Most Ph.D. nursing programs take around four to six years to complete. Since the learning stage is comparatively long, it might be a good idea to learn more about what a Ph.D. in nursing is and what educational institution requirements you are expected to meet for admission before you take the leap.
The good news is that nursing PhD available online in California makes it easier for students to complete the degree. They can study from the comfort of their home and even work alongside. In this guide, we shall look at the different types of Ph.D. nursing programs, their requirements, and the basic role of a Ph.D. nurse.
What Is a Ph.D. Nurse?
Nurses with a Ph.D. are highly educated and have a doctoral degree called the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing. A Ph.D. is different from a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) as the latter is more focused on advanced clinical practice. However, a Ph.D. is focused on nursing and demands strong leadership skills and commitment to nursing research.
Steps to Obtain a Nursing Ph.D.
Step 1: Obtain a BSN Degree
You need to earn a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree if you sign up to enter the field of nursing. You can then opt for courses like health care law, nursing ethics, anatomy, nursing research, and microbiology. A bachelor’s degree ensures a proper base and proves you have the basic skills to pursue a career as a nurse.
Once you graduate, you must sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure. It is also a good idea to complete field hours as required to be eligible for the nursing exam. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing conducts exams that allow nurses to practice in their respective states legally. A license is essential for patient safety and ensures that entry-level nurses are properly qualified.
Step 2: Earn an MSN Degree
An MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) degree allows candidates to develop clinical skills through specialized courses and nursing classes. Common courses include pharmacology, health assessment, and advanced nursing research. Students must also have completed the total clinical hours to be eligible for advanced nursing duties and roles.
Step 3: Get a Ph.D.
Attaining a Ph.D. will take substantial effort and time. Students are presented with quite a few options for Ph.D. nursing programs. They can complete the degree online or on-campus and can even pick from full-time and part-time programs. Most institutions offer the following:
- RN to Ph.D. Program
This program is suitable for RNs (Registered Nurses) that have a BSN degree but wish to obtain a Ph.D. without getting an MSN degree. This accelerated program may call students to take additional electives, doctoral comprehensive examinations, and nursing courses.
- MSN to Ph.D. Program
This is suitable for RNs (Registered Nurses) with an MSN degree.
- DNP or Ph.D. Dual Nursing Program
This rigorous program allows Ph.D. candidates to become experts in faculty practice and scientific inquiry. Graduates can opt to become expert nurse clinicians.
Career Options With a Ph.D. in Nursing
There are several roles you can acquire with a nursing Ph.D. Some popular employment options include:
Nursing Research Director
With a Ph.D. in nursing, it is possible to get a job as the director of nursing research. Directors supervise nursing researchers and all aspects of any research project being conducted at a healthcare facility. They also implement the research studies, design plans and are responsible for simplifying the findings of the latest studies.
Nursing Teacher
Nursing educators can work at both the college and university levels. Nurses with a Ph.D. can opt to become classroom instructors that mentor students, plan a curriculum, and perform the evaluation and creation process of the syllabus. This ensures a smooth learning experience for young nurses.
Government Worker
Highly qualified nurses can be appointed at the Department of defense or the military, VA hospitals, correctional facilities, and other government sectors. Common posts include:
- Director of nursing
- Nursing researcher
- Nurse anesthetist
- Nurse midwife
- Nursing administrator
Health Care Organization Head/Leader
Nurses with a Ph.D. can become directors for clinical facilities and patient care departments. They help establish balance and create a channel between department managers and the upper-level management. Healthcare organization leaders help improve departmental workflow and efficiency while simultaneously enabling patient satisfaction.
Endnote
A Ph.D. in nursing is a great choice if you want to advance in your nursing career, earn a better income, or land a higher job role. It is the perfect choice for candidates that are passionate about nursing, those that want to take part in research, and those that wish to act as mentors to younger nurses.
