Nursing (Ph.D.)

Program Competencies

The graduate of the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program will demonstrate the competencies:

• Conduct original research relevant to the discipline of nursing.
• Integrate nurse scholar and scientist role components of research, teaching, leadership, mentoring, and service to the profession.
• Contribute to the advancement and dissemination of nursing science.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Conduct original research: Conduct original research relevant to the discipline of nursing.
• Integrate nurse scholar and scientist role: Integrate nurse scholar and scientist role components of research, teaching, leadership, mentoring, and service to the profession.
• Contribute to advancement of nursing science: Contribute to the advancement and dissemination of nursing science.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Core Requirements

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: Score of 81 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
IELTS: 6.5 total band
Duolingo: 110

In addition to meeting basic requirements for admission to the Graduate School, applicants for graduate study in nursing must have:

• Current RN licensure. International students who are nurses are required to show proof of current licensure/registration as a Registered Nurse (or equivalent), in good standing, in their home country, and maintain that licensure throughout the duration of the program.
• Completed an approved statistical methods course within 5 years.
• Example of scholarly written work.
• Interview assessment reviewed by graduate faculty.
• Completed Compliance requirements: Clear Background check, clear FBI rolled fingerprint, clear drug screen, Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers, ACLS certification for FNP specialization, professional liability insurance, influenza vaccine, and TB test.

For applicants who completed their higher education within the United States:

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an ACEN or CCNE accredited program with a minimum cumulative preferred GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 point grading system.
• Master’s degree in nursing (from an ACEN or CCNE accredited program) or a related field of study with a minimum cumulative preferred GPA of  3.0 or higher on a 4.0 point grading system.

For applicants who completed their higher education outside the United States:

• A degree deemed equivalent (by the World Education Service) to a Bachelor’s degree in nursing (within the United States Education System) with a minimum cumulative preferred GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 point grading system.
• A degree deemed equivalent (by the World Education Service) to a Master’s degree in nursing or a related field of study (within the United States Education System) with a minimum cumulative preferred GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 point grading system. 

General Requirements

Graduate students must consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements .