AIM To identify decision factors that underrepresented racial and ethnic minoritized PhD nursing students considered when choosing a doctoral program in nursing. BACKGROUND A diverse nursing workforce moves nursing forward toward equitable and culturally responsive healthcare. This report examines factors influencing the decision to choose a doctoral education program in nursing. METHOD We conducted a secondary qualitative analysis of data from 23 students to explore the factors they considered when deciding between pursuing a PhD in nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. RESULTS Major themes describing decision factors included: program characteristics, perceived oversaturation of Doctor of Nursing Practice programs, perceived salary differences, and career trajectory. CONCLUSION Examining factors influencing underrepresented minoritized nursing students’ decisions to pursue doctoral education can highlight opportunities to advance inclusive learning environments, support diverse career pathways, and address health equity through a more representative doctorate-prepared nursing workforce.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Ledford et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: