ETSUs program was ranked No. 20 and was one of only two Tennessee schools included in the top 25.

Primarily an online degree, the ETSU Ph.D. program is designed to prepare nurse scientists in developing a better knowledge of research methods, data analysis techniques, and developing analytical and leadership skills.

The program was created with working professionals in mind, offering the flexibility and convenience of online coursework and a limited number of on-campus meetings. A limited number of on-campus meetings and on-campus coursework are required.

Research is a component of the BSN, MSN, DNP and Ph.D. programs in nursing, said Dr. Myra Clark, associate dean and associate professor of graduate programs in the College of Nursing. The Ph.D.-prepared nurse learns and understands how to design and conduct independent research.

Additionally, many graduates complete courses in nursing education within their programs to prepare them for teaching roles upon graduation.

Program faculty members who are experts in their fields guide the students and engage in scholarship that enhances and supports students development as nurse scientists.

The ETSU College of Nursing Ph.D. program started in 2002 as a Doctor of Science in Nursing program. In 2007, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing recommended all research-focused terminal degrees be designated as Ph.D. programs. ETSU petitioned for a change in degree designation, and the change was approved. Since that time, 42 students have graduated, and 20 are enrolled in course work or dissertation.

Using the standards and benchmarks for Ph.D. in Nursing programs set forth by the AACN, the programs mission is to prepare nurse scientists who will conduct research in nursing and engage in scholarship that will improve health care and health care delivery systems.

Ph.D. students are mature adults, working in high-level professional positions, Clark said. To date, students are faculty members in universities or community colleges, academic administrators, nursing and health care administrators and nurses in advanced practice.

The rankings were released by Online College Plan, which was created to assist parents and students in learning about the options available and how to plan ahead for an online college education. Schools that met eligibility criteria were awarded points based on retention, graduate rate and affordability. For more information about the rankings, visit http://www.onlinecollegeplan.com/rankings/online-phd-nursing-education.

To learn more about ETSUs College of Nursing, visit http://www.etsu.edu/nursing.

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ETSU College of Nursing online PhD ranked 20th in country for nursing education - Johnson City Press (subscription)