Overview

The area of specialization is similar to the minor in other degree programs. The major focus of the PhD in Nursing at the University of Utah is research design and methods for nursing studies. However, the area of specialization is a supplementary area of focus related to the anticipated program of research initiated in doctoral study. The area of specialization is often the domain of knowledge that is the focus of the student's research (e.g., genetics), but may also be a type of research methodology or research approach (quantitative analytical methods). PhD students are required to take a minimum of 9 credits in the area of specialization. It is encouraged that at least some courses for the area of specialization be from departments other than the College of Nursing to promote broad, interdisciplinary understandings of research phenomena. The Adviser and Supervisory Committee assist the student in identification of the courses supportive to an area of specialization, and the recommendations may exceed 9 credits. Hence, the area of specialization is individualized to the students' backgrounds and goals. The list below identifies possible coursework for exemplar areas of specialization. Following recommendation by the adviser and committee, students would select courses from the list. Many other areas of specialization are possible.

The area of specialization should be consistent with the anticipated focus of research. Review the descriptions of faculty research and funded grants to identify the areas that University of Utah College of Nursing provides a rich scholarly environment for the pursuit of doctoral education.

Informatics (based upon graduate nursing coursework)

Higher Education Teaching (an interdisciplinary certification or selected coursework)
Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Teaching

Gerontology (an interdisciplinary certification or selected coursework)
Certificate Program-Graduate Curriculum

Genetics

Health Services Research (an interdisciplinary focus)

Teaching Nursing