MSN to Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

Is an MSN to Ph.D. in Nursing Program Right For Me?

There are a multitude of pathways for nurses looking to move from a clinical background to a role that is more focused on medical research, education, leadership, and policy development. Among these, the MSN to Ph.D. option is becoming increasingly popular. These programs are easily accessible, allowing students to save time, energy, and money while also increasing their earning potential, and, more importantly, giving them a more comprehensive background in the field.

There are many MSN to Ph.D. bridge programs available, and some institutions even offer dual-degree options to prepare students for various research and educational roles within the nursing field.

OTHER NURSING PH.D. BRIDGE PROGRAMS:

• BSN to Ph.D.
• DNP to Ph.D.

Varieties of MSN to Ph.D. Bridge Programs Available

The workforce that nursing Ph.D. graduates will enter is broad, and there are many roles available for those looking for a focus on research and education. Prospective students can look for Ph.D. bridge programs that align with their interests. To help narrow down your search, let’s take a look at a few of the many types of MSN to Ph.D. program specialties available in 2023:

• Nursing Research
• Public Health Nursing
• Nurse Administration
• Nursing Education

Prerequisites for an MSN to Ph.D. in Nursing Bridge Program

Prospective candidates for MSN to Ph.D. bridge programs generally need to meet certain prerequisites, although specific requirements may vary by institution. The typical prerequisites include:

• Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from an accredited university

• Passing score on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or other test(s) as determined by the program

• Current, unencumbered nursing license

• Some programs may require an in-person or video interview with the program candidate

• Most programs will require an essay or personal statement describing the student’s career goals

Are Clinical Hours Required for the MSN to Ph.D. in Nursing Program?

Because an MSN to Ph.D. program focuses more on the educational and research aspects of nursing, clinical hours are rarely required. As you might have guessed, this doesn’t mean less work for prospective students. Instead of clinical hours, students in MSN to Ph.D. programs typically engage in research projects, seminars, and teaching experiences, and coursework will relate to theory, concepts, and methodologies relating to nursing.

Are Online MSN to Ph.D. Programs in Nursing Available?

To cater to the needs of working nurses and individuals who prefer the flexibility of online education, numerous universities and nursing schools offer online MSN to Ph.D. programs. These online programs typically enable students to complete coursework, engage in research, and collaborate with faculty and peers through virtual platforms. While the didactic portion of the program is often accessible online, some programs may necessitate occasional on-campus attendance for specific activities such as seminars, presentations, or comprehensive exams.

While getting your Ph.D. online can be a more affordable, and more convenient option for many, consider your specific needs when applying to these programs, as well as the program’s specific requirements to see if any portion of the curriculum must be completed in-person.

How Long Do MSN to Ph.D. Programs Take to Complete?

The curriculum for your MSN to Ph.D. program can take as few as two to three years to complete, but dissertations and research projects can add more time. Four to five years total is a common timeline for completion, but this will vary from program to program and whether you will be a full-time or part-time student.

Be sure to check all credit and project/dissertation requirements for your chosen MSN to Ph.D. program so that you have an accurate picture of how long it may take to complete the Ph.D.

How Much Will Tuition Cost for an MSN to Ph.D. Program?

Tuition costs for MSN to Ph.D. programs can vary significantly between institutions and states. These costs typically include tuition fees, mandatory fees, and course materials like textbooks. Online programs offer the advantage of not incurring travel or parking expenses. Tuition fees are usually based on the number of credit hours and the student’s residency status. Here are some examples of tuition and fees for MSN to Ph.D. programs as of 2023:

University of Tyler

In-State Tuition: $7,173

Out of State Tuition: $16,582

Program Duration: 81 Credits

University of Florida

In-State Tuition: $12,740

Out of State Tuition: $30,134

Program Duration: 68 Credits

What Is the MSN to Ph.D. Curriculum Like?

The curriculum for an MSN to Ph.D. program in nursing is carefully designed to provide registered nurses with advanced education in nursing research, theory, and scholarship. The curriculum is research-intensive, preparing students for careers in academia, research, leadership, and policy development within the nursing field. While specific courses and requirements can vary between institutions and programs, here is a general overview of what you might find in an MSN to Ph.D. curriculum:

• Core Nursing Courses

• Research Methodology

• Statistics

• Nursing Theory

• Specialized Courses

Are Any Ph.D. Exams Required Before I Start My Career?

Every MSN to Ph.D. program will have its specific requirements for examinations. Here are a few of the typical examinations that you may come across:

• Qualifying Examinations: Qualifying exams assess your readiness for the dissertation phase and may cover your research proposal and research methods. The format and requirements for these exams are often determined by the university or program.

• Nursing Certification Exams: Some MSN to Ph.D. programs offer or require advanced nursing certification in specialties. These certifications typically involve national board exams administered by organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Where Can I Work With a Ph.D. in Nursing?

Moving from a clinical setting to a setting that is focused more on research, theory, and education, there will be a whole new collection of positions available to you once you’ve completed your MSN to Ph.D. program. Here are some of the places where you can work with an MSN to PhD in Nursing:

• Academic Institutions: Many graduates of MSN to Ph.D. programs pursue academic careers. They can work as faculty members in universities, teaching nursing students, conducting research, and much more.

• Research Institutions: Graduates often find roles in research institutions and centers, where they may lead research projects and conduct/publish studies related to nursing.

• Hospitals and Healthcare Systems: Some nurses with an MSN to Ph.D. work in hospitals and healthcare systems in various capacities as nurse researchers, nursing leaders, or educators for fellow nurses.

• Government Agencies: Government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels hire nurse researchers and experts to inform healthcare policies and drive public health initiatives.

• Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofit organizations focused on healthcare, public health, and nursing-related causes may hire nurses to hold medical advisory positions and help with advocacy.

• Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety: Graduates can contribute to improving healthcare quality and patient safety in various environments.

• Nursing Education and Continuing Education Providers: Aside from academic institutions, nurses with an MSN to Ph.D. can work for organizations that offer continuing education and more.

• Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies: Nurses with expertise in research and patient care may find opportunities to contribute to clinical trials and other medical affairs.

• Global Health Organizations: Nurses with an MSN to Ph.D. may work with global health organizations, addressing international healthcare challenges and informing global health initiatives.

How Much Will I Make With a Ph.D. in Nursing?

Similarly to clinical nursing, a position in nursing research or education will provide a salary that varies from field to field, and from location to location. Here’s a general overview of potential earning ranges for nurses with an MSN to PhD in Nursing in the United States:

• Nurse Educators: Nurse educators in academic institutions, teaching nursing students, can earn a median annual salary of $84,180, according to the BLS. Salaries can vary based on the level of education, rank, and experience.

• Nurse Researchers: Nurses involved in research, whether in academic settings, healthcare institutions, or research organizations, can earn salaries of around $99,930 annually. Research leadership roles may command higher salaries.

• Nurse Executives and Administrators: According to the BSL, nurses in leadership roles within healthcare organizations, such as Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs) or Nursing Directors, can earn median salaries of around $104,830 or more annually. Salaries vary based on the size and complexity of the healthcare system.

• Government and Public Health: Nurses employed by government agencies or in public health roles, such as epidemiologists, may earn salaries of $78,520 or more annually, depending on their position and agency.