DNP/PhD joint programs could address PhD shortage in nursing

A combined doctor of nursing practice and doctor of philosophy program developed at the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing could be adopted by other nursing programs to develop clinician scientists and address the national shortage of PhD prepared nursing faculty, a Nursing Outlook article maintains. The DNP/PhD program accelerated degree completion by an average of 2.7 years, reduced educational debt for participants and prepared nurses with aligned clinical and research expertise. From 2017 to 2024, Johns Hopkins admitted 60 dual-degree applicants (5.3% acceptance rate) to the five-year program, with 10 graduates so far. Of the 10 graduates, 60% entered research or hybrid academically based post-doctoral roles, while 40% took clinical positions within academic medical centers. (Nursing Outlook article, 1/15/26)