Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore how well nursing doctoral programs are preparing faculty. Two surveys are underway: 1) a survey of directors of nursing doctoral programs regarding required course work and curricular requirements as compared to the work completed by the at the PFF project, and 2) a survey of nursing doctoral students to examine how they perceive their preparation in the domains of teaching, research, and practice.

Method: A letter explaining the project and outlining the nature of participation was sent to each doctoral program identified in the AACN listing (n=83). A follow-up email was sent to solicit participation from 1) directors of doctoral programs and 2) students. The survey is being conducted online and is anonymous. The survey instrument was based upon the work done by the PFF participants.

Findings: The study will be completed in January 2004. The data will be analyzed and the findings presented at the conference.

Discussion: The findings from previous research of non-nursing doctoral students suggest there is a mismatch between student goals, education and actual careers: as a result, students are not well prepared to assume faculty positions. Findings of the study will extend this work to nursing doctoral education provide valuable data upon which to make improvements.

Back to The Faculty Role
Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004