Admission Process
Note: Beginning with summer 2007 admissions, the PhD program in nursing is offered under a part time plan, requiring students to enroll in six to seven credit hours each term (summer, fall, spring). On acceptance into the program, each student is required to commit to a program of studies.
General requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree are set forth in the University of New Mexico catalog. Specific requirements for the College of Nursing’s PhD program are:
- A Master of Science in Nursing degree (MSN) from an accredited nursing program (National League for Nursing or Commission on Credentialing of Nursing Education through the American Association of Colleges of Nursing accreditation). Students with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a master’s degree in another field will be considered on an individual basis.
- A grade-point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Preference will be given to students with a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher.
- A signed statement indicating knowledge of computer literacy skills that include word processing, sending and receiving e-mail communications, and searching Web sites.
- Three letters of recommendation from persons who know the applicant professionally and can attest to his/her academic ability. These letters must be submitted directly to the College of Nursing.
- Submission of a writing sample that demonstrates evidence of scholarly ability and the potential for scholarly growth. Examples include, but are not limited to, a thesis, a published or unpublished scholarly paper, or written creative work.
- A one-page statement of the applicant’s experiences in the discipline of nursing, which highlights experiences with underserved or vulnerable populations.
- A letter of intent that addresses individual, professional, and personal goals.
- A brief two-to-three page resume that summarizes educational and professional background.
- A graduate-level statistics course completed within 3 years of the date of admission is desirable, although not required.
- After initial screening, a select group of priority candidates will be interviewed.
- Health requirements prescribed by the College of Nursing found in the College of Nursing Graduate Student Handbook and on the Web site must be in compliance by the date of enrollment.
- A valid RN license in any U.S. state, territory, or foreign country. Please note that students holding teaching or research graduate assistantships must have an active New Mexico RN license.
- Exceptions to any program admission criterion will be considered on an individual basis and are at the discretion of the Graduate Committee with recommendation to the Executive Dean or Dean of the College of Nursing.