Application Process: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I request official transcripts?
Does the graduate school really need a transcript for every course I’ve ever taken?
Can I submit unofficial transcripts for the College of Nursing application?
How should I select my professional references?
Should I ask someone who does not have a PhD to serve as a professional reference?
What type of writing sample should I provide if I don’t have any publications?
How should I decide which publication to submit if I have several?
If I took the GRE 8 years ago when I entered my Master’s program, do I really have to take it again?
How do I register for the GRE and where can I take it?
What components should go into the written statement of research goals, interests and plans post-graduation?
What information should I include on my resume?
How do I show evidence of licensure as a registered nurse? Should I send all of my application materials to the same address?
If I have other questions about the application process, who should I contact?
How do I request official transcripts?
Official transcripts are transcripts that are sealed and sent directly to the University of Utah from the institution(s) you have previously attended. Contact the registrar at each institution you have attended and request an official transcript sent to:
University of Utah Graduate Admissions Office
201 South 1460 East, Room 250 S
Salt Lake City, UT 84112-9057
Many institutions allow students to submit a request for official transcripts online using a credit card, but some may require a request via phone or mail. Be sure to initiate this process as soon as possible, as mailing transcripts can take several weeks to months and your application will not be considered complete until all transcripts have been received.
Does the Graduate Admissions Office really need a transcript for every course I’ve ever taken in order to process my application?
YES. The University of Utah Graduate Admissions requires that all transcripts must be received before a student’s application is processed. Failure to have all transcripts sent in a timely manner may result in delayed processing or cancellation of your admissions application.
Can I submit unofficial transcripts for the College of Nursing application?
Yes, the College of Nursing will accept official or unofficial transcripts for the application process. An unofficial transcript is typically a photocopy of the student’s original transcript that the student provides as opposed to being sent directly from the institution.
How should I select my professional references?
The College of Nursing application requires students to provide at least 3 professional references. It is recommended that students select individuals who know you professionally and can speak to your potential for academic achievement in doctoral study and development as a researcher.
Once you have selected your references, there is a form each individual must complete. This form is included in the application packet. The references are responsible for completing and mailing in the form, so be sure to choose those who will respond according to your timeframe.
Should I ask someone who does not have a PhD to serve as a professional reference?
You should select individuals who know you will enough to provide beneficial information. If possible, it is recommended that at least one of your references have a PhD.
What type of writing sample should I provide if I don’t have any publications?
You will want to consider anything that exemplifies your writing ability. It is essential that no matter the type of document you submit, the writing sample should be your original work and not the primary work of others. Examples of unpublished writing samples are items such as a work-related paper or report, your Master’s thesis, or a project from your undergraduate work.
How should I decide which publication to submit if I have several?
You may submit up to 2 papers or book chapters. Choose any research-based publications first, followed by samples which reflect scholarly, well-referenced work. If your work is written with multiple authors, select those for which you carried the primary responsibility for the writing.
If I took the GRE 8 years ago when I entered my Master’s program, do I really have to take it again?
Yes, you must submit GRE scores taken within the past 5 years. However, don’t let this deter you from applying. You need only take the General Test; no Subject Tests are required. The General Test is comprised of 3 sections: verbal, quantitative and analytical writing. Favorable GRE scores are greater than the 50th percentile on the verbal and quantitative tests and greater than a 4.0/6.0 on the analytical writing section. You should submit an application even if your scores are lower than the numbers outlined, as the Admissions Committee reviews all components of the application as a package and take many aspects into consideration for admission into the PhD Program.
How do I register for the GRE and where can I take it?
It is recommended you view the Educational Testing Service (ETS) website for details regarding GRE General Test, registration, cost, testing locations, test preparation, and more.
What components should go into the written statement of research goals, interests and plans post-graduation?
- Brief discussion of your background as it relates to healthcare research
- Rationale for your desire to pursue a doctoral degree
- Rationale for specifically seeking admission into the University of Utah College of Nursing PhD Program
- Description of your experience with computers, the use of technology, and/or distance education
- Description of research interests
- List possible dissertation topic (if you have one)
- Identify a fit between your research interests and that of the PhD Program faculty
- Discussion of career goals and objectives post-graduation (i.e. how you will you utilize your research skills)
There is not a page limit but the written statement should be focused and concise. Most written statements are no longer than 2-3 pages.
What information should I include on my resume?
Your resume or curriculum vitae should succinctly reflect your professional history and accomplishments. Listed below are suggested categories and details to include, although it is recognized that not all applicants will have achievements in all categories.
- Educational history post-high school
- Employment history
- Professional publications
- Professional presentations
- Awards or honors
- Research projects
- Grants
- Professional organizations
- Other professional accomplishments or experiences you believe to be relevant for the selection committee to know about you
How do I show evidence of licensure as a registered nurse?
A photocopy of your current licensure included in your application materials will suffice.
Should I send all of my application materials to the same address?
No. As listed on the PhD Program admission information webpage, there are two separate applications that must be sent to two separate locations. The Graduate Admissions application and required materials/fee should be sent to:
University of Utah Graduate Admissions Office
201 South 1460 East, Room 250 S
Salt Lake City, UT 84112-9057
The College of Nursing application and required materials should be sent to:
University of Utah – College of Nursing
PhD Program Manager
10 South 2000 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
If I have additional questions about the application process, who should I contact?
Melissa Pederson, M.Ed.
PhD Program Manager
phdprogram@nurs.utah.edu
(801) 585-1671
or
Office of Academic Programs and Student Services
University of Utah – College of Nursing
info@nurs.utah.edu
(801) 581-8798
