Admission Criteria: Completion of a master’s degree in nursing from a nationally accredited nursing program with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale. Satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) taken within the last 5 years.  Evidence of atrong writing ability, potential leadership, and scholarship. Unencumbered license to practice in a state or jurisdiction of the USA. Preference may be given to applicants meeting one or more of the following criteria: 3.5 cumulative grade point average in graduate coursework. A score of 1000 on the verbal and quantitative section of the Graduate Record Examination with at least 5 on the Analytical Writing section. Intent to pursue fulltime study. Distinguished leadership or scholarship. International applicants must meet additional requirements for admission.

Admission Process:  PHASE 1: All applicants must submit- Completed application for the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Program, including application fee. Online Application PDF Application   The following documents must be included with application: a.                   Curriculum vita following specific guidelines included in the application packet. (To receive a copy of the required vitae format click here). b.                  Unencumbered license to practice in a state or jurisdiction of the USA c.                   Sample of independent scholarly writing (e.g., thesis, article, paper).  It is strongly recommended that this is a most recent writing (e.g., within the last five years) and the writing can reflect the applicants response to a current topic in nursing.  In essence, it does not have to be a past "graded" paper. Recommendations will be obtained electronically from the three individuals listed on the application.  It is strongly suggested that one reference include a University faculty member.  The two remaining references should be from instructors, administrations, or managers who have evaluated the applicant’s professional practice. Submission of one official transcript from each College/University attended.  Transcripts must show evidence of successful completion of a basic statistics course and graduate nursing theory and research courses prior to enrollment. Submission of Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores taken within the last 5 years. Codes for submission of GRE scores are Mercer University – Atlanta: R5025; Nursing Department/Major Code: 0610. International applicants must meet additional requirements for admission. PHASE 2: Following review of materials received by the deadline date, selected applicants will be given the opportunity to proceed to phase two of the review process.  These applicants will be contacted by email and asked to respond to a select set of questions/items.  Applicants must send their response within the limited timeframe.  Final materials will be reviewed by a select committee.  An in-person interview will be required.   Applicants will be notified within three weeks from review of phase 2 materials.