PhD in Nursing Practice

Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania is a private Catholic university founded in 1925 that emphasizes values-driven education and student-centered learning. With a broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs, Gannon balances rigorous academics with community engagement, ethical leadership and practical experience. The campus culture supports close faculty mentoring and a focus on career-ready skills across healthcare, engineering, business and liberal arts.

Academic programs at Gannon prioritize experiential learning through internships, labs and real-world projects that connect classroom theory to professional practice. Small class sizes allow individualized support and meaningful connections with faculty, while the university’s network of local and regional partners helps students secure placements and employment. Service, justice and community involvement are woven into many programs and extracurricular activities.

International students find a welcoming environment in Erie with services for academic advising, visa support and cultural integration. Campus life includes student organizations, volunteer opportunities and events that build community and professional networks. Gannon’s emphasis on holistic development aims to produce graduates who are technically prepared, ethically grounded and ready to contribute in diverse professional settings.

Gannon University's PhD in Nursing Practice is a 2-year degree for nursing professionals who want to lead in their practice area. It helps students develop evidence-based practice projects in the clinical arena.

The curriculum includes immersion experiences and project development, building on previous MSN level thesis work. Students learn to prepare, deliver, and evaluate projects, with a focus on practical application.

Graduates can pursue roles like Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. They can work in hospitals, clinics, or academic institutions, applying their skills in leadership, education, and practice.