Health Care Quality Research Concentration
Three-year full-time or four-year part-time online program
The Ph.D. in health care quality research prepares graduates with research skills to make contributions to the development of nursing knowledge, conduct original research, lead advancements in evidence-based practice and pursue academic or research-oriented careers. This area of concentration focuses on the study and analysis of health care delivery, practices and systems to improve the safety, effectiveness, efficiency, equity and quality of health care services. Graduates earn a Ph.D.
- Graduate teaching assistantships help you cover tuition and offer a stipend
- Funding and resources through the Office of Research, Scholarship and Innovation to help you develop your skills as a researcher or scholar
- Exceptional faculty with research and scholarship expertise in biobehavioral science, health equity, health systems science, novel practice and education models and more
- A premier health science campus anchored by VCU Health, an academic medical center with Magnet status
Program Details
The Ph.D. in nursing with a concentration health care quality research prepares nurse scholars to conduct scientific research on how health care systems and care delivery affect patient outcomes.
VCU Bulletin is the official source for course and academic program information.
Admission Requirements
Learn what you need to apply to this program, including academic prerequisites, degree expectations and application components.
Degree Requirements
Explore the coursework and milestones that will shape your time in the program—from core classes to the final dissertation.
Application Info
| Application Opens | Application Closes | Regular Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
| September 1, 2024 | July 1, 2025* | Ongoing |
| Application Opens | Application Closes | Regular Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
| September 1, 2025 | July 1, 2026* | Ongoing |
*In order to be reviewed for admission, all components of the application (personal statements, transcripts, etc.) must be verified by this date. Incomplete applications after this date will not be reviewed for the fall semester start.
Complete the NursingCAS application ($80 fee) and the CAS residency form ($75 fee).
Submit the following materials with your application through NursingCAS, including:
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume or a curriculum vitae
- RN license
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable): Visit VCU's Graduate International Applicants page and see heading 'Application materials --> Proof of English proficiency'
We're here to help! Contact us at VCU_Nurse@vcu.edu with your admissions questions.
Review the functional and technical standards required for participation in the academic programs of the School of Nursing.
Prospective students with a conviction showing on their criminal history record may not be eligible to participate in clinical experiences at selected sites. This may impact the student’s ability to successfully complete program requirements. Applicants with a criminal history record are advised to review eligibility and licensure requirements for states in which they may seek employment (see Virginia eligibility requirements).
Financial Info
Use the following links to understand what your attendance costs will be and how aid and scholarships can help make your degree affordable.
Guaranteed Admission
Students who graduate with the minimum of a bachelor’s degree from the VCU School of Nursing are guaranteed admission to any VCU nursing graduate program provided they meet the requirements for admission and there is program space availability. Contact VCU_Nurse@vcu.edu for more info.