PhD
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) dissertation embodies the highest level of knowledge to influence and improve nursing science and the profession through various types of studies using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. A hallmark of doctoral research training, the PhD dissertation focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to conduct rigorous studies that extend the body of nursing knowledge; address important health care issues; and improve health outcomes, equity, and inclusion, all while informing health policy.
A PhD dissertation, grounded in the philosophy of science and a PhD candidate’s expertise, represents a standard of excellence and the candidate’s ability to conduct rigorous research. A PhD dissertation at UMSON contributes to the advancement of nursing/health science, solves important health care issues, and informs stakeholders. Nursing research is critical to the nursing discipline and is necessary for building evidence for practice that promotes optimal nursing care.
DNP
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project embodies the highest level of knowledge in nursing practice. Influencing health care outcomes through leadership, policy, information technology, systems change, and patient-centered care, the DNP project focuses on translating science into clinical practice and the delivery of patient-centered and/or population-based care.
A DNP project’s collaborative and integrative experiences reflect the development and provision of safe, effective, timely, efficient, equitable, and person-centered care aimed at advancing health outcomes. The impact of UMSON DNP projects will reshape health care in the United States.