The Ph.D. in Nursing program prepares nurse scholars who contribute to the body of nursing knowledge in order to improve the health of society. Graduates of the program will be prepared to launch a program of research; expand nursing knowledge through a variety of philosophical and scientific methods; address the social, cultural, political and ethical issues related to an area of nursing scholarship; and participate in a community of scholars for the purpose of disseminating research for improving the health of society.

Academic Program

The traditional Ph.D. program is offered during the "traditional" academic year, from August to May. Full- or part-time study is possible. Students entering post-baccalaureate must complete the program (including dissertation) in eight years from the date of initial matriculation. Students entering with a master's degree must complete the program (including dissertation) in six years from the date of initial matriculation. Most courses are held at the Lake Shore Campus or at the Loyola University Health System campus in Maywood, Ill.

Application Requirements

Before initiating the application process, please contact Dr. Lee Schmidt, Doctoral Program Director, to discuss your proposed area of research interest. Dr. Schmidt can be reached at (708) 216-3573 or lschm3@luc.edu.

For admission to the PhD in Nursing Program, applicants must provide:

• A completed paper application form (The application fee normally associated with a paper application is waived)
• An official transcript from programs where baccalaureate and advanced degrees were earned
• Scores for the Graduate Record Examination (general examination)
• Three letters of recommendation from individuals with the earned Ph.D. degree and preferably at least one from a former instructor
• A statement of purpose regarding the applicant's interest in entering Loyola's program, including a summary of academic and research interests, professional goals and potential faculty mentors
• Professional vita or resume
• Copy of R.N. license
• Copy of a research or scholarly referenced paper written by the applicant
• Either a TOEFL or IELTS score report is required for international applicants whose native language is not English. For the TOEFL, a score of at least 280 on the computer-based test or 650 on the written test is required. The minimum score for the new TOEFL IBT (Internet-based test) is 114-115. For the IELTS, a minimum score of 7 is required.
• International applicants must provide a transcript evaluation from the Commission of Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.

Requirements for admission as a non-degree student consist of an application, application fee, statement of purpose, and transcripts. Application deadlines are July 15 (fall admission) and March 15 (summer admission).

The application and all supporting documents must be sent to Graduate Enrollment Management at the following address:

Graduate Enrollment Management
Loyola University Chicago
820 N. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60611
Phone: 312.915.8950
E-mail: GradApp@luc.edu