Troy University’s first doctoral program produced its first graduates recently, a milestone in the university’s efforts to fill a growing need in the health care industry.
Eight graduates received the university’s doctor of nursing practice degree last Friday. The degree program was launched in 2009 with 15 students.
The program is intended to help the nursing profession meet a standard set forth by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing to provide additional doctoral degree training for advanced practice nurses such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists and nurse midwives.
Bernita Hamilton, director of the school of nursing, said Troy is one of several universities to offer the doctoral program in the state. Hamilton said there are two tracks to the degree at Troy. Students who already have a master’s in nursing may study for two years and get the degree. Students who have a bachelor’s may study for four years and get their master’s and doctoral degrees in nursing from the university.
There are currently 27 students in the program. Hamilton said the plan is to add 20 students to the program each year.
Clif Lusk, a university spokesperson, said the university is exploring other possible doctoral programs to add at Troy. Lusk said the approval process, which involves the Alabama Commission on Higher Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, can be lengthy, however.
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