The doctoral program is research oriented and is designed to provide the theoretical and scientific knowledge necessary for scholarly pursuit in nursing. Students are required to show competence in an appropriate cognate area relevant to their major area of study by completing theory and research courses in nursing and related disciplines. The primary aim of the Ph.D. program is to develop scholars who, through the conduct of original research and the generation of theory, build the knowledge base for professional nursing practice. This research focuses on the relationship between the patient and the environment and on interventions into that relationship to bring about health outcomes. The program emphasizes specific areas, especially on research in health care policy analysis, health outcomes, health care management and ethics, in which nursing can expect to make significant contributions and develop a center of excellence.
Content is based on student needs and interests and courses related to doctorate program.
Research Development ALU may offer annual seminars provide doctoral students with opportunities to present their research to their peers and faculty. Each doctoral candidate is required to complete a dissertation that embodies original and independent research and demonstrates advanced scholarly achievement. As soon as possible after a student's admission to candidacy, and during or before enrollment in Dissertation Course, the student forms a dissertation committee. The dissertation committee consists of a minimum of three members. The candidate in a public oral examination shall defend the dissertation.