cheapest phd in nursing online

Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs

Are you interested in earning a doctorate degree in nursing? We rank the most affordable online PhD degree programs in nursing.

Key Takeaways

• Prospective students can find a top-ranked online PhD in nursing program that is affordable.
• The online PhD of Nursing (DNP) cost depends on several factors, such as residency, institution type, and financial aid opportunities.
• Before enrolling in any affordable online nursing doctorate, it is important to check whether the school has received accreditation and offers a respected program.

The nursing field still struggles with a lack of qualified teachers, excessive turnover, and unequal distribution of labor. There are various and serious reasons for the nursing shortage. The high cost of nursing schools is one possible factor contributing to this shortage.

Fortunately, several accredited colleges now offer affordable online DNP programs that give working practitioners and advanced nursing practice professionals the flexibility that distance learning can offer.

Featured Programs

What determines the cost of an online phd of nursing (dnp) program.

The total cost of doctor of nursing programs differs based on several factors, including institution type, residency, and financial aid opportunities. Keep in mind that in-state, public institutions also typically have lower tuition costs than those that are private or out-of-state.

Check out some of the most common elements that affect a program’s affordability.

Tuition and Fees

The highest cost of an online DNP program is tuition, but it’s not the only one. Colleges and universities charge students various application and other fees, which can significantly increase the overall cost of your program.

When assessing the affordability of a program, consider factors other than tuition costs.

Class Schedules

Universities and colleges with online nursing doctoral programs know that many students cannot afford to give up their jobs to pursue their degrees. Several programs provide options for part-time study that let students complete their degrees while continuing to work in the field.

Asynchronous coursework that you can access at your convenience and virtual classes that are scheduled for evenings and weekends are two further employment-friendly program elements.

Institution Type

In general, private school tuition is greater than public school, sometimes significantly higher. But this is not a firm guideline. Additionally, private doctoral programs may be eligible for school-sponsored grants and scholarships that are not available in public colleges or universities.

Don’t eliminate private schools from your list of possibilities without calculating the total cost of their degree program offerings.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Due to the high prices of nursing schools, doctoral students often seek financial aid from the school or financial aid resources, such as the state and government. Some of the most popular financial aid opportunities include loans, scholarships, and grants. Unfortunatley, assistantships are rarely offered in online degree programs.

Obviously, the more financial aid opportunities available, the less you’ll pay overall.

Online Coursework

Learning online means you’ll have no expenses associated with attending on-campus classes, such as transportation. Additionally, you may need an airline ticket if you live far from school and are enrolled in a program that includes on-campus residencies or seminars.

Residency Status

Students attending a college outside of their home state often pay higher tuition rates than students living in the state. If cost is a big consideration, look at doctoral programs provided by public colleges and universities in your state.

Luckily, it is becoming more common for public schools to charge a flat-rate tuition fee, which means that students from all states pay the same amount.

Graduate and Teaching Assistantships

In exchange for carrying out research or teaching obligations, some nursing students receive at least partial financing through assistantships. However, loans are often necessary for a lot of degree-seeking students to supplement this income and pay for living expenses.

As mentioned above, it is important to note that graduate assistantships are not common in online doctor of nursing programs.

Key Point: There are a number of ways to ensure that your overall cost of attending an online PhD program in nursing is as affordable as possible.

How to Reduce Your Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Cost Even More

Quite a lot of ways can be used to save money on your online PhD/DNP program. But before anything else, always inquire with your school’s financial aid officer.

The best advice obtaining an online nursing PhD is to look for funding options, such as scholarships and grants. While a loan is often the most easy-access to financial aid, this should be last on your list. Grants and scholarships are free money, which means that, unlike loans, you are not obliged to pay back the money given to you.

There are lots of scholarships and grants for nursing students.

Furthermore, you can take advantage of student discount programs and employer sponsorship.

By looking outside the program’s direct costs, you can reduce the price of your online doctorate in nursing degree. This involves numerous indirect expenditures of pursuing a degree, such as those related to uniforms and scrubs, travel and transportation, technology, housing, etc. Numerous businesses give special discounts to nursing students on their goods and services.

Many employers who hire nurses offer tuition reimbursement plans in exchange for a promise to stay employed with them for a specific amount of time after receiving their degree.

Check out our comprehensive guide to affordable degrees for a deeper dive into making a doctorate degree as affordable as possible.

Bottom Line: Online PhD in nursing degree students can reduce their overall costs even further by seeking out grants and scholarships while in school and looking for employers who offer tuition reimbursement programs.

The 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs

Florida international university.

• #6 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
• #6 Best Research Universities in Florida 2024
• #16 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus)
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
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• #2 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
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• #3 Most Affordable Online Master's of Music Education Programs
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• #3 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #4 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida
• #4 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #4 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2024
• #4 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
• #5 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
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• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #6 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
• #7 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
• #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #8 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #9 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
• #9 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
• #11 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
• #12 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #12 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
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• #13 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #14 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #14 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #15 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
• #16 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #17 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #23 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #25 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Florida International University

Florida International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Criminal Justice
• Political Science
• Engineering
• Communications
• Social Work

Most Influential Alumni

• Carmen Reinhart
• Andy García
• Mike Lowell
• Richard Blanco
• Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
• James F. O'Brien
• Christopher Ferguson
• Carlos Arroyo
• Norma M. Riccucci
• Irma Becerra Fernandez
• Dale Schilly

Florida International University , a public institution, is far ahead of other universities in supporting the academic and local communities online and on-campus degrees. As a top-tier research institution, FIU strongly emphasizes research as a key part of the university’s mission.

NWCNHS’s online PhD in Nursing (DNP) is one of the most affordable and accessible online nursing doctorates accredited by the CCNE, with in-state and out-of-state tuition fees of $621.72 and $1,017.16 and no GRE requirement. This affordable nursing PhD offers four concentrations: Nurse Anesthetist, Adult-Gerontology, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Family Health, Pediatric. In addition to online courses, online students must complete 540 hours of clinical practice and up to three in-person class meetings per semester.

• Required Credits: 36
• Completion time: 4½ to 5 years
• Format: Online

What we love about Florida International University:

The diversity is surely one of the top things to love about FIU, which helps develop communities where people are valued for their contributions and character.

Florida International University is great for students who:

Are capable of studying independently, looking to learn beyond the classroom, and are self-motivated. The institution offers many opportunities, making it the perfect place for someone with big goals or who simply wants to make a difference and experience life.

Florida International University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer small class sizes. FIU enrolls thousands of students yearly as one of the country’s top and most affordable public institutions. As a result, class sizes are big and unsuitable for students who want personalized attention.

Illinois State University

• #5 Most Affordable Online Master's of Music Education Programs
• #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
• #21 Best Online Master's in Special Education

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Illinois State University

Illinois State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Anthropology
• Earth Sciences
• John Malkovich
• K. Patricia Cross
• Chen Chi-kwan
• Samuel Garman
• William S. Sadler
• Charles De Garmo
• Donald McHenry
• Richard Roeper
• Sandra Steingraber
• Cloris Leachman
• Doug Collins
• William S. Gray

Illinois State University , one of the oldest public universities in the United States, was established as a teaching school and later grew to become one of the largest institutions—offering hundreds of research-focused degree programs—worldwide.

The Mennonite College of Nursing, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, offers one of the most affordable online Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. The tuition fee is only $511.37 per credit hour, excluding distance and other technology fees. This DNP is entirely online and emphasizes practice-based learning, allowing students to use nursing research findings in creative and evidence-based practices.

• Required Credits: 34
• Completion time: 2.5 years

What we love about Illinois State University:

The feel of a tight-knit community despite having over 25,000 students enrolled.

Illinois State University is great for students who:

Thrive in populated campuses, enjoy socializing, and can work without personalized attention.

Illinois State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Want to enroll in a party school. While being one of the largest state universities and having plenty of on-campus activities, ISU is not heavy on school parties.

Hampton University

• #4 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #8 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
• #9 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
• #1 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
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• #2 Best Online Associate in Business Management
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• #5 Best HBCU Online Programs
• #5 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
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• #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #8 Best Online Associate in General Studies
• #8 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
• #9 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
• #10 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #12 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #16 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #19 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
• #25 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
• #5 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Hampton University

Hampton University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Mathematics
• J. Dwight Pentecost
• St. Clair Drake
• Alberta Williams King
• Christine Darden
• Mary Jackson
• Freeman A. Hrabowski III
• Booker T. Washington
• Phil Freelon
• Wanda Sykes
• Spencer Overton
• Tony Atwater

With a long history and a strong tradition, Hampton University is a vibrant, forward-thinking institution of higher learning that offers a wide range of graduate, undergraduate, and technical degree programs. Hampton University is one of the best historically black universities in the world and has a close-knit community of students and teachers.

In addition to the on-campus degree programs, Hampton U also offers convenient degree programs in its online universities for working professionals.

Nursing professionals who are busy with their careers and want to earn terminal degrees to advance in their positions can enroll in the affordable Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited online PhD in Nursing at Hampton University Online.

At only $695 per credit hour, nursing professionals with master’s degrees and licenses can pursue a nursing PhD and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in academia and research. This online PhD degree is best for professionals focusing on family and family-related research.

While coursework is done online, students must complete three on-campus residences. The residency requirement gives students a chance to network with peers and nurse educators. This creates a lifelong bond that they can use in the future.

• Required Credits: 54 – 60
• Completion time: 4 years

What we love about Hampton University:

The sense of belonging. Hampton U offers several campus activities to form tight relationships between students and faculty. The university has something for students interested in Greek, sports, and honors.

Hampton University is great for students who:

Want to study in a private school that provides financial aid opportunities. Hampton University always gives scholarships and financial aid if necessary and ensures every student is a part of a unique curriculum.

Hampton University might not be ideal for students who:

Prefer to have broad degree options and a diverse student population. Hampton University is a small institution, which some might find dry and not interesting.

East Carolina University

• #6 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2024
• #2 Most Affordable Online Master's of Speech Pathology Programs
• #2 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
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• #9 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #9 Best RN to BSN Online
• #11 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
• #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
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• #19 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #21 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #4 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #12 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at East Carolina University

East Carolina University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Constance Bumgarner Gee
• Chris Johnson
• James Dodson
• Kevin Williamson
• Timothy Z. Keith
• Blue Edwards
• S. Gregory Boyd
• David Ginty
• Barbara Trader Faires
• Tony Collins

East Carolina University is a rapidly expanding public research offering hundreds of on-campus and distance learning majors and degree programs using cutting-edge teaching techniques. East Carolina University is lauded for being one of the least expensive universities in the world, which makes it attractive to students who cannot afford private education.

One of its affordable and accessible degree offerings is the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited PhD in Nursing by the ECU College of Nursing, which combines online and minimal in-person classes. The program is priced at $289.55 in-state and $1,020.05 per credit hour out-of-state. Throughout the program, students can anticipate spending several days on campus as well as faculty mentoring for the completion of the final project.

• Required Credits: 54
• Completion time: 2-4 years
• Format: Hybrid

What we love about East Carolina University:

The campus and the people. Despite being a public research university, ECU has a medium-sized campus and classes that allow students to have closer relationships with other students and professors. ECU is also known and ranked as one of the universities with the friendliest people.

East Carolina University is great for students who:

Can balance studies and social life. There are several things to do on campus, which require students to strike a balance between enjoying the extracurricular activities and attending class and performing the work.

East Carolina University might not be the best fit for students who:

Want small groups and intimate settings. One hundred students make up the typical class size at ECU.

Northern Arizona University

• #3 Best Grad Schools in Arizona 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities in Arizona 2024
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Arizona 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 Best Online Master's in English
• #8 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Speech Pathology
• #9 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology
• #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #11 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #13 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
• #17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
• #18 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #18 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #19 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #21 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
• #21 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2024

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Computer Science
• Clyde Tombaugh
• William A. Stein
• Danny Jorgensen
• Raymond R. Rogers
• Howard Cannon
• Jennifer Nez Denetdale
• David Mangelsdorf
• Aimée Classen
• Karletta Chief
• LaVerne Jeanne
• Frederick Colwell
• Lucille Watahomigie

Northern Arizona University provides outstanding and affordable educational possibilities for residents and non-residents. NAU provides a student-centered education via demanding academic programs in a welcoming, varied, and inclusive environment.

Dedicated, well-known faculty work to guarantee that students flourish in the classroom, grow personally, conduct significant research, and impact the world one breakthrough at a time.

NAU’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice is a Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited terminal nursing degree priced at $585.00 per credit hour and focuses on developing leadership skills in rural and underserved areas. This degree is open to MSN graduates with at least three years of professional experience after obtaining their master’s degree. The DNP builds on master’s education and incorporates population health, leadership in healthcare, and policy-related material.

• Required Credits: 74 - 79

What we love about Northern Arizona University:

The location and environment. On top of its top-notch academic offerings, NAU is located in a beautiful Arizona spot, giving students a better learning environment.

Northern Arizona University is great for students who:

Are interested in a more individualized approach to study.

Northern Arizona University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer to live and study in big and bustling cities. Flagstaff is a small town and can get very cold and dull.

Indiana State University

• #6 Best Research Universities in Indiana 2024
• #9 Best Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Indiana 2024
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Indiana
• #5 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Indiana
• #7 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #9 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Indiana State University

Indiana State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Jamal Khashoggi
• John Wooden
• G. K. Podila
• Barton Warren Evermann
• John Paul Wright
• Johnny Matson
• Andrew C. Porter
• Fred Albert Shannon
• Nicola Di Cosmo

Indiana State University is one of the most prominent state universities admired for its top-notch degree programs, with instructors distinguished in their fields and capable of assisting students in achieving their career goals. ISU’s online degree programs allow working professionals to obtain their academic objectives without leaving their jobs and breaking the bank.

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Indiana State University costs only $438.00 in-state and $569.00 out-of-state. This online doctoral program was created to help nursing professionals learn unique leadership skills to change the way healthcare is provided. Graduates can find employment opportunities in clinics, hospitals, doctors’ offices, research facilities, and more. This reasonably priced online DNP program can be for you if you’re prepared to lead the nursing profession.

• Required Credits: 37
• Completion time: 2 years

What we love about Indiana State University:

The networking opportunities. Indiana State University is not only known to provide affordable tuition fees, but it’s also known to provide an abundance of activities that help students create their professional network.

Indiana State University is great for students who:

Want to become part of a vibrant and diverse community. Indiana’s wide range of clubs and organizations gives students various extracurricular activities and a chance to meet and learn from students from different walks of life.

Indiana State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer to have personalized learning. Due to Indiana’s large community, students may not be given individual attention and often must study independently.

Ashland University

• #4 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024
• #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2024
• #6 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024
• #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
• #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
• #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Ashland University

Ashland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Religious Studies
• Benjamin Bolger
• Madalyn Murray O'Hair
• Charles H. Kraft
• Peter Linneman
• John Christopher Thomas
• Donal O'Mathuna
• Tim Richmond
• Jeffrey Weidenhamer
• Koo Bon-moo
• Robert Clouse

Ashland University , a private Christian institution, provides an individualized learning environment and a small-town feel to help students obtain better educational quality. Ashland offers over 70 degree programs, including some uncommon majors, such as fashion merchandising, dietetics, toxicology, journalism/digital media, and health and risk communication.

One of its top offerings is the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited online DNP program which offers a flat-rate tuition fee of $745 per credit hour. Students can attain the highest nursing practice degree by enrolling in Ashland University’s online DNP program focusing on practice and aims to train students for higher levels of patient care with more autonomy. This DNP degree program allows applicants to complete their practice residency at hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities close to their homes.

Ashland’s online DNP has three tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner, Health Systems Leadership, and Advanced Practice.

• Required Credits: 32-77

What we love about Ashland University:

The small class sizes. Students will receive the individualized attention and mentoring they need to achieve, thanks to Ashland’s low student-to-faculty ratio.

Ashland University is great for students who:

Want to have a private education and enjoy tight-knit communities where everyone knows everyone.

Ashland University might not be the best fit for students who:

Do not want to have courses rooted in Christian heritage. Remember that, as a Christian institution, Ashland aims to deepen students’ religious understanding.

Missouri State University

• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Cybersecurity
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri
• #6 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Missouri 2024
• #8 Best Online Master's in Economics
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #10 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
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• #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #21 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology
• #25 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Missouri State University

Missouri State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Lester R. Ford
• Jim Bohannon
• Kathleen Turner
• Ryan Howard
• John Goodman
• Bill Hardgrave
• Pauline Gracia Beery Mack
• Tess Harper
• Jerry L. Atwood
• Shaun Marcum

Missouri State University , the second-largest university in Missouri, is most prevalent in business, health and human services, and arts and letters. MSU continues to find ways to provide excellent instruction and a learning environment focused on the student’s needs for academic success and personal growth. As part of its initiative to provide high-quality education to all students, MSU has adopted a fully online learning format.

One of its online offerings is the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited BSN to DNP Program , which has a flat-rate tuition fee of $14,700 . This online doctoral program uses a combination of online and on-campus modalities and some didactic content delivered using asynchronous and synchronous formats. The program focuses on producing highly skilled leaders for the nursing field with a particular emphasis on the unique healthcare needs of remote and rural populations.

Furthermore, BSN to DNP students will be eligible and prepared to sit for the FNP national certification exam. FNP passers will have plenty of work opportunities as providers of primary care. According to MSU, the school holds a 100% passing rate for the FNP exam.

• Required Credits: 79
• Completion time: 3 years

What we love about Missouri State University:

The staff and faculty. Missouri State University is a friendly place that makes all students feel at home. Faculty and staff are always involved in every student activity.

Missouri State University is great for students who:

Thrive in large universities and has an interest in joining school organizations.

Missouri State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Are not serious about their education. MSU’s faculty and staff are very friendly. However, they are very strict when it comes to learning. They push students to work hard to enter the workforce.

Georgia Southern University

• #6 Best Research Universities in Georgia 2024
• #8 Best Colleges in Georgia 2024
• #20 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Georgia
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Georgia
• #4 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
• #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Georgia 2024
• #5 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2024
• #9 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #10 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
• #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
• #16 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
• #17 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2024
• #19 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
• #24 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Marijuana Pepsi Vandyck
• Walton Goggins
• Anthony J. Martin
• Cole Swindell
• Adrian Peterson
• Björn Kjerfve
• Julie Lockwood
• Angelika Ouedraogo
• Byron Breedlove

Georgia Southern University is I-20’s most prominent higher learning center with an “R2” high research institution designation. GSU’s learner-centered culture, which includes collaboration, academic excellence, research, and innovation, equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to think, lead, teach, and serve in their respective fields.

With a long history in the healthcare field, Georgia Southern University was able to compete in the rankings for the best and most affordable online nursing degree programs. One of its outstanding online nursing degrees is the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited Doctor of Nursing Practice , with an affordable tuition fee of $389 per credit hour.

What we love about Georgia Southern University:

The diversity. Students include recent high school graduates and individuals who last attended a formal educational institution twenty years ago. Everybody can find something to do at GSU.

Georgia Southern University is great for students who:

Are serious about their education but still want to have fun on weekends.

Georgia Southern University might not be the best fit for students who:

Are uncomfortable in large school settings. The school’s classes are frequently very large, making it a challenging environment for those intimidated by large groups.

Boise State University

• #2 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Idaho 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Idaho
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Wyoming
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Idaho
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Montana
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Idaho 2024
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Idaho 2024
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Nevada
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Washington
• #5 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Montana
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
• #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #22 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
• #6 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Boise State University

Boise State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Chester M. Southam
• Radhika Ramana Dasa
• Clinton Ballou
• Julia R. Burdge
• Larry Williams
• Wesley Moodie
• Trent Johnson
• Alan Heathcock
• Joan Faber McAlister
• Larry Davidson

The Episcopal Church established Boise State University , an Idaho State Board of Education member. Today, Boise State is open to the public and provides educational partnerships for students on campus and at other learning centers.

Boise State University offers an affordable Doctor of Nursing Practice in Leadership , which only costs $820 per credit hour. This hybrid degree program, which follows the cohort model and is offered by the CCNE-accredited School of Nursing within the College of Health Sciences, combines online coursework with on-campus prerequisites such as orientation and executive sessions, as well as clinical. Qualified nurses with MSNs and master’s degree holders in public administration, business, education, health care administration, social work, and other fields are welcome to apply to the low-cost online degree program.

• Required Credits: 40

What we love about Boise State University:

The networking opportunities. Boise State is one of the top schools for students looking to have plenty of opportunities to network.

Boise State University is great for students who:

Are dedicated to their academic career but does not require regular one-on-one attention from their professor.

Boise State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer to attend small-class sizes.

Northern Kentucky University

• #6 Best Colleges in Kentucky 2024
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Kentucky 2024
• #5 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2024
• #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Kentucky
• #9 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
• #11 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #20 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #9 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• George Clooney
• Michael Dourson
• Maria T. Accardi

As a university that meets students wherever they are in their educational journeys, Northern Kentucky University is a leader in higher education in the United States.

NKU offers a CCNE-accredited Post-Master’s DNP program conducted entirely online in a 7-week course format with affordable tuition of only $586 per credit. Students complete courses in evidence-based practice, nursing theory, leadership, health quality and safety initiatives, program planning and evaluation, nursing science, finance of health care, and informatics.

• Required Credits: 35
• Completion time: 20 months

What we love about Northern Kentucky University:

The activities. The university offers a wide variety of intercollegiate activities and is exceptionally well-rounded and diversified.

Northern Kentucky University is great for students who:

Want diversity. NKU is known to have one of the most racially, LGBTQIA-friendly, and religiously diverse students population.

Northern Kentucky University might not be the best fit for students who:

Want a large school and outstanding sports teams.

Murray State University

• #1 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Kentucky
• #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kentucky 2024
• #3 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
• #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Kentucky
• #5 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Kentucky 2024
• #6 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2024
• #6 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2024
• #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #11 Best Online Master's in English
• #12 Best Online Master's in Economics
• #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #14 Best Online Associate in General Studies
• #18 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
• #18 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
• #23 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Murray State University

Murray State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Jeff Easley
• David L. Armstrong
• Popeye Jones
• Chris Thile
• Terry Yates
• W. Earl Brown
• Kirk Rueter
• Bill Cunningham

Murray State University , founded in 1922 as a teacher education institution, grew into a large public university with online, main, and satellite campuses. With 245 majors and additional programs offered, Murray State offers a wide range of academic options.

The university provides a CCNE-accredited online MSN to DNP program at an affordable $559.50 per credit tuition cost. This DNP program’s 100% online format offers the utmost convenience for working professionals.

• Required Credits: 32

What we love about Murray State University:

The small class sizes with a big campus feel. MSU combines various educational options frequently found at research universities with the supportive and close interactions between students and faculty typically found at smaller campuses.

Murray State University is great for students who:

Want to earn a degree in a small community with intimate class sizes.

Murray State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Dislike a small-town feeling and are not willing to be active on campus.

Idaho State University

• #3 Best Colleges in Idaho 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Idaho 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Idaho
• #2 Best Online Colleges in Idaho 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Idaho 2024
• #4 Best Online Associate in Emergency Management
• #4 Best Online Associate in Health Information Technology & Informatics
• #4 Best Online Associate in Fire Science Degree Programs
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #13 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
• #14 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #14 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
• #17 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
• #18 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #23 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
• #23 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2024

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Idaho State University

Idaho State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• V. Lane Rawlins
• Marvin Lewis
• Keith Reemtsma
• Jared Allen
• Frederick Hammersley
• James A. McClure
• Celeste Condit
• Roger Williams
• Annette Markham
• William Petersen
• Viola Cordova

Idaho State University , established in 1901, is one of the nation’s most comprehensive higher education institutions that provide courses ranging from technical certifications to graduate and professional degrees.

Working professionals who have no time to enroll in traditional on-campus degrees can enroll in Idaho State University’s affordable online Doctor of Nursing Practice . The CCNE-accredited DNP has two tracks: BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP, both costing $540.48 per credit hour only. The DNP at ISU offers two specializations: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).

Regardless of track and specializations, ISU’s online DNP aims to train clinical leaders for extensive clinical nursing practice to contribute to population health outcomes. The program is grounded in the evidence-based application and operates within a changing healthcare system.

While courses can be completed 100% online, students must complete 2-4 days per semester of campus visits for their clinical intensive.

• Required Credits: 50-80

What we love about Idaho State University:

The environment. ISU is neither too small nor too large. Along the journey, students meet many people but can easily form a small circle of close friends. This institution has a very high academic standard, and all of the teachers are interested in your personal and professional growth.

Idaho State University is great for students who:

Value small class sizes and want to have close relationships with instructors.

Idaho State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Want to experience the diversity and have a busy lifestyle of a big metropolis.

Indiana University

Indiana University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• George Lakoff
• David Chalmers
• David Starr Jordan
• Lewis Terman
• Julian Rotter
• Alan Dundes
• Robert Coover
• Jennifer Widom
• Richard C. Atkinson

Indiana University Bloomington , a very large public university, strongly emphasizes developing well-rounded students who will succeed in and after college. This big state university fosters a lively collegiate atmosphere while pushing students intellectually.

In addition to on-campus degrees, IU Bloomington also offers various degree programs through its online campus. One of the university’s affordable and accessible online degrees is the CCNE-accredited Doctor of Nursing Practice , which provides a flat-rate tuition fee of $721 per credit hour. The program offers three tracks: Advanced Clinical, MBA or MHA to DNP Transition, and MSN & DNP Dual Degree.

Regardless of the nursing program track students choose, they’ll focus on evidence-based practice and translation topics, population health management, clinical decision-making, advanced leadership in complex systems, and public health policy.

What we love about Indiana University:

The career possibilities. It’s easy to follow your passion at IU with 200+ majors, 550+ academic programs, and the option to create your own degree!

Indiana University is great for students who:

Thrive in large universities and can study independently. Since IU is a very large public institution, students will enroll in large-sized classes with professors who might not even know their names.

Indiana University may not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer a tight-knit campus with small class sizes and minimal diversity.

Purdue University

• #24 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Indiana 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Indiana 2024
• #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #1 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Indiana 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Indiana 2024
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Indiana
• #5 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
• #8 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #10 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Purdue University

Purdue University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Neil Armstrong
• Ward Cunningham
• James Samuel Coleman
• Gus Grissom
• Edward Mills Purcell
• C. N. R. Rao
• Mohamed M. Atalla
• John C. Reynolds
• Douglas Comer
• Booth Tarkington
• Yitang Zhang
• Ben Roy Mottelson

Purdue University Global , one of the top online universities in the world, offers individualized online education designed to meet the specific needs of busy working adults.

Purdue’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice , priced at $700 per credit hour, is among the most affordable and accessible CCNE-accredited doctoral programs. The nursing practice program is instructor-led and includes social interactions and peer-to-peer learning possibilities.

• Required Credits: 48–57
• Completion time: 1.5 years

What we love about Purdue University Global:

The world-class education and activities. Students get a lot of opportunities to get active at Purdue, which is fantastic. There are numerous options for leadership, and students can get involved in anything they wish.

Purdue University Global is great for students who:

Are well-focused, driven, enthusiastic, and do not require constant one-on-one attention.

Purdue University Global might not be the best fit for students who:

Have conservative mindsets. Purdue University is diverse in all aspects, enrolling students from different religions, cultures, races, and genders.

Northwestern State University

Career outlook for nursing degree at northwestern state university.

Northwestern State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Jeff Hennessy
• Jackie Smith
• William Muse
• Garnie W. McGinty
• Charlie Hennigan
• Robert Ellis
• Fred Broussard

Northwestern State University is a member of the University of Louisiana System that offers certificate programs and affordable associates through doctoral degrees.

Northwestern State University offers one of the cheapest online Phd in Nursing Practice programs with two concentrations accredited by the CCNE: Organizational Systems Leadership (for non-APRNs) and APRN to DNP Leadership (for APRNs). The program, which costs $475 per credit hour , prepares RNs to become qualified to teach nursing, develop advanced clinical skills, implement systems and policies, and demonstrate leadership.

What we love about Northwestern State University:

The financial aid opportunities.

Northwestern State University is great for students who:

Are interested in research and seeking a school with a fun social life and a challenging academic program.

Northwestern State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Are not open to learning in a diverse environment.

Delta State University

• #6 Best Colleges in Mississippi 2024
• #6 Best Grad Schools in Mississippi 2024
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Mississippi
• #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Mississippi 2024
• #14 Best Online Master's in English
• #21 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Delta State University

Delta State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• John Grisham
• William David McCain
• Wirt Williams
• Oritse Femi
• Sandra Rushing
• Robert W. Hamblin

Delta State University , established as a teacher’s institution, has expanded its selection of majors and degree programs for both conventional and non-traditional learning formats.

Delta’s CCNE-accredited Robert E. Smith School of Nursing’s online DNP program is one of the most affordable doctoral programs, costing only $469 per credit hour , and can be completed full- or part-time. Three tracks are available for this online DNP: BSN-DNP, BSN/Post Master’s DNP, and Post Master’s (FNP) DNP.

• Required Credits: 31-69
• Completion time: 1.5-3 years

What we love about Delta State University:

The small and intimate campus. DSU’s small class sizes allow students to interact with other students and form ties with their teachers.

Delta State University is perfect for students who:

Enjoy meeting new people and can live well in a small town.

Delta State University may not be the best fit for students who:

Want to enroll in a university with vast majors and degree options and live in a big city.

Georgia College & State University

Career outlook for nursing degree at georgia college & state university.

Georgia College & State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Newt Gingrich
• Flannery O'Connor
• Helen Matthews Lewis
• Ashlee Adams Crews

Georgia College & State University is the official public liberal arts institution of the state that caters to students who desire to change their communities and the world. GCSU encourage each student to realize their full potential and work to create a passion for learning that will serve them well no matter what career path they decide to choose.

Georgia College & State University offers an affordable Doctor of Nursing Practice program designed for working professionals with demanding schedules and is taught in an executive-style format. The program is accredited CCNE-accredited and costs $373 per credit hour. Students can complete this program in five semesters of part-time study.

What we love about Georgia College & State University:

The faculty. More than 80% of the faculty are PhD holders, which means that students will learn from instructors who are leaders in their fields.

Georgia College & State University is great for students who:

Prefer to study in small class sizes.

Georgia College & State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Want a lot of school pride. If you don’t intend to join a fraternity or sorority, this may not be the friendliest environment for you because Greek life is quite important here.

Northwestern Oklahoma State University

Career outlook for nursing degree at northwestern oklahoma state university.

Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Northwestern Oklahoma State University offers a high-quality, reasonably priced education. NWOSU’s professors devote their time to teaching rather than research, which allows them to give you individualized attention, thorough academic advising, and other forms of educational support.

NWOSU offers a cheap online BSN to DNP with in-state and out-of-state tuition fees of $388.50 and $642.50 per credit hour, respectively. While courses can be completed online, students must complete a summer residency requirement and 1020 clinical hours. There is also an Advanced Placement DNP option for post-MSN certification in an advanced practice specialty that allows candidates to complete the DNP in 37–39 credits. To further solidify their expertise, all candidates complete practical hours.

Rural health care is a focus of this CCNE-accredited DNP program. When their online courses and clinical hours are finished, all DNP students return to school for an oral defense of their DNP research projects.

• Required Credits: 73
• Completion time: 3-4 years

What we love about Northwestern Oklahoma State University:

The safe and friendly environment. Because it’s a small institution in a small town, students can freely and safely travel from point to point.

Northwestern Oklahoma State University is great for students who:

Want a smaller, more intimate school environment at a low price.

Northwestern Oklahoma State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer the collegiate experience focused on parties.

Nebraska Methodist College

• #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Nebraska 2024
• #14 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #15 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)

Career Outlook for Nursing degree at Nebraska Methodist College

Nebraska Methodist College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Nebraska Methodist College , founded in 1891, is a private nursing and healthcare institution that help students live meaningful lives and figure out what they want to contribute to society while prospering in a close-knit community.

NMC offers a hybrid BSN to DNP for students interested in a family nurse practitioner specialty with preceptor experiences as part of the clinical practice requirements. Students will develop in-depth knowledge of concepts, nursing practice, and scientific knowledge by completing an evidence-based capstone project focused on implementing and evaluating a healthcare subject in a community or patient practice.

The program costs $817 per credit hour.

• Required Credits: 75
• Completion time: 4-5 years

What we love about Nebraska Methodist College:

The financial aid opportunity specifically tailored for nursing students. Nebraska Methodist College provides the Nurse Professors Loan Program (NFLP) from the money supplied by the HRSA-Health Resources and Services Administration to help meet the rising need for skilled nursing professionals.

Nebraska Methodist College is great for students who:

Enjoy flexible class schedules. NMC’s online course has a distinct approach; every course uses various communication tools that students can choose from at their convenience.

Nebraska Methodist College might not be the best fit for students who:

Want to enroll in a diverse school with hundreds of majors and degree options.

Career Outlook for Students with Nursing Degree

Registered nursing/registered nurse, degree level: doctorate.

• Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
• Avg. Cost of Degree*: $12,974
• Avg. Expenses*: $17,262
• Avg. Starting Salary*: $117,671
• Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $132,114
• Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 6 years
• Job Growth: 5.92%
• Number of Jobs: 3,258,400
• * denotes ‘annually’
• ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Average career salaries, promising job markets, top industries.

Top PhD in Nursing Programs

What is a ph.d. in nursing.

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing and DNP Differences

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

Key Ph.D. in Nursing vs. DNP Differences

>> Related:  Top Online DNP Programs

Types of Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

>> Show Me DNP Programs

Online Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

Top Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

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

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

 1. University of Pennsylvania

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

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

Contact UPenn about this program:

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

Source: University of Pennsylvania

2. Duke University

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

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

Contact Duke University about this program:

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

Source: Duke University

3. Duquesne University

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

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

Contact Duquesne University about this program:

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

Source: Duquesne University

4. Columbia University

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

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

Contact Columbia University about this program:

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

Source: Columbia University

5. Rush University

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

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

Contact Rush University about this program:

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

Source: Rush University

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

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

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

>> Related: The Best Nursing Research Topics

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing Salary

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

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

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

How Long Do PhD in Nursing Programs Take?

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

What Will You Learn in a PhD in Nursing Program?

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing Program Requirements

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

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

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

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

Next Steps to Enroll in a PhD in Nursing Degree Program

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Best Ph.D. in Nursing Programs – 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Texas Woman's University

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

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

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

Endicott College

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

• Ph.D. in Nursing Online/Hybrid

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

Mercer University

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

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

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

University of Central Florida

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

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

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

William Carey University

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

• Nursing Education - DNP to PhD Online/Hybrid

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

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

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

RELATED : Dual DNP/PhD Programs

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

Online Ph.D. Nursing Program Advantages

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

On-Campus Ph.D. in Nursing Program Advantages

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in Nursing Course Topics

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

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

Program Length

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

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

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

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

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

Jump to Your State Listings

University of alabama at birmingham.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Campus

Arizona State University

• Nursing and Healthcare Innovation, PhD Campus

University of Arizona

• Nursing (PHD) Online

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)

• PhD in Nursing Campus

Azusa Pacific University Monrovia

• Nursing, PhD Campus

Loma Linda University

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

University of California San Francisco

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

University of California, Irvine

University of san diego.

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

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Hybrid

University of Northern Colorado

• Nursing Education PhD Online

Connecticut

University of connecticut.

• School of Nursing - PhD Program Campus

Yale University

• PhD Program in Nursing Campus

University of Delaware

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Science Campus

Barry University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

Florida Atlantic University

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

Florida International University

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

University of Florida

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

University of Miami

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Campus

University of South Florida

• PhD Program in Nursing Science Campus

Augusta University

• Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in Nursing Hybrid

Emory University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Hybrid

Georgia State University

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

University of Hawai'i at Manoa

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

Idaho State University

Illinois state university.

• PhD in Nursing Hybrid

Loyola University of Chicago

Rush university.

• Nursing Science (PhD) Online

University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)

• Doctor of Philosophy Campus

Indiana University Online

• PhD in Nursing Science Online

Purdue University

• PhD in Nursing* Campus

University of Iowa

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

University of Kansas

• PhD in Nursing Online

University Of Louisville

Southern university and a&m college.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Campus

Johns Hopkins University

University of maryland.

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

Massachusetts

Boston college.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Hybrid

Northeastern University

• PhD in Nursing

University of Massachusetts Amherst

• Nursing PhD Campus

University of Massachusetts Boston

University of massachusetts lowell.

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

University of Massachusetts Medical School

Michigan state university.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Campus

Oakland University

• Ph.D. in Nursing

University of Michigan

• Nursing, Ph.D. Campus

Wayne State University

• Ph.D. in Nursing Online

University of Minnesota

Mississippi, university of mississippi medical center.

• Nursing Education - DNP to PhD Online

Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) Hybrid

Mizzou Online- University of Missouri

• Nursing: Online doctorate Online

University Of Missouri Kansas City

• Nursing PhD Hybrid

University of Missouri - St. Louis

• Nursing PhD Online

University of Missouri Health

• Interdisciplinary Nursing PhD Campus

Bryan College of Health Sciences

• Education Doctorate with Emphasis in Nursing Education Hybrid

University of Nebraska Medical Center

University of nevada, las vegas.

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

Rutgers School of Nursing

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

• Doctor Of Philosophy In Nursing, Phd Campus

Stony Brook University

University at buffalo.

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Online

North Carolina

Duke university.

• PhD Program in Nursing Online

East Carolina University

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

• Dual Doctorate PhD/DNP Hybrid

Kent State University

The ohio state university.

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

University of Cincinnati

• PhD in Nursing Research Campus

Oklahoma City University

• BSN-PhD in Nursing Campus

The University of Oklahoma

Oregon health & sciences university, pennsylvania, drexel university.

• Nursing: MSN-PhD Joint Degree Program Campus

University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

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

University of Pittsburgh

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

• Ph.D. in Nursing Science Online

University of South Carolina

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

East Tennessee State University

• College of Nursing - PhD Program Hybrid

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center- Memphis

• DNP/PhD Dual Degree Campus

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

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

University of Memphis

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

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

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

The University of Texas at Arlington

The university of texas at austin.

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

The University of Texas at Tyler

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

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

University of Texas School of Nursing at Houston

University of utah, george mason university.

• Nursing, PhD Hybrid

Hampton University

• Nursing, PhD Online

University of Virginia

Virginia commonwealth university.

• Online Nursing PHD Online

University of Washington

• PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science Campus

Washington State University Vancouver

West virginia, west virginia university, marquette university.

• Ph.D. In Nursing Campus

University of Wisconsin-Madison

University of wisconsin-milwaukee.

• Nursing BS to PhD Campus
• Nursing Online PhD Online

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

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..

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.

• Accelerated BSN Programs
• BSN to DNP Programs
• DrPH Programs
• Family Nurse Practitioner Programs
• Masters In Gerontology Programs
• Nurse Practitioner Programs
• PhD in Nursing Programs
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Top 25 Online PhDs in Nursing Education

Find your degree.

Of course, there is a lot of academic preparation that goes into becoming a nurse educator. You typically need a PhD in Nursing, PhD in Nursing Science, or a PhD in Nursing Education. In a nursing PhD program, you’ll take a range of classes that expand your understanding of nursing theory, research, and patient care. It is essential that you select electives geared towards education, but working with an academic advisor will significantly simplify that process. This depth of knowledge is what is going to prepare you to teach the next generation of nurses.

Earn a Nursing Education PhD Online

If you’re at this point in your career, we’re sure that you know just how demanding the schedule is when you’re a nurse. That is why online nursing degrees are becoming such a popular option. PhDs are fewer and more far between online than many other degrees but you still have an abundance of exceptional colleges and universities to consider.

The degrees we have featured here may have some synchronous components and several of them have some on-campus requirements, but each of them is designed with the demand of your job in mind. Many of the meetings last for just a few days at a time, and many of the classes are asynchronous. This means that you can log in and work on your courses at any time that fits into your schedule.

There are a lot of benefits to choosing to get your PhD in Nursing Education online. You can go to the school that is the best fit for you without having to worry about relocation. You don’t have to rely on the programmatic offerings at local colleges; if there is a school across the country that has exactly what you’re looking for, you don’t have to put your life on hold to go there. Online students are eligible for the same financial aid, grants, and scholarships as traditional students, there are even some scholarships designed just for online students. On top of that, there are fewer costs associated with online college because you won’t have to commute, live on campus, or pay certain fees.

All of these online PhDs in Nursing make sure that you have a dedicated advisor on top with a host of other resources offered at each individual institution. You don’t have to worry about missing out because these online degrees will surround you with people who prioritize your academic success just as much as you do.

Methodology

To rank the best online PhDs in Nursing Education, we began by gathering a list of schools. In order to be eligible to be featured in our ranking, a school must be based in the United States, hold proper accreditation, offer at least one hybrid or online PhD in Nursing, and must not operate as a for-profit institution. Every institution that met those criteria was scored out of a possible 300 points. The following factors were used to determine each schools’ score.

• Freshman Retention Rate (33.3% of score)
• Graduate Rate (33.3% of score)
• Affordability (33.3% of score)

We collected our information used to score and discuss these institutions from the individual school websites whenever possible. We also used additional resources such as the National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. News & World Report , and Collegedata.com. Once each score was totaled, we ranked them accordingly. In any case that there was a tie, we used the alphabetical order of their names as our designated tie-breaker.

We’d also like to add that there may be some schools that don’t appear here that otherwise would have ranked due to incomplete information, or per their own request. No college or university is awarded preferential treatment of any kind. We are confident that these results could be easily duplicated with the use of our clearly-defined methodology.

PhD in Nursing

The coursework covers the core concepts in nursing science, research, education, and methodology. In total, the program consists of 72 credit hours. These credits are spread out over nine semesters. There are a lot of relevant classes such as a Faculty Role Seminar, Analytical Foundations for Health Sciences, Multivariate Statistical Techniques for Health Sciences, and more.

You will have the opportunity to individualize your program of study for this PhD in Nursing with classes such as Mixed Methods for Program Development, Implementation, & Evaluation; Learning, Teaching & Evaluation in Nursing and; Educational Issues & Curriculum Analysis. You can also choose to fill your electives with independent study instead. This online PhD in Nursing will culminate in a dissertation.

This PhD in Nursing is available primarily online with two required intensives each year that you’re enrolled in the program. It is presented in a cohort model, and you will have the opportunity to build strong relationships with your classmates and the program faculty through research conferences, discussions online, and more. The curriculum is broken down into a required core (36 credits), electives to individualize your study (nine credits), and a dissertation (15 credits).

Students will have the benefit of multiple financial aid opportunities. The majority of students in the program are funded through scholarships, grants, fellowships, or the Nurse Faculty Loan Forgiveness Program. UCF also offers a BSN to PhD track that can only be taken full-time; while this entry point is also offered primarily online, there may be more on-campus requirements for those who enter the program without an MSN.

Courses are all presented in a semester format, but the amount of time you will take to complete the program depends on your enrollment status. Those who enter with a BSN must complete a total of 77 credits; those with an MSN must complete 56 credits; for those of you who are pursuing a post-clinical doctorate, you will complete just 48 credits. For a point of reference, MSN students can finish the program in three years when studying at a part-time pace.

There are three areas of focus that students choose from in the program, and those are Innovations to improve health and health systems, Wellness in vulnerable and underserved populations, and Symptom and behavior science. You can further customize your degree by taking interdisciplinary electives in education. Students can take as many as 12 credit hours of interdisciplinary courses.

Each year, students of the PhD in Nursing program are required to attend a one-week orientation in the summer. If you are studying at a part-time pace, the requirements of when you would attend may vary slightly. You can choose to study full-time or part-time regardless of the degree track you choose. We’ve decided to focus on the MSN to PhD track because that is likely the most common point of entry.

If you enter the University of Arizona’s PhD in Nursing as an MSN graduate, you will have 64 credits to complete. It is designed as a full-time program, but there are part-time options. When taken at the traditional pace, you could graduate in as little as three years. There are ten required courses as well as a teaching practicum. You will also be able to select courses in a Substantive Area of Interest and a Minor.

First-year students in the program will have ten classes to complete on campus, in the second year, there are seven onsite classes, and in the third year, there are four onsite classes. The remaining classes, including all of those offered over summer, are online. Electives, independent study, and directed research courses are all part of the program. Working with an advisor, you can select appropriate classes that are entirely online.

You can choose to pursue the program either at full-time or part-time pace depending on the demands of your schedule. There is even a DNP to PhD option which also consists of 54 credits but allows you to transfer in a good portion of your credits. Only 39 credits in total must be completed at ECU to complete your PhD. This program does culminate in a dissertation. You can use your electives and other customizable components to focus your degree in education.

Some of the courses you’ll encounter as part of this program include Biostatistics, Theory Constructions & Testing, Ethics in Research, and more. You will also have the opportunity to complete several electives as you’re studying. You can also use your research and dissertation to further customize your program to meet your professional goals. Financial aid and stipends are available. Students receiving stipends must have permission from the Dean to engage in outside employment.

Students are admitted to the program every Fall. If you have credits to transfer, you can bring 25 with you at most. However, each credit is examined on a case by case basis, and it is not guaranteed that they will transfer. At least one continuous year of enrollment is required to graduate.

The average time it takes a student to complete the program is three years when they study at a full-time pace. Part-time options are also available; however, this does lead to the program taking longer to complete. There are three on-campus requirements for the program. Each of them lasts for a duration of one week, and they are held in the summer on the campus of the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

The online coursework of this program is presented in a blended format, including synchronous components on a regular basis and asynchronous work each week. The education area of emphasis allows you to select classes to fulfill the emphasis requirements. The current offerings include Teaching Strategies, Curriculum/Program Planning, and Evaluation, Teaching with Technologies, and a Health Professions Educator Preceptorship.

There are two main concentrations to choose from which are Biobehavioral Research and Health Care Quality Research. This PhD in Nursing will offer you a very collaborative education with access to world-class facilities and renowned nurse scientists. The program consists of 58 credits and could be finished in as little as two to three years of full-time study. It is unclear if part-time options are currently available.

At a full-time pace, you will complete about nine credits per semester. Some of the classes you’ll take include Philosophy of Human Science, Advanced Statistical Concepts for Nursing Research, Health Policy Leadership and Advocacy, and more. You will also have ample opportunities to choose your own electives so that they align with your professional path.

PhD in Nursing Science

There are asynchronous components to the curriculum, but there will be synchronous class sessions held weekly. There are 72 credit hours of study required. The majority of students are able to transfer up to 15 credits from their master’s degree, and the remaining 57 must be completed at Vanderbilt. The curriculum is broken down into 32 credits of required coursework, ten credit hours of coursework that supports your track of study, and then ten credit hours that support your area of research including your dissertation.

Some of the classes you’ll take could include Contextual Nature of Health and Health Behaviors; Knowledge Synthesis in Nursing Science; Health, Health Care, Research, And Public Policy and; Curriculum Strategies For Health Professional Education. You will also be able to select multiple electives to help prepare you as a leader in nursing education.

WVU’s online PhD in Nursing comprises 55 credits. The curriculum is broken down to include the nursing core courses, cognate courses you select with an advisor, and research courses. It will culminate in a dissertation as well as comprehensive examinations. The program can typically be completed in three or four years, depending on the pace at which you pursue the degree.

One thing that stands out about this program is that you get to design your own cognate. This means that you can focus on different areas of nursing or in education that will advance you into the career position you’re seeking. Some of the required courses include Theoretical Basis for Nursing, Health Research Statistics, Health Care Leadership, and Advanced Health Policy and Ethics. You will also conduct independent study and complete research mentorships.

PhD in Nursing Education and Administration

The entire program is 60 credits, and students can transfer in as many as 15 from their master’s education. Credits are approved for transfer on a case by case basis. You can choose a two-year option if you’d like to graduate more quickly and can dedicate the amount of time needed to study. There is also a three-year option for those of you who want to pursue your degree at a more relaxed pace.

You will take courses such as Role Development for the Nurse Educator, Instructional Strategies and Evaluation of Student Learning, Creating an Online Educational Environment, Advanced Curriculum Assessment and Evaluation, and more. The program also requires you to take comprehensive examinations and complete a dissertation.

UND’s nursing education program does not have a residency requirement; however, students of the program are required to attend at least one on-campus intensive each year. This intensive will last between three and five days. Students of this program who enter with an MSN degree can transfer up to 30 credits into the program; in addition, as many as 24 credits of post-master’s coursework can be transferred as well.

Students can take up to 30 credits worth of electives that they select in collaboration with their academic advisor. They will also take required courses like Essentials in Epidemiology, Foundations for Nurse Education, Health Informatics, Writing for Publication, and more. The program also includes classes on rural health, which is to be expected given the location of the university. In order to earn this online PhD in Nursing Education, students will also be responsible for completing a dissertation.

The on-campus components all take place over summer. The program begins with an orientation, and students will remain on campus to complete some coursework over a period of two to three weeks. All of the summer classes take place on the Villanova University campus in Villanova, Pennsylvania. All of the fall and spring courses are delivered online and in a synchronous format.

The synchronous classes are held two nights a week and take place between four in the afternoon and nine at night. There are no asynchronous courses in the program, so this is a less flexible option. Some of the classes you’ll take in this program are Philosophy & Science of Nursing, Concepts in Health and Culture, Philosophy of Higher Education, and Curriculum Design in Nursing Education. This program includes a Practicum in Nursing Education and a dissertation.

The first residency takes place in your first summer in the program and lasts for one week; this experience serves as an orientation and includes some coursework. The second residency is a two-week study abroad opportunity in either Rome, Italy, or Dublin, Ireland; housing is provided on the university’s campus there. The third residency is for you to present your dissertation topic for approval, and the final residency required is for you to defend your dissertation.

There are options for you to enter the program with an MSN or even a DNP. You will have the opportunity to receive scholarships, financial aid, and individualized mentorship throughout the program. Students who select the three-year plan of study are not advised to work while they’re earning their degree. The university does not have a strong transfer policy; you can only bring in three credits from a statistics course. The rest of the degree must be completed through Duquesne.

The focus area for those of you who want to be Nurse Educators is going to be Health Systems. This plan will cover topics in nursing education, informatics, health policy, and administration. The curriculum includes a professional development core, nursing theory core, nursing science research major, nursing science concentration, minor courses, and it will culminate in a dissertation.

Some of the classes you’ll take in the program include Biostatistics for Public Health, Theoretical Perspectives of Nursing Science, Preparing Future Faculty, and more. There will also be a directed research practicum, and you have ample opportunity to select electives that fit into your career goals. All of the classes are live sessions, or synchronous in their delivery. There are no asynchronous course options in this degree program.

Students that enter with a BSN must complete a total of 73 credits hours. Those of you who enter the program with an MSN can graduate in as little as three years, depending on the time it takes to complete your dissertation. You’ll take classes like Psychometrics, Social Justice and Population Health, Nursing Theory, and more. There are two on-campus requirements for the program. Each of these takes place in the summer and last for just three days each.

Courses are delivered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats, but they are all designed to easily fit into the lifestyle of a busy professional in the field of nursing. One amazing benefit of this online PhD in Nursing is that all students are eligible for in-state tuition rates regardless of residency. Students in the states of Washington and Tennessee are not eligible to enroll in this program due to state regulations.

Every year that you are enrolled in the program, you will have to go to the NMSU campus for one week, typically in the summer. You will also be required to attend a research conference every year; this conference is selected by the program faculty. The program will also require comprehensive examinations and a dissertation before you graduate. This is strictly a post-MSN PhD in Nursing.

Online classes at NMSU are presented asynchronously through Instructure Canvas. You can work on your classes whenever it is convenient for you but will still have to meet deadlines set forth in your syllabi. There may be some classes that include synchronous components that you will be required, but this is still a very flexible option for an online nursing education PhD.

PhD in Nursing Education

The other on-campus visits include a proposal hearing, oral comprehensive examinations, and the defense of your dissertation. Some credits may be eligible for transfer, but the maximum allowance is not detailed on the program website. You will also need to take the GRE, and it is recommended that students enrolling in this program have at least two years of teaching experience.

The curriculum includes a Nursing Science Core, Nursing Education Courses, Research Core, Electives, and your dissertation. Some of the classes you’ll take include Leadership in Health Policy, Scholarship of Teaching and Practice in Nursing Education, Advanced Nursing Curriculum Design and Program Evaluation, and more. Your electives are selected with an advisor to align with your career goals and research pursuits.

PhD in Nursing Leadership

There are a total of 48 semester hours required for graduation. If you enter the program with just a BSN, you will have to complete 12 additional hours, but these are also available entirely online. This is a PhD in Nursing Leadership and will include courses such as Policy and Politics in Healthcare, Leadership and Organizational Theory, Philosophy of Science and Nursing Sciences, and more. You can supplement this curriculum with electives that match your goals.

The University of Southern Mississippi also has an open admission process. Students are admitted to the program every fall, and applications are accepted right up until the start of the fall semester. Priority applications have a deadline of March first. Additional financial aid is available to those who are currently serving or have served in any branch of the US military.

There are a total of 60 credits required for graduation. This includes core classes, electives in a cognate area of your choosing, and a dissertation. The core classes include Concept Development in Nursing Science, Grant Writing in Nursing Research, Health Policy Leadership, Interprofessional Approaches to Bioethical Issues, and more. Your electives will account for a minimum of nine of your credits.

The program is designed to grow you into a competent nurse educator and give you the skills you need to work at an institution of higher education, a health agency, or any other health care delivery system no matter how complex. This is a post-master’s program; however, if you have earned a DNP, you can also enroll and transfer in as much as 15 credits towards your degree.

This online nursing education PhD is only open to students who already hold either an MSN or a DNP degree. In the nursing education subtrack, you will take courses like Teaching and Learning in Nursing Education, The Nurse as a Leader, Course Level Evaluation Strategies for Nurse Educators, Educational Theory and Philosophy for Nursing, and Writing a Research Grant Application.

This plan of study also includes nursing education practicum and independent teaching practicum as part of the requirements. This degree program does not result in any licensure or certification so you will need to check the requirements in the state you live in after you’ve earned your degree. There may be additional requirements to obtain the proper licensure or certifications in your state.

There are start dates in the fall and spring for the hybrid program. If you want to study entirely online, you will start the program in the fall semester. There are a total of 60 credit hours required for graduation. Required courses in the core curriculum include Philosophy of Nursing Science, Multicultural Nursing, and Theory and Foundations of Nursing Research, among others. You will also have to fulfill a research tools requirement.

You will also be able to select several different electives that are tailored to your area of research. You will select these with an advisor and can customize them to meet your career goals. This online PhD in Nursing Science is only open to students that hold an MSN. No transfer policy is outlined, so we are not confident that you will be able to transfer any credits with you.

Students are admitted to the program in the summer. The only face-to-face meetings you’re required to attend are the mandatory five-day orientations each summer before beginning your coursework. The entirety of the coursework can be completed online, and the program website does not state that you must defend your dissertation in person. The courses you’ll take are delivered in a predominantly asynchronous format.

Some of the classes you’ll take as you earn this PhD in Nursing online include Scholarship in Nursing, Data Management, Research in Transcultural Health, Health Care Policy Development, and more. You will also have the opportunity to select electives with your advisor that will help you individualize the program to meet your academic needs.

Doctor of Education with a Major in Nursing Education

You are only able to transfer in six credits from prior college experience into the program. The core curriculum of the program is different from many of the others featured here because all of the core classes are in education. They cover topics like distance learning, policy analysis, school improvement, and more. While it does have a very different core, this program is accredited by the CCNE.

All of the classes you’ll take are presented asynchronously, and the major courses dive deeper into both nursing and education. Some classes you may take include Current Trends and Issues in Nursing Education, Teaching the Adult Learner, Nursing Theory in Nursing Education, and Nursing Education Synthesis. Also, this online nursing education degree culminates in a dissertation like its PhD counterparts.

You can pursue the program full-time and finish in that three-year timeframe. If you choose to study part-time, you can see yourself graduating at twice that in six years. Those of you who have completed some graduate coursework may be eligible to transfer in as many as 15 credits towards your degree. There are no required visits to campus; however, if you live within 100 miles of the campus in Pocatello, Idaho, you may be required to defend your dissertation in person.

All of the courses you will take as part of this online PhD in Nursing are presented asynchronously. Some synchronous components, such as meetings with your advisor and defending your dissertation, are required. In addition to your electives, you will take classes like Theoretical and Conceptual Analysis in Nursing Science, Ethics in Nursing Research, Leadership and Health Policy, and more.

What Degree Do You Need to Teach Nursing?

Additionally, there are additional requirements depending on where you’d like to teach. In order to be qualified to teach at most universities, you are required to hold a PhD in Nursing. In addition to a PhD in Nursing, it is recommended that you also hold at least a post-master’s certificate in education. This is so you do not have to jump through additional hoops for getting certified to teach in your state. This is also a good idea, so you have a better understanding of the fundamentals of education.

Many PhD programs include classes in nursing education as part of their curriculum. When you are pursuing a PhD, you will have the opportunity (most of the time) to select electives in education or nursing education to help further your knowledge in the area. You can also focus your research on nursing education. If you want to teach a specific area in the field of nursing, you may want to consider getting a certification in your specialty area as well. The requirements will differ at every institution and in every state; these things will make sure that all your bases are covered when it comes to educational requirements.

Can I Be a Teacher With a Nursing Degree?

The most common choice for nurses (or those who hold a degree in nursing) that want to be teachers is to teach nursing, which you can do as well. The job outlook for nursing education as a field is very strong. That is because there is a worldwide shortage of qualified nurses in every aspect of the field and one of the ways to help bridge that gap is to educate the next generation of those who are called to be nurses. In order to teach nursing at the college level, you are likely to require a graduate-level education, but you can absolutely pursue a teaching career with a nursing degree.

Do Teachers or Nurses Get Paid More?

Beyond the bachelor’s level, nurses make even more. The average salary for a nurse practitioner is between $90,000 to $100,000 per year. Teachers, in a high school or middle school setting, make an average salary of $57,000 per year. So, nurses do make more money than teachers.

If you’re torn between the two careers, you could consider a way to do both: teach nursing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual salary for nursing teachers in close to $70,000. Depending on your specialization and your level of education, along with other factors, your salary could differ and even be much higher than average.

What is a Nurse Educators Job Description?

At an institution of higher education, a nurse educator would serve as faculty either at a school or in a teaching hospital. The responsibilities of a nurse educator could include developing lesson plans, teaching course materials, evaluating academic programs, and overseeing students’ clinical practice as they are studying for their degrees. Some nurse educators teach a general nursing course, and some of them teach courses related to their area of specialization such as adult-gerontology, pediatric, or psychiatric mental health nursing.

How Do I Become a Certified Nurse Educator?

You may also need additional certification to teach in your state, which is something you will need to thoroughly research to make sure that you meet the requirements. No authority in the field of nursing requires you to hold a certification of any kind. With that said, the National League for Nursing does offer you the opportunity by sitting for the Certified Nurse Educator exam.

To be eligible to sit for the exam, you will need to hold at least an RN license, at least an MSN degree, and have completed at least one nursing education course at an advanced level. Higher education, as well as extensive clinical experience, is recommended. This certification is not required, but it may benefit you immensely to have it because it will make you more competitive in the job market.

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CollegeRank.net

Best College Rankings

20 Best Online PhDs in Nursing

Your RN license doesn’t have to be the end of the road for your nursing career. If you are more focused on the research or academic aspects of nursing and healthcare, one of the best online Ph.D.s in Nursing might be a great choice for you.

These online programs are great for catapulting young nurses into specialty research and teaching positions in their field. There are plenty of excellent nurses and medical facilities all around the world, but there are far fewer nurses with doctoral-level degrees. Such a career path is an excellent way to make yourself stand out

What are the Best Online PhDs in Nursing?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of CollegeRank utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following three aspects:

40% Potential Salary After Graduation: Average mid-career salary of school alumni 

30% Institutional Accreditation: Regional and National Accreditation for the 2019-2020 school year 

30% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

At CollegeRank , we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].

Indiana University

Bloomington, Indiana

Average Net Price

The Hoosier State’s flagship university dates back to 1820 and has grown into a major player in American higher education. Niche’s 2020 grades recognized Indiana University with a No. 32 among Top Public Universities in America and No. 69 among Colleges with the Best Professors in America. The Hoosiers’ athletics programs have also achieved success, bringing three national titles in men’s soccer to Bloomington in the 21st century. 

Indiana University’s Ph.D. in Nursing Science allows completion of up to 99% of degree requirements through online courses. This 90-credit program includes courses on middle-range theory, biostatistics for public health, and the responsible conduct of research. Doctoral candidates also complete 16 credits of dissertation research with assistance from faculty advisors. 

The cost per credit for in-state students in 2019 was $578, with a $1,553-per-credit rate for out-of-state students. Undergraduates attending Indiana University can opt for the BSN-to-Ph.D. track to streamline their nursing education. The program also offers an MSN-to-Ph.D. with a 30-credit cap on transfer credits from other institutions. Every track requires two in-person sessions on campus during doctoral work, each lasting four days. 

University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

The University of Arizona, based in Tucson, Arizona, has earned a global reputation for scientific research and education. Students and faculty have drawn millions in grant funding for NASA projects through the university’s Lunar and Planetary Laboratory. The federally funded iPlant Collaborative placed the school at the forefront of the cloud-computing wave. U.S. News & World Report also highlights the College of Nursing’s successes with a No. 47 rank among Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. 

Ph.D. in Nursing courses can be completed entirely online at the University of Arizona. The only in-person requirement is the Resident Summer Intensive Experience (RISE), which is held in Tucson every August. U of A doctoral candidates complete their degrees in an average of 4.6 years, besting the 2017 national average of 5.8 years . The College of Nursing is home faculty members who specialize in health determinants, precision science, and data and systems science. 

RNs can find multiple paths to a doctoral degree at the University of Arizona. The university features a BSN-to-Ph.D. path, an MSN-to-Ph.D. track, and a dual doctorate path that includes the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Working nurses also benefit from a part-time option that allows six credits per semester rather than a nine-credit load. Admissions requirements for all of these Ph.D. programs include the identification of prospective faculty advisors and phone calls for finalists. 

Duke University

Durham, North Carolina

Duke University, in Durham, NC, garners national attention each year for the success of its Blue Devils men’s basketball team. The school also excels in producing graduates who take the lead in business, government, and education. Forbes ranked Duke No. 9 in Top Colleges 2019 as well as No. 16 in America’s Best Value Colleges 2019. 

The Ph.D. in Nursing is a 47-credit program that develops students’ skills in areas like quantitative research design and leadership in science. Faculty members in the School of Nursing specialize in research on chronic illnesses and care. Duke encourages student and faculty research through facilities such as its Center for Nursing Discovery. 

Admitted doctoral candidates receive up to five years of tuition and monthly stipends, which eases concerns about educational costs. The School of Nursing gets to know applicants through letters of recommendation, writing samples, and short personal statements. Prospective students who advance beyond the initial review are invited to on-campus interviews with expenses paid by the school. 

Washington State University

Pullman, Washington

Washington State University’s Pullman campus provides a picturesque setting for undergraduate and graduate programs. The green hills of the Palouse region have brought students to Washington State since 1890. U.S. News & World Report ranks the university among the nation’s best for return on investment, with a No. 106 ranking among its Best Value Schools. Programs like the Ph.D. in Nursing contribute to this ranking with the latest educational tools and experienced faculty. 

Doctoral candidates complete most of their work through the university’s online platform, though the College of Nursing requires a few weeks of in-person work during a student’s first summer session. Coursework helps Ph.D. students explore topics such as psychometrics in health care research and statistical methods. Washington State University’s Program of Excellence in Addictions Research allows RNs to conduct studies alongside faculty and researchers. 

Applicants to the Ph.D. program need to complete a master’s degree prior to admission. The university sets high standards for first-year students, with a minimum GPA of 3.5 required in master’s work. Potential students are expected to submit published academic work and research plans along with their applications. The school’s Nurse Faculty Loan Program provides loan forgiveness of up to $35,000 for Ph.D. students who commit to at least four years of university teaching. 

West Virginia University

Morgantown, West Virginia

West Virginia University underwent a quick name change after its 1867 founding in Morgantown, West Virginia. The school started as the Agricultural College of West Virginia, but adopted its current name in 1868. Legislators recognized early that the university went beyond agricultural education to span dozens of disciplines. Niche’s 2020 grades highlighted how far West Virginia University has come with a No. 94 ranking among the Top Public Universities in America. 

Doctoral candidates in the School of Nursing complete most of their courses online. The school requires Ph.D. students to attend one day of in-person courses in the fall and spring semesters, along with six days on campus prior to their first semester of study. West Virginia University promotes both part- and full-time Ph.D. options that accommodate students’ work schedules. 

This Ph.D. program stands out among others on this list for its publication requirements. Each student must submit at least one article to a peer-reviewed journal before sitting for the final qualifying exam. The School of Nursing also requires acceptance of a peer-reviewed article by a journal before completion of the dissertation. 

New Mexico State University

Las Cruces, New Mexico

New Mexico State University provides a unique setting for students seeking a Ph.D. in nursing. The Organ Mountains on the horizon and the white-sand desert surrounding Las Cruces represent the beauty of the American Southwest. Online and traditional students alike benefit from NMSU’s exceptional programs. U.S. News & World Report supports the university’s reputation for online education with a No. 113 rank among the Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. 

The School of Nursing requires applicants to show completion of inferential statistics classes prior to admission. A master’s degree in nursing plus a current RN license from any state is also mandatory. Ph.D. applicants demonstrate their mastery of current nursing practices through writing samples, resumes, and interviews with faculty members. 

Every Ph.D. student begins their coursework in the summer after acceptance into the program but the school does allow completion of courses and assignments without setting foot on campus. There is a one-week residential requirement each spring that allows connections between students and faculty. Faculty members also identify a research conference each year to be attended by all doctoral candidates. 

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, Tennessee

Cornelius Vanderbilt’s $1 million grant to Central University, in Nashville, TN,  in 1873 launched a global leader in science education. Vanderbilt’s name was bestowed on the school after his death in 1877, but his investment resonates into the 21st century. Niche has highlighted the advances made by Vanderbilt University with a No. 1 ranking among Best Colleges for Education in America and a No. 4 spot among the Best Colleges for Psychology in America. The Ph.D. in Nursing Science contributes to the reputation built by Vanderbilt University since Reconstruction. 

Ph.D. candidates in the School of Nursing use online courses to work through the curriculum. Vanderbilt offers a part-time path, along with clinical research and health services research tracks. Faculty help students through advanced courses in research design, knowledge synthesis, and measurement in clinical research. Every student attends a weeklong residential course each semester during their first two years of study. 

The application for this Ph.D. program requires GRE scores, resumes, three letters of recommendation, and unofficial transcripts. Each prospective student must also submit up to two samples of academic research along with a statement of goals. Vanderbilt University provides all full-time candidates with $5,000 stipends for their first three years in the program. The program also offers scholarships covering 100% of tuition to promising students. 

University of Kansas

Lawrence, Kansas

The University of Kansas extends beyond its flagship Lawrence, KS campus to four additional locations and a robust online program. The KU brand is carried across the Great Plains thanks to the on-court successes of the Jayhawks men’s basketball team. U.S. News & World Report pointed to the school’s successes in online education with a No. 35 in Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. RNs across the country can access distance learning opportunities at KU like its Ph.D. in Nursing program. 

Admissions standards for this program show why a University of Kansas degree is valuable. Every Ph.D. candidate previously earned at least a 3.5 GPA as an undergraduate and a 3.25 GPA as a master’s student. The program’s GRE preferences are at least 297 out of 340 for the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections. The School of Nursing also evaluates candidates for their potential to act as leaders in the nursing profession after graduation. 

Ph.D. students work with faculty advisors to adapt their studies based on research interests. The program features concentrations in education, health systems, and symptom science. Each candidate completes 52 credits of courses in topics such as health care research and grant writing. The University of Kansas requires attendance at summer residencies each semester for a student’s first three years, with each residency ending in a qualifying exam. 

George Washington University

Washington, D.C.

George Washington University has trained future academics, business leaders, and public figures in the nation’s capital since 1821. Prominent alumni include U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren and journalist Bob Woodward. Despite its location and reputation, George Washington University remains a great value for college students. U.S. News & World Report placed the school at No. 86 among the Best Value Schools for 2019-2020. 

The school’s 57-credit Ph.D. in Nursing leans heavily toward distance learning. Required courses like Systematic Review and Non-Experimental Research Design are designed for online learners. Every doctoral student completes an orientation in the summer prior to their first year. George Washington University also requires two weeks on campus per semester through the first two years of doctoral work. 

Nursing students are not restricted to Ph.D. work to prepare for future professional demands. George Washington University offers six graduate certificates that can be completed alongside the doctoral requirements. RNs interested in advanced patient care can pursue one of four family nurse practitioner certificates. The school also features certifications in health policy and media engagement as well as nursing education.

University of Missouri

Columbia, Missouri

The University of Missouri staked its claim in American higher education history at its founding in 1839. Settlers from the east were able to stop in Columbia, MO to learn at the nation’s first public university west of the Mississippi River. Today, these humble roots are in the rearview mirror, thanks to the university’s growth into a regional leader. Forbes placed the school at No. 39 in the Midwest and No. 68 among Public Colleges. 

The Sinclair School of Nursing touts its willingness to accept Ph.D. applicants without nursing degrees. Prospective doctoral candidates without BSN or MSN degrees should hold degrees in health care fields like public health or health education. Applicants who hold bachelor’s degrees are expected to enter with a GPA of at least 3.3 on prior work. The minimum GPA in previous courses for master’s degree holders is 3.5. 

The Ph.D. in Nursing allows candidates to specialize in Symptom Science, Wellness in Underserved Populations, and Health Innovations. The only in-person requirements throughout a candidate’s enrollment are one week of orientation and a four-day intensive course each April. Online Ph.D. candidates paid tuition rates of $473.93 per credit during the 2019-2020 school year. 

University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, North Dakota

The University of North Dakota maintains a regional reputation for high-level academic research from its Grand Forks campus. The university’s Red River Valley Research Corridor facilitates scientific advances through organizations like the Center for Rural Health and the Upper Midwest Aerospace Consortium. Niche has recognized the breadth of the school’s academic programs with a ranking of No. 127 among Top Public Universities in America. 

The Ph.D. in Nursing at the University of North Dakota is geared toward candidates interested in academic and clinical research careers. Admissions officials with the School of Graduate Studies expect Ph.D. applicants to hold a minimum 3.5 GPA in previous graduate work. The application process includes an interview for all candidates who meet the minimum requirements. 

Doctoral candidates delve into the complexities of research funding, rural health care ethics, and rural health programs in online courses. Part-time students are able to complete all pre-dissertation work in three years. To complete the degree, each candidate must create and propose a grant to outside organizations for dissertation research. Advanced candidates also need to submit their research for publication in a peer-reviewed journal and present their work at conferences approved by faculty members. 

University of Nevada Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas is a relative newcomer among the Ph.D. programs on this list. The school was founded as a satellite center for the University of Nevada in 1957. UNLV gained national prominence thanks to the Running Rebels men’s basketball team in the early 1990s. Niche’s 2020 grades show the strides made by UNLV in the classroom with a No. 118 ranking among Best Big Colleges in America. 

UNLV’s Ph.D. in Nursing is available in both part- and full-time tracks. Part-time students complete their courses in four years, while full-time candidates can finish their classes in three. Ph.D. students explore subjects like knowledge development and qualitative research methods through online classes. The program’s lone face-to-face requirement is a two-day orientation, which is held prior to a student’s first semester. 

UNLV’s high standards ensure that Ph.D. candidates work with the best students in the country. Successful applicants are expected to hold BSN and MSN degrees prior to admission. The School of Nursing sets a minimum GPA of 3.5 on graduate work and requires a graduate statistics course for each applicant. Funding options for doctoral candidates include the AfterCollege/AACN Nursing Scholarship Fund and the AORN Foundation Scholarship. 

University of Mississippi

Jackson, Mississippi

The University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi, looms large on the Southern higher education scene. Forbes ranked the university No. 82  in The South and No. 134 among Public Colleges. The school received a No. 68 ranking among Best Big Colleges in America from Niche. The University of Mississippi Medical Center is the only academic program for advanced nursing education in the state. 

RNs enjoy multiple routes to the Ph.D. in Nursing from the university. BSN holders can use the program’s post-bachelor option to complete doctoral requirements with prior graduate work. Nurses with graduate degrees in the field can also pursue standalone doctorates through online courses. Ph.D. candidates complete courses in six areas of study, including writing for funding, ethics in research, and statistics. 

The application process for this program includes submitting recent GRE scores; medical Center faculty expect combined Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores of 300 out of the 340-point scale. Applicants must also submit three letters of recommendation and work histories to confirm their experience. The program connects faculty with qualified applicants for interviews prior to final decisions. 

University of Central Florida

Orlando, Florida

The University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, was founded in the 1960s to help the U.S. expand its space program. This original mission expanded to additional academic disciplines when Florida Tech became the University of Central Florida in 1978. The university’s history of high-tech education is reflected in its online degree offerings. 

U.S. News & World Report ranked the school No. 26 in Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs for 2019-2020. The College of Nursing features two Ph.D. tracks that can be completed almost entirely online. The BSN-to-Ph.D. track is a full-time option with three days of on-campus research required per week. This track and the standalone Ph.D. track require two face-to-face intensives each year. 

The Ph.D. track is available to part-time and full-time students. Qualified nurses who hold associate degrees in the discipline plus bachelor’s degrees in other fields can take three graduate courses to participate in the program. A student’s first three years include courses such as Scientific Writing and Health Care System and Policy. Three semesters of dissertation research are part of the standard academic plan. 

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

Indianapolis, Indiana

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis (IUPUI) is a mouthful but offers great value for its students. IUPUI is part of the Indiana University system but offers Purdue University degrees in engineering and science. The university came together through a merger of the Indianapolis campuses of each system in 1969. Forbes rated IUPUI No. 213 in Public Colleges and No. 230 in Research Universities for 2019. 

The Ph.D. in Nursing Science from IUPUI can be completed online on a part- or full-time schedule. Part-time students complete their work in as little as four years, while full-timers can finish in three years. The School of Nursing employs faculty members who specialize in nursing education and clinical nursing science. Doctoral candidates build foundations for their future careers with courses such as Middle-Range Theory and Biostatistics for Public Health. 

IUPUI nursing students can apply for up to $2,500 per year through the School of Nursing Scholarship. The school also works with outside partners to offer postdoctoral fellowships in oncology and behavioral nursing. Doctoral students and faculty collaborate through institutes like the Research in Palliative and End-of-Life Communication and Training Center. 

Illinois State University

Normal, Illinois

Illinois State University set the standard as the state’s first public university at its founding in 1857, Recognition like Niche’s No. 39 rank in Best Colleges for Education in America is unsurprising, given the school’s origins as a teacher’s college. The Ph.D. in Nursing is among many programs that also put Illinois State University at No. 134 among Top Public Universities in America. 

The nursing program looks for applicants who have completed MSN degrees with a minimum 3.0 GPA. GRE scores are required unless an applicant has at least a 3.4 GPA in their past 60 graduate credits. A completed application includes a statement of goals and interests, a copy of a current RN license, three references, and a resume. During application reviews, faculty and staff try to match qualified applicants with faculty who share research interests. 

Accepted Ph.D. candidates are required to attend one course per week at the main campus in Normal, IL. The remaining courses can be completed without setting foot in classrooms. Illinois State University offers graduate assistantships to offset educational expenses. A graduate assistant receives a monthly stipend, 100% tuition coverage, and tuition coverage for up to 12 summer credits. 

University of Iowa

Football players and fans at the University of Iowa’s home football games end each game’s first quarter by waving to patients at the Steady Family Children’s Hospital. This gesture by the community in Iowa City, Iowa, shows the university’s commitment to health care education. U.S. News & World Report ranked the school No. 65 in Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. The publication also placed the university No. 17 in Best Nursing Schools for Doctor of Nursing Practice. 

The College of Nursing takes a broad approach in its search for Ph.D. applicants. Admitted students may hold BSN, MSN, or graduate degrees in health-related fields. The college also accepts exceptional applicants with associate degrees combined with additional undergraduate or graduate degrees. Ph.D. applicants do not need to submit GRE scores or hold current RN certification, as long as they demonstrate success in academic and professional settings. 

The University of Iowa uses courses like Health Policy and Biological Markers in Health Research to train future academic researchers. Doctoral candidates can complete research residencies and interdisciplinary courses during summer sessions. The College of Nursing helps candidates transition into doctoral work with tuition waivers and monthly stipends through three years of coursework. 

Texas Woman’s University

Denton, Texas

Texas Woman’s University was opened in 1901 to provide domestic and technical skills to female students. All programs became co-educational in 1994, but a focus on market-ready skills remains to this day. The school’s College of Nursing was founded in 1954 and was one of the first programs in the world to offer a Ph.D. in Nursing. U.S. News & World Report ranked Texas Woman’s University No. 70 in Best Nursing Schools for Master’s Degrees. 

The Ph.D. in Nursing Science takes different forms at the school’s Denton and Houston campuses. Students can complete all of their courses online through the main campus in Denton. The Houston campus balances online and in-person courses for its version of the Ph.D. Doctoral candidates can opt for full- or part-time studies to accommodate their schedules. 

Nursing students must gain admission to both the Graduate School and the nursing program. The Graduate School uses a minimum 3.0 GPA in previous college courses as the baseline for all applicants. Program-specific requirements include a current RN license, a master’s degree in nursing, and graduate courses in nursing research and theory. 

East Carolina University

Greenville, North Carolina

East Carolina University’s research institutes and labs show why the school has a strong reputation for health education. The university’s Greenville, North Carolina, campus is home to facilities like the East Carolina Heart Institute and the Family Medicine Center. U.S. News & World Report has lauded the school’s online health programs, including a No. 27 rank among the Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs for 2019-2020.

The Ph.D. in Nursing evolves from mostly in-person courses in the first year to a mostly online program in the third year. Every summer course and most electives are available through the school’s online platform. The College of Nursing features a BSN-to-Ph.D. path, an MSN-to-Ph.D. track, and a DNP-to-Ph.D. option. Every track is available with part-time and full-time schedules. The BSN-to-Ph.D. track offers specializations in Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership. 

Admissions requirements for the College of Nursing vary based on an applicant’s education level. First-year students who hold BSN degrees need to submit GRE scores and hold a minimum GPA of 3.3. The MSN and DNP options do not require GRE scores, but do require a minimum 3.2 GPA in graduate work. Every applicant submits standard materials like a 400-word essay on professional goals and two letters of recommendation. 

University of Missouri-Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri

Lincoln and Lee University and the University of Kansas City were previous iterations of the University of Missouri – Kansas City. This public university houses one of two medical colleges in the state, along with nationally recognized nursing, dentistry, and pharmacy programs. U.S. News & World Report has acknowledged the university’s online degree options with a No. 19 in Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. 

The School of Nursing and Health Studies has designed online Ph.D. tracks for BSN and MSN holders. Students looking to jump from the BSN to the Ph.D. program need to complete four graduate courses. BSN and MSN applicants should demonstrate a minimum 3.2 GPA and a current RN license. The program makes GRE score submission voluntary, though it considers results as good evidence of academic potential.

First-year students bolster their research and statistics skills through reading courses. In years two and three, the Ph.D. program adds discussions of the philosophy of science and social justice. The University of Missouri – Kansas City offers a comprehensive exam course that helps doctoral students anticipate this final step before dissertation research. Doctoral candidates complete up to 12 credits in research before defending their work. 

Frequently Asked Questions

A PhD can open doors in research, academia, and leadership. It’s beneficial for those passionate about advancing nursing science and making significant contributions to the field. There are fellowships available to provide financial support for students pursuing a doctoral degree in nursing.

Most PhD in Nursing programs take 4-6 years. Factors that influence how long it takes include: • Enrollment status (full- or part-time). • Program structure. • Time to conduct research and write dissertation.

The best doctorate degree for a nurse depends on career goals. A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is ideal for students focused on advanced clinical practice and leadership. A PhD in Nursing suits students interested in research, academia, or policy. Both degrees offer distinct paths.

You can do many jobs with a PhD in Nursing. Some nurses pursue roles in leadership, while others work in academia. You can contribute to advancing nursing science, conduct research studies, publish scholarly articles, and teach at the university level. PhD nurses can also hold influential positions in healthcare policy, administration, or take on leadership roles within healthcare organizations.

Here are several jobs to consider: • Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) • Clinical Research Coordinator • Director of Nursing Education • Healthcare Consultant • Health Policy Analyst • Nursing Administrator • Nursing Faculty • Public Health Specialist • Researcher

It is possible to get a PhD in Nursing without a master’s degree. Some doctoral programs accept candidates with a bachelor’s degree, particularly those with exceptional qualifications or relevant experience. This is a less common practice and depends on the program.

It depends on your career goals. A DNP is geared toward advanced clinical practice and leadership, while a PhD is for research, academia, and policy. The path you take depends on your personal and career aspirations. Both degrees contribute greatly to nursing and offer great rewards.

Yes, a PhD in Nursing requires the completion of a dissertation. The dissertation is a research project that demonstrates your ability to conduct independent and original research in the field of nursing. It is a key component of the doctoral program, showcasing your scholarly and research skills.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, less than 1% of today’s nursing workforce hold PhDs. Most nurses have degrees at the undergraduate or master’s level.

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A PhD or doctorate crossing a spectrum of fields – education, technology, healthcare, among others – is the ultimate attainment signifying your mastery over a particular domain, and the most advanced degrees are available online.

Here, we’ll handhold you through the best online phd cheap programs that minimize student debt, inspire you to contribute original research, teach others, and bring impactful change.

We’ve mentioned the school’s Carnegie classification, research activity, rankings methodology, and probable graduate earning potential to guide you in making an informed choice regarding the right degree.

American College of Education . A private-for-profit providing distance learning in four significant disciplines – leadership, education, nursing, and healthcare. Students have a choice of seven cheap online phd degrees in these disciplines, highlighting the following domains:

Curriculum and Instruction

Instructional Technology

Second Language Instruction

Nursing Education

Public Health Education

Course completion could be three years or less, considering the student’s academic background, work-life balance, and intended career path.

The U.S. Department of Education’s Higher Learning Commission bestows accreditation to ACE’s doctoral degrees.

UA’s online doctoral degrees enjoy massive popularity, with nearly 42 percent of its students opting for off-campus online courses.

The University of Alabama offers one of the cheapest phd online in Communication, Engineering, and Leadership, covering the following happening fields:

Communication and information sciences

Mechanical engineering

Education leadership

Special education

Nursing Practice (DNP)

The student’s knowledge and domain expertise are honed to advance academic growth and expand professional opportunities in public and private services and industrial sectors.

UA’s Carnegie Classification is high, and accreditation body SACSCOC extends accreditation for UA’s phd online cheap associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctorate degrees.

The average SAT is 1080-1340, and financial aid benefits over 79 percent of the student enrollment.

Texas Tech University , with a humongous following exceeding 7,000 students, offers ten of the cheapest online phd degrees focusing on education, helping graduates dig deeper into teacher education, program development, and evaluation.

TTU offers nine of the cheapest online phd programs in the world in Higher Education Administration, Special Education, and Philosophy in Curriculum plus instruction through the Texas eLearning and Academic Partnerships initiative.

Additionally, an online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership helps students focus on problem-shooting educational best practices, implementing beneficial interventions, and leading the way to impactful and instructional change in the education sector.

The SACSCOC awards accreditation extending to TTUs associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctorate degrees and certificates, and the university’s Carnegie Classification is top-rated.

The average SAT is 1070-1260, and financial aid benefits over 78 percent of the student enrollment.

The vibrant innovation hub, CITL, Illinois , attracts a 20,000 student following, with 47 percent of students attending online courses, competing for five top-rated cheapest phd programs online.

Diversity and Equity in Education

Global Studies in Education

Human Resource Development

International Education Administration and Leadership

Learning Design and Leadership.

Please note that these are some of the cheapest online phd in the world, customized primarily with teachers in mind, bestowing impeccable credentials necessary to impact students meaningfully.

The EdD in Human Resources is also tailor-made to kickstart careers in the business ecosystem.

The Illinois University’s Carnegie Classification rides high, and accreditation is by the Higher Learning Commission, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The University of Illinois SAT score averages 1210 to 1470, and financial aid options benefit 64 percent of students.

AU has an online student graduate 3000-strong community enrolling for seven of the cheapest phd online programs in three highly evolving fields – education, nursing, and technology. Prized programs are:

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The online EdD in Leadership and Learning targeting mid-career professionals.

Doctor of Science in Computer Science (DSCS)

The Distance Education Accrediting Commission, or DEAC, a Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) member, is primarily responsible for the accreditation of all Aspen’s doctoral degree programs.

Most Affordable and Cheapest Online PhD Programs: Your questions answered here

Research and professional doctorates are available online; the courses much in demand among working professionals are the following: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

The online route helps students manage their career goals without the discomfort of a residency stipulation, as the coursework can be built around professional commitments without dislocation.

Online and in-person courses have similar requirements – admission norms, a minimum bachelor’s degree with a higher GPA, a competitive GRE or entrance exam score, and submission of outstanding references and erudite personal essays.

The time and effort you put into developing and conducting primary research is similar. In online courses, students can expect a few on-campus meetings, topic-customized conferences, some practicums, or residencies lasting two days to two weeks.

The online system requires the same time management skills, excellent communication, and meticulous adherence to project deadlines.

The acceptability of a program and its credibility rests with the accreditation awarded to the university. Accreditation indicates that the university’s capabilities and infrastructure have been independently evaluated to ensure Doctoral Degrees fulfill the highest accountability standards.

The stringent standards of online Doctoral Degree coursework, the difficulty level of examinations, and the excellence of research work are of the same caliber as an on-campus course.

Just as the traditional doctoral courses, the online programs require a master’s degree in a related field or a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field, over and above the following standards:

A GPA of 3.0 or better

Impeccably referenced letters of recommendation

Persuasive and purposeful personal statements

Competitive GRE/other exam scores

Some universities may insist on a certain amount of field experience or some years of working experience.

US schools are permitting students to bypass the master’s degree to earn a doctoral degree directly, which is a very welcome opportunity.

For candidates aiming to kickstart a career in academia, locating a PhD program that entertains students with only bachelor’s degrees would be possible. The rigor of coursework is so elevated that many students are awarded a master’s degree on the way to earning a doctorate.

If students earn their master’s degree first, they would have explored their niche topics threadbare and become better acclimatized to the performance expectations and standards of the university.

Students with a master’s degree can also customize their subjects and research work in the university, adding maximum value. It’s always advisable to ensure the new university accepts your master’s credits earned in the first institution.

How do we choose the perfect, most affordable phd programs online?

The choice of the program hinges mainly on the career you wish to pursue. A doctor, pharmacist, occupational therapist, or tenured professor must earn a doctoral degree. On the other hand, we have a slew of high-paying, high-level jobs across economic sectors that do not require a doctoral degree.

Executive management posts, education administrators, healthcare administration, and mental health professionals are positions where a doctorate isn’t necessary.

Generally, the doctoral degree is valuable for candidates desiring to enter teaching and research fields instead of non-doctoral degree options that cover workplace jobs in institutions and businesses.

For example, if you consider the job of a Speech-Language Pathologist who treats communication and speech disorders, the candidate with a master’s degree can earn at least $58,000 annually. The SLP with a doctorate is better placed to grab academic and research positions commanding higher salaries.

The average total expense for an online graduate degree, master’s or doctoral degree, is $12,200 at public schools to $27,800 at nonprofit private schools, according to data released by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Notwithstanding the statistical data, the ground reality pegs affordable online doctorate degrees from $15,441 in public schools to $13,188 at private universities.

A silver lining is that many students are not compelled to pay the total cost of their degrees but enjoy either fully funded programs or some form of partial financial assistance in completing the degree.

The duration of a doctoral program depends on the credit hours involved, and these average around 36 to 126 hours of coursework. It follows that the average time taken to complete an online or on-campus degree works out to be three to eight years.

The overall course duration may be further reduced if credits for related coursework are transferred from previous universities.

The duration of the dissertation or capstone project is another factor lengthening the period of the doctoral degree. Some students may experience repeated submissions of their dissertations to secure necessary approval.

In the later stages of the doctoral degree, factors such as workplace commitments for professionals and family obligations could weigh in to delay the graduate degree.

Research-oriented doctoral graduates might hit the brick wall of many degree holders chasing too few jobs in academia and the institutional framework. Only exceptional talent breaks the glass ceiling of top institutional/ Academic positions. On the other hand, the demand for doctorate holders in the applied fields is stronger, especially in applied sciences and technology.

Before investing your time, energy, and resources in a doctorate of your liking, review the professional degrees appearing on the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) current listing of fastest-growing occupations. Physical therapists, teachers in the healthcare sector, and lawyers are currently in better demand.

The high-level, highest-paying jobs in governments, companies, and nonprofits with smooth career progression are usually the domain of the doctorate holders.

Indeed, the doctorate holder is at the pinnacle of prowess having notched up an impressive achievement. Luckily, the revolution in online education has opened plenty of opportunities to advance education and career goals if you display the right attitude and determination.

Traditional courses demand full-time participation and are more expensive. In comparison, the online doctoral degree presents convenient options through distance learning; they cost much less than their on-campus counterparts. Besides, the online doctorate is the most feasible way to plan your career goals in coverage, curriculum, and affordability.

The institutions we have listed above are at the top of their league. They enjoy their hard-won reputation as harbingers of better education, offering some of the cheapest online doctoral programs.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

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Top 20 Cheapest Online PhD Programs in 2024

If you’re looking to earn a Ph.D. without committing to full-time study, an online Ph.D.  might be a fantastic option. Many students can juggle their thesis, work, and family commitments, but unfortunately, online doctorates tend to come with a hefty price tag.

That said, you don’t have to break the bank to pursue your qualification! We’ve compiled the 15 cheapest online Ph.D. programs in 2024.

Table of Contents

The 20 Cheapest Online Ph.D. Programs

Related : Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees

1. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

• Missouri State University
• Annual tuition : $14,700
• Cost per credit: No information available
• In-person requirement: 100% online
• Credits required to graduate: 29 credit hours

The Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Missouri State University is one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in nursing. It offers incredible flexibility, letting full-time and part-time students choose between attending classes in real time or watching replays on their own time. The program provides a clear overview of modern scientific methods and practices, entrepreneurship, finance management principles, and health policy for senior nursing professionals.

2. Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc)

• Pacific College of Health and Science
• Annual tuition : $9,988
• Cost per credit: $454
• Credits required to graduate: See the model curriculum

This online program is designed for anyone with a Master’s in Acupuncture. It aims to give students a deeper understanding of Chinese medicine and general biomedicine, specifically acupuncture. It will also sharpen students’ knowledge of healthcare ethics, build leadership skills, and enhance their problem-solving capabilities. This is one of the cheapest online doctorate programs available today, especially considering the number of credit hours.

3. Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Agriculture Education/Higher Education Administration

• Texas Tech University
• Annual tuition : $8,779 (based on full-time courseload of 18 credit hours, for all online learners)
• Cost per credit: $488 per credit hour in-state online learners. According to Texas Tech University, students may pay around the same for out-of-state (although there may be some fees)
• In-person requirement: Hybrid
• Credits required to graduate: 72 credit hours minimum

This cheap online doctoral program in education is delivered entirely online. To be eligible, students need relevant professional experience. For Higher Education specialization, they’ll also require professional experience at a post-secondary institution. The Agriculture Education program will help students develop critical thinking in agricultural research, statistics, and communication.

4. Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

• North Carolina A&T State University
• Annual tuition: $4,194 for in-state students, $15,480 for out-of-state students
• Cost per credit : $233 per credit hour for in-state students, $860 per credit hour for out-of-state students
• Credits required to graduate: 60 credit hours minimum, 48 hours of coursework, 12 hours for dissertation

This interdisciplinary program is for master’s degree holders who want to research sociology and behavior in order to learn more about leadership qualities. The program requires 42 program credits and 12 dissertation credits. This online doctorate is relevant to various industries and disciplines. Upon successful completion, students will be qualified for a range of roles in consultancy, research, and education.

Related : The best one-year online Ph.D. programs

5. Ph.D. in Computer Science

• Colorado Technical University
• Annual tuition: $13,393
• Cost per credit: $598 per credit hour
• In-person requirement: Courses are 100% online. On-campus residency is required during research.
• Credits required to graduate: 100 credit hours are obtainable in as few as three years.

This 100-credit program in computer science provides a modern, relevant approach to computing. With deep knowledge in a specialized area of computer science, students are equipped to predict future trends in the field and make significant contributions to the sector. This program will help them become experts in computer design, security, and processes. As one of the most affordable online Ph.D. programs in computer science, classes are flexible, so students can arrange their studies around their schedule.

Considering that 100 credits are required to graduate, this Colorado Technical University program is one of the most inexpensive Ph.D. programs online.

6. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

• Indiana State University
• Annual tuition : $8,103 for in-state students, $10,527 for out-of-state students
• Cost per credit: $438 per credit hour in-state. Out-of-state students pay $861 per credit hour unless they’re eligible for online rates ($569). A $50 per graduate course fee is added to online learning courses .
• In-person requirement: 100% online
• Credits required to graduate: 37 credit hours, no dissertation required

Students require a Master’s in Nursing to be eligible for Indiana State University’s online DNP program. This program doesn’t involve writing a dissertation, and the entire course can be completed in 37 credit hours. It is designed to develop and sharpen knowledge of care delivery, ethics, leadership, and decision-making while developing critical thinking skills to provide patient care.

To earn a DNP, Indiana State University offers one of the more affordable Ph.D. programs online.

7. Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction

• New Mexico State University
• Annual tuition: $17,551
• Cost per credit: $444.40 per credit hour for all students .
• In-person requirement: One week of in-person learning at the Las Cruces campus during the summer session (required for three summers)
• Credits required to graduate: 66 credit hour minimum. Depending on your advisor and committee suggestions, more may be requested.

The C&I (Curriculum and Instruction) online doctorate at New Mexico State University is a generalist doctoral qualification. You can choose to specialize in multicultural teaching, early childhood education, education and technology, cultural studies, or critical pedagogies. The program also offers the option to choose independent courses to enhance your particular area of study.

The C&I doctoral program is one of the most affordable Ph.D. programs online (a flat rate of $444.4 per credit hour) whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student.

8. Doctor of Public Health / Global Health Leadership

• Indiana University Online
• Annual tuition: $10,350 for in-state students, $22,500 for out-of-state students
• Cost per credit hour: $690 in-state, $1,500 out-of-state
• In-person requirement: Three face-to-face meetings in both Year 1 and Year 2. Otherwise, everything else is online.
• Credits required to graduate: 45 credits over an average of three years

This doctoral qualification specializing in global and public health uses a global curriculum from an international faculty. The program accepts two cohorts: a group with seven years of work experience (after completing a master’s degree) and one for students with at least a few years’ experience post master’s.

Indiana University’s program is designed for professionals in the public health  sector – and it’s one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs of its kind.

9. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

• University of Massachusetts – Amherst
• Annual tuition : $14,850 (based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
• Cost per credit: $825 per credit hour
• In-person requirement: If you already have an MSN and are a CPN (Advanced), you can join the online DNP completion program.
• Credits required to graduate: 36 credit hours

The University of Massachusetts’ online doctorate program in Nursing Practice allows professionals to enhance their practical skills and knowledge of medical care. It also helps them to think critically about advanced scientific knowledge in healthcare, analyze clinical results, and perfect their leadership skills while taking an evidence-based approach through the latest healthcare and nursing research.

10. EdD in Higher Education Administration

• University of Wyoming
• Annual tuition : $6,460 for in-state students, $19,340 for out-of-state students
• Cost per credit: $359 per credit hour for in-state students. $1,075 per credit hour for out-of-state students.
• In-person requirement: Initial campus visit, then almost entirely online
• Credits required to graduate: Roughly 75

University of Wyoming’s doctoral program aims to create education leaders that effectively manage higher education institutions. Students can complete the program with around 75 credits. This program can be completed almost entirely online (though it does require an initial campus visit). If you’re looking for the cheapest Ph.D. online, this is certainly one of them.

11. Doctor of Philosophy in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

• Auburn University
• Annual tuition : $17,082 ((based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
• Cost per credit: $949 per credit hour
• In-person requirement: You may be required to visit the campus for oral exams and project/thesis/dissertation defense
• Credits required to graduate: 30 credit hours minimum for a thesis option, 36 credit hours minimum for the non-thesis option

This is one of the few online doctoral specializations available for professionals in the field of chemical engineering. It is also one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs in the discipline, requiring 30 course credits and 10 research credits to complete. If you’re looking for a cheap online Ph.D. in engineering, this offering from Auburn University might suit you.

Specialization subjects include polymer chemistry and conduction in polymers, mechanics of materials made of textiles, fabrics used for producing paper, along with many others. Any student with a master’s degree from a recognized institution in a relevant field (e.g., biomedical engineering, polymer science) is eligible for the program.

12. Ph.D. of Philosophy in Nursing

• Hampton University
• Annual tuition: $9,382 – $10,425 (based on completing 54 to 60 credits over four years)
• Cost per credit: $695
• Credits required to graduate: 54 to 60 credits over an average of 4 years; 7 years maximum

To apply, students need a master’s degree in a relevant field. This online doctoral degree requires a minimum of 48 credits (beyond a master’s degree) for completion. This is a flexible program where students can pursue areas of interest beyond the core subjects.

13. Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

• Liberty University
• Annual tuition: $13,566 on average
• Cost per credit: $595 per credit for full-time students (6-15 credits per semester)
• Credits required to graduate: 57 credit hours over 2.5 years (on average)

This 100% online and highly flexible program is offered by Liberty University, a higher education institution grounded in Christian values. The program specializes in diagnosis, treatment, and counseling, especially in family and marriage, as well as research and education methodology. Note : This EdD degree does not meet state counseling licensure requirements.

14. Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy

• Annual tuition: $11,900 on average
• Cost per credit:  $595 per credit hour for full-time online (enrolled in 6 to 15 credits per semester)
• Credits required to graduate: 60 credit hours over 3 years on average

This online doctoral program can be completed in 60 credit hours and aims to equip students for the world of public policy. It encourages new research to improve and transform the public policy sector through Christian doctrine.

15. Doctor of Business Administration

• Columbia Southern University
• Annual tuition : $8,845
• Cost per credit: $435
• Credits required to graduate: minimum of 61 credits (up to 9 can be transferred)

One of the most affordable online degree programs in Business Administration, this Columbia Southern Ph.D. allows students to develop advanced leadership and decision-making skills, focusing on both research and the application of theory. To earn their doctorate, students need to complete a dissertation and defend it before a committee (which can be done remotely). In addition to this project-based study, students must also complete coursework on topics such as corporate responsibility, financial and accounting management, and quantitative data analysis.

16. Juris Doctor

• Abraham Lincoln University
• Annual tuition : $11,375
• Cost per credit: $325 per quarter unit
• Credits required to graduate: 140 quarter units over four years

The Juris Doctor program offered by Abraham Lincoln University is one of the oldest online law schools in California. Fully online, students learn a range of advanced analytical, technical, and research skills to practice law or work in a range of positions in the legal sector. The program is registered with the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California.

17. Doctor of Education (EdD)

• William Howard Taft University
• Annual tuition: $6,480 (based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
• Cost per credit: $360
• Credits required to graduate: 60 credits

This online Ph.D. in Education program equips students with advanced knowledge of organizational development, educational psychology, diversity in education, and law & ethics. Students can choose between three concentrations: Leadership & Administration, Educational Technology, and Charter School Administration.

18. Online Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

• Arizona State University
• Tuition : $10,170 (for a full-time load of nine credit hours per semester)
• Cost per credit: $565
• Credits required to graduate: 90 credit hours

This affordable online doctorate is offered in a cohort model that is designed to provide students with a high degree of academic support. As part of this model, students are placed in leader scholar community groups to improve student experiences and promote better learning outcomes. Designed for practicing educators and leaders in the education sector, the program gives educators the tools to better support student success and drive positive change in classrooms – and across entire institutions.

Students may opt for one of three educational pathways:

• Pre-K to Grade 12 Change Leadership
• Higher Education Change Leadership
• Systems, Professional, and Reimagined Change Leadership.

19. E dD in Leadership

• American College of Education
• Total program cost: $23,914
• Cost per credit: $306 (total program cost $23,914)
• Credits required to graduate: 64 credits over 36 months

This is one of the most affordable fully online doctoral programs in educational leadership. Students pursue original research in an area of their choice while using evidence-based decision-making to solve real-world problems. The program typically takes three years, but accelerated programs are available for qualifying students (e.g., EdS, ACE graduates).

20. Doctor of Nursing Practice (Educational Leadership)

• Post University
• Annual tuition: $13,860
• Cost per credit: $770
• Credits required to graduate: 42 credit hours over 28 months

This is one of only a handful of online DNP programs specializing in educational leadership. It equips nursing educators with vital skills across leadership, curriculum development, policy, finance, research, and strategic planning. The program is broken down into eight-week courses and offers six start dates per year, making it easier for busy professionals to fit their studies into their schedules.

What’s the Average Cost of Online Doctoral Degrees?

Most online doctoral degree programs cost between $10,000 and $20,000 yearly in tuition and fees. However, this can vary widely depending on the institution and field of study. The most affordable online doctorate degrees start at around $6,000 annually, with a total degree cost of around $12,000.

Related : The easiest Ph.D. to consider

Make Cheap Online Ph.D. Programs Even More Affordable

We’ve pulled together the cheapest online doctoral degree programs from respected institutions in various fields. However, even when looking at the most affordable online doctoral programs, tuition and other fees can add up. Luckily, many sources of financial support can help.

Many universities and colleges provide financial aid to students. There are also scholarships, loans, and grants available for deserving students. You can even ask your employer to cover all or part of your tuition and other study expenses.

Top Doctoral Degree Fields

By looking at the median annual wage, some of the highest-paying fields for Ph.D. graduates (as of 2021) include:

• Psychiatrists : $226,880
• Software Architects : $120,520
• Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers : $97,410
• Medical Scientists : $95,310
• Petroleum Geologists : $83,680

Related : The top online Ph.D. programs .

Where Are Ph.D. Holders Most Desired?

Currently, doctorate holders are most in demand  in the fields of law, post-secondary education (especially in health specialties), and physical therapy. You’ll find countless affordable online doctorate programs, especially in some of the programs we listed above.

Mean earnings in the US in 2021 by level of educational attainment:

• Less than 9th grade: $32,907
• High school (9th to 12th Nongrad): $30,072
• Graduate (including GED): $42,851
• Some college, but no degree: $45,423
• Associate degree: $52,127
• Bachelor’s degree: $80,384
• Master’s degree: $97,647
• Professional degree: $156,305
• Doctorate degree: $140,469

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest online doctorate.

In the age where online learning is becoming the norm, it comes as no surprise that more and more institutions are offering doctoral degrees online. Online education, by its nature, tends to be cheaper than in-person learning. To give you a better idea, some of the cheapest online doctoral programs are:

• North Carolina A&T State University’s Doctor of Philosophy program  costs just $233 per credit, or $4,194 per year in annual tuition for in-state residents. However, tuition is significantly higher for residents of other states.
• Columbia Southern University  offers doctorate programs at $435 per credit hour (or $391.50 for CSU Learning Partner members). The university tries to include textbooks  and eBooks in the total cost to lower your costs even more. Of course, this may not always be valid for those working toward doctorates.

It’s worth mentioning that many doctorates (even those online) offer financial aid opportunities to help you pay part or all of your tuition costs. It may be worth looking into programs where these opportunities exist.

Do Online Ph.D. Programs Provide Financial Aid?

If you want to earn your doctorate online, you can still apply for FAFSA  if the school or program accepts it. Consider online schools and programs that offer financial aid.

Most universities will offer scholarships and grants to qualifying students, whether they are attending in-person or online classes. For example, students at Missouri State University’s Doctor of Nursing program can apply for MSU’s annual scholarship.

Note: Although you can apply for various scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to get them.

Are Online Ph.D. Programs Legitimate?

Yes, there are a large number of legitimate online Ph.D. programs offered by reputable institutions. As with any higher-education program, it’s essential to check that the school is accredited before enrolling, as this is directly related to the value of any qualification. It’s also important to consider the institution’s reputation, which may influence potential future employers.

Can I Get a Ph.D. for Free?

Several fully-funded Ph.D. programs  offer doctorates with no out-of-pocket costs. These programs typically cover tuition and other expenses for the entire duration of the program through scholarships, grants, work-study, or a combination of these. Some schools even offer a stipend for living expenses.

However, many of these programs involve on-campus attendance. The options for fully-funded online doctoral programs are much more limited.

Key Takeaways

An online doctoral qualification not only helps you to advance your career but also encourages your personal development via critical thinking, leadership, and analytical skills. You’ll find that pursuing one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in 2022 will provide countless benefits!

Want to get a Ph.D. but aren’t sure if you qualify? Discover whether you need a master’s to get a Ph.D. !

Lisa Marlin

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

• Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ ACBSP Vs AACSB: Which Business Program Accreditations is Better?
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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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A world-class city filled with art and culture and an incredible campus that offers cutting edge resources–that’s what students receive at Penn Nursing. And that’s just the start. Penn Nursing and the wider university offer something for everyone, as well as a lifelong community.

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

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

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

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

Designed for highly motivated nursing students who possess a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and who want to pursue an advanced practice MSN degree in conjunction with our PhD program .

About the Program

The penn advantage.

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

Program Information

Program Length

Financial aid available?

Start Semester

Learning Format

In-person *

Program details.

Each curriculum varies based upon your chosen MSN specialty program . Upon admission, you’ll be paired with two standing faculty members for mentorship and guidance. All standing faculty members have appointments in at least one of Penn Nursing’s four research centers which can also provide support services to you in your work. 

Requirements

Minimum qualifications for the program.

BSN degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher

Prerequisites

College level statistics course

See individual MSN concentrations for required program-specific RN experience

Application Deadlines

You will apply to both our MSN and PhD programs at the same time, and if accepted into both, have a place held for you in the PhD program while you complete the MSN program. 

Full-time Enrollment

Summer & Fall 2024 Start Deadline: November 1, 2023

Latest Decision Notification: late-February

Part-time Enrollment

Spring 2024 Start Deadline: October 16, 2023

Summer & Fall 2024 Start Deadline: March 15, 2024

Latest Decision Notification: late-April

*Dates subject to change without notice.

Costs & Tuition

Your program costs will depend on how many course units (CU) you take per semester.

Applicants to this program may be eligible for the Leonard A. Lauder Community Care Nurse Practitioner Program Fellowship , which offers a free Penn education to budding NPs who are committed to working in underserved communities after graduation.

Discount available for employees of our Academic Practice Partners. Click here to learn more.

To be considered a full-time student you must have a course load of 3 CUs or more per semester, including summer terms; anything less, in any semester, is considered part-time. If you apply as a full-time student, but switch to part-time, lowering the number of CUs you take per semester will decrease the cost of your tuition and fees, which will in turn lower your student budget and reduce your financial aid eligibility. You will no longer be eligible for nursing grant or endowed scholarship funds.

The charts below outline costs based on the school year/summer sessions as well as include estimated other expenses like housing.

Tuition & Fee Rates and Living Expense Budgets (Fall 2023 & Spring 2024)

*Category for Other Personal Expenses includes a budget for the cost of Student Health Insurance. Please keep in mind that the school does not bill the student for books and personal expenses. We do, however, build these figures into the Student Budget to better help students and their families plan for all costs associated with a Penn Nursing education. Likewise, loan eligibility and financial aid is based on the total student budget per term, not just on the cost of tuition and fees.

Every student’s living situation and personal expenses are different, but below are the projected academic year Summer and Fall/Spring costs per CU. These can be multiplied by the total number of CUs in your part-time plan of study to estimate the total cost of an MSN program.

Summer 2023 - per course unit (CU):

Summer 2023 - living expenses:, fall 2023 or spring 2024 - per course unit (cu).

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

The charts below outline costs based on the school year. For full-time doctoral students, after the first five years the reduced rate is charged until the Doctorate degree is awarded, or for a maximum of five additional years.

Full-Time: Fall 2023 & Spring 2024

Part-time per cu: fall 2023 & spring 2024, doctoral reduced rate: fall 2023 & spring 2024, program outcomes.

At the completion of this advanced level of nursing education, Penn Nursing MSN graduates will:

• Use scientific inquiry to translate evidence into practice and promote clinical scholarship
• Perform advanced nursing skills for specialty and subspecialty nursing practice
• Lead quality improvement and manage care delivery models across settings
• Leverage strong networks to advance in professional role

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

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The Wegmans School of Nursing at Fisher is a top-10 nursing school in New York and top 100 nationwide.* We empower New York’s service-oriented nurses to improve patient care in interdisciplinary health care settings through compassion, advanced clinical knowledge, and discipline.

One Program, Two Pathways

Offered online or on campus, our M.S. in Nursing program equips you for the next phase of your nursing career. Whether you choose to join us from a distance or at our award-winning campus in New York, you'll join a tight-knit learning community committed to serving others. 

Earn a master’s degree and post-graduate certification through Fisher’s graduate-level nursing program. Designed for those who have a bachelor's degree in nursing and a current RN license, the graduate-level program features five options:

• Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (PCFNP)
• Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
• Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS) - on-campus pathway only

* U.S. News & World Report, 2023 Best Nursing Schools: Master's . Ranked in 2022.

Wherever you're joining us from, our faculty are committed to supporting you on your journey to next-level nursing as a Fisher Nurse.

Our program prepares you through

• Instructional Excellence: We make teaching a priority, and students participate in small classes to receive personalized attention throughout their program.
• Clinical Partnerships: Our reputation has resulted in connections with professional and practical health care settings across the state, where students may complete clinical rotations.
• Outcomes: Graduates of our programs are highly sought after, and recognized as compassionate, prepared nurses who are able to meet the needs of their communities.

Fisher Nursing Online offers the same rigorous curriculum as the on-campus pathway without requiring you to relocate.

Join us Online

Fisher's on-campus pathway offers convenient classes on weekday evenings in a supportive environment.

Join us on campus

Application Requirements

To qualify for admission, you must have a bachelor's degree in nursing, a current unencumbered RN license, and at least one year of current experience in a clinical setting. Relevant work experience is required for our PMHNP and AGACNP programs.

You must complete the following to apply.

• Online application
• Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
• Two letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Résumé

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Creating a culture of care: the importance of clinician wellbeing in supporting new graduate nurses.

Over the last few months, we have discussed the importance of preparing the environment for newly graduated nurses. We are helping organizations do this through our  IONRP Academy and  Supporting Nurses Course . However, as our podcast guest, Alison Wild, pointed out in last month's  Beyond Nurse Residency Podcast , "It is essential to focus on current employees and preceptors to mitigate burnout. By paying attention to and supporting the wellbeing of our current employees, we begin to cultivate a work environment that supports new graduate nurses and creates an environment in which they want to stay." In this month's blog, we focus on Clinical Wellbeing and its impact on transition to practice.  

Nurses work long shifts with unrealistic workloads, often putting the needs of their patients ahead of their own. They experience mental, emotional, and physical trauma while they continue to serve every patient they encounter with care and compassion. It has been recognized that nurse wellbeing has a ripple effect impacting the quality of patient care delivered, the patient's perspective of their care, and the nurse's perspective of their work. How a nurse views their work directly impacts the healthcare system in terms of turnover and the nursing workforce. An increased focus on nurse wellbeing is essential for the stability of the healthcare system and the health and safety of patients and nurses alike. While nurse wellbeing has been identified as a systems issue and organizations must create workplace conditions where nurses can thrive, building the individual capacity of health and wellbeing is also imperative. 3  

Many organizations have employee wellness programs that focus on the physical health of nurses. While this is an essential aspect of an individual’s wellbeing, we cannot forget about the mental and emotional health of healthcare clinicians. A recent study indicated that depression is a leading cause of medical errors. The study found that higher levels of poor mental and physical health correlated to a higher likelihood of contributing to an adverse event. 2 Recent research has also looked at the impact of intrapersonal characteristics on things like work engagement, burnout, job satisfaction, mental health, and burnout. Many studies suggest that psychological capital significantly influences many of these areas. Psychological capital is an individual's positive psychology state characterized by self-efficacy, optimism, hope, and resiliency. Psychological capital equips healthcare workers with the skills and abilities to cope effectively with stressors, bounce back from setbacks, and maintain wellbeing in demanding environments. More importantly, training and education can develop and improve psychological capital. 1    

Not only is the psychological capital of the new nurse necessary, but those working closely and supporting the new nurse in the transition to practice period are just as important. This reinforces why we have chosen to continue building content in these areas and integrating that content into our recently  redesigned curriculum and why we have created a NEW stand-alone course any organization can utilize as part of an existing residency program or as an extra piece of professional development for healthcare clinicians at any stage of their career. In collaboration with The Resiliency Solution, our newest online course,  Clinician Wellbeing , addresses the need to enhance the wellbeing and resilience of healthcare professionals. Drawing upon evidence that demonstrates the impact of wellbeing on patient care quality, healthcare equity, and workforce stability, this course aims to equip healthcare professionals with the psychological capital necessary to navigate the challenges inherent in their profession. By investing in wellbeing, this course aims to promote a healthier, safer, and more sustainable healthcare system for patients and healthcare professionals. This program is available to healthcare facilities and individuals. It is delivered asynchronously via online learning modalities, including microlearning presentations, self-assessments, skills to practice, reflective questions, and discussion prompts. For more information on how to get started, contact  Nicole Weathers .

Nicole Weathers, MSN, RN, NPD-BC

Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program Director

Wanting a Program Overview? Need to schedule a meeting? Book time with Nicole

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References    

• Dwyer, P. A., Hunter Revell, S. M., Sethares, K. A., & Ayotte, B. J. (2019). The influence of psychological, authentic leadership in preceptors, and structural empowerment on new graduate nurse burnout and turnover intent.  Applied Nursing Research ,  pp. 48 , 37–44.  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0897189718306335    
• Melnyk, M. B., & Raderstorf, T. (2021).  Evidence-based leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship in nursing and Healthcare: A practical guide to success.  Springer Publishing Company.   
• National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2021. The Future of Nursing 2020-2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.  https://doi.org/10.17226/25982 .   

Nursing Home Basics: Who Qualifies, Who Pays, and Other Helpful Facts

Why it matters.

Understanding how nursing homes work can be confusing because standards for eligibility, insurance coverage, etc. vary from state to state in the US.

In this second article in our series on nursing homes ( read Part I here ), we answer some commonly asked questions about nursing home structures and functions.

Who Is Eligible to Enter a Nursing Home?

People qualify for nursing home/facility level of care (NFLOC) if they are unable to live alone safely in the community. There is no federal definition of NFLOC and the exact rules governing level of care vary from state to state. Despite this lack of consistency, the following four areas are commonly considered when a state determines a person’s level of care need: physical functional ability; health issues/medical needs; cognitive impairment; and behavioral issues. In many states, there has been significant rebalancing toward home and community-based services and away from nursing home care. Check state websites for updated information on specific eligibility requirements.

Who Pays for Nursing Home Care?

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people in the US who are 65 or older, some younger people with disabilities, people with End-Stage Renal Disease. A common misconception is that Medicare will pay for all nursing home costs. This is not true.

Post-acute care (PAC) or skilled nursing facility (SNF) care is usually covered by Medicare or private insurance up to 100 days (100 percent for 20 days and then 80 percent for 80 days based on certain criteria). Long-term care (meals, room and board, and basic health services) is often paid for privately until funds are spent down. A “ spend down ” is how someone with Medicare may qualify for Medicaid — a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to some people with limited income and resources — even if their income is higher than a state's Medicaid limit. Under a spend down, a state lets the person subtract their non-covered medical expenses and cost sharing (like Medicare premiums and deductibles) from their available income. Each state’s Medicaid program covers approximately 70 percent of nursing home care.  Long-term care insurance can also pay for nursing home care, but relatively few people have it.

The average cost of a nursing home is over $90,000 per year but this varies state to state. Multiple organizations provide information about nursing home costs and Medicaid daily rates online, including the  American Council on Aging .

Who Oversees and Regulates Nursing Home Quality and Safety?

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) oversees nursing home quality and safety at the federal level. Several divisions have regulations that pertain to nursing homes. 

The CMS Division of Nursing Homes develops and oversees most nursing home regulations. CMS delegates nursing home surveys and inspections to a designated organization in each state, usually the State Survey Agency (SSA). SSAs conduct annual, recertification, and complaint surveys and assess compliance with regulations. There is also a Special Focus Facility program for a small number of low-performing nursing homes that receive more intensive oversight and guidance on quality improvement in each state.

How Do We Measure Nursing Home Quality?

Because definitions of quality may vary, there are different methods used by federal, state, or private organizations to collect and analyze quality data. Here are a few examples:

• Minimum Data Set (MDS) is a standardized assessment tool required by CMS that measures health status in nursing home residents. All nursing homes that accept Medicare or Medicaid must submit the MDS regularly for each resident to receive payment.
• National Healthcare Safety Network is an electronic system for infection reporting, including COVID and other data that goes to CDC.
• CMS Five Star Quality Rating System gathers information from inspections (surveys), quality measures, and staffing from each nursing home and makes this information publicly available on the CMS website.
• Medicare’s Care Compare   allows users to locate and compare data from nursing homes.

What are Quality Innovation Networks-Quality Improvement Organizations (QIN-QIOs)?

QIN-QIOs focus on working with nursing homes, states, and regions to improve quality of life and quality of care across settings, including nursing homes. QIN-QIOs have their own separate line item in the US federal budget to support the national program which covers  all 50 states and US territories . QIN-QIOs are not part of state survey agencies or the survey process. Their focus is on quality improvement, support, education, and training, which are often provided free or at very low cost.

Who Works in Nursing Homes?

Women make up most of the nursing home workforce, particularly direct care workers such as certified nursing assistants (CNAs). ( Almost 90 percent of nursing assistants are female). Many are single parents.  People of color comprise most of the US nursing assistant workforce.

Most nursing assistants are low-income wage earners. Many live at or near the federal poverty level and almost half receive some type of public assistance. Nursing homes typically pay CNAs the minimum wage, but this is not necessarily a livable wage depending on where they live. For this reason, CNAs often work in multiple settings and have multiple jobs. For many CNAs, English is not their first language, and they may have limited English proficiency. Many are immigrants.

What Are Some Challenges Faced by the Nursing Home Workforce?

There are many issues facing nursing home CNAs today and some new opportunities. The National Association of Health Care Assistants (NAHCA) conducted a survey of 1,420 CNAs in July 2023. When asked about their jobs, many CNAs reported that low wages and benefits would be the primary reasons they intend to seek another type of employment. They also cited unstable or inadequate hours, lack of supervisor’s/manager’s support, lack of career advancement or professional development, and feeling under-valued.

High rates of turnover (in some cases over 100 percent in a year) and the need for stronger, stable leadership are important reasons to better support CNAs and other direct care workers. Creating and testing standardized career ladders or lattices and providing more training and education on topics of interest to CNAs represent opportunities to promote better retention and reduce turnover. Another way to respond to CNA concerns is by becoming an  Age-Friendly Health Systems Nursing Home .

Alice Bonner, PhD, RN, is IHI’s Senior Advisor for Aging. Amanda Meier, BSW, MA, is IHI’s Project Manager, Age-Friendly Health Systems. If you have any questions or ideas about nursing homes or related policy issues, please feel free to reach out to Alice Bonner ( [email protected] ) or Amanda Meier ( [email protected] ).

You may also be interested in:

The Basics We (and Policymakers) Should Know about Nursing Homes

Centering What Matters: The Core of Age-Friendly Care

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