Nursing PhD program named among nation’s best

July 29, 2026 — DENTON — Texas Woman's University's PhD in Nursing Science program has been named one of just five programs nationwide to earn the National League for Nursing's inaugural Program of Excellence designation for research-focused doctoral education.

The designation recognizes doctoral programs that demonstrate excellence in research, innovation and student success while preparing nurse scientists who advance nursing education, clinical practice and health care policy.

The recognition comes at a pivotal time for nursing education. As nursing research-focused doctoral programs face declining enrollment and some universities close their PhD programs, the demand for nurse scientists and nursing faculty continues to grow. The NLN designation highlights programs that are helping strengthen the pipeline of nursing researchers and educators needed to shape the future of health care.

"This recognition reflects the remarkable work of our faculty and graduates, who continue to advance nursing science through meaningful research," said Stephanie Woods, PhD, dean of TWU's College of Nursing. "A PhD in nursing remains very rare, with less than 2% of registered nurses earning the degree. Our faculty have invested their research expertise into students whose work is making an impact across the profession."

Sandra Cesario, PhD, professor and director of TWU's PhD in Nursing Science program, said the recognition affirms the university's commitment to preparing nurse scientists whose research strengthens nursing education and improves health care.

"Being recognized as an NLN PhD Program of Excellence formally validates the university's commitment to advancing nursing science and preparing the next generation of nursing faculty, leaders, policymakers and administrators," Cesario said. "It distinguishes programs that generate original research, expand the nursing workforce and help shape the future of health care."

Rather than requiring students to build their research around existing faculty projects, TWU encourages doctoral students to pursue original research questions driven by their own interests. Cesario said that approach develops independent scholars whose work addresses emerging challenges across nursing, education and health care.

The program also provides doctoral students with separate academic and research advisory committees, allowing students to receive specialized guidance throughout their coursework and dissertation research.

That emphasis on independent scholarship is reflected in the work of TWU graduates, who have become university faculty members, health system executives, researchers and policymakers while conducting studies on topics such as nurse workforce development, cancer care, patient safety, health equity and chronic disease management. Their research has helped inform clinical practice, nursing education and health care leadership across the country.

Although TWU's doctoral nursing program has educated nurse scientists for more than five decades, Cesario said the inaugural designation recognizes where the program is headed as much as where it has been.

"It means we will be seen as a leader in research-focused doctoral education, and other universities will look to us for guidance," she said. "Being included in the inaugural cohort reflects TWU's pioneering spirit."

For Cesario, the longtime leader of the TWU doctoral program, this recognition comes at a pivotal time in her own career as she prepares to retire.

"I feel proud to have led TWU's doctoral program for almost 20 years," she said. "It validates that the time and energy I invested in this program has been fruitful. I could not be more proud to see our graduates in high-level leadership and scholarly positions following graduation."

Woods said the honor also recognizes the faculty members whose mentorship has shaped generations of doctoral students.

"While I am very proud of our PhD alumni, I am also very proud of the TWU nursing faculty who have taught and served as role models," Woods said. "Long before this recognition occurred, Dr. Cesario gave her best to our program. For that I am very grateful."

Page last updated 11:07 AM, July 29, 2026