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A Comparative Analysis of the PhD Nursing Curriculum in Iran and the PhD and DNP Programs at the University of Cizik, USA
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Mohammad-Sajjad Lotfi   , Zahra Rezaei-Shahsavarloo * |
| Trauma Nursing Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran |
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Abstract: (33 Views) |
Introduction: The education and traning of nurses are the responsibilities of faculty members holding doctoral degrees in nursing. Evaluating the curriculum of this educational program is essential for developing effective higher education policies. This study aimed to compare the nursing PhD curriculum in Iran with the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs at the Cizik School of Nursing, Texas, USA.
Methods: This descriptive–comparative study was conducted using Brady’s model in four stages: description, interpretation, juxtaposition, and comparison. Data on the Iranian PhD nursing program were obtained from the Ministry of Health website, while information on the Cizik School of Nursing programs was collected from the school’s official website. The curricula were compared based on history, mission, vision, values, objectives, graduate employment positions, admission requirements,
expected competencies, course content, and graduation criteria.
Results: The comparison of the programs revealed that while the initial stages of the PhD program at both universities are similar, they exhibit fundamental differences in their mission and vision. The curriculum at Cizik School differs from that of Iran University in several key aspects, including individualized and multi-stage admission processes, a higher number of course units, the relevance of educational content, and future job prospects. Although both universities share similar graduation criteria for the Doctor of Philosophy degree, the clinical doctorate necessitates the design and completion of a clinical portfolio.
Conclusion: To achieve the goal of improving public health and narrowing the theory–practice gap, the mission and vision of Iran’s nursing curriculum require revision. Considering the researchoriented nature of Iran’s PhD program, it is recommended to increase research and statistics course credits, develop operational plans for non-core courses, and establish a clinical doctorate in nursing. |
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| Keywords: Comparative Study, Curriculum, Education, Nursing, Doctoral, Iran. |
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Full-Text [PDF 336 kb]
(10 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2025/03/1 | Accepted: 2025/11/5 | Published: 2025/12/20
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