Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD program in the Faculty of Nursing develops nurse scientists who are expert clinical scholars equipped to provide leadership in nursing practice, research and education.

The degree is designed to educate professionals for excellence in nursing scholarship through original research. Our thesis-based degree offers opportunities to become research-intensive, gain core disciplinary knowledge and develop expertise within a substantive field.

Before applying, candidates are required to seek out members of our award-winning faculty who they believe would be a good “fit” with their research plans.

The University of Calgary is committed to helping new PhD students obtain funding support through awards, faculty research programs, teaching assistantships, and research scholarships.

Applicants interested in the Doctoral program in the Faculty of Nursing should contact the Graduate Programs Office prior to applying to meet with a Program Specialist. We encourage international applicants to reach out to learn more.

Students are responsible for identifying a supervisor prior to applying.

To review potential supervisors please visit our Faculty Research page. Once a potential supervisor has been identified, make an appointment with a Program Specialist prior to submitting your application.

Academic Requirements

• A Master’s degree in most cases is required for admission to a doctoral program
• Minimum 3.0 Grade Point Average
• Scholarly work: Examples of applicant’s written work i.e. publications, research reports/proposals, master’s thesis, etc.

• Successful completion of one Master’s level course in each of the following areas: 

  • Quantitative research methods
  • Qualitative research methods
  • Statistics (may be tied to a quantitative research course)

Technology Requirements  

To successfully engage in learning experiences at the University of Calgary, students taking online, remote and blended courses are required to have reliable access to the following technology:

• A computer with a supported operating system, as well as the latest security, and malware updates.
• A current and updated web browser. 
• Webcam (built-in or external).
• Microphone and speaker (built-in or external), or headset with microphone.
• Current antivirus and/or firewall software enabled.
• Broadband internet connection.