PhD program faculty: Preparing the next generation of nurse researchers

Abstract

This article explores approaches to strengthening research education in nursing doctoral (PhD) programs with a focus on the roles of interdisciplinary faculty and the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), 2022-2026 Strategic Plan. Our view is that these components are interrelated and essential in educating the next generation of nurse researchers. To explore these topics, we undertook two analyses: (1) an examination of the preparation of PhD directors across the 119 AACN member schools; and (2) an evaluation of NIH funding levels to schools of nursing and the principal investigators' backgrounds among NINR grantees. We found significant homogeneity in the backgrounds of PhD directors in schools of nursing and considerable NINR funding to non-nurse researchers on topics within the nursing discipline. To strengthen the research infrastructure of PhD programs and achieve the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's (AACN) vision for doctoral education, we suggest incorporating interdisciplinary faculty and greater utilization of the NINR Strategic Plan.