Question about Phd Programs

I'll say the same thing here I said in the no GRE thread -- you need to figure out what you really want, a DNP or a PhD before you try and narrow down where you want to go.

If you are interested in a PhD, and are interested in research, you'll do a lot better going to a school with faculty who work in your area of interest. If you mostly want to continue teaching, and would rather not have to do a major research project for your degree, a DNP may be a better choice.

With so many schools adding DNP programs, they are going to need doctorally prepared faculty, so if education is your focus, the DNP may be a better approach.

I know at my institution, part of the impetus for the first cohort of DNP students was to get advanced clinicians with terminal degrees into the system.

I wouldn't rule out schools that require a GRE. It's doable. Plus, you're considering a PhD- the most difficult-to-obtain degree in the world. If you have it in you to make it through a doctoral program, you have it in you to leap over the GRE hurdle (which is small potatoes, compared to what you have in store in a PhD program). Just a bit of food for thought.

CNMNY:

You may also want to consider financial aid and scholarships if you are mobile in any way. Many programs (including my own) provide full scholarships to all PHD students. Research Intensive universities can provide wonderful opportunities for you to work on nursing research teams -- and have support for PHD students. Most DNP programs I am aware of are self-pay (thru loans).

If you are committed to becoming a Nursing Faculty Member, look for programs that have federal Nurse Faculty Loan Program funding (NIH-HRSA funding that allows you to borrow the tuition costs). NFLP funds can be cancelled up to 85% if you become a full-tim nursing faculty member after you graduate. There are nearly 100 schools with NFLP funding; ask if they would guarantee you this support for your degree.

I know there is a sticky for this thread but got no responses on that thread so thougt I would add it here

I am a CNM - graduatated with a Certificate in Midwifery and have completed a MS in Nursing Education - I am now working as full time faculty in a ADN program

I am interested in either a DNS or PhD program that does not require GRE testing for admission -

I am considering online programs, University of Arizona and Nova Southeastern in Florida both have Phd programs online - that I believe do not require the GRE -

Any feedback about these programs or any other programs in the New York area either online or on campus that do not require GRE.

NOVA has an online PhD program:

http://www.nova.edu/nursing/phd/index.html

University of Arizona has an online doctoral program also:

http://www.nursing.arizona.edu/doctoral.htm

George Washington University's online DNP program:

http://www.gwumc.edu/healthsci/programs/dnp/

A.T. Still University has an online Doctor of Health Education (D.H.Ed.) and Doctor of Health Sciences (D.H.Sc.):

http://www.atsu.edu/ashs/online_programs/DHsc/index.htm

http://www.atsu.edu/shm/online_programs/doctor_health_education/index.htm

The websites did not state that a GRE was required for admissions.

I wouldn't rule out schools that require a GRE. It's doable. Plus, you're considering a PhD- the most difficult-to-obtain degree in the world. If you have it in you to make it through a doctoral program, you have it in you to leap over the GRE hurdle (which is small potatoes, compared to what you have in store in a PhD program). Just a bit of food for thought.

I agree. Besides, you may just surprise yourself with really good scores. I'd say take the GRE (even though I despise standardized tests).

Thanks for all your replies -

I am interested in the PhD - the DNS is a Doctorate of Nursing Science which is also a research degree - it is offered at City University of New York ( CUNY) but it requires a GRE - but the program is wonderful and has a great reputation. Also because it is a City University the tuition is very resonable

I have thought about the DNP but I really am interested in research and I would like to continue to teach. Since the DNP is a new doctoral degree I am concerned about its acceptance in academia. Any thoughts?

I have looked at the websites of Nova and University of Arizona and will investige the others -

I know I am being difficult about the GRE - I just feel at this stage of the game - I have already proven, through my education and work history, whether I can succeed in a doctoral program

I would prefer to submit a research paper or other written proof of my ability to express myself than take an exam that tests my ability to do geometry. I took Biostatisics this summer - so its not just math that I am concerned about - its the type of Math on the GRE that scares me - its been a long, long time since I did algebra and geometry !!!!

I working full time as faculty in an ADN program - just finished my first semester - whew - so I am not planning to leave the area -

My options are online programs or programs in the New York City area

CNMNY:

The PhD is the 'gold standard' in doctoral study, and all academics in all disciplines know what a PhD means. The DNP is newer, and may raise an eyebrow or two in non-nursing areas.

At my University, all PhD students in every discipline and School (all 70+ phd programs) requires the PhD. Since it is a University requirement, we have no option other than do accept it. The DNP and MSN degrees are nursing-specific, and so we can set our own rules. So we require the GRE for the PhD, but not for the DNP or MSN.

CUNY is an excellent University. One of my good college friends did his PhD there (and he is now President of Scranton). Top-notch faculty & resources --- and a great value. If you took the GRE and got into CUNY, you would save yourself tens of thousands of dollars in tuition over out-of-state or online programs.

Hello CNMNY,

I know this is off topic but I was wondering have you practice as a midwife? This is what my heart wants but I was wondering what are the career options out there? Thanks for any info

Hi Intellegentnewnurse -

I have worked as a midwife for the last 20 years - I am now working as faculty at a nursing program - but do perdiem prenatal care and gyn at a community health center - I am not doing births at present but was up until changed jobs ( about six months ago ) and who knows for the future

You should do what you love - there are many opportunities for midwives - some areas more than others - you can look on midwifejobs.com - and get an idea of what is available at present

Follow your dream - !!!!:redpinkhe

I just have a few comments:

1. I hated the GRE. I sucked it up and took it anyway.

2. You're not kidding when you say "what's in store for you [in a PhD program]" Good Lord.

3. Loves me some NFLP monies. If it weren't for that, along with a scholarship, I'd be back to eating Ramen Noodles again.

thanks.

Welcome to Allnurses, bribri77! We're glad to have you here.

Welcome to Allnurses, bribri77! We're glad to have you here.

Yes, second that. Feel free to ask questions or just vent as need be.

So, where are you in your program?

BTW, I see you in Nashville. Are you at Vanderbilt (if I can ask).

In the tradition of the IgNobel Prize Award Ceremony's "Welcome, Welcome" speech I say:

"Welcome, Welcome."