As nursing schools across the country face a shortage of qualified faculty, Bowie State University is preparing nurses to step into classrooms, research environments and leadership roles. The university’s new Ph.D. in Nursing Education is the nation’s only doctoral program in nursing education offered at a Historically Black College or University, creating a pathway for experienced nurses to become educators, researchers and academic leaders.
“This is truly a transformative achievement,” said Monique Alston, Ph.D., chair of Bowie State’s Department of Nursing. “Our success reflects years of vision, perseverance and a collective commitment to advancing nursing education.”
Addressing a National Need
The program responds to a critical challenge in nursing education. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, nursing schools reported more than 2,000 faculty vacancies nationwide in 2022. Faculty shortages have also contributed to thousands of qualified applicants being turned away from nursing programs.
Bowie State’s program is designed to help expand the pipeline of doctoral-prepared nurse educators, including African American educators who can bring culturally responsive perspectives to nursing education and research.
The 60-credit program combines nursing education, research, statistics, cultural competence and academic leadership. Full-time students can complete the degree in approximately three years, with coursework offered online, in hybrid formats and in person.
Expanding Access to Doctoral Education
Bowie State is also focused on making doctoral education more accessible. Students may have opportunities for scholarships, emergency assistance, low-cost or free textbooks, graduate assistantships and other financial support.
The program emphasizes mentorship, networking and collaboration with community organizations, alumni and other stakeholders. With a 1-to-5 student-to-faculty ratio in Ph.D. courses, students also have opportunities for meaningful faculty engagement and feedback.
For nurses seeking to expand their impact beyond clinical practice, Bowie State’s Ph.D. in Nursing Education offers a pathway to influence the future of nursing through teaching, scholarship and leadership.
