Leading the Development of Nursing Science
Transform the Discipline
Advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery with a Johns Hopkins PhD in nursing.By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career.
Learn From the Best
With access to world-renowned nursing faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with noted researchers throughout Johns Hopkins University, you'll build the skills to develop and implement a scientific research program and launch your career.
Get Funded
Most full-time Johns Hopkins Nursing PhD students are100% fundedwith a stipend for the first three years of study. Additional financial support is made available in following years. For full eligibility of scholarship opportunities, apply by December 1. View Funding Opportunities
Back to Top
Why Hopkins?
Those who earn a Johns Hopkins PhD:
Possess knowledge and skills in theoretical, methodological, and analytical approaches that will enable you to conduct research to discover and apply knowledge in nursing science and health care
Are prepared to assume a leadership role in nursing and in the broader arena of healthcare
Demonstrate expertise within an area of study from a nursing and transdisciplinary viewpoint
Often serve as educators in a variety of classroom and clinical settings within academic program
Featured Areas of Research
A brief glimpse into things we study: cardiovascular risk reduction, domestic violence, biologic basic of nursing therapeutics, health promotion, chronic disease management, symptom management, biobehavioral aspects of pain and stress, substance abuse, lactation and breastfeeding, health disparities, family caregiver stress, forensic nursing, patient health care decision making, end of life care.
- Search Faculty Expertise
- Discover Research Opportunities
Additional Information
View the recording of the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) and Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Philosophy (DNP/PHD) virtual information session.
MCEH/Nursing PhD Fellowship
This pre-doctoral fellowship is a unique opportunity for nursing and engineering PhD students to collaborate with faculty within the Whiting School of Engineering and the School of Nursing.
As a PhD student, Tamar Rodney studies post-traumatic stress disorder in veterans with a traumatic brain injury. She explains why she chose nursing and the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing.
Other Innovative Pathways to get a PhD at Johns Hopkins
DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
"The DNP enriched my perspective as a nurse scientist, but I learned that questions arise from evidence-based practice, and I needed a PhD to explore that further."
Sarah Slone, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, CCRN
Read more
Back to Top
Application Deadline
Fall Entry
December 1
Apply Now
Request Information
Speak with an admissions officer to learn more about our program.
Get Started
Meet A Student
Take a glimpse into the life of a Hopkins Nursing doctoral student.
Learn More
Back to Top
Back to Top
Max Thayer
MPH
When I was getting my master’s degree, I learned a lot about methodologies and I knew I wanted to go into research. But I wanted a place where I could actually apply what I had learned. The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing was my opportunity.
Back to Top
Requirements
Admission Criteria
- Graduate of an accredited Bachelor's or Master's in Nursing Program (if applicable. Applicants holding a degree in a non-nursing related discipline will be considered on an individual basis)
- A written statement of research goals including reason for interest in Johns Hopkins
- Research interests that match faculty expertise and School resources
- GRE scores are accepted but not required
- A minimum scholastic GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Interview with faculty (if moved forward by admissions committee)
- Writing sample (publication or graded paper)
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Three letters of recommendation (two academic, one professional)*
- Copy of official RN license(s) (if applicable. Applicants holding a degree in a non-nursing related discipline will be considered on an individual basis)
- Official Transcripts (from all post-secondary schools)
- TOEFL or IELTS if English is not your native language
Information for applicants with international education
Admissions Application
*References should be recent, written for the purpose of your application to this program and from professors who know you as a student or employers who know you as a professional in a job setting preferably in a supervisory role. Personal references from colleagues, friends, or family members do not meet the requirement. For PhD applicants, it is strongly preferred that a least one of your recommenders holds a PhD.
Prerequisites
No prerequisite courses.
Transfer of Credits
Transfer of credit is granted on an individual basis. Please see the transfer of credit policy and complete the form to make a request.
Back to Top
Curriculum
Each student completes a core curriculum and works closely with faculty advisors to complete an individualized course of study that fulfills the student's goals and develops the basis for a program of research.
Curriculum
Nursing Core (19 credits)
(Video) Getting a PhD from the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing / Healthcare Outlook with Binu KoiralaPhilosophical Perspectives in Health
Scientific Perspectives in Nursing
Quantitative Research Design and Methods
Qualitative Research Design and Methods
Mixed Methods Research Design
Grant Writing Seminar
Measurement in Health Care Research
Responsibilities and Activities of the Nurse Scientist
Statistics (9 credits)
Statistical Methods in Public Health I
Statistical Methods in Public Health II
Statistical Methods in Public Health III
Electives (19 required credits)
Theory and Concepts of Health Behavior
Symptom Evaluation and Management
Special Topics in Violence Research
Advanced Nursing Health Policy
Stress and Stress Response
The Evolving Roles of the Nurse Educator (online)
Statistical Methods in Public Health IV
Writing for Publication (online)
Advanced Seminar in Translational Research
International Health Systems and Research 3
Current Issues and Trends in Cardiovascular Health Promotion Research
Critical Applications of Advanced Statistical Models
Technology and eTools to Conduct, Facilitate, Implement and Manage Research (online)
Dissertation (3 credits per semester until completion)
Dissertation Seminar
Dissertation
Sample Course of Study
Fall I (12 credits)
Philosophical Perspectives in Health
Quantitative Research Design and Methods
Statistical Methods in Public Health I & II
Research Residency – 15 hours per week
Spring I(12 credits)
Scientific Perspectives in Nursing
Qualitative Research Design and Methods
Mixed Methods Research Design
Measurement in Health Care Research
Statistical Methods in Public Health III
(Video) Day in the Life of a Hopkins PhD StudentResearch Residency – 15 hours per week
Summer I (1 credit)
Grant Writing Seminar
Comprehensive Examination
Fall II (13 credits)
Dissertation Seminar*
Dissertation*
Electives (10 credits)
Research Residency – 20 hours per week
Teaching Residency – 10 hours per week
Spring II (14 credits)
Dissertation Seminar*
Dissertation*
Activities and Responsibilities of the Nurse Scientist
Electives (9 credits)
Research Residency – 20 hours per week
Summer II
Preparation for Doctor of Philosophy Board Examination
Research Residency – 20 hours per week
Fall III Through Completion (3 credits per semester)
Dissertation Seminar*
Dissertation*
*PhD students having successfully completed the written Comprehensive Examination must be registered for at least three credits consisting of two credits dissertation advisement plus one credit dissertation seminar each semester they are progressing toward the degree.
*Part-time students who have completed the Comprehensive Examination must register for two credits dissertation advisement plus one credit dissertation seminar each semester they are progressing toward the degree after completing half (10) the required elective credits.
Per Doctor of Philosophy Board policy, students must either be registered during fall and spring semesters, or be on an approved leave of absence.
* Up to 15 credits may be applied from the JHUSON MSN: Entry into Nursing program to the PhD Program.
Course Schedules and Descriptions Academic Catalog
Back to Top
Tuition & Other Costs
View the costs for the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD).
Learn More
Back to Top
Frequently Asked Questions
How well-defined does my research area have to be in my application?
Your essay should outline your areas of interest and how they align with current faculty areas of work. The Admissions Committee will look for a summary of your previous experience, qualifications, and information about your interest in a specific area of research. We will also consider your writing skills and determine whether there is a good match between your research interests and our faculty expertise.
Should I contact a faculty member with similar research interests prior to applying?
(Video) The Truth About Johns Hopkins University - Should You SchoolAlthough contacting a faculty member in your research area is not required, it is an opportunity to become familiar with researchers in your area of interest and to ask questions not addressed on the school's website. While it can be helpful to have a direct match, students often have great success in the program when a piece of the research overlaps with the advisor. If there is a particular faculty member whose work interests you, you may discuss this as part of your application essay. The best place to start is with the PhD Assistant Director of Recruitment, Laura Panozzo at [emailprotected] and with a review of our most recent PhD virtual information session at https://nursing.jhu.edu/admissions/index.html.
How are faculty advisors selected?
Once you are admitted to the PhD program and decide to matriculate, the PhD Admissions Committee determines who will be your advisor(s). Generally, one advisor is selected, but in some instances-depending on your research area-two advisors are assigned, one of them serving as the primary advisor and the second serving as a co-advisor. One of the faculty would be your primary advisor and the second would serve as a co-advisor. We try to match students with faculty members who have similar research interests.
What are the differences between the PhD and DNP programs?
The PhD program prepares the nurse scholar to develop and conduct scientific research that advances the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery. The program is designed to prepare nurses for careers as research scientists, often in academic or governmental positions.
The DNP program prepares nurse leaders for evidence-based practice in both direct patient care and executive roles.View Comparison Chart
View information about a unique opportunity to earn a dual-degree DNP/PhD.
How long does it take to complete the PhD program?
The time needed to complete the program varies, depending on how fast you progress. Some students in our program finish their degree in three years, others take four years or longer.
English is not my first language, are there additional admissions requirements?
Students whose native language is not English are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Johns Hopkins School of Nursing requires a minimum TOEFL-IBT score of 100 to be eligible for admission. More
How can I be well prepared for a Biostatistics heavy program?
The PhD program has a Biostatistics heavy curriculum so previous coursework in Biostatistics is helpful. We encourage students that have not had previous coursework in this area, or have not taken the coursework in the past five years, to look for ways to strengthen that knowledge base before matriculating into the program. Please reach out to Laura Panozzo, Assistant Director of Recruitment, at [emailprotected] for a list of resources to help you prepare while applying and before matriculating into the program.
Are GRE scores required?
GRE scores are accepted but not required.
Can I take this program online or part time?
The PhD program is a full time, onsite program only.
What should I expect as a time commitment in this program?
Students should expect to spend 15 hours a week on campus on their funded research residency in collaboration with their faculty advisor for all three years that they receive full funding. Students should expect to spend an additional 15-20 hours per week on coursework.
What if I completed some of my coursework outside of the US?
Coursework completed outside the United States must be evaluated and translated into US equivalencies. Official transcript evaluations must be submitted as part of the application process, and applications will not be considered complete until all evaluations for any work completed outside the United States are received. The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing recommends WES-ICAP.
Back to Top
Funding Opportunities
Scholarships & Grants
Grants are awards based on financial need that do not have to be repaid. Many students also benefit from scholarships and awards based on merit.
Loans
Many students will avail themselves of loans to help finance their School of Nursing Education. If necessary, we encourage you to borrow only what is absolutely essential to cover your educational costs.
Loans
Other Funding Sources
Back to Top
What We Are Saying
Join the Conversation
Explore Our Blogs
Explore All Blogs
Back to Top
FAQs
What is the acceptance rate for PhD at John Hopkins? ›
Johns Hopkins University Acceptance Rate: With an acceptance rate of less than 10%, Johns Hopkins University demonstrates its highly selective admission policy.
Is it worth getting PhD in nursing? ›Nurses with PhDs can equip the future generation of nurse scientists as faculty. In addition, they can serve as leaders in diverse settings such as clinical agencies, health policy organizations, professional organizations, governmental and state agencies, and industry.
What percentage of nurses have a PhD? ›Although less than 1% of today's nursing workforce has earned a PhD (NCSBN, 2021), these individuals are in high demand with the need for nurse scientists, faculty, and leaders on the rise.
Is Johns Hopkins nursing worth it? ›For the fifth consecutive year, the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (JHSON) is ranked the No. 1 accredited master's nursing program in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report 2023 rankings. The school's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) also ranked No. 1, moving up one spot from its previous No.
Is it hard to get accepted into PhD? ›What are my odds of acceptance? This depends on both your field and program. Generally, however, it is quite difficult to gain admissions to a PhD program, and admission rates hover around 10%. Only the best students get accepted, and this is even more the case at the top schools and programs.
What GPA do you need to get your PhD? ›With GPA, it is recommended that students have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA and around a 3.5 discipline-specific GPA to remain competitive for Ph. D.
Are you a doctor if you have a PhD in nursing? ›A doctorate is one of the highest degrees a nurse can earn and entitles them to be referred to as "doctor." The title of “doctor” (also earned through a Ph. D.), is an acknowledgment of the tremendous hard work and perseverance he or she experienced through the rigorous education requirements of a DNP or Ph.
How many years is a PhD in nursing? ›Students might spend 4-6 years earning a PhD in Nursing. However, PhD in Nursing programs do not typically require a certain number of clinical practice hours for graduation.
Which subject is best for PhD in nursing? ›- Nursing Leadership.
- Nursing Informatics.
- Nursing Theories and Theory Development.
- Pathology and Genetics.
- Medical-Surgical Nursing.
- Community Health Nursing.
| Job Title | Range |
|---|---|
| Associate Professor, Postsecondary / Higher Education | Range:$84k - $173k (Estimated *) |
| Director, Nursing | Range:$85k - $156k (Estimated *) |
| Assistant Professor of Nursing | Range:$50k - $90k (Estimated *) |
| Dean of Nursing | Range:$75k - $160k (Estimated *) |
What are PhD nurses called? ›
Introduction. Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) provide at least a portion of the clinical care received by some Missouri residents. A subset of these ANPs have earned a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Patients generally value the care they receive from their ANP clinicians, be they a DNP, or not.
What is the shortest PhD nursing? ›What is the Quickest Doctorate Degree to Get? Chatham University's DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) is probably the quickest PhD you can get today, as you can finish it in 12 months. Breyer State Theology University's Ethereal Accelerated Doctor of Psychology in Grief Counseling also takes only one year.
How much does Johns Hopkins pay new grad nurses? ›The estimated total pay for a New Grad Registered Nurse at The Johns Hopkins Hospital is $109,658 per year. This number represents the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary Total Pay Estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users. The estimated base pay is $109,658 per year.
Does Johns Hopkins pay nurses well? ›Average The Johns Hopkins Hospital hourly pay ranges from approximately $15.94 per hour for Nursing Assistant to $44.36 per hour for Nursing Attendant. Salary information comes from 1,044 data points collected directly from employees, users, and past and present job advertisements on Indeed in the past 36 months.
Is it really that hard to get as at Johns Hopkins? ›The average GPA at Johns Hopkins is 3.92. This makes Johns Hopkins Extremely Competitive for GPAs. (Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA. With a GPA of 3.92, Johns Hopkins requires you to be at the top of your class.
What is the most difficult field to get a PhD? ›PhD in Theoretical Physics: For you to emerge a doctor of Theoretical Physics, you must have background knowledge of Mathematics and Physics. A qualitative amount of focus is also required of you so as to be able to imagine the warping of gravitational waves and space-time due to the gravitational field.
Is it stressful to get a PhD? ›Doing a PhD is stressful and isolating under the best of circumstances. And in case you haven't noticed, we're not exactly in not the best of circumstances these days. Stress and anxiety run rampant among PhD students. Many of us are feeling overwhelmed.
Should I get a masters before a PhD? ›This depends on the country. In the United States, you can generally go directly to a PhD with only a bachelor's degree, as a master's program is included as part of the doctoral program. Elsewhere, you generally need to graduate from a research-intensive master's degree before continuing to the PhD.
What is the average GPA for PhD at Johns Hopkins? ›Undergraduate GPAs average 3.25 for MSPH students, and graduate GPAs average 3.50 for PhD and DrPH students. It should be noted that no one factor dominates the admissions decision.
How hard is it to get into Johns Hopkins grad school? ›When thinking about how to get into Johns Hopkins, it's very important to understand that Hopkins is an incredibly selective school. The university received over 30,000 applications for the Class of 2023, with an overall acceptance rate of about 9%.
What is the average PhD acceptance rate? ›
Grad schools typically have an acceptance rate of around 15%, so there is a chance that even with impressive qualifications, an applicant will still get rejected.
What is the acceptance rate for PhD students? ›programs are more competitive than master's degree programs and have lower acceptance rates overall. According to the Council of Graduate Schools, 20.8% of doctoral applicants were accepted into a PhD program in 2022. In 2023, the acceptance rate for PhD programs is expected to remain at a historically low level.