Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing by Research is a doctoral programme designed to develop nurses as independent researchers and scholarly leaders in healthcare. The programme emphasises rigorous and ethical research to generate original knowledge that advances nursing practice, education, policy, and healthcare systems, preparing candidates for the highest level of scholarly contribution.
The programme is distinguished by its strong research focus and close supervision by experienced academic nursing researchers. Candidates undertake supervised, original research grounded in appropriate theoretical and methodological frameworks, addressing complex and contemporary issues relevant to nursing and health systems. Emphasis is placed on intellectual independence, critical thinking, and scholarly integrity throughout the research process.
Through expert supervision, candidates develop advanced competencies in critical inquiry, research design, data analysis, and scholarly communication. Research may employ appropriate qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods approaches, selected according to the research question and scope of investigation. Candidates are expected to demonstrate originality, analytical depth, and sustained commitment to research excellence
A key strength of the programme is its emphasis on research impact and academic dissemination. Candidates are encouraged to publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at scholarly conferences, and engage with national and international research networks, in line with ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University’s commitment to impactful research and global engagement.
Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, healthcare organisations, and policy settings, advancing evidence-based practice, innovation, and improved health outcomes locally and internationally.
- Nurse Lecturer
- Director of Nursing Services
- Chief executive officer
- Healthcare Administrator
- Consultant in Nursing
- Healthcare Leader
- Researcher
Programme Structure
Modules
In addition to the Thesis component, candidates are required to complete three modules, namely Research Methodology, Academic Writing, and Research Proposal. By undergoing these modules, candidates will develop the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct research successfully towards the completion of the thesis.
Thesis
PhD candidates will have to complete an in-depth study on a particular research topic in the form of a thesis, substantiated by a series of academic milestones including a proposal defense and a viva voce.
Entry Requirements
a) Master’s Degree in Nursing (Level 7 Malaysian Qualifications Frameworks, MQF) or related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.75 or equivalent, as accepted by the HEP Senate; OR
b) Master’s Degree in Nursing (Level 7 MQF) or related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.50 and not meeting theCGPA of 2.75, can be accepted subject to rigorous internal assessment; OR
c) Master’s Degree in Nursing (Level 7 MQF) or related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 and not meeting the CGPA of 2.50 can be accepted, subject to a minimum of five years working experience in the relevant field and rigorous internal assessment; OR
d) A Master’s degree in Nursing Science (Level 7 MQF) or related fields accepted by the HEP Senate; OR
e) Other qualifications equivalent to a Master’s degree (Level 7 MQF) recognized by the Government of Malaysia.
A Bachelor’s degree with the following conditions:
i. A Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or related fields with first-class (CGPA of 3.67 or higher) or its equivalent from an academic institution.
ii. Undergo internal assessment; and
iii. Any other requirements of the HEP
English Language Requirements
English Competency Requirements for International Students:
Achieve a minimum Band 4 in Malaysian University English Test (MUET) OR equivalent to Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)(Mid B2).
*Please refer to JPT/GS 1000/630 Jld.3 (12),6th of March 2023 – English Language Proficiency Requirements for International Students for equivalent English language assessments and scores.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
For more information about the scholarships and financial aid, please visit the .
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