Online Ph.D. in Nursing
VCU School of Nursing
Take your career in nursing to the next level. Fully online.
Are you an aspiring nurse scholar?
VCU’s online Ph.D. in Nursing is for you. Examine knowledge development in the field of nursing as you become a teacher-scholar and/or pioneering researcher in the field.
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The VCU School of Nursing Doctor of philosophy program in nursing prepares scholars to develop knowledge in the discipline of nursing to become teacher-scholars or pioneering researchers committed to the highest ideals of nursing excellence. The program examines knowledge development in nursing through an understanding of the impact of a wide range of historical influences on the discipline and through analysis of how emerging societal issues influence knowledge development. Knowledge in the humanities and social sciences and an understanding of knowledge development in other disciplines is viewed as foundational to a full understanding of knowledge development in nursing. Methodologic competency (i.e., knowledge of research designs, methodologies and tools) is also essential to a full understanding of the scope, range and path of knowledge development and the relevance to nursing practice.
The online Ph.D. program includes a combination of online courses and on-campus immersions each semester to offer students a dynamic, interactive learning experience that will prepare them to become nurse scholars and scientists. This format is designed to expand the Ph.D. program’s reach to a wider range of highly motivated, independent students who aspire to become scholars, make a significant difference in the field of nursing and study with nationally recognized nurse scientists.
Student learning outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
- Synthesize and critically appraise extant knowledge and theory
- Design, conduct and disseminate theoretically sound research that is relevant, rigorous, culturally competent and consistent with standards of scientific integrity
- Lead and collaborate in team science to develop knowledge that enhances health in ways that reflect nursing’s unique perspective
- Communicate effectively to the scientific community, policy-makers and the public through appropriate scholarly mechanisms
*For students entering with a master’s degree, the minimum number of graduate credit hours required for this degree is 58.
The VCU Bulletin is the official source for academic course and program information.
Application deadline details
- Rolling admissions
Degree concentrations
The Ph.D. in biobehavioral research prepares graduates with research skills to make contributions to the development of nursing knowledge, conduct original research, lead advancements in evidence-based practice and pursue academic or research-oriented careers. This area of concentration focuses on the study and analysis of biological, behavioral, psychological, social and environmental factors that influence health and wellbeing in various populations.
The Ph.D. in health care quality research prepares graduates with research skills to make contributions to the development of nursing knowledge, conduct original research, lead advancements in evidence-based practice and pursue academic or research-oriented careers. This area of concentration focuses on the study and analysis of health care delivery, practices and systems to improve the safety, effectiveness, efficiency, equity and quality of health care services.
Career Services
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