[2025 Updated] Best Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

Washington University's PhD in Nursing Science delivers an advanced research-oriented doctoral program targeting nurse scholars. Emphasizing comprehensive academic preparation, the curriculum covers 62 graduate units across critical domains including Nursing Science, Research Methods, Statistics, and Mentored Research Experience. Students can explore flexible minor pathways in informatics, clinical investigation, or implementation science. The three-year full-time program cultivates sophisticated research capabilities through intensive coursework, preliminary examinations, qualifying assessments, and substantive dissertation research under guidance from distinguished Goldfarb School of Nursing faculty.

• 62 graduate units total
• Three-year full-time program
• Four core study areas
• Flexible minor options
• Mentored research experiences
• Preliminary and qualifying exams
• Dissertation research required

Washington University's PhD in Nursing Science Informatics concentration provides a cutting-edge research pathway for healthcare technology innovators. This 62-unit program strategically prepares nursing professionals to transform digital healthcare landscapes through specialized informatics training. Participants engage in comprehensive coursework, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and mentored experiences designed to develop advanced technological competencies. The three-year curriculum emphasizes developing scholarly expertise in healthcare information systems, technological interventions, and data-driven health solutions, enabling graduates to lead technological advancements in nursing practice and research.

• 62 graduate units required
• Three-year full-time program
• Informatics concentration available
• Interdisciplinary research focus
• Mentored research experience
• Customizable minor tracks
• Five semesters coursework
• Taught by Goldfarb Nursing Faculty
• Preliminary and qualifying exams
• Dissertation research component

Washington University's PhD in Nursing Science Clinical Investigation concentration equips nursing professionals with advanced research methodologies and academic career preparation. This comprehensive 62-unit program focuses on developing sophisticated clinical research skills through intensive training across Nursing Science, Research Methods, Statistics, and Mentored Research Experience. Students explore interdisciplinary research approaches, enabling meaningful contributions to healthcare innovation. The three-year full-time curriculum prepares scholars to conduct rigorous clinical investigations, translate research findings, and advance healthcare knowledge through systematic, evidence-based methodologies.

• 62 graduate units required
• Three-year full-time program
• Four core study areas
• Minor/cognate options available
• Interdisciplinary research training

Washington University's PhD in Nursing Science Dissemination and Implementation Science concentration offers a transformative research program designed to bridge academic discoveries with practical healthcare improvements. This 62-unit curriculum prepares nursing professionals to translate research findings into actionable healthcare strategies and policy interventions. Students develop advanced skills in research methodology, implementation science, and systematic knowledge translation. The three-year program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, customizable research tracks, and mentored experiences that empower graduates to drive meaningful healthcare system improvements through evidence-based practice and innovative implementation strategies.

• 62 graduate units required
• Three-year full-time study plan
• Four core study areas
• Customizable research tracks
• Mentored research experience
• Minor/cognate options available
• Interdisciplinary faculty collaboration

The University of Massachusetts Amherst PhD in Nursing cultivates advanced nurse researchers through comprehensive academic training. Students develop critical expertise in research methodologies, nursing theory, and healthcare analysis. The program provides robust mentorship, enabling scholars to investigate complex health challenges across diverse domains like chronic illness management and healthcare systems. Rigorous coursework integrates statistical techniques with practical research experiences, preparing graduates to become influential leaders who can transform nursing practice and drive meaningful healthcare innovations.

• Prepare nurse researchers
• Mentored research experience
• Focus on complex health problems
• Work with renowned faculty
• Areas include chronic illness
• Comprehensive examination required
• Dissertation completion mandatory

Specializing in self/symptom management, chronic illness, and addiction care, this University of Massachusetts Amherst PhD in Nursing offers targeted scholarly development. Students delve deep into advanced research methodologies specifically addressing complex patient care challenges. The concentration equips nurses with sophisticated analytical skills to explore intricate symptom management strategies, addiction treatment approaches, and comprehensive chronic illness interventions. Graduates emerge as specialized researchers capable of generating groundbreaking insights in nuanced healthcare domains.

• Prepare nurse researchers and scholars
• Mentored research experience
• Comprehensive examination required
• Dissertation completion mandatory
• Work with renowned nursing faculty
• Focus on complex health problems
• Advanced nursing knowledge development
• Research in multiple specializations

The University of Massachusetts Amherst PhD in Nursing focusing on health disparities, social justice, and vulnerable populations provides transformative educational experiences. Students critically examine systemic healthcare inequities, developing advanced research skills to address complex social determinants of health. The program empowers nurses to become scholarly advocates, generating research that illuminates marginalized community experiences and develops innovative interventions. Participants learn to challenge existing healthcare paradigms and create meaningful change through rigorous academic and research training.

• Prepares nurse researchers, scholars
• Focus on health disparities
• Mentored research experience
• Comprehensive dissertation required
• Renowned nursing faculty
• Advanced research methodology training
• Expertise in chronic illness
• Healthcare systems knowledge
• Social justice emphasis

This University of Massachusetts Amherst PhD in Nursing concentration in healthcare systems, quality, safety, and informatics prepares advanced nurse scholars to revolutionize healthcare infrastructure. Students explore intersection of technology, patient safety, and systematic healthcare delivery. The program develops sophisticated research capabilities in analyzing healthcare quality metrics, implementing informatic solutions, and understanding complex organizational dynamics. Graduates become expert innovators capable of designing data-driven strategies to enhance healthcare system efficiency and patient outcomes.

• Prepares nurse researchers and scholars
• Mentored research experience
• Comprehensive dissertation required
• Renowned nursing faculty
• Expertise in healthcare systems
• Advanced nursing knowledge focus
• Research methods training
• Leadership development
• Multiple research concentrations

Vanderbilt's PhD in Nursing Science specializes in Acute and Chronic Illness research, offering a transformative academic journey for aspiring nurse scientists. Through a comprehensive, research-intensive curriculum, students develop advanced skills in multidisciplinary health investigation. The program uniquely combines rigorous academic training with practical research opportunities, focusing on critical healthcare challenges. With fully funded tuition and personalized study plans, students receive exceptional support while preparing for leadership roles in academic and healthcare research environments. Small class sizes and expert faculty mentorship ensure a highly tailored and impactful learning experience.

• Fully funded tuition
• Primarily online courses
• Small class sizes
• Personalized study plans
• 72 total credit hours
• Research-focused program
• Mentorship from expert faculty
• Concentration in Acute/Chronic Illness

Vanderbilt's PhD in Nursing Science with a Maternal and Child Health concentration provides an innovative pathway for nurses dedicated to advancing family healthcare. This research-driven program explores complex health dynamics surrounding pregnancy, child development, and family wellness. Students engage in comprehensive, multidisciplinary research methodologies while receiving full tuition funding and personalized guidance from renowned faculty. The hybrid format enables working professionals to pursue advanced studies, balancing academic rigor with flexible learning. Graduates emerge as specialized researchers prepared to transform maternal and child health through evidence-based interventions and policy development.

• Fully funded tuition
• Primarily online courses
• Personalized study plans
• Focus on Maternal Health
• Research-intensive program
• 72 total credit hours
• 3+ years of graduate study
• Mentorship from expert faculty
• Qualifying exams required
• Dissertation defense

Vanderbilt's PhD in Nursing Science with a Data Science and Health Technologies concentration represents a cutting-edge approach to healthcare research. This innovative program equips nurses with advanced computational and analytical skills essential for modern healthcare innovation. Participants develop expertise in leveraging technology and data-driven methodologies to address complex health challenges. The hybrid format combines online learning with strategic campus interactions, providing flexibility for working professionals. With fully funded tuition, annual stipends, and a multidisciplinary research focus, the program prepares scholars to lead transformative scientific discoveries at the intersection of nursing, technology, and health sciences.

• Fully funded PhD program
• Hybrid learning format
• Personalized research study plan
• Annual stipend provided
• Multidisciplinary research focus
• State-of-the-art curriculum
• Data Science concentration available
• Top-ranked university
• Online with limited campus visits
• Competitive admission process

UVA's PhD in Nursing for Aging concentration represents an exceptional research-driven doctoral program targeting nursing professionals passionate about advancing geriatric healthcare knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes comprehensive training in aging research methodologies, enabling scholars to develop innovative strategies addressing senior population health challenges. Students benefit from robust funding, including full tuition coverage and annual stipends, which supports advanced scholarly pursuits. The program's distinguished mentorship model and extensive research opportunities prepare graduates to become influential nurse scientists with specialized expertise in gerontological research and transformative healthcare interventions.

• Fully-funded 4-year program
• Research focus in aging, health equity
• Tuition + annual graduate stipends
• No GRE requirement
• BSN or MSN entry pathways
• Loan forgiveness for faculty careers
• World-class scholar mentors
• Extensive research training

UVA's PhD in Nursing specializing in Health Disparities and Health Equity offers an intensive research-oriented pathway for nursing professionals committed to understanding and addressing systemic healthcare inequalities. The program cultivates advanced scholarly skills through comprehensive qualitative and quantitative research training, with concentrated focus on identifying and mitigating healthcare access barriers. Graduates emerge as transformative researchers equipped to design impactful interventions, develop evidence-based policies, and lead interdisciplinary efforts toward creating more equitable healthcare systems. The fully-funded curriculum provides exceptional opportunities for academic and research career development.

• Fully-funded PhD program
• Research focus on health disparities
• World-class scholar mentors
• Graduate teaching assistantships
• Loan forgiveness for faculty careers
• No GRE required for admission
• BSN or MSN entry pathways
• 32-33 total credit hours
• Four research focus areas

UVA's PhD in Nursing with Healthcare Technology concentration prepares forward-thinking nursing scholars to leverage technological innovations in healthcare delivery and research. The program emphasizes systematic research inquiry, enabling students to explore cutting-edge technological solutions that enhance patient care, clinical workflows, and healthcare outcomes. Participants develop advanced computational and analytical skills, positioning themselves at the intersection of nursing science and technological innovation. With comprehensive research training, graduate teaching opportunities, and robust faculty mentorship, students are primed to become pioneering leaders in healthcare technology research and academic leadership.

• Fully-funded 4-year program
• Healthcare Technology concentration
• World-class research faculty
• Graduate Teaching Assistantships
• Loan forgiveness available
• BSN or MSN entry pathways
• Tuition + annual stipends
• No GRE required
• Scholarly writing development
• Conference presentation funding

Yale's PhD in Nursing offers an immersive doctoral program targeting advanced nurse scientists committed to groundbreaking clinical research. Scholars engage in a comprehensive four-year journey, receiving full funding and interdisciplinary training under exceptional faculty guidance. The program cultivates transformative research skills, enabling students to explore complex healthcare challenges and develop innovative solutions. Participants benefit from Yale's prestigious research infrastructure, preparing to become influential leaders in nursing science with opportunities for profound professional development and scholarly excellence.

• 100% funded four-year program
• Interdisciplinary research focus
• World-renowned faculty mentorship
• Diverse clinical research topics
• Mentoring future nurse scientists

Specializing in Chronic Illness, Yale's PhD in Nursing provides targeted training for nurse scientists dedicated to understanding and addressing complex health conditions. This rigorous four-year program equips students with advanced research methodologies and critical analytical skills specific to chronic disease management. Participants deeply explore interdisciplinary approaches to chronic illness research, developing sophisticated interventions and strategies under world-renowned faculty mentorship. The program emphasizes comprehensive training that bridges clinical practice and scholarly investigation in chronic health challenges.

• 100% Funded for Four Years
• Interdisciplinary Research Focus
• World-Renowned Faculty Mentorship
• Diverse Clinical Research Topics
• Mentoring Future Nurse Scientists

Yale's Global Health concentration within the PhD in Nursing program prepares exceptional nurse scientists to tackle international healthcare disparities. This comprehensive four-year doctoral experience immerses students in advanced research methodologies focused on global health challenges. Participants develop sophisticated cross-cultural competencies, learning to design innovative interventions that address complex healthcare needs across diverse international contexts. The program leverages Yale's prestigious research environment to cultivate future global health leaders capable of implementing transformative healthcare solutions worldwide.

• 100% funded four-year program
• Interdisciplinary research focus
• World-renowned faculty mentorship
• Diverse clinical research topics
• Global health concentration available

Purdue University's PhD in Nursing program stands at the forefront of healthcare research and education, offering a comprehensive doctoral pathway for aspiring nurse scholars. By providing two strategic entry points for bachelor's and master's degree holders, the program cultivates advanced research skills and scientific expertise. Students engage in transformative healthcare research with opportunities for full-tuition scholarships and research assistantships. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, enabling graduates to drive innovative solutions in complex healthcare systems and patient care delivery models.

• One of two PhD Nursing programs in Indiana
• Two entry points: Bachelor's and Master's
• Innovative healthcare research focus
• Full-tuition scholarship opportunities
• Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
• Campus-based doctoral program
• BS to PhD direct enrollment option

Purdue University's PhD in Nursing with a specialized Gerontology concentration provides an advanced academic pathway for nurse researchers focused on elder care and aging populations. This targeted doctoral program equips students with comprehensive research methodologies and specialized knowledge in gerontological healthcare. The curriculum integrates cutting-edge research techniques, interprofessional collaboration, and advanced scientific inquiry to prepare scholars who can develop innovative interventions and strategies for improving older adults' health outcomes and quality of life.

• Only PhD in Nursing in Indiana
• Two entry points: BSN and MSN
• Full-tuition scholarship opportunities
• Focus on innovative healthcare research
• Campus-based doctoral program
• Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
• New BS to PhD track
• Research assistantships available

The University of Connecticut's PhD in Nursing program is an innovative research-intensive doctorate targeting experienced nurses seeking transformative healthcare leadership roles. This comprehensive program cultivates scholarly professionals capable of generating groundbreaking healthcare knowledge through advanced research methodologies. By emphasizing theoretical foundations and scholarly publication, the program prepares nurses to drive significant improvements in healthcare practice and education. Candidates benefit from competitive fellowships offering $20,000 annual stipends, creating opportunities for outstanding researchers committed to diversity and innovation in nursing science.

• Post-Master's PhD Program
• Research-Focused Nursing Doctorate
• 3.25 Master's GPA Required
• RN Licensure Prerequisite
• $20k Fellowship Opportunities
• Develop Healthcare Leadership Skills
• Scholarly Publication Focus

University of Connecticut's Post-Master's to PhD in Nursing represents a strategic pathway for master's-prepared RNs aiming to elevate their professional trajectory. This rigorous doctoral program specializes in developing scholarly healthcare leaders who can generate transformative research and contribute meaningful insights to nursing practice. The curriculum comprehensively integrates advanced research methodologies, theoretical foundations, and scholarly publication strategies. Designed for ambitious nursing professionals, the program offers graduate fellowships and emphasizes creating impactful healthcare knowledge through intensive academic training.

• Research-focused doctoral program
• For master's prepared RNs
• 3.25 master's GPA required
• RN licensure mandatory
• Graduate fellowship opportunities
• Develops healthcare leaders
• Emphasizes scholarly publication

UConn's innovative BS to PhD in Nursing pathway offers ambitious nurses an exceptional opportunity to accelerate their academic and professional development. This comprehensive program provides a direct route from bachelor's to doctoral studies, emphasizing research, policy, and leadership skills. Designed for nurses seeking extensive scholarly preparation, the curriculum integrates advanced research techniques with practical healthcare insights. Students benefit from a structured approach that develops critical thinking, research competencies, and professional networking opportunities, positioning graduates as future leaders in nursing science and healthcare innovation.

• Direct BS to PhD path
• Research and leadership focus
• Minimum 3.25 GPA required
• 9-12 masters level credits
• Three reference letters needed
• Campus-based program
• Professional nursing license
• Scholarly research opportunities

Florida International University's PhD in Nursing program delivers comprehensive doctoral training for advanced nursing professionals seeking transformative healthcare leadership roles. The curriculum empowers students to conduct groundbreaking research, with strategic emphasis on addressing healthcare challenges among minority and vulnerable populations. Graduates emerge as innovative scientific researchers equipped to develop evidence-based practices, influence healthcare policy, and pioneer advanced nursing methodologies. Distinguished faculty mentorship ensures students develop critical scientific foundations and leadership capabilities essential for driving meaningful healthcare innovations and systemic improvements.

• Research-focused doctorate tracks
• MSN-to-PhD and BSN-to-PhD options
• Leadership career preparation
• Evidence-based practice curriculum
• Diverse clinical proficiencies
• Modesto A. Maidique Campus location
• Mentorship by research-active faculty
• Specialized nursing research opportunities

Florida International University's PhD in Nursing program specializing in Chronic Health provides advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to deeply explore complex healthcare challenges related to long-term medical conditions. The curriculum integrates rigorous research methodologies with specialized chronic health interventions, enabling students to develop targeted strategies for managing and mitigating persistent health concerns. Students engage in cutting-edge scientific research, focusing on evidence-based approaches to understanding, treating, and preventing chronic health conditions across diverse patient populations. Graduates emerge as expert researchers prepared to make significant contributions to healthcare policy, academic scholarship, and clinical practice.

• Research-focused doctorate tracks
• Two entry pathways: MSN-to-PhD, BSN-to-PhD
• Mentorship from research-active faculty
• Leadership preparation for healthcare roles
• Focus on evidence-based practice
• Located at Modesto A. Maidique Campus
• Approved by Florida Board of Governors
• Diverse student population
• Interdisciplinary research opportunities

Florida International University's PhD in Nursing program concentrating on Health Disparities prepares advanced nursing professionals to address systemic inequities in healthcare delivery. The curriculum critically examines socioeconomic, racial, and cultural factors influencing health outcomes, equipping students with sophisticated research skills to develop targeted interventions. Students explore comprehensive strategies for reducing healthcare access barriers, promoting health equity, and implementing policy changes that support underserved communities. Graduates emerge as influential healthcare leaders capable of conducting transformative research, advocating for marginalized populations, and driving meaningful improvements in healthcare accessibility and quality across diverse demographic groups.

• Research-focused doctorate tracks
• Mentorship from research-active faculty
• Two doctoral entry pathways
• MSN and BSN-to-PhD options
• Leadership career preparation
• Health policy advocacy focus
• Diverse student population
• Located in Miami campus

Endicott College's Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program stands out as a premier online doctoral program tailored for nurses aiming to elevate their expertise in research and leadership within the healthcare sector. This 45-credit program, designed for completion in three years, emphasizes scientific inquiry, theory development, and interdisciplinary collaboration, all without the need for a GRE. With a focus on innovative research and addressing global health challenges, the program boasts a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship. The affordable tuition of approximately $49,680, combined with a cohort learning model, makes it an attractive option for nurses seeking to advance their careers and contribute to the nursing profession.

• 100% online doctoral nursing program
• 3-year completion time
• No GRE required
• 45 total credits
• Cohort learning model
• Advanced research methodology training
• Optional nursing education credits
• 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• Individualized advising
• Skilled dissertation mentoring

Florida Atlantic University's PhD in Nursing program stands out as a comprehensive doctoral pathway designed to cultivate advanced nurse scholars. The hybrid program strategically prepares students to transform healthcare through rigorous research methodologies and innovative approaches. Emphasizing critical research domains like healthy aging, health equity, and holistic health, students develop sophisticated research skills to generate impactful knowledge. The curriculum uniquely blends caring science philosophy with advanced research training, enabling graduates to lead interdisciplinary studies and drive meaningful improvements in nursing practice across diverse populations.

• Hybrid doctoral nursing program
• Four research focus areas
• Caring science philosophy
• Nationally ranked nursing college
• Research-intensive curriculum
• Ethical nurse researcher preparation
• Advanced research methodology training
• Interdisciplinary research opportunities
• Focus on healthcare transformation

Specialized in Healthy Aging, Florida Atlantic University's PhD in Nursing offers a targeted doctoral experience for nurses seeking to advance gerontological research. This innovative program explores comprehensive strategies for optimizing health and enhancing life quality among aging populations. Students engage in cutting-edge research methodologies, learning to develop sophisticated interventions and studies that address complex aging-related healthcare challenges. The curriculum integrates caring science principles with rigorous research training, positioning graduates as expert scholars capable of generating transformative knowledge in gerontological nursing and healthcare.

• Hybrid doctoral nursing program
• Healthy Aging research concentration
• Four distinct research focus areas
• Caring science philosophy
• Research-driven curriculum
• Prepares nurse scholars
• Interdisciplinary research approach

Florida Atlantic University's PhD in Nursing with a Health Equity concentration provides a robust doctoral pathway for nurses committed to addressing systemic healthcare disparities. This program cultivates advanced research skills focused on understanding and mitigating health inequalities across diverse populations. Students develop critical analytical capabilities, learning to design and implement research that generates meaningful insights into healthcare access, social determinants of health, and inclusive care strategies. The curriculum emphasizes ethical research practices, interdisciplinary approaches, and a caring science philosophy, preparing graduates to become influential leaders in promoting health equity and transforming healthcare delivery.

• Hybrid doctoral nursing program
• Four research focus areas
• Health equity concentration
• Caring science philosophy
• Nationwide research opportunities
• Ethical nurse researcher training
• Interdisciplinary research approach