BSN—Ph.D. program

BSN-Ph.D. program

Each state has different registration and approval regulations for online degree programs offered within their state. We are not approved to offer online degree programs in all states. We will notify you as soon as possible if these regulations will affect your application to UMKC and, if so, your application fee will be refunded. Please feel free to call us to verify the status of your state’s regulations.


The BSN-Ph.D. program enables select, highly motivated students who are seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to matriculate directly into the Ph.D. program and avoid duplication of content and hours.


After completing the baccalaureate degree with a major in nursing, students with an unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse can apply to the Ph.D. program. The post-baccalaureate entry option is for well-qualified BSN graduates whose career goals are research-oriented and who wish to progress as rapidly as possible toward the doctorate degree in nursing. Admission requirements to the PhD program (application, fees, etc.) are the same as those for the post-MSN to PhD applicants.


Review the sample plans of study to see the four master’s level courses required prior to beginning the Ph.D. coursework. Once these courses are successfully completed students will start the Ph.D. curriculum beginning with N5603 Research Institute I. A minimum grade of “B” must be achieved in all master’s level pre-requisite course work.


Note: Students who desire advanced clinical practice preparation (e.g. nurse practitioner) should apply to the BSN-DNP program rather than applying to the Ph.D. program.


Program Admission Requirements

Applicants will be evaluated for the BSN-Ph.D. program according to the following criteria:

  • BSN from an NLN- or CCNE-accredited baccalaureate program
  • Unencumbered, current R.N. Nursing License
  • Three letters of reference
  • Goals statement and identification of doctoral faculty with whom student is interested in studying

Students who are competitively ranked on the above criteria will be invited to participate in interviews with faculty prior to final admission decision.

Application Checklist