Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.)

The Elizabeth Scarbrough, Ann Peden Ph.D. program was initiated in 1987 and has produced 84 graduates since 1991. Current enrollment is 58 students:

12 percent are international students
30 percent are nurse practitioners
14 percent are men.

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.

The goal of the Ph.D. program is to prepare students to conduct clinical research by developing and testing mid-range theories for the generation of 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.

Interdisciplinary research opportunities are emphasized. Invaluable mentoring by faculty members and collegial interactions among doctoral students support the development of nurse researchers.

Graduates of the program will be able 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

Course work can be completed in two years of full-time study. Research assistantships are available.

You could be eligible for free tuition!

If you work full time for University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital, Kentucky Children's Hospital, or Good Samaritan Hospital you are eligible for up to 8 credit hours in free tuition each semester. More...