The goal of the PhD Program is to prepare students to conduct clinical research that generates new knowledge applicable to nursing practice. A foundation of research and scholarship gained at the master's level is further enhanced at the doctoral level. Our students are prepared to assume roles in a variety of settings from private industry, to community colleges, to top research intensive nursing schools affiliated with major academic health centers.
Interdisciplinary research opportunities are emphasized. Invaluable mentoring by faculty members and collegial interactions among doctoral students support the development of nurse researchers.
The faculty is well qualified in both research and clinical practice. Faculty and students alike are very successful in obtaining extramural funding for their scholarly activities.
Graduates of the program are prepared to:
- Develop and test conceptual frameworks relevant to nursing practice
- Conduct clinical research on nursing phenomena
- Contribute to the development of nursing science through scholarly activities and the application of knowledge to nursing practice
- Provide leadership for the analyses and resolutions of issues related to nursing and health care
- Assume increasingly complex roles in nursing research, practice, education, and/or health care organizations
- Collaborate with others to provide leadership in addressing society's health needs
The PhD program was initiated in 1987 and has produced 98 graduates since 1992. Current enrollment is approximately 46 students, of which 9 percent are international students, 17 percent are male and 34 percent are nurse practitioners.