Ph.D. in Nursing
Welcome to the Ph.D. Track
You are not a leukocyte. And yet, as a dedicated nurse scientist who cares for, fights for, and works together to protect every patient – you certainly have a few things in common. Now it’s time to take the first step toward your Ph.D. in Nursing. This fully accredited, online program will prepare you to assume new levels of healthcare leadership. You might say healthcare leadership is in our blood, too.
Why SD State?
95% Doctoral Candidate Degree Completion Rate. You're on a quest for knowledge. You're searching for truth. You're also pursuing an online doctorate, likely in a research topic that may have intrigued you for years. SDSU's online program provides the flexibility and faculty support needed to cross the finish line.
Dedicated Advising and Mentorship. The dynamic nature of graduate school requires that you surround yourself with a team, not just one person, who can assist you with the phases of your PhD journey. Our faculty takes leadership and guidance to the next level. They are with you side by side as advisors, mentors, and cheerleaders.
Publishable Dissertation Manuscript. One of the best parts of pursuing your Ph.D. in Nursing at SDSU is that your doctoral dissertation will be formatted to become at least three publishable journal articles. It’s the logical next step in your journey to continued scholarship.
"The deadlines are very manageable, and the faculty are amazing to work with. It is nice to have faculty you are able to talk to easily, and they are willing to work with you if/when something arises that is out of your control. The faculty in this program truly are your cheerleaders are you navigate through."
Danielle Schievelbein
Ph.D. in Nursing Candidate
"I worked full time while completing the program and became a new father twice, all while completing the program full time. Although it was not easy, it is doable. The online nature of the program makes it possible to live hours away from campus or even states away from South Dakota with few requirements for meeting on campus."
Brandon Varilek
Ph.D. in Nursing Graduate
Watch a Q&A Session
SESSION 1
Join Drs. Abautig, Carson and Stenvig at 11am for Ph.D. insights, pathways, research methods, diverse population health topics, and more.

SESSION 2
Interested in a dissertation topic focused on underserved and rural populations? Join Drs. Brown, Mennenga and Schievelbein at 11am to learn more.

SESSION 3
A focused discussion with Drs. Isaacson, Mollman and Varilek on Ph.D. journeys centered around palliative/end-of-life care within vulnerable populations.

SESSION 4
Interested in interprofessional education and simulation research? This session is for you! Join Drs. Horsley, Plemmons and Voss for an insightful, 60-minute discussion.

SESSION 5
The fall 2021 application deadline is coming up fast! Learn more with Drs. Burdette, Elverson and Mollman – plus details on health promotion, risk reduction and oncology nursing.

Why enroll @ SDState?






FACULTY RESEARCH AREAS
Preview potential committee members for your doctoral research.


Let's connect.
Our Nursing Student Services Team is ready to help you find a path to your Ph.D.