Online Ph.D. degrees in nursing focus heavily on nursing research. Enrollees take advanced classes in research design and methods. They may also take classes in grant writing, statistical methods, and nurse scientist leadership. Degree-seekers complete a dissertation.
Applicants to nursing Ph.D. programs need nursing experience and a registered nurse (RN) license. Some Ph.D. programs only consider applicants with an accredited nursing master's degree and a 3.0 GPA. Prospective students typically submit writing samples, a statement of research goals, and recommendation letters.
Online Ph.D. degrees in nursing support advanced careers that shape the nursing field. Nursing Ph.D. graduates may work in nursing research, education, or policy.
This page lists the most affordable online nursing degrees. Read on to learn about Ph.D. curriculum and how to become a nurse.
Best Online Ph.D. Degrees in Nursing
Featured Online Doctorate Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Questions About Nursing Ph.D's
What can I do with a Ph.D. in nursing?
This terminal degree prepares graduates for careers as researchers, nurse educators, and policy experts.
How long does it take to get a Ph.D. in nursing?
Students can complete an online Ph.D. program in nursing in 5-7 years. The timing depends on learners' prior coursework and how quickly they complete their dissertation.
What's the difference between a Ph.D. in nursing and a doctor of nursing practice (DNP)?
DNP programs include clinical experience. These programs prepare learners for clinical careers. A Ph.D. in nursing usually appeals to aspiring researchers or teachers. These programs focus on research rather than clinical work.
Why Get a Ph.D. in Nursing?
Ph.D. enrollees study the science that shapes nursing theory and practice. Pursuing an online Ph.D. degree in nursing lets RNs move from clinical careers to research and teaching careers. Ph.D. in nursing graduates earn an average of $67,000 annually, according to Jan. 2021 Payscale data.
Online nursing programs provide flexibility. Working nurses can often earn a Ph.D. while continuing their career. An online format lets degree-seekers attend the most affordable program without relocating.
How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost?
A Ph.D. costs an average of $98,800, according to EducationData.org. However, costs vary by school, learners' residency status, and financial aid offerings. Public, in-state schools usually charge less than out-of-state and private universities.
Some Ph.D. students receive at least partial funding in exchange for teaching or research duties. Many degree-seekers must still take out loans to supplement this income and cover their living expenses.
Online Ph.D. programs sometimes cost less per credit. However, these programs may not offer graduate assistantships. View our nursing programs page to learn more about online Ph.D. in nursing degree costs.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online degree-seekers save money on commuting and campus housing. However, they should budget for supplies, books, and university fees. Some schools charge graduation and technology fees. Online learners may need to travel to campus. Students should budget for commuting, lodging, and time off work.
Learners pursuing a nursing degree online may need to buy a new computer or upgrade their internet. Nursing graduates should also budget for costs for professional exams and licenses.
How Much Do Nursing Majors Make?
Many factors influence salary, including nurses' employer and geographic location. Licensed practical and vocational nurses need a nursing diploma or associate degree. These professionals earn a median annual salary of $48,820, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). RNs need a bachelor's degree and earn an annual median salary of $75,330.
Nurse educators earn a median annual salary of $75,470, according to the BLS. Ph.D. in nursing graduates may qualify for high-paying work as researchers or administrators. Some nurses get promoted to medical and health services management roles. These professionals earn a median $104,280 annually.
Courses in a Ph.D. Nursing Program
Ph.D. in nursing programs usually require 45-70 credits. Programs feature core courses in nursing science and research methods. Degree-seekers must complete a dissertation that shows advanced skills in analysis, critical thinking, and writing.
Nursing Ph.D. programs may feature specializations or tracks. Students who focus on nursing education may take classes on evidence-based teaching and nursing curriculum design. Learners who choose a research track may learn about interdisciplinary research methods and healthcare intervention research methods.
See below for three common classes in online Ph.D. in nursing programs. Keep in mind that classes vary by program.
Foundational Skills for Nurse Educators
This class explores foundational learning theories in relation to nursing education. Enrollees study professional standards and competencies for various kinds of nurse educators. Learners also study leadership and organizational alignment. This class builds essential teaching skills for both academic and clinical settings.Nursing Theoretical and Scientific Foundations
This core class may appear under various titles. Coursework covers how environmental, biobehavioral, and pathophysiological scientific research informs nursing practice. Students hone skills in writing literature reviews and critically evaluating research studies. Enrollees also explore the philosophies and ethics of nursing practice and research.Nursing Leadership
Some online Ph.D. degrees in nursing require students to take one or more nursing leadership classes. Coursework helps learners develop skills they can use in education or research careers. Nursing leadership focuses on strategies and competencies that guide organizations toward high-quality healthcare outcomes. Enrollees learn about quality improvement, project management, and leading for change.
How to Become a Nurse
Most nurses care for patients in healthcare facilities or patients' homes. Tasks vary widely by field, position, and facility. Nurses often provide direct care, gather patient information, and give medical instructions.
Nurses need licenses to practice. Licensure requires passing a professional exam. Nursing candidates first complete an accredited nursing preparation program. These programs focus on fundamentals of microbiology, physiology, and anatomy. Candidates also complete social and behavioral science and nursing courses. Aspiring nurses complete clinical experience.
Nurses can begin their careers by earning a nursing diploma or an associate of science degree in nursing, an associate degree in nursing (ADN), or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Nurses seeking research, administrative, or teaching careers often pursue advanced degrees such as a master of science in nursing, DNP, or Ph.D. in nursing.
Licensure for Nursing
Practicing nurses need a license such as an RN. Each state's nursing board establishes nursing licensure requirements. All candidates must complete a state-approved nursing preparation program to qualify for professional examination. Many states accept ADN graduates. Some states require a BSN for licensure.
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing creates the National Council Licensure Examination, which nursing candidates must pass to become licensed. To qualify for examination, aspiring nurses need around 400 clinical experience hours. Most board-approved nursing preparation programs include clinical experience hours that meet licensure requirements. Experience requirements vary by state.
Nursing licensure may range from $100-$400, depending on the state. These costs usually include fingerprinting and background check fees. Nurses must complete around 30 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their licenses. Licensure renewal costs around $100 in many states.
