The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing
Vol. 38 No. 2 March/April 2007
By Donald G. Smith, PhD, RN; Barbara Delmore, PhD, RN
ABSTRACT
Using their personal experience, the authors identify three key components to successfully completing a nursing doctoral program. The first component is asking the right questions to determine the doctoral degree best suited for the potential student. The second component is having a strategic plan that includes aspects such as financial considerations (research costs and potential financial support) and the development of a strong support system (specifically study pairs). The third component is the development of a systematic approach to completing the research, writing the dissertation, and completing the oral requirements. Addressing these areas will help students balance the many demands of doctoral study.
AUTHORS
Dr. Smith is Assistant Professor, Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, New York, New York. Dr. Delmore is Nurse Case Manager, NYU Medical Center, New York, New York.
Address correspondence to Barbara Delmore, PhD, RN, Nurse Case Manager, NYU Medical Center, 560 1st Ave., Tisch 183, New York, NY 10016.
