Answer:  Ph.D. students are required to attend an
           "immersion" session at the beginning 
           of the Fall 2009 semester.  The two-day session
           will be held on the Cecil B. Day, Atlanta Campus. 
           In addition to the two-day immersion session,   
           students are on campus two additional days.  For 
           example, in Fall 2009 students attended a 
           two day immersion session on August 13 and 
           14.  Fall 2009 entry students are scheduled to return
           to campus on December 17 and 18 for final fall 
           semester presentations.  Each course includes 
           approximately 7-8 "live" synchronous learning sessions.  Most statistical-related courses meet 
           weekly.  

     2.    What is "synchronous" learning?

           Answer: Synchronous learning sessions are included in every course within the PhD program.
          This means that a student must allow time in their scheduled day to meet online with faculty
          and other class members at the scheduled time of class on the Registrar calendar.  Absence
          from synchronous learning is not acceptable, therefore applicants who cannot commit to 
          synchronous learning activities may need to consider another program.
            
     3.   Am I required to take the Graduate Record Exam 
           (GRE)?

           Answer: Yes.  All applicants must take the GRE
           and scores must be within 5 years of entry to
           the program.  The Millers Analogy test cannot be submitted as a substitute for the GRE. 
           (no exceptions).  Students are strongly encouraged to take the GRE no later than mid-
           December.  This will enable reports to be received by the priority admission deadline.

      4.    Can I attend the program part-time?

           Answer: Yes, but strong consideration may be given to applicants with highest qualifications
           and who are seeking full-time enrollment.

      5.    How long is the program?
           
           Answer: A student who completes the program as designed for the full-time student can
           complete degree requirements in two continuous years of study.  A student may choose to
           complete coursework full-time and consider the option of lengthening dissertation based on the
           research design and depth of study.

      6.    What is the cost of tuition for the program?

           Answer: Tuition for the Ph.D. program is posted on the web site under tuition and fees.

      7.    If accepted to the program, will I be qualified for any financial aid assistance?

           Answer:  For several years, the College has been a recipient of funding through the Nurse
           Faculty Loan Program (NFLP).  Application for funding is made in the spring and the College is 
           typically notified in the fall.  If funding is received, Ph.D. students may qualify for these monies.  
           In addition to NFLP funding, the College supports graduate students through competitive 
           academic scholarships.  The student is always encouraged to apply for outside scholarship 
           sources, as well.  Information about NFLP can be found at: http://www.hrsa.gov/grants/nflp/

      8.    Is a master's degree in nursing required for program entry?
           
           Answer: Yes.  While we certainly understand scholarly and professional accomplishments
           among nurses, we require a master's degree in nursing as one of the minimum requirements for 
           Ph.D. entry. 

      9.    What is the platform used for online courses?
           
           Answer:  We are planning to use the Moodle® platform, and will continue to consider other 
           online enhancements for synchronous (Elluminate©) and asynchronous learning activities.

    10.    What is the deadline for application?

           Answer:  January 30 is the priority deadline and international student deadline.  February 28 if 
           the final deadline, based on space available.  Applications are closed for Fall 2009 Semester 
           consideration.