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DNP-to-Ph.D. in Nursing

Advance Nursing Science through Research

nursing student in simulation lab observing a monitor

The DNP to PhD bridge program allows nurses with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and seeks the skills and competencies to integrate nursing knowledge with that of other health care disciplines to create, conduct and generate new knowledge.

In less time than a traditional PhD in Nursing program, students will develop the theoretical, methodological, and analytical foundation needed to advance existing DNP research from clinical implementation to scientific discovery. As nursing schools nationwide continue experiencing faculty shortages and an influx of students, program graduates will be positioned to advance the future of nursing as a whole.


Programs Offered


Sample Courses


  • Philosophy of Nursing Sciences
  • Quantitative/ Qualitative Methods
  • Intermediate Statistics
  • Nursing Research Proposal Development

Special Admission Requirements


  • Minimum of 3.5 grade point average  
  • Completed a course in statistics with a letter grade of B or higher
  • Completed a graduate level research course
  • Completed a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from an accredited DNP program
  • Completed a DNP project
  • Three letters of recommendation; two must be academic references with at least one from a previous graduate program faculty member or administrator
  • Letter discussing research interest area(s) and professional goals
  • A current license to practice as a nurse in the United States
  • A curriculum vitae

Applicants who do not meet the 3.5 GPA requirement but have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on prior graduate level coursework may be considered for provisional admission on an individual basis.

Our Faculty


Learn from faculty who are outstanding educators, researchers, and practitioners committed to your success.

What Sets Us Apart


  • Benefit from coursework delivered online through an interactive learning platform.
  • Hone your leadership skills through interaction with fellow students, faculty, and community partnerships.
  • Join the distinguished TCU alumni network.

Career Prospects


Further the nursing science field by pursuing academic positions as tenure-track faculty in schools of nursing.