Focus 
Pedagogy inspired by Bernard Lonergan 
*individualized program of study complemented by intensive mentorship model 

Pathways/Credits (cr) 
BS to PhD – 54 cr 
MS to PhD – 45 cr 

Class Format 
In person on campus; three semesters required each year 

Class Dates 
Tuesdays 

Electives 
1 elective (3 credits) must be an advanced method elective, options for other electives are related to dissertation topic or nursing education 

Comprehensive/Qualifying Examination 
A written comprehensive exam is required after completion of all course work. It involves essay questions linked directly with program objectives. Students have 1 week to complete the exam; 6 faculty review each exam; exam offered in September and January. 

Dissertation 
Hybrid format: traditional proposal, executive summary and slide presentation; student required to complete and submit dissertation findings as a publishable manuscript prior to graduation. 

Dissertation Committee 
3 committee members all with terminal degrees; Chair must be from Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing. Many students have interdisciplinary committee member; can have one member outside UMass system. 

Number of PhD Students in the Program over the past 5 years 
28-30 

Time to graduation over the past 5 years (impacted by COVID-19 pandemic) 
MS to PhD 4.8 years 
BS to PhD 6.2 years