What We Know—and Need to Know—About Nursing PhD Programs and Influences on the PhD–Faculty Pipeline: A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Aims

To identify: (1) current evidence and gaps of PhD program components influencing PhD students' career outcomes; and (2) methods and tools used to assess the relationships between PhD program components and career outcomes.

Design

PRISMA scoping review.

Methods

Search terms included PhD nursing students, PhD education, PhD-prepared nurse, PhD in nursing, nursing faculty, and assistant professor. Studies empirically assessing PhD program components and career outcomes (e.g., desires, attitudes, actual employment) were included. Two researchers conducted screening, data extraction, and inductive content analysis.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL in October 2025, without year and geographic location restrictions.

Results

The search yielded 379 studies. After title, abstract, and full-text screening, 13 studies were included. Analysis resulted in 10 factors spanning four categories: program preparation, readiness and satisfaction, impressions of the faculty role, and program support.

Conclusion

Experiences in the PhD program likely influence students' desire to pursue academia. While this review synthesized influential factors, given significant gaps in the literature, there are likely more factors influencing student career desires. A more robust understanding of the factors during the PhD program which influence career outcomes is needed.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study did not include patient/public involvement in design, conduct, or reporting.