PhD in Nursing Science 

About the Program

Conduct multidisciplinary, cutting-edge research that will transform nursing with Vanderbilt’s PhD in Nursing Science degree. This four-year, full-time program prepares diverse scholars to lead the nation in nursing research, education and policy. 

The program is delivered predominantly online with limited campus visits once a semester, and its state-of-the-art curriculum emphasizes both clinical and health services research. All students receive a customized plan of study tailored to their specific research interests. Research is organized into the following signature areas: Acute and Chronic Illness, Data Science and Health Technologies, Palliative Care Science, and Pregnancy Outcomes and Mother, Infant, Child and Family Health.   

Student tuition for the program is fully funded, covering up to four years of research and coursework, and students receive annual stipends.   

Key Takeaways  

• Benefit from a blended learning format that pairs online classes and coursework with periodic campus visits 
• Receive competitive financial awards, including fully funded tuition and an annual stipend 
• Conduct cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research alongside nationally and internationally recognized faculty who have a wide range of research foci 
• Learn with an advanced curriculum that emphasizes both clinical and health services research  
• Launch your research or academic career with strong faculty mentorship and a personalized plan of study 

Who Should Enroll?

The PhD in Nursing Science program is designed for diverse nurse scholars who are interested in pursuing research and academic careers in public or private health care. Admitted students seek to advance nursing through scientific discovery, and they hold bachelor’s degrees in nursing (or BSN equivalent) and master’s degrees in nursing (or a related field) or doctoral degrees in nursing (or a related field).  

Admission to the program is competitive and requires research and career goals that are in alignment with the School of Nursing’s research efforts and faculty expertise.