University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in nursing science and research methods with sustained, faculty‑mentored independent research leading to a doctoral dissertation. Core topics include nursing theory and conceptual frameworks, advanced statistics and quantitative methods, qualitative and mixed‑methods research design, and health services research. Students take specialised modules aligned with their emphasis—examples include Nursing Administration (organisational theory, strategic leadership, finance and workforce issues), Nursing Research (advanced measurement, longitudinal methods, grant writing) and Clinical Nursing (clinical scholarship, translational research, advanced practice pathways where applicable).

Typical course modules you can expect include:

• Advanced Nursing Theory and Philosophies of Science
• Advanced Quantitative Methods and Biostatistics
• Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research
• Health Policy, Ethics and Population Health
• Leadership and Organisational Dynamics in Healthcare
• Grant Writing and Research Dissemination
• Doctoral Seminar and Research Practicum
• Doctoral Dissertation (original research under faculty supervision)

The programme structure emphasises progressive independence: initial coursework and seminars are followed by comprehensive examinations or portfolio assessment, development of a dissertation proposal, and completion of original research. Students work closely with a supervisory committee and are expected to present and publish research as part of their training.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a master’s degree in nursing (or an equivalent clinical/master’s degree) and an active RN license. Typical academic expectations include a strong graduate GPA and evidence of academic or clinical scholarship. Required application materials usually include transcripts, a current CV, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and letters of recommendation.

Selection also takes into account alignment between applicant research interests and faculty expertise; prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact potential supervisors before applying. Some applicants may be asked to provide writing samples or a preliminary research proposal. International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Nursing from the University of North Dakota pursue roles across academia, health systems, government and the private sector. Common career pathways include:

• Academic faculty and programme leadership in nursing schools (teaching, curriculum development, research supervision)
• Principal investigator or research scientist in clinical, community or health services research settings
• Senior leadership and executive roles in hospitals, public health organisations and long‑term care systems
• Policy analyst, consultant or specialist in health policy, quality improvement and patient safety
• Clinical scholarship positions such as clinical nurse scientist or advanced practice leaders who integrate research into practice

Graduates are prepared to secure external research funding, lead interdisciplinary teams, publish in peer‑reviewed journals and shape evidence‑based practice and policy.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a research‑intensive environment with strong faculty mentorship and a commitment to rural and population health, reflecting regional healthcare priorities. Nursing PhD students can benefit from UND’s interdisciplinary collaborations across public health, medicine and allied health, and access to research resources such as simulation facilities and data support services.

The College of Nursing emphasises personalised supervision, opportunities for hands‑on research experience, and connections to regional health systems and community partners—advantages for students who wish to conduct applied research that informs practice and policy. The programme also supports professional development in grant writing, teaching, and dissemination to prepare graduates for leadership in academic and clinical research careers.