Indiana University

What you'll study

The PhD curriculum emphasises research methods, theory development and the production of original knowledge that advances nursing science and improves health outcomes. Core areas include advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods, biostatistics, health services research, nursing theory, ethics in research and grant writing. Students select substantive coursework to support concentrations such as nursing administration, nursing research or clinical nursing and pursue electives in related disciplines (for example public health, health informatics, psychology or implementation science) to broaden interdisciplinary expertise.

Programme components typically include:

• Research methods and statistics: advanced courses in experimental and non-experimental design, multivariate statistics, longitudinal data analysis and qualitative approaches.
• Theory and philosophy of science: development and critique of nursing and health-related theories that underpin research programmes.
• Specialist courses: tailored study in nursing administration, clinical nursing science or focused research topics relevant to the student’s dissertation plan.
• Teaching and pedagogy: preparation for academic roles through teaching practicums, curriculum development and assessment strategies.
• Research practicum and assistantships: mentored research work within faculty laboratories, clinical settings or community partnerships to develop independent investigator skills.
• Qualifying examinations and dissertation: students complete comprehensive exams or portfolio milestones, followed by an original doctoral dissertation culminating in an oral defence and dissemination of findings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a master’s degree in nursing or a closely related health discipline; exceptional candidates with a relevant professional doctorate may also be considered. A current, active RN licence is required. Successful applicants typically demonstrate prior research experience or scholarly potential, such as a master’s thesis, publications, conference presentations or substantive research assistant roles.

Admissions documentation normally includes a CV, a statement of research interests and career goals that aligns with faculty expertise, academic transcripts, and multiple letters of recommendation addressing academic and research potential. The programme evaluates applicants on academic preparation, clarity of research focus and availability of appropriate faculty mentors. Some applicants may be invited for an interview. Standardised tests (for example the GRE) may be requested in certain cases, depending on department policy and applicant background.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of senior roles in academia, clinical research and healthcare leadership. Common career paths include:

• University faculty positions teaching undergraduate and graduate nursing programmes and leading independent research.
• Research scientists or principal investigators in academic centres, hospitals, research institutes and government agencies.
• Clinical nurse scientists who translate research into practice in large health systems, community health organisations or specialty clinical settings.
• Leadership roles in policy, quality improvement, healthcare administration and evidence-based practice initiatives.
• Positions in industry, such as research roles within healthcare technology, pharmaceuticals or consulting focused on clinical outcomes and implementation science.

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University offers a PhD environment with strong mentorship from faculty engaged in funded, multidisciplinary research across areas such as chronic illness management, health disparities, implementation science and health systems improvement. Students benefit from access to clinical partnerships across the state, collaborative centres and core research resources including advanced statistical consultation and simulation and informatics facilities.

The School of Nursing emphasises close student–faculty relationships, structured mentorship for dissertation development and opportunities for teaching experience to prepare graduates for academic careers. The programme’s integration with university-wide research initiatives and health system partners supports practical, translational projects and provides pathways to external funding and professional networks.