

39. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

Located across 16 of North Carolina’s campuses, the University of North Carolina was originally founded at Chapel Hill in 1789. It is the first residential school for gifted students to be set up in the US.

The online DNP program takes about two years to complete on a full-time basis. The program length varies between 37 and 41 credit hours for post-master’s degree students on a full or part-time basis.

• DNP – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Nursing
• DNP – Nursing Education

UNC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

40. University of North Dakota

Established in 1883, the University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

The university offers a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and also a PhD in Nursing. The online DNP program can be taken on a full-time, part-time, or accelerated basis.

Students take 18-24 months to complete the full-time program, 32 months for the part-time program, and 12 months for the accelerated one.

The University of North Dakota as a whole is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

41. University of South Alabama

Located in Mobile, Alabama, the University of South Alabama was established in 1963.

The online DNP program is offered by the University’s College of Nursing. Students can choose from among 15 different specialty areas. Three pathways are available for students based on their level of education. All requirements for the degree must be completed within 7 years.

• DNP – Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Clinical Nurse Specialist
• DNP – Executive Nurse Administrator
• DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Nursing Informatics
• DNP – Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Psychiatric (Family) Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Public Health Administration
• DNP – Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

The  University of South Alabama  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

42. University of Southern Mississippi

With its main campus located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi was established in 1910.

The DNP program is available via three pathways. The BSN to DNP program is 100% online, while the Nursing (FNP) MSN and Nursing (FNP) Graduate Certificate programs are Hattiesburg Hybrid. Students require 34-43 credit hours to complete the program.

• PhD in Nursing Leadership

The  University of Southern Mississippi  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

43. University of Texas at Tyler

The University of Texas at Tyler was founded in 1971.

The PhD Nursing program and partly online DNP programs are offered by the University’s Department of Graduate Nursing. The DNP program consists of 45 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours. Scholarship and financial support are available for eligible students.

The  University of Texas at Tyler  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

44. University of Toledo

Located in Toledo, Ohio, the University of Toledo was established in 1872.

The online DNP program is designed to admit BSN prepared nurses. There are four program major options. Some of the courses are available online, while students will have to attend classes at the UT Health Science Campus along with 1060-1150 hours of clinical practice.

The  University of Toledo  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

45. Villanova University

Established in 1842, Villanova University is a Catholic University located in Radnor Township, Pennsylvania.

The University offers a PhD in Nursing and a post-master’s DNP degree. The 32 credit hour DNP program is a blend of distance learning and classroom experiences. Distance learning classes are according to a fixed schedule.

Villanova University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

46. Virginia Commonwealth University

Located in Richmond, Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University is ranked among the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report, its DNP program ranked #37 among best nursing schools. It was established in 1838.

The online DNP program is available on a full or part-time basis with a 39 minimum credit hour requirement. Students are required to be on campus three times during a year. TOEFL scores are required for non-native-English-speaking students.

VCU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

47. West Virginia University

With its main campus in Morgantown, West Virginia, the West Virginia University was established in 1862.

The online DNP program offered by the University’s School of Nursing has a requirement of 33 credit hours completed over 7-10 semesters. Additional clinical and capstone credits may be required to complete the coursework.

West Virginia University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

48. William Carey University

William Carey University was established in 1892 and is located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. It is a Christian college affiliated with the Southern Baptist Church.

The PhD Nursing program can be taken over two or three years through a trimester system. The pace can be tailored to the student’s requirements, but the program must be completed in 6 years.

• PhD in Nursing Education and Administration (Hybrid)

William Carey University  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

49. Wilmington University

Located in Newcastle, Delaware, Wilmington University was established in 1968.

The online DNP program is flexible and delivered 100% online. It can be completed in 28 months, culminating in a 9-credit, one-year long doctoral project. Core courses are delivered in 7-week-long blocks and DNP project courses over 15-week semesters.

• DNP – Advanced Practice
• DNP – Leadership

Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

50. Winona State University – Rochester

Located in Rochester, Minnesota, the Winona State University – Rochester was founded in 1917.

The DNP program is designed for the RN prepared student with either a baccalaureate or master’s degree in nursing. The master’s degree student is required to complete 31 credit hours, which include 9 clinical scholarship credits and 540 clinical hours.

Winona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Types of Online PhD Nursing Programs

These are the three most common degrees for a doctoral degree in nursing. Click on the one that most interests you to jump to that section.

PhD in Nursing Education

Phd in healthcare leadership.

Each one can help prepare you for a different career in the medical field.

A doctor of philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Education can help prepare you to teach nursing at the university level.

As a practicing nurse yourself, you may have the experience and expertise for delivering high-quality care in a clinical setting. Your doctorate coursework can help you become an expert teacher as well so that you can pass on what you’ve learned to upcoming nurses.

The curriculum for this program typically focuses on learning theories and teaching strategies, curriculum development, how to evaluate nursing students, and the ethics of nursing.

After you graduate, you may become a professor, a professional trainer at a hospital, or a dedicated researcher who presents new findings to the nursing world. In any of these roles, you may be shaping the future of the medical field as you teach or otherwise inform nursing professionals.

With a PhD in Healthcare Leadership or Healthcare Management, you might teach at a university or continue working in a clinical setting as an administrator.

Your courses will likely focus on setting a vision for your institution, monitoring and evaluating your organization’s performance, financial management, patient care, and applicable laws and regulations.

You might also take classes that address specific issues or help you to develop certain skills, such as opioid medicines, environmental safety, health management information systems, research methods and statistics, and public speaking.

If you enjoy the business side of the medical world and want to make a real difference in your institution, this may be the track for you.

The two main options for graduates with this degree is to become a hospital or office administrator or to become a nurse practitioner. You may also serve as a trainer in your organization.

If you choose to go in the direction of administration, you might be a nurse manager or help to set policy for your organization. Your coursework will likely focus on delivering excellent patient care, management, and financial responsibility.

The second popular option is to study to be a nurse practitioner. While this degree doesn’t qualify you to be a doctor per se, you can perform many functions that a doctor does, including seeing and diagnosing patients, administering anesthesia, and delivering babies as a nurse midwife.

You’ll work under a doctor who approves any medicine prescriptions or certain treatment plans.

What Is the Difference between a DNP and a PhD in Nursing?

The main differences between a PhD and DNP include the following:

As you can see, the average salary range is fairly close, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The gap between PhD nursing programs and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs  boils down to what you plan on doing once you complete your coursework and how long your program will take.

PhD students focus on research and the development of nursing theory, as well as how to communicate with students and other parties once these graduates take on positions within the educational field. Though the coursework is shorter, PhD students will likely need to write a dissertation to demonstrate their research skills and expertise over the subject matter.

On the other hand, DNP students plan to put this research and exploration of theory to practice in a more hands-on manner. Members of this group specialize in the application of their learning via clinical practice and administration. They might manage other nurses or serve as a family nurse practitioner  in a doctor’s office.

DNP students typically spend longer in their programs, but their final projects aren’t usually as time-consuming as writing a dissertation.

Online PhD in Nursing Program Curriculum

Before signing up for classes, it’s a good idea to review the required curriculum for the average PhD in a nursing program. You will likely cover the following topics and subject matter :

• Philosophical Perspectives in Health
• Activities and Responsibilities of the Nurse Scientist
• Quantitative Research Design and Methods
• Scientific Perspectives in Nursing
• Statistical Methods in Public Health

Typically, a PhD in Nursing requires a dissertation. However, some universities offer a Doctor of Nursing Practice with no dissertation .

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Concentrations

Like most other doctoral programs, there’s plenty of opportunities to further refine your learning experience via coursework specializations. Some of the most common concentrations include:

• Nursing Education
• Nursing Leadership
• Nursing Administration
• Health Policy
• Specializations for Nurse Practitioners

A concentration can help enhance your understanding of a unique area in the field, thereby increasing your value and competency when it comes time to apply this learning in a professional setting.

Doctorate in Nursing Career Outlook and Salary Information

Considering the near-constant need for reliable medical professionals and academic luminaries, it’s no surprise that the BLS reports a healthy career outlook for members of the nursing community. Specifically, job opportunities for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nursing practitioners are expected to grow by an average of 45% over the next ten years.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the nursing field for PhD or DNP holders include:

Accreditation for Doctoral Nursing Programs

When you’re looking for a university to attend, make sure that it is properly accredited. Accreditation by an independent third-party can help ensure that your university and nursing program meets the highest standards. Your university as a whole should be accredited by one of these six regional boards.

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

The university’s nursing program could also be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc . Note that it is not necessary to have these program-specific accreditations.

Financial Aid for Students in Online Nursing PhD or DNP Programs

Financial aid is not just for undergrads. Doctoral students can take advantage of it as well. And earning your degree online or on campus doesn’t affect the aid that you qualify for.

When you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) , you’ll see what grants and loans you qualify for. You can then look for scholarship opportunities at your university or through private organizations. Your university may also offer you a fellowship.

Talk to your employer about possible tuition assistance or tuition reimbursement programs. Also, look into any potential accelerated nursing programs to help reduce the time it takes you earn your PhD.

Questions Related to Earning Your PhD in Nursing

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have about earning your doctorate in nursing.

What Is a PhD in Nursing?

Usually spanning between 60 and 80 credit hours of coursework, most PhD in nursing programs cover the research of nursing best practices in the clinical, academic, and scientific environments. However, the application of managerial theory and administrative concepts also serves as a building block of this graduate-level learning experience.

PhD in nursing programs cater to nursing students and established practitioners alike. While returning to the medical industry is definitely a possibility, most recipients of this degree remain in the academic world, seeking tenure at accepting institutions and teaching others via experiential learning.

How Much Does a Nurse with a PhD Make?

Having a PhD puts you higher than students with a bachelor’s or even master’s degree.  For example, nurse instructors with a master’s in nursing education earn $74,600 on average. The highest earning potential for a nurse PhD as a professor is $133,460 on average (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Salary differences are mainly a result of a person’s experience, medical organizations or universities that a person works for, and the location where they live.

Do DNP Get Paid More than NP?

No, a DNP does not get paid more than an NP because they are essentially the same thing. DNP stands for Doctor of Nursing Practice and is the degree that a Nurse Practitioner (NP) holds.

Is a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Worth It?

Yes, a doctor of philosophy in nursing is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 15% job growth in healthcare occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include acute care nurse practitioner, chief nursing officer, and nursing instructor.

It may take a lot of hard work completing the classes and writing your dissertation, but you’ve come this far in your education and career, so with determination, you can finish your doctoral degree as well.

You can start by deciding which degree you want – a PhD in Nursing Education, a PhD in Healthcare Leadership, or a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Then, narrow down your choice of schools by degree offering and possible concentrations. Apply to your top 3-5 choices and research financial aid opportunities.

In 3-5 years, you may be finished with your degree and an expert in your field.

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Online doctor of nursing education.

Ohio State's online Doctor of Nursing Education program qualifies master’s-prepared nurses to become expert nurse educational leaders in academia or healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, home care, or communities.

Students in this flexible, yet rigorous program take courses in clinical instruction, assessment, and evaluation, as well as instructional design for nursing education. The program culminates in a hands-on final project demonstrating the achievement of doctoral-level outcomes. 

Choose between the Academic Nursing Education specialization or the Nursing Professional Development specialization to customize your program to match your career goals. Whether you want to become an expert nurse educational leader in academia or healthcare, this program will prepare you to plan, implement, and evaluate the best evidence for nursing-specific instruction.

Campus Requirements: NONE – 100% online.

Class Format:  Most classes are offered in a synchronous format, meaning you have a scheduled date and time you must log in to attend.

Credit Hours Required:  50

Cost Per Credit Hour:  $1,158.58 (includes instructional, general, and program fees).  See the full cost breakdown here.

Admission Requirements:  Completed master's degree in nursing, an active RN license or APRN certification, and a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last degree earned relevant to the program of study.

Time to Completion:  Five semesters (2 years) of full-time study or eight semesters (3 years) of part-time study.

Can You Really Get a Nursing Degree Online?

Trauma nurse advances career with online dnp program, program tracks, academic nursing education.

The academic nursing education track is developed for nurses with earned master’s degrees who seek to teach in college or university level academic nursing programs to prepare nurses for clinical practice at all levels.  

Nursing Professional Development

The nursing professional development track is targeted to masters-level nursing professional development practitioners (NDPs) who seek doctoral preparation to educate nurses in healthcare settings to enhance healthcare outcomes.

Sample Courses

Principles of instructional design for nurses, policy, ethics, and legal considerations in nursing education, innovation in nursing practice and education, publication and grant writing in nursing education, featured faculty.

Tara O'Brien PhD, RN, CNE

Carolyn Schubert, MS, DNP, CNE

Alice Teall MS, CRNP, FAANP

Tara Spalla King PhD, RN

Is this program offered in my state, the selected program is available in the following states.

If you live outside Ohio and are planning to earn a professional license via this program, click on the state where you plan to seek licensure for important information.

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Program at a Glance

• In State Tuition
• Out of State Tuition

Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.

Build a distinctive career at the forefront of the nursing field.

Healthcare is constantly evolving and in need of energetic, diverse leadership among nurses. Your PhD in Nursing will allow you to advance the field as a research scientist. UCF Online provides an avenue through which students contribute to knowledge development in nursing and healthcare on the basis of sound conceptual, methodological and ethical research.

Through UCF Online, you’ll harness your full potential and gain the skills it takes to lead the way as innovative technologies and research shift the field of healthcare. Your classroom studies and dissertation will allow you to choose a specific area of focus, conduct research and apply your knowledge of theory, processes and methods of inquiry to the field of nursing.

The curriculum, along with your dissertation, will prepare you to become a leader who contributes to the body of nursing knowledge through your research. You’ll graduate as a nurse scientist prepared to work in a variety of roles, such as faculty member in a research-focused university, leader for nursing research within a healthcare system, industry, or an executive leader with a research focus. This program can be completed online, although two multiple-day onsite intensives per year are required. Get started today to begin your journey toward a PhD in Nursing.

As a participant in the PhD program, there are two online tracks available:

Program Tracks

Requiring a minimum of 72 credit hours beyond your bachelor’s degree, this program is designed to support students who wish to complete their PhD in a timely manner and attain longer research careers. This track can be completed part-time and is designed for working professionals.

Requiring a minimum of 63 credit hours beyond your master’s degree, this program is designed to support students who have already obtained their MSN.

Application Deadlines

Ready to get started, course overview, theory in nursing science.

Explore the foundations and application of theory in nursing science.

Scientific Writing for Nurses and Healthcare Professionals

Identify, discuss, and practice effective scientific writing elements as they apply to nursing and healthcare related disciplines; prepare a scientific manuscript for publication.

Research Approaches and Designs for Nursing and Healthcare

Examine quantitative and qualitative approaches to studying nursing and health related phenomena; ethical issues; internal and external validity; comparison of designs.

Skills You'll Learn

• Gain the knowledge and skills in the areas of clinical research.
• Develop a program of scholarship that integrates research, teaching, leadership, and service to the profession.
• Learn how to contribute to interdisciplinary solutions that advance healthcare in a global society.

Career Projections

Annual Job Openings

Job Growth Between 2019 - 2029

Source: Lightcast™ . 2024

Career Opportunities

• Director Of Nursing Research
• Nurse Scientist
• Nursing Faculty
• Nursing Professor
• Research Scientist

Related Online Programs

• Nursing Practice, DNP, Advanced Track
• Nursing Practice, DNP, Executive Track

Best Online Ph.D. in Nursing Programs – 2024

What Factors Were Considered for Ranking the Best Ph.D. in Nursing Online Programs?

Following are the 10 best online ph.d. in nursing programs in the nation for 2024, 1) university of central florida - orlando, fl.

If gaining knowledge and expertise in nursing research interests you, then pursuing an online Ph.D. can be a fruitful decision. The University of Central Florida offers two online Ph.D. tracks that can be completed without keeping your current work assignments on hold. So, there is BSN to Ph.D. track that requires completing 75 credit hours post-BSN, whereas, if you have completed a master’s in nursing, your coursework for the MSN to Ph.D. track demands finishing 60-credit hours. Except for two intensives that require few days of campus visits per year, all courses are offered through the web.

Upon completion of this program, you will be able to explore promising employment opportunities, such as the director of nursing research, nurse scientist, nursing faculty, and research scientist.

Key Highlights

• UCF’s College of Nursing is highly ranked by the U.S. News and World Report in recognition of its innovative and pathbreaking online education. • The college has the expertise of offering quality web-based programs for the last 20 years that are well supported by its experienced faculty.

2) Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN

Specializations Offered:

Vanderbilt University’s online Ph.D. in nursing science prepares you for a career in nursing research and education. Depending on your career goals, you can choose from either Clinical Research or Health Services Research. If you are inclined towards improving health outcomes by researching treatments that involve physical, psychological, and educational therapies, then the clinical research specialization is better suited. Whereas, the health services research specialty is focused on designing systems that evaluate treatments administered, their costs, and what happens to the patient, after that.

The coursework requires completion of at least 57 credit hours and is delivered completely online, with some parts being synchronous and some asynchronous. Out of the 57 credits, 32 are core courses, 15 credits are to be completed in your specialty-specific courses, and ten credits are towards your research thesis. To participate in experiential learning and interactive sessions with faculty, you must visit the campus for around 15 to 20 days per academic year.

• Vanderbilt University offers Ph.D. students multiple opportunities to interact with research scholars across the university and the nation. • You will be taught by a faculty that is nationally recognized and actively participates in research in your chosen specialty. • Eligible students can transfer 15 credits from their master’s degree towards this Ph.D.

3) Walden University - Minneapolis, MN

If you are keen on positively impacting the future of healthcare by actively participating in research, teaching, and policymaking, then completing your Ph.D. in any of the tracks offered by Walden University can be given a thought. One of the sought-after Ph.D. in Nursing online programs in MN, you need at least a master’s degree to be eligible for this program. Acknowledging your past education, the college allows a transfer of up to 40 credits towards the Ph.D. With five tracks in education, healthcare administration, interdisciplinary health, leadership, and population health, you can opt for the one that matches your career aspirations.

Regardless of what specialization you choose, the degree requires completing a total of 81 credits, comprising 20 credits of research courses, 25 credits in core courses, and 15 credits in courses of your chosen specialization. The curriculum culminates with a research thesis of 20 credits. Upon completion of this Ph.D. in your chosen specialty, you can go on to work as either a nursing professor, head a research organization, or become a health policymaker in a health organization.

• If you have completed your DNP, you can opt for the DNP to Ph.D. Bridge program where you can transfer 26 credits and save considerable time and tuition costs. • With Walden’s Sigma Theta Tau chapter, you can network with other nurses and share your nursing research ideas and gain a broader perspective.

4) University of Kansas - Kansas City, KS

The University of Kansas has been offering Ph.D. education since 1983, and its over 125 graduates are successfully working as nurse educators and research scholars in various educational and healthcare organizations. Graduates are trained in the skills and advance art and science of nursing, with emphasis on critical thinking and evidence-based decision making. On average, students complete this online program in three years on a full-time basis.

Well, you can enter this program after your bachelor’s or upon completion of your master’s in nursing. With the master’s, you will require six fewer credits, whereas as a post BSN student, you must complete additional courses in theories for practice research and healthcare research as part of your Ph.D. curriculum.

The curriculum involves completing 52-credit coursework plus 15 credits of thesis, and there are three areas of specialization to choose from - Health Systems, Symptom Science, and Education. Well, to enhance your chances of admission into this or for that matter any other Ph.D. in Nursing online programs, ensure you earn a minimum GPA of 3.50 in your BSN or 3.25 in your MSN, apart from holding an active nurse license and demonstrating an aptitude for leadership and research activities.

• You will be able to select up to 11 credits of your total coursework in the topic related to your research thesis. • You can opt to be mentored by a graduate faculty who shares your research interests.

5) University of Arizona - Tucson, AZ

University of Arizona College of Nursing offers several pathways to Ph.D. aspirants. You can enter this program either post your BSN or MSN. Alternatively, you can also opt to complete your Ph.D. along with a DNP or even earn a Ph.D. after completing the DNP. Whichever path you choose, you can complete this program online, both on a part-time and full-time basis. Besides the online courses, you are required to attend a mandatory one week of on-campus orientation, where you will collaborate with peers and faculty to explore the Ph.D. curriculum.

This online Doctor of Philosophy in nursing is offered in three areas of focused study-Precision Science, Health Determinants Science and Data and System Science, out of which you must choose one. This study constitutes 12 credits of your Ph.D. coursework and helps gain specialized knowledge in your area of focus. The total Ph.D. curriculum requires completing 64 credits. The coursework includes an 18-credit dissertation that is completed over multiple terms.

• The college is among the top nursing schools in receiving funding from the NIH. As a potential student, you will certainly benefit from the school’s dynamic research profile. • The school’s stellar faculty is accomplished, and they engage in research and scholarly activity in all the three areas of focused study.

6) Indiana University - Bloomington, IN

Indiana University’s online Ph.D. training prepares you for a career in private or public organizations as nursing faculty, director of clinical research, and director of clinical services. The program is grounded in nursing science and offers concentration options in Clinical Nursing Science and Health Systems. Clinical Nursing Science is ideal if you are inclined towards the research of prevention and early detection of diseases and disabilities across the lifespan, whereas Health Systems emphasizes on informatics, nursing education, and public health policy.

You can enter this program, either after your BSN or post an MSN. While the former requires completing 90 credits, the latter is shorter and requires just 60 credits as 30 credits are automatically transferred from the MSN towards your Ph.D. While most of the courses are offered online, you require attending two campus intensives per year. These visits can be enriching as you get the opportunity to network with mentors and other experts from the field. The curriculum is well balanced, covering courses in nursing science, biostatistics for public health, data analysis, and quantitative research. The coursework ends with a 16-credit thesis in nursing.

• If you are a resident of Indiana, you can complete this program at only one-third of the tuition cost that out of state students incur. • As an online student, you will be taught by the same faculty that teaches on-campus. Moreover, didactic sessions are synchronous in nature, so you practically land up in a virtual classroom with your peers, taking classes through videoconferencing.

7) University of Colorado - Denver, CO

If you are looking at a career in nursing education, nursing administration, or nursing research, then the University of Colorado’s nursing Ph.D. can be considered. You can enter this program, either after completing a BSN or MSN. Depending on professional interests, you can choose from any of the three areas of focus - Health Care Systems Research, Caring Science, and Behavioral Sciences. Although all courses are offered via the internet, however, you must be prepared to travel to Denver once every semester for the on-campus intensives.

The 60-credit Ph.D. coursework includes 18 credits of dissertation. On a full-time basis, you can complete this program in three years. As a pre-requisite to this program, you must complete a graduate-level course in statistics. Upon completion of core and specialization courses, you will demonstrate the expertise of developing new knowledge and findings through your nursing research.

• You are eligible for in-state tuition costs if your permanent residence address happens to be in any of the 15 states that include Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. • Eligible Ph.D. students can also avail scholarships that the college offers twice a year.

8) Villanova University - Villanova, PA

If you are looking at an online Ph.D. in Nursing program to attain the highest nursing degree, then you could consider Villanova University’s Ph.D. that prepares you to conduct clinical and educational based nursing research towards better nursing practice and education. This advanced credential will help you climb the career ladder in the academic field by preparing you to take up leadership positions in the higher education arena. With flexible schedules, you can complete this program in as little as two years or stretch it to three to four years. An additional two years are required for the completion of the nursing thesis.

The curriculum entails completing 51 credits; however, the exact number of credits may vary, depending on your past education. The coursework is designed to equip you with the practical and theoretical understanding required to create new knowledge of culturally relevant nursing practice and education. You will also learn to collaborate with members of other health disciplines to enhance your research.

• This Ph.D. program at Villanova is known for the personalized study experience it offers students. • Year after year, the National League for Nursing has honored the college’s Nursing School as being the Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, a testimony of the quality nursing education it offers.

9) Duquesne University - Pittsburgh, PA

The Ph.D. program being offered by Duquesne University since 1994 has trained over 100 graduates who are currently well established in their careers as nurse scientists. Primarily offered as a post MSN course, there is also a post-DNP track that can be completed in 2.5 years as it requires fewer credits. The Ph.D. program at Duquesne is mainly focused on preparing you for nursing research in addressing the health needs of the vulnerable and underserved populations that are economically backward and belong to racial or ethnic minorities.

To be eligible for this program, you must have earned a master’s, preferably in nursing, with a minimum GPA of 3.50. There is a three year and four-year track to choose from. The three-year track is rigorous and will hardly leave you any time for other commitments, whereas with the four-year track, you will be completing your coursework at a comfortable pace, typically taking six credits per semester, unlike the 6-10 in the three-year track. Both tracks require a graduate-level statistics course as a pre-requisite. The 53 credits curriculum includes 12 credits of a dissertation that takes place during the last year of your coursework.

• Residency requirements in this program include visits to the college campus, and as part of the Methods of Scientific Inquiry course, you will take part in a 10-14 day international trip to locations such as Dublin, Ireland, where you will be provided with housing at the college’s campus. • The program enjoys the distinction of being the first online Doctor of Philosophy in nursing program in the country.

10) University of Missouri - Columbia, MO

University of Missouri’s Ph.D. in Nursing prepares you for an advanced career in nursing, either as a scholar, educator, or clinical researcher. Due to its interdisciplinary approach, even non-nursing students can enter this program. To pursue this degree, you have three pathways; post-BSN, post-MSN, and post-DNP. Regardless of the pathway you choose, you will be taught by a faculty that comes from diverse academic backgrounds, bringing in their interdisciplinary experiences and knowledge.

This Ph.D. is offered in a hybrid mode, requiring few campus visits while taking the majority of your coursework online. There are three focus areas to choose from; innovations to improve health and health systems, health improvement of the vulnerable population, symptom, and behavior science. The post-BSN track requires completion of about 77 credits, whereas, the post-MSN and post-DNP require 56 and 48 credits, respectively.

• One of the few military-friendly online Ph.D. in Nursing programs in the nation, military personnel, veterans, and their eligible family members can avail of a 10% reduction in tuition costs. • You can benefit from the nursing school’s research connections across its various departments that include social work, public health, human development and family science, education, and health informatics.

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Home / Online Nursing Education Degrees and Programs / Ph.D. Nursing Education Programs

Ph.D. Nursing Education Programs

What is a ph.d. nursing education degree, 2024 - best phd in nursing education programs, are online ph.d. nursing education programs available, nursing education ph.d. vs. other doctorate degree types, list of ph.d. nursing education degree programs.

If your career goals include research and advanced practice nursing, earning a degree beyond a bachelor’s is essential. You have the option of earning either a Master of Science (MSN) in nursing education or a doctorate degree, such as the Ph.D in Nursing Education. Your career goals and the length of time it takes to complete each program are the top considerations when determining which option is right for you. Luckily, online Ph.D. Nurse Educator programs are available for those who don't think they have the time for a doctorate degree of this caliber.

A Ph.D. nurse educator degree is a doctorate, meaning it's the highest degree level a Nurse Educator can obtain (with equal standing given to other doctorate types, as discussed below). The American Association of Colleges of Nursing endorsed changing the minimum entry-level requirement for nurse educators from a master's to a doctorate in 2004. Since then, it has been more challenging for people with an MSN to secure a nurse educator job due to high competition. Schools in all 50 states now offer nurse educator doctorates.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that nurse educators with the most experience and education earn approximately $125,000 annually. Examples of coursework you will complete at the doctorate level include:

• Care Systems and Chronic Illness
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research
• Research and Development
• Scientific Inquiry

All Ph.D. candidates prepare a dissertation they research, write, and defend. The process takes one to three years, depending on your interests and chosen topic.

NurseEducator.com's PhD in Nursing Education rankings are based on a methodology that takes into account a variety of important factors, including the completion rates, affordability, competitiveness, variety of programs offered, and the level of faculty experience. The rankings are designed to provide an objective and comprehensive look at the best nursing education programs in the world. We believe that the criteria used in our methodology accurately reflect the quality of the programs, and that our rankings give prospective students the best information available for making an informed decision. To learn more about our methodology, please visit our methodology page .

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is an accredited private university with over 20,000 students. It offers a wide range of degree programs, including a PhD in Nursing Education. It is one of the largest independent universities in the United States, and its diverse student body is composed of students from over 100 countries.

Liberty University

Liberty University is a private university located in Lynchburg, Virginia. Founded in 1971, Liberty is now the largest Christian university in the world, with over 110,000 students enrolled globally. Liberty offers a wide range of degree programs, including a PhD in Nursing Education. With an emphasis on Christian values, Liberty provides students with an education rooted in faith.

University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado is located in Greeley, Colorado and is a public university. With 14,902 students, it offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, including a PhD in Nursing Education. UNC has a strong commitment to student success and a tradition of excellence.

You have plenty of online enrollment options from the University of Alabama to the University of Wyoming. The hundreds of schools across the United States that offer this degree option typically do so either entirely online or as a hybrid program.

Before enrolling at a school, reflect on how you learn best and your preferences regarding whether to complete courses online or in person. If you work, have a family to care for, or both, you will probably find the online option most convenient due to the flexibility. You can watch lectures and complete assignments whenever it is convenient for you.

A mix between online and traditional on-campus delivery could be ideal if you value face-to-face interactions with professors and other students. Regardless of your chosen option, you should be aware that you must complete your clinical requirements in person.

Nurse Educator Ph.D. Prerequisites

Admissions requirements are usually the same for campus-based and online Nurse Educator Ph.D. programs. Typical prerequisites include:

• Completion of a BSN or MSN degree from an accredited institution
• Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in all previous college coursework
• GRE exam score
• Official transcripts from all previous schools attended
• Personal statement describing your career goals
• Unrestricted U.S.RN license
• Up to three letters of recommendation

Obtaining certification as a nurse educator can give you a competitive advantage. The National League for Nursing offers certification options for nurse educators and clinical nurse educators.

Below is the admissions process at Grand Canyon University , which is typical of schools offering this degree program. The process is the same for online and on-campus students, except for the requirement that students attending in-person classes schedule a campus visit before courses begin.

The first step at any college or university is to submit a request form that indicates the degree you prefer, whether you're interested in the online or hybrid option, and your timeline for starting your studies. Next, you should complete the school's application and attach all the above information. If you need financial aid, researching your options is the next step. It would help if you waited to hear from the school about your official acceptance.

According to the BLS, the demand for nurse educators is higher than average. Thanks to an aging population and increasingly complex health conditions, the agency does not expect the demand to lower anytime soon.

Students sometimes confuse this degree option with the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The focus of the Ph.D. nurse educator degree is scholarly research and inquiry, with the purpose of expanding knowledge about nursing. In contrast, students pursue the DNP degree to improve patient outcomes. The primary focus is obtaining higher-level skills in nursing.

Regarding coursework, DNP candidates focus on advanced practice nursing, evidence-based nursing, and developing leadership skills. Typical courses in DNP programs include:

• Administration and Budget Planning
• Clinical Diagnosis
• Disease Management
• Healthcare Policy
• Healthcare System Transformation

Besides the Ph.D. and nursing education DNP , students have the option of one other doctorate degree as well: the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in nursing education . This degree type is suited for academia, advocacy, and policy, and is not as widely available as the other doctorate degree pathways.

Earning a Nurse Educator Ph.D. doesn't limit you to working only in the field of education. The whole purpose of obtaining the doctorate in the first place is to widen your career options. Here are some popular job titles for people with this advanced credential:

• Clinical Nurse Educator
• Nursing Curriculum Coordinator
• Nursing Education Consultant
• Nursing Professional Development Specialist

Nurse Educator Ph.D., DNP, and Ed.D. programs offer a terminal degree, meaning you have earned the highest degree available.

Nurse Educator Degree Type Comparison

In search of an online or campus-based Ph.D. Nurse Educator program near you? Explore our state-by-state listings below.

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• Nursing Education Ph.D. Online
• Ph.D. Nursing Education Online

University of Las Vegas, Nevada

• Ph.D. Nursing Education Track & Post-MSN Accelerated Nursing Education Track Online
• Ph.D. in Nursing Education Online

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

Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education The Science of Teaching Care

Credit Hours

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Advance the Nursing Profession with our Ph.D. in Nursing Education

Are you interested in influencing the field of nursing and taking the discipline even further? Nurses who are prepared with a Ph.D. are needed to steward the discipline and educate the next generation of nurses. Prepare to conduct original research, generate new ideas, design, implement, and communicate findings to lay audience programs for nurses — including formal academic programs that lead to a degree — with Liberty’s Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education degree.

Our doctorate in nursing education is a great credential to have to advance or alter your career path. It can provide both the knowledge and research experience that is important to become a faculty member at a university or educator in a medical facility. You could become a professor of nursing or pursue other educational opportunities within healthcare — or go into hospital administration, health policy advocacy, or nursing research.

Nursing education is a growing field that needs educators who are passionate about patient advocacy and the advancement of excellent healthcare policies and processes. Apply your current experience to your studies and gain the knowledge you need to lead in advancing the nursing profession with a Ph.D. in Nursing.

Licensure requirements may vary and are subject to change without notice. View your state’s requirements here: licensure/certification requirements .

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• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
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• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Ph.D. in Nursing Education Online Degree?

By choosing Liberty to pursue your doctoral degree, you’re choosing a university that is accredited, Christ-centered, and flexible with course scheduling. When you choose any of our online degree programs, you’re choosing excellence that is grounded in integrity.

Liberty University is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ). This means that you can be confident that you are receiving a world-class education that has met rigorous education standards.

We understand that you may have family, career, and community obligations — so our program is designed to work around your busy life and schedule. You can complete your doctorate in nursing 100% online, in a flexible 8-week course format. Optional synchronous online sessions are delivered most weeks of the semester to allow you to maximize engagement with faculty, classmates, and the program.

At Liberty, our mission is to Train Champions for Christ . All of our programs are taught by Christian faculty who are not only nationally recognized educational leaders but also professors committed to your personal and professional success.

What Will You Study in Our Ph.D. in Nursing Education Online Degree?

In this program, you’ll learn to design and lead effective nursing education programs for the next generation of medical professionals. Your coursework can help you become a confident leader, equipped to implement change and improvements to nursing education. Through multi-disciplinary courses and interactions with your professors, you can develop the skills you need to lead and collaborate with healthcare teams and create positive change.

Upon successful completion of our program, you can be more prepared to:

• Act as a professional nursing leader, role model, and mentor for those who wish to pursue advancement in nursing.
• Advocate for policies and programs that improve health outcomes for individuals and communities.
• Apply ethical decision-making and values to the nursing profession based upon a biblical worldview.
• Contribute to the science of nursing by creating original research and scholarship.
• Educate the next generation of nurse scholars to add to the global community of nursing professionals.
• Synthesize the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing in the practice of research

Potential Career Opportunities

• Health policy advocate
• Hospital administrator
• Nurse scientist
• Nursing professor/faculty member
• Nursing researcher

Featured Courses

• NURS 764 – Learning Theories and Teaching Methods for Nurse Educators
• NURS 765 – Curriculum Development and Program Evaluation for Nurse Educators
• NURS 766 – Advanced Evaluation Strategies for Nurse Educators
• NURS 784 – Assessment and Accreditation for Nursing Programs

Course guides available upon request

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Nursing .
• View the Graduate Nursing Course Guides (login required) .

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

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Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information for our Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education

Admission requirements.

At this time, our Ph.D. in Nursing Education degree is limited in certain states. Please view the licensure/certification requirements for your state. International students can contact the School of Nursing related to their degree interest.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Contact information for one recommender
• Statement of Purpose
• One year minimum experience as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurse Licensure verification will be conducted annually until the curriculum for the online Ph.D. in Nursing: Nursing Education is completed. As the student, you are responsible to notify the School of nursing should any restrictions be placed on your license.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

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Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sets this program apart from other similar offerings.

Our nursing faculty are nationally recognized educational leaders.

What does the career potential look like for this field?

With the growing demand for nurses, nurse educators are also in demand at all levels, and with a doctorate in nursing, you may find many employment doors opening.

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PhD in Nursing

College of nursing, shape the future of nursing.

Learn from renowned faculty members in a Top-Tier 1 Research Institution, while preparing for a career in research. Surround yourself with passionate peers.  Transform the nursing discipline by advancing the theories behind practice and delivery. 

The College of Nursing continuously generates research regarding key areas such as women's health, diabetes, health equity and accessibility, caregiving, cancer, and more.

Preparing Student for Research Careers

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing program prepares students for research careers. The distance PhD nursing program admits students who have earned a bachelor's degree with a major in nursing (BSN, BS) or a master's degree in nursing or related disciplines. The traditional BS-PhD and MS-PhD tracks share a common program of study with the exception of nine (9) additional MS cognate credits required for BS-PhD students. Occasionally the PhD program also admits cohorts of BS- and MS-PhD students with a specialty focus (such as gerontology or oncology).

The Utah Model Emphasizes:

• Synchronous distance learning
• Studying with a cohort
• Conference-based learning/on-campus intensives
• Mentorship between students and faculty with common research interests
• Year round study

Nursing Education Xchange (NEXus)

Opportunities are also offered for doctoral/graduate students, through the Nursing Education Xchange (NEXus) , enrolled at member colleges and universities to take courses that may not be offered at his/her home institution for a common price.

Synchronous Learning

The PhD program is offered through synchronous distance education technologies for all students, local and non-local. The core courses are offered utilizing live synchronous videoconferencing technology, allowing students living outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, to participate and complete the program without relocating to Utah.

Conference-Based Learning/On-Campus Intensives

All PhD students, regardless of the state or country of residence, are required to attend three (3) week-long campus immersion experiences as a cohort. Week-long immersions are held at the University of Utah campus annually during the coursework phase of the program (the first three years of study).

The initial week-long campus immersion takes place during the first week of classes and serves as an orientation to the University of Utah and PhD program (typically in late August for fall admission). Exact dates for subsequent week-long immersions vary each year. Each of the three visits has distinct objectives that align with program progression.

All PhD students, regardless of the state or country of residence, are required to attend a research conference as a cohort annually during the coursework phase of the program (the first three years of study). The research conference is chosen by PhD program faculty (exact semester, location and dates may vary depending on which conference is chosen). Each of the three conference attendance experiences is typically tied to current coursework and provides rich faculty/student mentoring and networking opportunities.

Year Round Study

The PhD program can generally be split into two parts: the coursework phase and the dissertation phase. The coursework phase of the program is nine (9) semesters year-round, which includes one to two core courses per semester. Students have the option of taking additional electives or area of specialization courses to reach full-time status (9+ credits per semester).

BS-PhD students must attend full-time for the first year of study due to the additional MS cognate work. A student's faculty advisor or dissertation committee may require additional coursework to address identified academic deficiencies and identify inter-departmental and College of Nursing courses in the student's area of specialization.

The program requires successful completion of written and oral qualifying examinations at the conclusion of formal coursework prior to admission to PhD candidacy and initiation of the dissertation. The length of time to complete the dissertation phase is variable. All coursework and the dissertation must be completed within seven (7) years.

DNP vs. PHD

Paula Meek, PhD, RN ,FAAN, ATSF Assistant Dean, PhD Programs

Program Manager Executive Associate Director - Student Services Carrie Radmall Phone: (801) 581-8798 Email: [email protected]

To consult faculty on the program of study or your research career, contact:

Assistant Dean, PhD Program Paula Meek, RN, PhD, FAAN Email: [email protected]

Curriculum & Handbooks 

• PhD Curriculum
• PhD Handbook
• Graduate Information Sessions
• Tuition & Fees
• Graduate Scholarships

PhD in Nursing (Online)

Launched in 2008, the Queen's Nursing doctoral degree has an online and in-person blended delivery model. Our experienced faculty use both synchronous and asynchronous teaching modalities to lead small graduate seminars, engaging you in a lively, critical examination of philosophy, policy and theory while you delve into your own areas of research interests.

This innovative research program will not only give you the tools you need to become an expert in clinical, theoretical, and health system issues, but it will also prepare you for a career as a leader in health research, nursing education, clinical practice, and health care administration.

Questions? Contact the graduate nursing office →

Program overview, general information.

Our PhD program consists of six courses, five in the first year and one in the second year. There are three mandatory on-site intensive weeks ranging from 5-10 days in length, normally held in early September, mid-January, and early May of the first year of the program. After the intensive weeks, the courses continue with weekly online seminars.

Following the completion of the first-year courses, students will write the comprehensive exam and then take the sixth and final course which is designed to support students in developing a thesis proposal. After a successful oral examination of the thesis proposal, students submit their project for ethics review and then proceed to data collection, analysis, and writing. The thesis requires independent, original research and makes up at least two-thirds of the time normally required for the program.

Upper year students are expected to visit campus at least once per year, normally coinciding with the annual student research conference in spring (usually May); students are required to attend the final thesis examination in person. Nurtured by close mentoring relationships with faculty supervisors, the Queen’s model is to ensure graduate students present and publish their research, and normally complete their program in 4 years.

Additional Resources

• School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (SGSPA)
• SGSPA Academic Calendar
• SGSPA Academic Calendar - Nursing Section
• Society of Graduate and Professional Students
• Queen’s Nursing and Health Research
• Queen’s Collaboration for Health Care Quality (QcHcQ)

Interprofessional Education

Interprofessional education is essential to equip health professional students with the knowledge, expertise, and fundamental values required for collaborative practice. Learn more about how Queen’s Faculty of Health Sciences supports interprofessional education .

• Mandatory o nsite residency in September
• NURS 901: Philosophy of Nursing Science   (online)
• NURS 902: Qualitative Research Methods (online)
• NURS 999: Thesis Research (independently with PhD supervisor) 
• Mandatory o nsite residency in January
• NURS 900: Advanced Statistics and Analytic Techniques (online)
• NURS 903: Advanced Quantitative Measurement, Methods and Design (online)
• NURS 999: Thesis Research (independently with supervisor)

Spring/Summer:

• Mandatory o nsite residency in May (includes NURS 905)
• NURS 905: Nursing, Health Services and Public Policy in Canada  
• Prepare for comprehensive exam (independently with supervisor)
• Write c omprehensive examinations in early fall
• NURS 906: Thesis Seminar Course   (online)
• NURS 999: Thesis Research   (independently with supervisor)
• Graduate Research Day (May)
• Oral t hesis proposal exam late summer/early fall

Year 3/Year 4

• Participate in Graduate Student Research Day each spring
• Final oral t hesis exam, onsite at the end of fourth year

For more course information please visit the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs Academic Calendar .

School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs

International student resources, funding & awards, indigenous applicants.

Deadline to apply: Applications for Fall 2024 are due February 1, 2024.

Applications to all graduate programs are made through the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs starting in September for admission the following year.

Please note, only complete applications will be reviewed by the Graduate Program Committee in the School of Nursing.

Academic Requirements

• Master's degree in nursing science or equivalent, and a b accalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited university.
• Minimum overall average equivalent to B+.
• Two academic letters of reference (e.g. course professors).
• Statement of Interest  (see Additional Required Information tab).
• We strongly encourage applicants to contact  potential supervisors before applying.
• Applicants without an baccalaureate degree in nursing will be considered, but are strongly encouraged to contact the program prior to applying.

Additional Required Information

In addition to the online application submitted to the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, the following documents must be submitted to [email protected] :  

• Describe your research experience to date (e.g. grants, publications, unpublished studies). Max. 250 words.
• Describe your proposed plan of research. What problem do you plan to address and why? What is its importance to the discipline? Describe a possible study design (e.g. framework, methodology). Max. 400 words.
• Describe how you have advocated for health equity, diversity, inclusion, indigeneity, and/or accessibility (EDIIA) within the healthcare system. How has your experience influenced your career path and other pursuits to this point? Max. 300 words.
• What will be your strategy in your personal and professional life to manage the time commitment this program requires? This can include any academic accommodations that you plan to request. Max. 250 words.
• Proof of registration as a nurse in local province or own country; and
• Curriculum Vitae .

International Applicants

The required  b accalaureate degree in nursing must be equivalent to a 4-year Canadian program.

In addition to the academic requirements, applicants must provide:

Proof of registration as a registered nurse in own country (will not be required to register with College of Nurses of Ontario). International students who are not registered in Ontario will be unable to conduct thesis research that requires registration;

Proficiency in English . Applicants whose first language is not English or who have not recently studied for at least one complete year at a post-secondary institution where English is the official language of instruction, will be required to obtain satisfactory results in an English language proficiency test, as part of the application process, and before their application will be considered complete.

Please visit the   School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am an international student who is not registered with the college of nurses of ontario, can i still apply.

As an international applicant you are not required to be registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario, but must be registered as a nurse in your own country.  If you are not registered as a nurse in Ontario during the program you will be unable to conduct thesis research that requires registration.  This limitation on thesis research topics should be considered and discussed with a potential thesis supervisor prior to submitting your application.

Can I take the program part-time?

No, this is a full-time program only. Most of the course work involved in the program occurs in the first year and most classes are organized for Mondays and Tuesdays.

How do I decide on a thesis supervisor?

The decision on a supervisor is made by the Graduate Program Committee, following discussions between you and a potential faculty supervisor. A faculty member must be able to supervise thesis research in your area of interest and be willing to do so, given their current work commitments. It is recommended that you review profiles of faculty members on the  School of Nursing website  to determine if there is someone who conducts research in your area.

Do I have to have a thesis topic before I come?

Normally, you should have a general area of research interest before you begin the program, but a specific thesis topic is developed as you engage in course work and discussions with your thesis supervisor. On occasion, an applicant may have a specific plan for research, but this is not typical.

Are there scholarships available?

The Graduate Program Committee nominates individual applicants and students for internal scholarships and awards for which they are eligible. In order to be considered for awards in the first year, your application should be completed by February 1st. You are also encouraged to apply for external scholarships and fellowships as early as possible, as some of these may then be available to you during your first year of study. These are often offered by professional organizations or associations in nursing. You may also have the opportunity to work as a teaching assistant and/or research assistant.   Contact us  if you would like more information about potential external funding. 

My experience as a student in the Doctorate of Philosophy in Nursing was so many things. The courses were taught by brilliant professors who are experts in the subject matter. I learned the fundamental skills necessary to be a successful researcher and academic. The program encourages dissemination of student research and provides opportunities for national and international networking. After completing the program, I was recruited for a tenure-track faculty position at my university of choice. I have a career that I love and the knowledge and ability to help make a difference.

Amanda Vandyk , RN, PHD (Queen’s 2013) Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, University of Ottawa

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Become a leader in the field of nursing

Our PhD program prepares you for a career in nursing education, research, health systems, or clinical science to enhance the care of individuals and families across the lifespan. PhD-prepared nurses lead the profession, teach the next generation of nurses, and expand nursing’s impact on health policy and public health.

Is a PhD right for you?

The PhD program is available through the IUPUI campus, but it is distance-accessible, using videoconferencing technology that synchronously places you in the classroom with your classmates. You can also choose in-person classes if you prefer to learn in a face-to-face setting. We attempt to schedule the required PhD courses across one day each week so that students know in advance which day to plan to be available for class.

This program features both a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to PhD pathway, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to PhD path.  The MSN-PhD can be accomplished in three years as a full time student, or five years as a part time student.  The BSN-PhD can be accomplished in four years as a full-time student, or six years as a part-time student.

As a PhD student, you are linked with faculty researchers who provide supportive mentoring throughout your entire PhD program. There is one core curriculum, but you can choose to work with faculty experts on one of two tracks: Clinical Nursing Science or Health Systems, which includes Nursing Education.

Two research tracks to choose from

Clinical nursing science.

Clinical nursing science concentrates on the intersections of health promotion, health behavior, and quality of life in acute and chronic illness throughout the lifespan. It includes the prevention and early detection of disease and disability across the continuum of care and the enhancement of the health and well-being for individuals, families, and communities.

Examples of scholarship and faculty research in clinical nursing science include:

• Improving the quality of life of persons with chronic illness
• Behavioral oncology across the cancer continuum
• Childhood and family adaptation to chronic illness
• Family caregiving across the lifespan
• Tailored intervention studies to improve quality of life
• Patient care safety

Health Systems

Health systems operate to create structures and resources that enable individuals and communities to achieve optimal health. This focus area includes the science of nursing education, informatics, health policy, and administration.

Examples of scholarship and faculty research within the focus of health systems include:

• Teaching and learning in distance courses
• Clinical reasoning
• Assessment of learning and program evaluation
• Health policy and public policy analysis
• Computer systems to enhance care delivery
• Nursing informatics
• Narrative pedagogies
• Patient care simulations
• Community-based care coordination

Professional Development Core

Nursing theory core, nursing science research major, nursing science concentration, internal or external minor, dissertation, learning outcomes.

As a PhD graduate, you are well-positioned for a successful career as a leader within academic and practice settings. Graduates of the program are expected to:

• Synthesize knowledge from nursing as well as biological and behavioral sciences to investigate health phenomena.
• Utilize analytical and empirical methods to extend nursing knowledge and scholarship.
• Conduct and communicate independent research that advances the body of scientific knowledge.
• Defend the social significance of the expanded knowledge base of nursing.
• Interpret nursing science within an interdisciplinary context.

Ready to take the next step?

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Post-Pandemic Expansion of Distance Education in Nursing

• Growth of Distance Learning
• Distance Learning Regulations

Pros and Cons of Online Nursing Education

• Quality of Distance Education
• Questions to Consider for Students

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Even before the pandemic made distance education essential, it was becoming more popular for nursing students to enroll in virtual programs. In fact, enrollment of master of science in nursing students in distance learning programs increased by 13.7% from 2015 to 2019, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) in April 2021.

As nursing programs began returning to in-person coursework, nursing faculty continued to use more technology and virtual learning in the classroom. Distance learning has received support from leaders in nursing, such as the AACN and the National Society of Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Yet, virtual and hybrid learning take a lot of resources for proper execution. Limited funding for educational technology and nursing faculty shortages slow the expansion of virtual learning in nursing education.

Growth of Distance Learning in Nursing Education

Many in nursing education credit the COVID-19 pandemic for the expansion of distance education in healthcare. However, the pandemic did not start the expansion of online nursing programs or the use of simulations to supplement or replace clinical experience.

Human simulation first appeared in nursing education in the late 1990s. By the mid-2000s, simulation’s popularity in nursing education grew, as students used it to practice skills, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making in a safe place.

In 2008, the NCSBN found that 917 nursing programs used mid-fidelity or high-fidelity patient simulation. As early as 2009, state Boards of Nursing (BON) considered allowing simulation to replace or supplement traditional clinicals, due to concerns over the quality and availability of clinical experiences.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced nursing programs to use more simulation and online learning experiences than were already in place. The pandemic required a plan to facilitate the remaining clinical hours necessary for associate degree in nursing and bachelor of science in nursing students through simulation.

In 2020, 87% of nursing programs used some form of virtual simulation, and 93% of them use some kind of virtual or online learning, according to Wolter Kluwers data. Support for simulation and online learning from state BONs, the NCSBN, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) encourages the growth of virtual learning in nursing education. However, limited funding, few resources, and nursing faculty shortages create challenges when nursing programs want to expand their virtual learning.

Regulations Surrounding Distance Learning in Nursing

Distance learning in nursing education can affect two key areas: the nursing program’s accreditation status and the nursing student’s ability to complete clinical hours . If you attend an unaccredited program or cannot complete your clinical experience, you may not be able to sit for the NCLEX, transfer your license to another state, or find a job after graduation.

The AACN allows for virtual learning but requires nursing programs to fill out a substantive change form when the new virtual learning takes place in 25% or more of the program. Some state BONs have their own requirements for nursing programs that operate in their state. Nursing programs must meet the standards of the state where they operate and all states where students learn.

The NCSBN encourages nursing programs to add simulation to their curriculum, if they have the resources. However, only qualified faculty should teach simulation labs. The NCSBN Simulation Guidelines provide a checklist for faculty to complete before they start teaching simulation.

It also advises state BONs to consider factors, such as pass rates, retention rates, and clinical site availability before deciding how much of the clinical experience can be replaced with simulation.

Students must still complete a certain number of in-person clinical experiences to graduate, depending on whether they are in a registered nurse program or an advanced degree program. For undergraduate nursing students, the NCSBN says nursing programs can only replace up to 50% of their clinical hours with simulation.

Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) students cannot replace any of their clinical hours that are required by their state’s Board of Nursing. At Texas Woman’s University, APRN students still had to complete all 500 hours of supervised direct patient care. The university could only substitute extra clinical hours tied to a class or required by the university.

The NCSBN requires nursing faculty who teach non-clinical courses to hold a non-restricted license in the program’s home state. However, clinical faculty and preceptors must hold a non-restricted license in the state(s) where their students live.

Before applying, nursing students should consider the pros and cons of online nursing education. Distance learning may hold more benefits for nontraditional students or those living in rural communities. However, distance education requires considerable planning and resources from the nursing program to provide quality education that prepares nurses for their careers.

More access to nursing education

Equal or increased ability to perform nursing skills ability to practice nursing skills without risk to patients equal or increased clinical decision-making, readiness for practice, and critical thinking, can only replace 50% of clinical hours, students in aprn and graduate programs cannot use stimulation to substitute their clinical hours, requires reliable technology and internet connection, clinical faculty and preceptors must hold a license in all the states where their students live, out-of-state nurses may have trouble finding a clinical site, quality of distance education in nursing.

NCSBN, AACN, and the Virginia Board of Nursing all wrote statements supporting the expansion of virtual learning in nursing education. However, they also provided guidelines on how to correctly add virtual learning or simulation to the existing curriculum.

Leaders in nursing education are no longer debating whether distance learning is as effective as in-person learning. AACN says all online nursing programs must meet the same accreditation standards as in-person programs. Now, they’re asking how they can incorporate virtual learning and simulation into the curriculum without sacrificing the quality of the education.

The NCSBN National Simulation Study found in-person and simulation based clinical experience can both prepare students for nursing practice. Depending on the course, students with more hands-on clinical experience score higher clinical ratings.

All averages for each group were above 90 in all the classes. However, students in the control group scored significantly higher than their peers in the 50% group in classes, such as fundamentals of nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, and mental health nursing.

Nursing students who live in a rural area and nontraditional students may consider online nursing programs because they provide more access to nursing education. If you’re considering an online nursing program, ask questions to make sure the programs you apply to include the following:

Questions to Consider if You’re Thinking About an Online or Hybrid Nursing Program

If you’re considering applying for an online nursing program , ask questions to make sure you can complete all the requirements to sit for the NCLEX, receive a license in your state, and get a job after graduation.

How will I complete my clinical hours from another state or institution?

How will the university help me make sure i complete my clinical hours under the supervision of faculty and preceptors licensed in my state, is there a cap to the number of out-of-state applicants the program accepts based on clinical requirements, how will i arrange clinical experiences locally, how much of the required clinical hours are supplemented with stimulation, if any, are the faculty trained to teach simulations, what kind of simulations does the program use.

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

You might be interested in

HESI vs. TEAS Exam: The Differences Explained

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

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Alternatively, use our A–Z index

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PhD/MPhil Nursing / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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We require:

• An honours degree (minimum Upper Second (2:1)) or the overseas equivalent in a relevant subject
• AND a very good MSc/MPhil/MRes degree from a recognised institution
• OR satisfactory work at postgraduate level (which must include some research training) undertaken for the equivalent of at least one year full-time.

NB In exceptional circumstances, we may consider an application from a student without both an undergraduate and post-graduate degree. For example, if they have a first/distinction and research experience. 

We also have a four-year programme which is strongly recommended for anyone who:

• has not studied in the UK before;
• has not completed specific research methods training at master's level and received 'very good' grades;
• has not completed a research dissertation at master's level and received 'very good' grades;
• has not scored at least 6.5 in all areas of the IELTS (or equivalent) if English is not their first language.

Full entry requirements

See full guidance on how to choose a project and submit an application on our websi te . You should then complete the online admissions application form to apply for this programme. Ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, or this may delay the processing of your application.

Application deadlines

You must submit your application for a postgraduate research programme before the relevant deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after these deadlines have passed.

• January entry: 15 October (of the year prior entry)
• April entry: 15 January (year of entry)
• September entry: 15 June (year of entry)

Programme options

Programme overview.

• Learn from some of Europe's leading researchers while undertaking your own project.
• Access some of the best research facilities in the world at both the University and in hospitals around Greater Manchester.
• Undergo training in transferable skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals through the Doctoral Academy's training programme.
• Conduct research at a university ranked 6th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2023).

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £2393, Low £5,500, Medium £8,750, High £11,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £13,500, Low £14,250, Medium £17,250, High £20,250
• PhD (full-time distance learning) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500
• PhD (part-time distance learning) UK students (per annum): Standard £2393, Low £5,500, Medium £8,750, High £11,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £13,500, Low £14,250, Medium £17,250, High £20,250

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

• Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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Nursing Education Leadership in a Digital World

Application deadlines.

• Priority Deadline January 15, 2024
• Regular Deadline April 28, 2024
• The application deadline for this MSN track has been extended until June 1, 2024. This extension will allow domestic candidates more time to prepare and submit their applications for consideration.

The Nursing Education Leadership in a Digital World track within the MSN in Leadership in Nursing prepares the experienced professional registered nurse to practice in a variety of leadership positions in the ever-changing world of nursing education. Grounded in nursing education practice and guided by healthcare theory and research, the graduate will demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide leadership in a nursing education setting. This program is a hybrid offering, with the full-time program taking four semesters and the part-time program taking eight semesters.

Courses for an MSN degree in Leadership in Nursing Program's Nursing Education Leadership in a Digital World track focus on:

• Nursing education leadership
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• Teaching and learning strategies
• Resource allocation
• Best practices in nursing education

Admission Criteria

Admission decisions for acceptance into Kennesaw State University’s Leadership in Nursing Program Master of Science in Nursing are based on overall evaluation of the following components:

• Baccalaureate degree in nursing from a nationally accredited institution with a satisfactory GPA of at least 3.0
• Current unencumbered RN licensure in the state of Georgia (submit copy)
• A formal statement of personal goals for the program
• Undergraduate research course
• Two professional letters of reference

No GRE required

Priority Deadline, January 15th; Regular Deadline April 28th.

The application deadline for this MSN track has been extended until June 1, 2024 . This extension will allow domestic candidates more time to prepare and submit their applications for consideration.

Transfer Credit

Up to 9 semester hours or 15 quarter hours of graduate work from other accredited institutions may be transferred. This work must correspond to the MSN curriculum at Kennesaw State University. Decisions regarding potential transfer will be made by the Associate Program Director.

Grades and Progression

Students must earn a grade of B (80) or better in each course to progress in the program. See the Graduate Catalog link for Academic Policies for further information about Academic Warning and Academic Exclusion.

Candidacy for Graduation

To graduate a grade of B (80) or better is required in all courses. MSN candidates must petition to graduate at least one semester prior to completion of their degree requirements.

Schedule of Courses

Nurse Educator Plan of Study - Fall 2024 

Nurse Educator Plan of Study - Fall 2024

Nurse Educator Part-Time Plan of Study - Fall 2024 

Nurse Educator Part-Time Plan of Study - Fall 2024

Contact the Coordinator

Anne White, PhD, RN, CNE Professor, Coordinator MSN Nursing Education Wellstar School of Nursing e:  [email protected]  

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• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

DNP Nurse Practitioner Major

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

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

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

Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP on-site

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

Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP Distance Education Format

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

Nurse Practitioner MSN to DNP On-site & Online

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

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

Additional Information

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

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

Accreditation Statement:

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

Nurse Practitioner Licensure/Certification

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

Kent State Ranks Best Online Master’s in Education Programs, Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs, Best Online Master’s in Business Programs and Best Online Master’s in MBA Programs in the U.S. News 2024 Best Graduate Schools Rankings

Kent State University is recognized nationally for high-quality 100% online graduate degree programs.

U.S. News & World Report recognizes Kent State in the Best Online Master’s in Education Programs, Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs, Best Online Master’s in Business Programs, and Best Online Master’s in MBA Programs lists in its new 2024 Best Online Programs rankings. Notably, three of the university’s online programs rank among the top 100 on the list, with the online master’s in education programs moving up 84 spots to No. 58, the highest ranking for a public institution in northern Ohio on this year’s list.

Kent State aims not only to make quality education more accessible to the meritorious many but also to create lifelong learners. Both aspects have once again been recognized on a national scale.

Kent State University’s Graduate Education Programs

Kent State’s  College of Education, Health and Human Services   currently offers 25 master’s programs and 14 doctoral programs, including Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Education degrees. The breadth of these offerings, coupled with faculty expertise and experience in research and teaching, makes the college an ideal place to pursue graduate study in the disciplines related to education as well as health and human services.

Kent State University Online Master’s Degrees from the College of Education, Health and Human Services

The College of Education, Health and Human Services (EHHS) at Kent State University offers several graduate degrees, concentrations, and certificates 100% online . With the working professional in mind, the college provides quality education on an online platform.

Cultural Foundations (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Cultural Foundations  explores education through a range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives: philosophy of education, history of education, sociology of education, comparative/international education, anthropology of education, gender studies, multicultural studies, and religious studies.

Curriculum & Instruction (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction   provides a wide range of graduate study opportunities in progressive, research-based curriculum and teaching practices. The program prepares educators for continuing professional development, education in a multicultural society, and leadership for curriculum reform and renewal.

Educational Psychology (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Educational Psychology  provides advanced study for students interested in the application of psychological principles to learning and instruction. It includes various disciplines, including cognitive psychology, human development, and learning theory.

Educational Technology (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Educational Technology   prepares students to design, develop, and use a variety of technologies in school classrooms, training facilities, or other educational settings. The program’s Online and Blended Learning Certificate and the Computer Technology Endorsement are also offered online.

Hospitality & Tourism Management (M.S.)

The Online Master of Science degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management provides an integrated hospitality and tourism graduate education, emphasizing regional, national, and global implications of the field. Students will develop critical analysis skills, and research abilities, and understand advanced hospitality and tourism issues.

Research, Measurement & Statistics (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Research, Measurement & Statistics   Develops educators and specialists in assessment, measurement, research design, and program evaluation for careers in schools (pre-kindergarten to grade 12) and in higher education.

Special Education (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Special Education   provides students with an advanced understanding of contemporary research and practice issues in special education. The General Special Education concentration, the Autism Spectrum Disorder graduate certificate, and the Behavioral Intervention Specialist graduate certificate are also offered fully online.

Interprofessional Leadership (Ed.D.)

The Online Doctor of Education degree in Interprofessional Studies   allows for the study of leadership from an interprofessional perspective that is framed around questions of equity, ethics, and social justice to bring about solutions to complex problems of practice. The program prepares leaders who can construct and apply knowledge to make a difference for individuals, families, organizations, and communities.

More information on Kent State Online Master’s Degrees from the College of Education, Health and Human Services .

Kent State University’s Online Master’s in Nursing Program

Kent State’s online master’s in nursing program offered by the College of Nursing ranks No. 54 on this year’s list, up 11 spots from last year, making it once again the highest-ranking program among all public and private institutions in northern Ohio.

Kent State’s Master of Science in Nursing program thoroughly prepares registered nurses for roles in advanced practice, education, research, and healthcare administration. Students develop a strong foundation for further postgraduate and doctoral-level study in nursing, with the College of Nursing  helping them during every step of their education and professional practice. 

Kent State University Online Master of Science in Nursing

The online Master of Science in Nursing degree prepares nurses for advanced clinical roles while making them eligible for national certification as clinical nurse specialists (CNS), nurse practitioners (NP) or to serve as nurse educators, health care management, or leadership roles.

This degree meets the educational eligibility requirements for national certification in the respective area of study. The degree program can be completed in four to five semesters (two full academic years) for full-time students. Part-time students typically take three to four years to complete the program.

For more information on Kent State’s Online Master of Science in Nursing degree, visit https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu/degrees/master-of-science-in-nursing .

More information on Kent State’s additional online nursing degrees .

Kent State University’s Online Master’s in Business Programs

The university’s online master’s in business program moved up three spots to land at No. 97 on this year’s list, the highest ranking among all institutions in Northeast Ohio. Lastly, the university’s online master’s in MBA program ranks No. 107 on the 2024 U.S. News list, making it the highest-ranked program among all institutions in northern Ohio. Both the online master’s in business program and the online master’s in MBA program are offered by Kent State’s Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

Kent State University’s Online Master’s in Business Administration (MBA)

The online Master of Business Administration degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB).

The MBA degree prepares students for responsible leadership positions in private, nonprofit, and public organizations. Upon completion of the degree, graduates demonstrate a global mindset and competence in critical thinking, digital technology, communication, teamwork, and ethical and sustainable management.

The program welcomes students from a full range of undergraduate degrees. Regardless of their undergraduate education, students will find a challenging program designed to prepare them for management positions in organizations.

For more information on Kent State Online’s Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) visit, https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu/degrees/mba .

More information on Kent State’s additional online business degrees .

About the U.S. News & World Report 2024 Rankings

To be considered for inclusion on the list, U.S. News evaluated schools in the Best Online Programs list based on a variety of factors, such as student engagement, faculty credentials, and services and technologies. The 2024 list is designed for individuals looking to complete or further their education. This year’s edition evaluates more than 1,800 online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs using metrics specific to online learning. The rankings only include degree-granting programs offered primarily online by regionally accredited institutions.

For more information about the U.S. News 2024 Best Online Programs list, visit www.usnews.com/education/online-education/rankings .

Kent State University Online Degrees

Kent State University is a pioneer in online and distance education, offering its first online program 20 years ago. Kent State now offers 90 online degree and online certificate programs, unmatched by most peer universities with new online programs and online degrees continually added.

Earn your degree anytime, anywhere, with Kent State University’s online graduate degrees, online undergraduate degrees, and online certificate programs.  Kent State Online   brings together online programs and assistance for students, faculty, the community, and global audiences.

For more information on Kent State’s Online Degrees, visit  https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu .

• Precepting at YSN
• Event Calendar

Graduate Entry Pre-Specialty in Nursing (GEPN)

The GEPN program allows those with a non-nursing background to take advantage of a Yale nursing education to pursue a rewarding career in advanced practice nursing.  This accelerated three-year program combines preparation in basic nursing with advanced training leading to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Graduates will be prepared to take advantage of a diverse range of career opportunities, including advanced clinical practice, leadership roles, and further education such as post-master’s certificates or doctorates.

Recognizing that students arrive to the gepn program with vast experiences and knowledge outside of nursing, the gepn curriculum balances both the arts and the sciences in the curriculum and clinical components. students are offered experiences in the acute-care hospital units and community settings to achieve ysn’s overall mission of better health for all people. we believe that the integration of preventive and curative practice is key to the education of nurses..

The faculty believe that the art of nursing is as important as the science of nursing and are committed to understanding, developing, and evaluating clinical competency. The curriculum is carefully crafted to provide students both traditional and alternative pedagogical approaches to teaching and learning. We use resources from Yale University, Yale New Haven Hospital and the local New Haven community to provide students with learning and creative opportunities in becoming a nurse.

Upon completion of the pre-specialty year, students continue on with their graduate studies which includes theory, practice, and research. Students are admitted into their designated specialty when accepted into the program. The Certificate in Nursing and a license to practice nursing in Connecticut are the two prerequisites required for the GEPN student to continue with their graduate work to earn their MSN degree.

How to Apply to the GEPN Program

All GEPN applicants must submit and complete an   online NursingCAS application  and pay a non-refundable application fee of $80.  In addition to the online application, the following elements of a complete application are required: 

Prerequisites

Please note an important recent change to the GEPN prerequisite requirement: all four prerequisites must be completed no later than June 15th, but none of the courses must be completed by the application deadline.  

Four prerequisites are required for admission for all GEPN applicants. These courses must be completed before June 15th prior to matriculation into the school. A grade of B- (80) or better is required. Prerequisites must be taken at an accredited college or university including community college either in person or online within the last 8 years prior to application submission. AP credits are NOT acceptable to fulfill the following required courses. The four courses required are:

Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II with lab (4 credits/semester). May complete one semester of anatomy and one semester of physiology both with labs as separate courses.

General Chemistry with lab (4 credits)

Microbiology with lab (4 credits)

GEPN Faculty

Faculty who teach in the gepn program.

Laura Kierol Andrews, PhD, APRN, ACNP-BC

Kassandra August-Marcucio, DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC, CUNP

Sandy Cayo, DNP, FNP-BC, PhD(c)

Elizabeth Cohen, Pharm D

Joanna Cole, RN, APRN, FNP-BC

Daihnia Dunkley, PhD, RN

Linda Ghampson, MSN, RN, CHSE

Max Greger-Moser, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Wendy Mackey, APRN-BC, MSN, CORLN

Travis McCann, MSN

Jennifer McIntosh,  PhD, RN, CNE, PMH-BC, NEA-BC

Sharen McKay, PhD

Christine Rodriguez, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, MDiv, MA

Marlene St. Juste, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC