Expertise in clinical nursing and competence in research are required to prepare scholars to disseminate knowledge and build programs of research. To achieve excellence in the academic program, students engage in activities consistent with the areas of research excellence of the faculty.? Moreover, the faculty is committed to the intellectual growth of the student, which is achieved through mentorship and collaboration in scholarship.

The PhD student concentrates on the organization and development of knowledge requisite to nursing practice for service to a population. The population may include: age group (children, adults), focus of service (individual, family, or community) and position on the continuum of health (health and wellness, acute and chronic disruptions in health). PhD students are culturally diverse, and many develop and apply knowledge relevant to global health needs.