College of Nursing
Seton Hall’s Ph.D. in Nursing develops nurse leaders, scholars and educators through rigorous, research-driven training. With flexible study options and expert mentorship, graduates shape the future of nursing in healthcare, academia and policy leadership.
Seton Hall University’s Ph.D. in Nursing program prepares nurse scientists, educators and leaders through a rigorous, research-intensive curriculum. Students gain advanced training in qualitative and quantitative methodologies, pedagogy, curriculum innovation and evaluation. Offered in-person or synchronously online, the program supports part-time study and personalized research paths.
Guided by expert faculty, students contribute to scholarly advancement in nursing education, practice and administration. Graduates emerge as faculty, researchers, healthcare executives and policy leaders — many advancing to top leadership roles, including at major hospital systems across New Jersey.
Accreditation & Awards
"As the highest terminal degree in nursing, this program prepares you to educate, lead, write, conduct research and — most importantly — develop your capacity for critical and creative thinking."
Admissions Requirements
- Graduate of an accredited baccalaureate and master's degree programs in nursing with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA
- Résumé or curriculum vitae
- Statement of career goals and research interests
- Writing samples
- Two reference letters from nurses (one doctoral prepared, preferably PhD, and one
minimally master’s-prepared). One professional letter from a supervisor and one academic.
- Two professional letters may be accepted for students out of school for an extended time
Deadlines
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Fall Semester
August 1
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Spring Semester
December 15
Curriculum Overview
The College of Nursing offers a 42-credit post-master’s program, plus dissertation advisement, leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing for nurses seeking careers in research, education and leadership.
The Ph.D. in Nursing curriculum includes core courses in nursing science, research methods and dissertation advisement. Students may take courses outside the College of Nursing with program director’s approval.
Each student identifies a research concentration, culminating in a dissertation focused on theory development and testing in areas such as education, clinical practice or healthcare administration. The program prepares nurse scholars for a lifetime of intellectual inquiry, creative scholarship and research leadership.
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#1
Online Graduate Nursing Degree in NJ - U.S. News
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1
Research Concentration
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42
Credits to Complete
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Seton Hall’s Interprofessional Health Sciences Campus offers cutting-edge learning studios, creating an interactive learning environment.
Career Opportunities
Seton Hall’s Ph.D. in Nursing opens doors to academic, research and leadership roles. Graduates are prepared to influence healthcare systems, shape policy and drive change across the nursing profession.
With a proven track record — including alumni who now lead four major hospitals in New Jersey — Seton Hall’s Ph.D. in Nursing program equips graduates for high-impact careers in healthcare and higher education. The program fosters scholarly independence and provides students with expert mentorship and flexibility to pursue their research interests.
Graduates are prepared to assume roles as nurse researchers, academic faculty, healthcare executives and policy advisors — bringing innovation and leadership to nursing practice, education and administration.
$132,050
Annual Mean Wage, 2024 (APRNs)
40%
Projected Job Growth Over the Next Decade
31,900
Projected Job Openings Each Year for APRNs Over the Next Decade (BLS)
Our graduates make an impact at world-class hospitals and health systems.
Our Faculty and Students
Hands-On Learning Prepares Future Nurses for Success
Rapid Response Nurse Pursues Advanced Degree, Wins Accolades
Online Nursing Programs Rank Best in NJ, Again
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Seton Hall University is committed to providing students with the most current information on how to finance their graduate degree. A graduate degree is within your reach – a variety of options can help you finance your degree including scholarships, federal aid, graduate assistantships, and more.
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50%
Amount Scholarships Can Reduce Cost of Degree
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there set times to attend my classes?
Is the Ph.D. in Nursing offered part-time?
What sets this program apart?
- Flexible Format: On-campus or synchronous online coursework designed for working health professionals
- Expert Faculty: Renowned for expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods and a diversity of scholarly perspectives.
- Rigorous Curriculum: Equips students to lead in nursing education, research, administration and executive leadership.
- Mentorship and Connections: Personalized faculty support, dedicated student mentorship, and a robust network of nurse leaders
Additional Resources
Graduate Certificates
Continuing Education Courses
Request More Information
Office of Graduate Affairs
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About Seton Hall
One of the country's leading Catholic Universities, Seton Hall University has been developing students in mind, heart and spirit since 1856.
Home to over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offering more than 90 undergraduate programs and over 130 graduate programs, Seton Hall's academic excellence has been singled out for distinction by The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report and Bloomberg Businessweek.
Seton Hall's 58-acre campus in the quaint town of South Orange, New Jersey, is only 14 miles from New York City — offering students a wealth of employment, internship, cultural and entertainment opportunities. The University’s nationally recognized School of Law is located in nearby Newark, New Jersey. The Interprofessional Health Sciences (IHS) campus in the owns of Clifton and Nutley, New Jersey, houses the University’s College of Nursing and School of Health and Medical Sciences.
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1856
Founded by James Roosevelt Bayley
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14
Miles from New York City
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90+
Career-Building Graduate Programs
