Distance Learning Option for the PhD Program

Beginning in the fall 2008 semester, we will be admitting students from around the country who want to pursue a PhD from the University of Utah but who are unable to move to Utah. During the past 4 years we have piloted using internet-based desktop videoconferencing to deliver our courses and have had great success. We have admitted 29 students into the pilot group and have had 7 students graduate. The remaining 22 students are still making great progress through the program.

What our Current Students Have to Say

In December 2005 our students were interviewed by external reviewers who were participating in an internal review of the College of Nursing's Ph.D. program. Below is a link to a clip of this interview. You must have Windows Media Player installed on your computer to view the video. To access the video click on the Windows icon on the right side of the box.

Program Expectations:

Students who will be most successful with this program are self-motivated, mature, independent learners who are flexible and patient with the use of technology in education. While the program is designed to overcome traditional barriers to doctoral education and recognizes that students will continue to maintain some level of employment, successful students will recognize that pursuing doctoral education requires strong commitment and setting priorities. Scientific development requires active participation by every learner. Discussion and active participant learning is a cornerstone of doctoral education and creates a community of learning. Therefore students are expected to attend and participate in all scheduled videoconferencing classes and annual on-campus sessions. In addition, the successful student will have a well focused interest in an area that is complimentary to the research interests of a least one of the faculty members.

Computer Requirements:

As you start the Ph.D. program you want to make an investment in your computer and printer. You will want the highest quality computer that you can afford. The following are the minimum requirements for your computer access to the program:

• IBM compatible with XP Operating System SP2
• Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E7200 (Quad Core Recommended
• 4 GB RAM
• 2 GB available hard drive space
• Hard Drive Speed of 5400 RPM
• NIC (Network Interface Card) that can run at 100 MBPS full duplex
• Dual monitors required. Monitor size is up to the individual but we recommend at least 21" for ease of viewing multiple individuals during conferencing.
• Dual-head video card with a minimum of 256 MB RAM
• Speakers and sound card are required.
• USB headset with microphone
• Polycom PVX Desktop Videoconferencing Software
• Logitech Pro 9000 videoconferencing camera
• A high quality printer.
• The most important component is a high quality Internet connection. A high speed internet connection with upload and download speeds of at least 384K is required regardless of computer setup. Note that dial-up modems are not acceptable. Please check to see what is available in your area and the associated costs.

You will also need to purchase Adobe Acrobat Professional for Students and Microsoft Office Professional. Both of these programs are available through the University of Utah's Office of Software Licensing for admitted students. Other software may be required for individual courses.

Required On Campus & Conference Attendance:

All students in the PhD program will be required to attend an intensive orientation on the University of Utah campus the first week of their program and then each year that they are in coursework. Students will also be required to attend a research conference as a group. This will apply to both students who apply to our on-campus delivery program as well as the distance delivery program. These intense in person experiences will enhance your educational experience as well as provide the opportunity for in person interaction with your classmates and your instructors.

For any additional questions contact:

phdprogram@nurs.utah.edu:
PhD Program Administrator
Phone: 801-585-1671
or
Lauren Clark, RN, PhD, FAAN
Professor and PhD Program Director
Phone: 801-581-8576