MSU College of Nursing


	Academic Programs PhD in Nursing REQUIREMENTS & PREREQUISITES Objectives The purpose of the PhD Program is to prepare clinical nurse researchers. The major emphasis of this program matches the research strengths of the faculty, management of chronic conditions, and healthy families and children. The Fast Track allows nurses who are interested in clinical nursing research to progress directly from the baccalaureate degree to the PhD. It is expected that graduates of the program will be able to: 1.) Evaluate, implement and use appropriate research designs, measures and statistical analysis in the study of the processes and effectiveness of patterns of nursing and health care as they relate to the health status and health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. 2.) Evaluate and test current and developing middle-range theories relevant to nursing for their usefulness for understanding health status and health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. 3.) Translate and integrate scientific knowledge to inform clinical practice, policy, and delivery system change. 4.) Conduct original research using appropriate methods from nursing and other disciplines. Requirements The program of study is planned by the student in consultation with the major professor and a guidance committee. Components of the program of study include core required nursing courses, selected courses in nursing or other disciplines considered to be relevant to the student's interests, and chosen research area. Areas of study may also be provided through independent study. During the course of the program of study leading to the completion of the doctoral degree, each student will meet University and College requirements including: Completion of required courses in nursing and selected courses as outlined in the student's individual program plan. Maintenance of academic standards, including a minimum of 3.0 in each course on student's program plan. Participation in Research seminars. Successful completion of a doctoral comprehensive examination covering the major and related fields. Preparation of a dissertation that is acceptable to the guidance committee and that is based on original research that makes a significant contribution to knowledge. Successful completion of a final oral examination in defense of the dissertation. Prerequisite Courses Entering students are expected to have knowledge of statistics at the Master's level. Based on academic and experiential background, a student may be required to take courses to enhance and/or update their knowledge to facilitate success in the required courses of the doctoral program. Credits earned in prerequisite courses do not count toward the credit requirements for the doctoral degree.