Villanova University

What you'll study

The PhD programme emphasises rigorous research methods, theoretical development and the translation of evidence into practice. Core coursework typically covers advanced research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, biostatistics, measurement and psychometrics, nursing theory, health policy and ethics. Students also study specialised topics appropriate to their concentration—examples include organisational leadership and healthcare systems for Nursing Administration, advanced clinical inquiry and intervention development for Clinical Nursing, and design of original, grant-ready programmes of research for Nursing Research.

Programme structure combines didactic coursework, practicum or mentored research experiences, comprehensive/qualifying examinations and a substantive dissertation based on original research. Students are matched with faculty mentors to develop a focused program of study and research plan. Seminars, teaching practicums and opportunities for collaborative, interdisciplinary research with schools of public health, medicine or allied health are common components.

• Advanced research methods (quantitative and qualitative)
• Applied biostatistics and data analysis
• Nursing theory and philosophical foundations of research
• Health systems, policy and leadership (Nursing Administration emphasis)
• Clinical scholarship and intervention science (Clinical Nursing emphasis)
• Grant writing, dissemination and research ethics
• Teaching and pedagogy for nurse educators
• Dissertation research and defence

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised graduate nursing degree (for example an MSN or equivalent) and an active registered nurse (RN) licence. Typical requirements include a strong academic record in prior degree work, demonstration of research interest or experience, and clear fit with available faculty supervision. Candidates should submit transcripts, a curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation (usually academic and/or professional), a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and a writing sample or prior research work when available.

Additional expectations often include clinical experience appropriate to the chosen concentration and evidence of potential for doctoral-level study. Some applicants may be asked to interview with potential supervisors. Admission committees may consider prior coursework in statistics or research methods; where gaps exist, conditional coursework can be required prior to advancing to candidacy. Standardised tests are assessed according to programme policy and may not be universally required; applicants should consult the programme for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of a PhD in Nursing typically pursue academic careers as tenure-track faculty, leading research programmes, teaching undergraduate and graduate nursing students and mentoring new researchers. Other common pathways include positions as research scientists in universities, healthcare systems or government, leadership roles in nursing administration, policy analysis within health organisations, and senior positions in clinical research or implementation science teams.

With a research doctorate, nurses can lead grant-funded studies, contribute to evidence-based clinical guidelines, shape health policy, and direct quality improvement and population health initiatives. The programme prepares graduates to publish in peer-reviewed journals, secure external funding and assume roles that influence clinical practice and health outcomes at institutional, regional or national levels.

Why study at Villanova University

Villanova's College of Nursing offers a research environment that blends a liberal arts tradition and an emphasis on ethical, patient-centred care with strong mentorship from faculty active in nursing science. The university supports interdisciplinary collaboration across health-related fields and maintains clinical and academic partnerships that enable applied research and translational opportunities.

Students benefit from small cohort sizes, access to research resources and laboratories, and opportunities for teaching experience and leadership development. The College of Nursing’s commitment to scholarship, community engagement and professional formation helps doctoral students build the methodological skills and professional networks needed to pursue competitive academic and research careers.