University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The programme centres on the generation of new knowledge in nursing and the translation of evidence into practice and policy. You will complete advanced coursework in research design, biostatistics, and nursing theory alongside substantive study in health systems, leadership and clinical specialities. Typical modules include:

• Advanced Nursing Theory and Philosophy — exploration of conceptual models and theoretical frameworks that inform research and practice.
• Quantitative Research Methods and Biostatistics — design, analysis and interpretation of quantitative studies, including longitudinal and multilevel methods.
• Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research — approaches to qualitative inquiry, mixed-methods design and rigour in qualitative research.
• Health Policy, Systems and Administration — organisational behaviour, health systems, finance and leadership relevant to nursing administration.
• Clinical Scholarship and Evidence Translation — implementation science, clinical trials methodology and strategies for moving evidence into practice.
• Research Ethics and Responsible Conduct of Research — human-subjects protection, data management and ethical issues in clinical and community research.
• Grant Writing and Research Dissemination — preparing competitive proposals, knowledge translation and scholarly writing for peer-reviewed outlets.
• Teaching and Mentoring in Nursing — pedagogical theory and supervised teaching practicum for those intending academic careers.

Structured components include core coursework, elective/specialist courses aligned to your concentration (administration, nursing research, or clinical nursing), comprehensive/qualifying examinations, original doctoral research and a defended dissertation. Students work closely with a supervisory committee and are expected to present and publish their research during the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold current licensure as a registered nurse and a graduate degree in nursing (typically an MSN or equivalent). Exceptional candidates holding a BSN may be considered if they demonstrate substantial research experience and meet any preparatory coursework requirements. Common application materials include:

• A graduate transcript showing strong academic performance in prior nursing and research coursework.
• Evidence of RN licensure (active in the applicant's jurisdiction).
• A statement of research interests that outlines proposed areas of inquiry and potential faculty mentors.
• Curriculum vitae demonstrating clinical experience, research or scholarly activities.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant's research potential.
• A sample of scholarly writing or a brief research proposal may be requested by the admissions committee.

Admission is competitive and typically requires alignment between the applicant’s research aims and the expertise of faculty members. Some applicants may be asked to complete prerequisite coursework in statistics or research methods before beginning doctoral-level classes.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue roles that emphasise research, scholarship and leadership. Common career paths include:

• University faculty and educator roles, leading teaching programmes and mentoring future nurses.
• Academic and clinical researchers conducting funded studies in areas such as health services research, chronic disease management, patient safety and implementation science.
• Senior nursing administration and executive leadership in hospitals and health systems, focusing on quality improvement, strategic planning and policy.
• Policy advisers and analysts in government agencies, non-profit organisations or professional bodies influencing health policy and regulation.
• Scientific staff or principal investigators in research institutes, clinical trials units and interdisciplinary research centres.

PhD graduates are prepared to secure external research funding, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and lead interdisciplinary teams to address complex health care challenges.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee offers a research-intensive environment with access to multidisciplinary collaborators across nursing, medicine, public health and allied health professions. Students benefit from mentorship by established nurse scientists, opportunities to engage with regional health systems and community partners, and access to research resources such as simulation facilities and data services. The programme emphasises mentorship, scholarly productivity and career development, preparing graduates to become independent investigators and leaders in nursing science and health care.