Program Overview
The PhD in Nursing program at Rutgers School of Nursing prepares nurse scholars to advance the science of nursing through innovative research and contribute to health policy and practice. Our program is designed for those seeking to become leaders in academic and research-intensive environments.
Program Highlights:
- Top-tier education at a competitive price – see our tuition rates
- Flexible study options with both full-time and part-time tracks
- Emphasis on interdisciplinary research and evidence-based practice
- Access to world-class faculty and research facilities
- Mentorship from experienced nurse scientists
Funding and Financial Support
Connect with a member of our team to discuss options for financing your education, including grants, scholarships, and federal loans.
Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP)
The Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) offers loan forgiveness to train nurse educators and address faculty shortages. Rutgers School of Nursing applies annually for funding. If awarded, students can receive up to $35,500 per year for up to five years. After graduating from the program, 85% of the loan can be cancelled by serving four consecutive years as full-time faculty at an accredited nursing school.
Program Demographics
Under-represented
Minority
Average
Age
Gender
Countries
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PhD Program Curriculum
Our comprehensive curriculum provides the foundational and advanced knowledge required to drive nursing science forward. Students engage in rigorous coursework, research residencies, and dissertation preparation.
Key Components:
- Core Courses: Advanced nursing theory, research methodologies, and statistical analysis
- Research Residency: Hands-on research experience under faculty mentorship
- Dissertation: Original research contributing to the advancement of nursing knowledge
Post-Master’s to PhD Plans of Study
In this pathway, you can complete the PhD program in three (full-time) or four (part-time) years.
Post-Bachelor’s to PhD Plans of Study
In this pathway, you’ll get an early start to your doctorate and earn your master’s in nursing leadership along the way. The master’s portion includes 30 credits, saving you time and money. Master’s classes are offered as a mix of in-person and online courses. This is a full-time pathway completed in four years.
The PhD in Nursing Science program at Rutgers School of Nursing is an excellent and rigorous program that prepared me to become an open-minded and critical thinker. I am grateful to the dedicated faculty and staff who guided and supported me along the way. As a proud graduate, I am excited to join the esteemed community of nursing simulation researchers and look forward to contributing to the science of nursing education.
Monina Franco-Tantuico, PhD, MSN, BSMT, RN, CNE
Class of 2025
“Rutgers fosters a culture of excellence by offering numerous opportunities to engage in research, present at conferences, and share findings on broader platforms. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my growth as a scholar and preparing me for future success.” Anju Wadhawan, PhD Candidate, Class of 2026
Admissions
We seek candidates who are passionate about advancing nursing science and improving healthcare outcomes.
Application Deadlines:
- March 1 for the Post-Master’s/DNP to PhD Pathway
- August 1 for Post-Baccalaureate to PhD Pathway
Use the application found under the specific pathway below.
Program Eligibility and Application Requirements:
Post-Master’s/DNP to PhD Pathway
Eligibility:
- DNP or Master of Science in Nursing or Master’s in a related field from a nationally accredited program and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- GPA of 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- Current RN license
Application Deadline: March 1st
Application Requirements:
- Completed online application for the PhD program
- Non-refundable fee
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Proof of RN licensure
- Three essays on your background/qualifications, PhD program interest and goals, and research interests
- Three letters of reference (preferably two from PhD-prepared individuals)
- CV/Resume
- Interview
- Official TOEFL scores (if applicable)
- GRE is NOT required
- Statistics course in the past five years (desired but NOT required)
Official Transcripts: must be sent directly from your prior college(s)
- Electronic transcripts (preferred option): transcripts@gradadm.rutgers.edu
- Paper transcripts:
University Enrollment Services Admissions Processing
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
65 Davidson Road, Room 308
Piscataway, NJ 08854-8097
- Transcript questions: grad_help@gradadm.rutgers.edu or call (848) 932-7711
- Newly admitted students must submit updated official transcripts/documents verifying completion of all “in progress” degrees, coursework, or licensure before starting the program. Failure to comply will result in admission being rescinded.
If you are an international applicant, click here for more details about your application process.
Post-Baccalaureate to PhD Pathway
In this pathway, students complete an accelerated MSN in Nursing Leadership coursework in year one, followed by transitioning to PhD in year two. This requires a two-step application process, in which an initial application is submitted to the MSN – Nursing Leadership program followed by an application to the PhD program submitted during the Spring semester of the first year.
Eligibility:
- Having a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from a nationally accredited program
- GPA of 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- Current unencumbered RN license in New Jersey (or Compact State RN license)
Application Deadline: August 1st
Application Requirements:
Two-step application: Apply to MSN – Nursing Leadership, then to PhD during Spring of year one of the program.
- Completed online application for the MSN – Nursing Leadership program
- Non-refundable fee
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Proof of RN licensure in New Jersey (or Compact State RN license)
- CV/Resume
- Three letters of reference (preferably two from PhD-prepared individuals)
- Personal essay: no more than 2 pages addressing the following:
- How have your personal qualities and experiences influenced your career choice and how will they contribute to attaining this degree?
- Discuss your reasons for choosing the Post-Baccalaureate to PhD Pathway in relation to your career goals.
- Two letters of reference (attesting to your academic ability, professional competency, and personal character; one from a former faculty or a professional colleague and one from an individual in a supervisory role)
- Interview
- Official TOEFL scores (if applicable)
- GRE is NOT required
- Statistics course in the past five years (desired but NOT required)
Official Transcripts: must be sent directly from your prior college(s)
- Electronic transcripts (preferred option): transcripts_nursing@gradadm.rutgers.edu
- Paper transcripts: Office of Admissions & Recruitment – School of Nursing, 65 Bergen St. (Room 601), Newark, NJ 07107
- Transcript questions: grad_help@gradadm.rutgers.edu or call (848) 932-7711
- Newly admitted students must submit updated official transcripts/documents verifying completion of all “in progress” degrees, coursework, or licensure before starting the program. Failure to comply will result in admission being rescinded.
For this pathway, applicants must submit: 1) an Interest Declaration Form AND 2) an application to the MSN – Nursing Leadership program.
As a first-generation college graduate, I never imagined I’d one day earn a PhD. What once felt impossible became achievable because of the unwavering support and mentorship of the faculty. Their encouragement and belief in me made all the difference in my PhD journey. The rigor and robustness of the program not only challenged my thinking but also deepened my understanding of scientific inquiry and helped shape my identity as a research scholar. I am forever thankful to the incredible faculty in the PhD program for guiding, challenging, and inspiring me every step of the way. – Dione Sandiford, PhD, RN, CNE, CHSE
The PhD program fully prepared me for my role as a nurse scientist. The faculty were experienced and knowledgeable, and challenged me to broaden my understanding of research.
Cheryl Krause-Parello (PhD, RN, FAAN), Class of 2007, has received numerous accolades for her work, including AAN Edge Runner designation from the American Academy of Nursing.
PhD Faculty
Information Sessions
Learn more about our PhD in Nursing program by attending an information session. These sessions provide an opportunity to engage with faculty, current students, and the admissions team.
Upcoming Sessions:
- Virtual Info Session:
Dates for 2025/2026 will be released in the summer.
Sign up for our mailing list to get notified about future sessions.
Student Showcase
View PhD Graduates & Dissertations
– 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022