PhD 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.
Students in UMKC's Doctorate in Nursing (PhD) program take advantage of distance learning using the latest technology platforms. Classes are offered online, synchronously and asynchronously, with the exception of two on-site Summer Research Institute courses and some collaterals (see below). Students apply to start in a summer semester and will come to campus their first and second summers.
Students develop a plan of study and undertake coursework that supports their research area. Within that plan of study, students take 12 credit hours of coursework in a collateral field of study (i.e., outside the discipline of Nursing) that supports their research interests. Throughout the curriculum, students are expected to engage in scholarly activities, including grant writing, research presentations and manuscript submissions.
PhD education is predicated on a strong mentoring relationship between the student and faculty throughout the curriculum. Students work with a faculty mentor/adviser throughout the program and together they establish a Supervisory Committee which formally approves students’ individual plans of study, is responsible for their comprehensive examination and transitions students into their Dissertation.
Program outcomes
Graduates of this program will be prepared to:
- Serve as leaders in nursing and health care; and
- Function as nurse scientists to advance the body of knowledge that guides the practice of nursing and contributes to interdisciplinary knowledge.
Development of the overall program was guided by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) quality indicators for doctoral education.
Program Admission Requirements
Students may apply to the program as either post-BSN or post-MSN students. Priority application deadline for all application materials is February 1 for a summer admission. Applicants will be evaluated for Doctoral nursing studies according to the following criteria:
- Faculty/Mentor research match – applicants should e-mail Dr. Patricia Kelly , the PhD Program Chair in advance of the application due date for advice and direction on securing a mentor match prior to submitting the application;
- Grade Point Average;
- Research Project Focus Statement
- Three letters of reference.
Application Checklist
- All materials must be submitted prior to Feb. 1 for a summer start-up. Applications for a summer start may still be considered after February 1 on a space available basis.
- Submit the UMKC Application
- Submit official transcripts from each institution attended to:
UMKC Office of Admissions
120 Administrative Center
5100 Rockhill Road
Kansas City, MO 64110-2499 - Submit all other documents requested below to:
UMKC School of Nursing & Health Studies - PhD Admissions
2464 Charlotte Street
Kansas City, MO 64108 - There is a $25 nursing application fee due with your nursing application materials. Please submit a check or Money Order made out to UMKC for $25
- PhD School of Nursing & Health Studies Application
- Research Focus Statement
- Three letters of reference, using the PhD Reference Form
- Resume or CV
- Copy of unencumbered nursing license
- Evidence of Mentor/Chair Match