The goal of the PhD Program, which is ranked among the top eight programs in the U.S. by the National Research Council, 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 baccalaureate or 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.
Doctoral students have the opportunity to participate in faculty members’ research programs, such as psychosocial and biobehavioral interventions for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, management of critically ill patients, promoting self-management of chronic illnesses, domestic and workplace violence, tobacco policy and smoking cessation, occupational health and safety, health disparities, health risks in pregnant women, pediatric asthma and more.
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. With research as a central component of the College’s mission, College faculty and students boast more than $20 million in its research portfolio as they produce groundbreaking knowledge in cardiovascular disease, tobacco control policy, diabetes, cancer, agricultural health, health disparities, maternal-child health, chronic pain, acute injuries and mental health. Click here for more information on the College’s research initiatives.
Graduates of the program will be able to:
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Establish a pattern of productive scholarship and participation in team science that results in the dissemination of scholarly work to lay and professional audiences
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Contribute to the development of science and the discipline of nursing through the ethical conduct of culturally competent, original clinical and translational research
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Demonstrate an understanding of the evolving roles and professional responsibilities of a nurse scholar through participation in professional and interprofessional teams and organizations and the provision of professional and research leadership and mentorship
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Use different science perspectives and an in-depth knowledge of a substantive area to develop and apply a conceptual knowledge base that enhances the link among theoretical advances, research, and practice to improve health outcomes
The PhD program was initiated in 1987 and was the first in the state of Kentucky.
There are two entry points to the PhD Program:
Post-BSN Option: for those who wish to build on their BSN degree to become active nurse researchers and contribute to the development of science that improves health outcomes. This option also includes those with an earned master’s degree who desire to develop research skills that contribute to science, scholarship and improved health outcomes.
Post-DNP Option: Curriculum plans are customized for each individual based on a faculty review of completed DNP coursework as comparable to courses in the PhD Program.
All entry options also have part-time plans. Deadline for fall admission is Feb. 15. Admission decisions are made on a competitive basis. Applications received after Feb. 15 will be considered on a space-available basis.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the PhD Program should meet the following minimum requirements:
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A bachelor’s degree in nursing from an CNEA or CCNE accredited program
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Current, active, and unrestricted RN license in Kentucky or in each US state where research will take place.
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Graduate Records Exam (GRE) is optional but highly recommended; GRE scores are used for competitive funding opportunities, particularly those from the UK Graduate School
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Three references attesting to the potential of the student for a scholarly career; at least one should be from a doctorally prepared nurse
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Example of scholarly written work that demonstrates excellent writing skills and the ability to communicate clearly and logically; examples could include a publication or class paper
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Goal statement that addresses short- and long-term academic, research and career goals; a self-evaluation of motivation, initiative and the potential for independent learning with specific examples of each; and examples of leadership experiences where initiative and self-motivation were important to success
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Two faculty interviews arranged as part of the admission process
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Admission to the University of Kentucky Graduate School
Application Deadlines
Applications for the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing received after the above deadlines will be considered only on a space available basis. International applicants must adhere to published graduate school deadlines.
Degree Requirements
PhD candidates must complete the following:
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Minimum of 48 credit hours of pre-qualifying course work
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Enrollment in at least five credit hours of course work per semester
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Prequalifying residency requirement: Students must complete the minimum 48 credit hours of course work within five years of entry into the doctoral program.
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Two consecutive full-time terms for the NUR 767 dissertation research residency
PhD Program information as well as full and part time sample plans of study can be found at UK PhD Program in Nursing
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