Nursing (PhD)

The PhD in Nursing program, built on the Boyer model of scholarship, prepares nurses to design, conduct, and lead research projects to generate and integrate nursing knowledge. The program is offered as a joint program between the University of Akron College of Nursing and Kent State University College of Nursing, thus giving students the synergies of resources from two major universities of Northeastern Ohio. Degrees and diplomas are issued from the student’s choice of one of the two universities. Professional opportunities post degree include academic faculty and leadership positions, nursing and health systems research and leadership positions, and positions in public service, advocacy, and consulting.

Admission Requirements

• Evidence of successful completion of a bachelor of science in nursing degree at an accredited program and a master's degree in nursing or a closely related health field. For international students a program evaluation is required.
• A minimum graduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• An official transcript from each college or university attended.
• Official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) taken within seven years of application.
• Current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Three letters of reference from professionals or professors who can adequately evaluate the applicant and the applicant's previous work or potential for success.
• A clear and succinct statement of research interests and career goals including a rationale for why you desire the research doctorate. Please limit to one double-spaced typed page.
• A sample of written work that indicates the logic and writing skills of the applicant, e.g., published article, term paper, or essay.
• International students must achieve a minimum score of 550 on the paper-based TOEFL (or a minimum of 213 on the computer-based test, or a minimum of 79 on the internet-based test). In addition, all international students must comply with university procedures for acceptance as an international student.

Application Deadline

• July 15 for Fall enrollment (only admit for the fall term)

Assistantship/Scholarship Information

All assistantships (and any fellowships) are awarded through the academic department. Students interested in obtaining an assistantship must apply. New students may indicate on their online application for admission that they would like to be considered for an assistantship. Current students must contact the academic department for application information. Each department may have different requirements for assistantship applicants, so all students should contact the academic department to determine these particular requirements. Only those students fully admitted to a master’s or doctoral degree-seeking program are eligible for a graduate assistantship. Students admitted as non-degree seeking or to a certificate program may not hold an assistantship.

Financial Aid Information

Paying for college is a vital part of the education process. It is important to be informed of the many sources of aid available. Student loans are available to degree-seeking graduate students. Information on student loans can be found through the Office of Student Financial Aid. The Office of Student Financial Aid is located in Simmons Hall.

Tuition and Fees

Current tuition and fees schedules can be found through the Office of Student Accounts.