PhD Entry Options
One of the unique features of the PhD Program at the FPB School of Nursing is its variety of entry points and scheduling options, which are detailed below.
Traditional PhD Entry Option
If you have already earned the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, you can enter the PhD program directly and complete the PhD core coursework during the fall and spring semesters.
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A minimum of 3 credits of proposal development is required; however, students may need more time to complete their candidacy exam and proposal development and may therefore need to take more credits of proposal development.
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Concurrent enrollment in proposal development credits and dissertation credits is not permitted.
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Full time status is defined as 9 credits per semester ONLY while students are enrolled in their coursework prior to proposal development. However, enrollment in even a single credit of NURS 671 (proposal development) or NURS 701 (dissertation) constitutes full time study.
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Total required credit hours for the nursing PhD (post MSN) = 57 credits
Click here to see the PhD core requirements.
Fast Track: BSN-PhD Option
This post-baccalaureate option is designed to allow nurses with a BSN to pursue the PhD degree without needing to earn a Master's degree.
Candidates are educated as nurse scientists and will be prepared for careers in research and academia.
Before starting the PhD core requirements, candidates must complete transition courses to gain Clinical Knowledge and be able to develop a research focus pertinent to nursing in the Context of Care (see below):
Additional details:
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A minimum of 3 credits of proposal development is required; however, students may need more time to complete their candidacy exam and proposal development and may therefore need to take more credits of proposal development.
-
Concurrent enrollment in proposal development credits and dissertation credits is not permitted.
-
Full time status is defined as 9 credits per semester ONLY while students are enrolled in their coursework prior to proposal development. However, enrollment in even a single credit of NURS 671 (proposal development) or NURS 701 (dissertation) constitutes full time study.
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Total required credit hours for the nursing PhD (post BSN or equivalent) = 63 credits
Summer-Only PhD Option
Depending on the number of registrants, PhD courses may be offered during the summer months so you can earn your degree in six summers. This option is particularly designed for individuals who have commitments during the fall, winter, and spring months, such as those who have faculty positions during the academic year.
Students may also take courses during regular semesters if they choose (hence all year round), thereby potentially shortening the length of the program. The courses for the Summer Option are the same as those outlined in the general PhD brochure.
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A minimum of 3 credits of proposal development is required; however, students may need more time to complete their candidacy exam and proposal development and may therefore need to take more credits of proposal development.
-
Concurrent enrollment in proposal development credits and dissertation credits is not permitted.Full time status is defined as 9 credits per semester ONLY while students are enrolled in their coursework prior to proposal development. However, enrollment in even a single credit of NURS 671 (proposal development) or NURS 701 (dissertation) constitutes full time study.
-
Total required credit hours for the nursing PhD (post MSN) = 57 credits
Accelerated Option
Students who want to attain their PhD as soon as possible may accelerate their doctoral studies by taking PhD courses throughout the year, including summers (minimum registration required).
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A minimum of 3 credits of proposal development is required; however, students may need more time to complete their candidacy exam and proposal development and may therefore need to take more credits of proposal development.
-
Concurrent enrollment in proposal development credits and dissertation credits is not permitted.
-
Full time status is defined as 9 credits per semester ONLY while students are enrolled in their coursework prior to proposal development. However, enrollment in even a single credit of NURS 671 (proposal development) or NURS 701 (dissertation) constitutes full time study.
-
Total required credit hours for the nursing PhD (post MSN) = 57 credits
Non-Degree Students
Individuals who are interested in entering the PhD in Nursing Program at Case in the near future may apply to register as a non-degree student for up to 9 credits (3 courses). The application form is available from the School of Graduate Studies. The applicant must obtain written permission from the faculty teaching the course and the Associate Dean for Doctoral Education at the School of Nursing. Continuation of this status is at the discretion of the School of Nursing's Associate Dean for Doctoral Education. Status as a non-degree student does not imply acceptance into Case's PhD in Nursing program. If the non-degree student applies for admission and is accepted by Case, coursework completed as a non-degree student may be applied towards degree requirements for the PhD in Nursing program.
DNP Graduates with "Advanced Standing"
Effective with the January 2011 enrollment, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) graduates who have graduated within the last five years will be eligible for admission to the PhD in nursing program with "advanced standing." Click here for more details.
