PhD Help

It's hard to answer such general questions in a short format ... but here are a couple of thoughts to help you get started.

1. First, you need to decide what type of doctoral degree you want. The PhD focuses on the scholarly, academic aspects of nursing -- a lot of research, theory, and philosophy. It is the designed for people wanting an academic career or at least wanting to focus on the academic, scholarly aspects of nursing in a practice setting. Before entering a PhD program, you should have your research focus at least partially developed so that you can use your coursework as a foundation for your dissertation and future research. The DNP is designed for people wanting a doctoral level foundation to a practice-based career. It includes some research, theory, etc. ... but is geared more towards the person planning to work in a practice setting and having a practice-based career. Which fits your career plans best?

2. A lot of people pursue doctoral studies part time -- but part time students are usually eigible for less financial aid (if any). Full time students in brick and mortar programs often get fellowships that pay for most of the school costs (sometimes with a little bit of living expenses thrown in).

3. There are decent online options available for both PhD and DNP programs -- but there is something very valuable in fully emersing yourself on campus at that level of study.

I recommend talking with your current faculty members and mentors about your career goals -- and then seeking the kind of program that will fit those goals the best, balanced with your personal needs. I don't recommend "just going to a doctoral program" that is convenient or that someone recommends without first doing that kind of deep career planning and personal reflection/assessment. Doctoral education is a big investment -- so it's great that you are trying to do your homework before making that investment.

Good luck.

llg, PhD, RN-BC