Pace University

What you'll study

The PhD curriculum combines advanced theoretical coursework, research methods training, and an original dissertation that contributes to nursing science. Core areas typically include nursing theory and philosophical foundations, advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods, biostatistics, epidemiology, health services research, and research ethics. Students choose a focus pathway—Nursing Administration, Nursing Research or Clinical Nursing—through specialist seminars and elective modules that align with their dissertation plan.

• Core research methods: applied statistics, advanced qualitative inquiry, mixed methods, measurement and psychometrics.
• Theory and scholarship: history and philosophy of nursing science, contemporary theoretical frameworks, and knowledge translation.
• Specialist coursework (pathway dependent): organisational leadership and policy for Administration; clinical trial design and implementation for Research; advanced clinical practice topics and translational science for Clinical Nursing.
• Practicum and teaching preparation: opportunities to develop teaching skills, supervise students, and engage in mentored research within clinical partners.
• Dissertation: an independent, faculty‑mentored research project culminating in a written dissertation and oral defence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a master’s degree in nursing or a closely related field from an accredited institution and current licensure as a registered nurse. Successful candidates typically demonstrate graduate-level research experience, a strong academic record, and clear potential for doctoral-level study and scholarship.

• Master’s degree (MSN or equivalent) — programmes with a research component are preferred.
• Current, active RN licensure in the United States or eligibility to obtain one.
• Evidence of research aptitude such as a thesis, published papers, or substantial project work.
• Supporting documents: academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, a personal statement outlining research interests and goals, and letters of recommendation.
• Some applicants may be asked to submit a research proposal and attend an interview; standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) are determined by the programme and may be waived in many cases.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Nursing move into roles that shape education, research and clinical practice. Common career destinations include university faculty positions with responsibilities for teaching and research, leadership roles in clinical research units and academic medical centres, and senior organisational posts such as director of nursing research or chief nursing officer.

• Tenure‑track and teaching faculty positions in baccalaureate and graduate nursing programmes.
• Research scientist or principal investigator roles in hospitals, research institutes and government agencies.
• Clinical leadership and policy positions focused on implementing evidence‑based practice and improving population health.
• Consultancy and leadership in healthcare quality, patient safety, and systems redesign.

Why study at Pace University

Pace University offers doctoral students a research‑intensive environment with access to clinical partners across New York City and the Hudson Valley, enabling translational work that links academic inquiry to frontline care. The programme emphasises close mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development for academic and leadership careers.

• Proximity to a wide range of hospitals, community health organisations and research centres that support clinical placements and collaborative research.
• Faculty mentors with active research programmes spanning health services, outcomes research, health policy and clinical trials.
• Opportunities to develop teaching experience and grant-writing skills, and to present at regional and national conferences.
• Supportive cohort structure with access to research resources, simulation facilities and interprofessional education across the university.