Program Overview
The University of Kansas offers a comprehensive Ph.D. in nursing program designed to prepare nurse scientists and scholars for careers in research, education, and leadership. This advanced degree equips students with the knowledge and skills to address complex healthcare challenges through scientific inquiry and evidence-based practice.
The Ph.D. in nursing at KU is research intensive and grounded in the development of nursing science. Students are prepared to generate new knowledge that informs nursing practice, improves health outcomes, and advances healthcare systems at the local, national, and global levels. Through advanced coursework and faculty-guided research experiences, students develop expertise in research design, data analysis, and theory development relevant to contemporary nursing and healthcare challenges.
This doctorate in nursing program emphasizes close mentorship and individualized study rather than formal concentrations. Students work directly with experienced faculty researchers to refine their research interests, develop a focused program of scholarship, and produce original research culminating in a dissertation.
Why Pursue a Ph.D. in Nursing at KU?
KU’s Ph.D. in nursing program is designed for nurses who seek to advance nursing science and contribute meaningfully to healthcare knowledge. The program attracts students interested in addressing complex health issues through rigorous research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and scholarly leadership.
Students in this nursing doctorate program benefit from a collaborative academic environment that encourages innovation and inquiry. Faculty mentorship supports students in developing research agendas that align with funded research initiatives and emerging priorities in healthcare. Graduates of the nursing Ph.D. program are prepared to translate research findings into practice, education, and policy contexts.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Nursing, Ph.D.KU School of Nursing
The Doctorate in Nursing is part of the School of Nursing, a community of future health care leaders.Doctorate in Nursing Learning Outcomes
Graduates of KU’s doctorate in nursing program will be able to:
- Conduct original research that advances nursing science and improves healthcare outcomes
- Critically evaluate healthcare policies and advocate for evidence-based system improvements
- Develop and disseminate research that informs clinical practice and nursing education
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to address complex health challenges
- Demonstrate leadership in research, education, and health policy initiatives
What Careers Are Possible with a Doctorate in Nursing?
Earning a Ph.D. in nursing prepares graduates for a wide range of research-focused and academic careers, including roles such as:
- Nurse scientists in research institutions
- Faculty in higher education
- Healthcare policy advisors
- Directors of clinical research programs
- Leaders in global health initiatives
Labor market data from Lightcast indicates that individuals completing Ph.D. nursing programs often pursue advanced leadership roles and experience strong long-term earning potential, including competitive outcomes related to Ph.D. in nursing salary.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU is committed to making education affordable. The Financial Aid & Scholarships office provides resources to help students understand tuition costs and explore financial aid options, including grants, work-study programs, and loans. Students are encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 1 to ensure consideration for aid programs with limited funds.
To learn more about tuition, fees, and financial aid options, please visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the Ph.D. in nursing program must meet the following criteria:
- Completion of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science (M.S.) in nursing, or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from a nationally accredited (NLNAC or CCNE) program.
- Current registered nurse licensure in at least one state in the United States.
- Preference is given to applicants with a 3.5 GPA in a BSN program or 3.25 GPA in a Master’s or DNP program.
- Prerequisite preparation must include a graduate-level statistical methods course.
- Satisfactory criminal background check (completed once an offer of admission has been extended to the applicant)
For detailed admission requirements, visit the School of Nursing.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Doctoral students in KU’s nursing doctorate program engage in immersive research experiences aligned with faculty expertise and institutional priorities. Common areas of study include chronic disease management, health disparities, rural health, and patient-centered care models.
Students benefit from professional development opportunities, interdisciplinary research collaborations, and access to the KU Medical Center’s research infrastructure. These experiences prepare graduates to succeed in academic, research, and leadership roles following completion of the doctorate in nursing education or other career paths.
Doctorate in Nursing Sample Courses
The Ph.D. in nursing curriculum integrates advanced theory, research methods, and analytical skills. Sample courses include:
- Determinants of Health
- State of the Science for Health Care Research
- Applied Linear Regression
- Innovative Theories and Models for Nursing Science
- Data Visualization and Acquisition
For a full list of courses, visit the KU Catalog.
Doctorate in Nursing Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
The application deadline is January 1 for admission the following summer.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.