Skip to main content
CSTSetup
Dictionary · Abbreviation

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy: the highest research degree; in nursing, a doctorate focused on research.

pee-aych-dee (said as letters) abbreviation

What it means

A doctoral degree that prepares people to do original research. Nurses with a PhD usually work as researchers and university faculty and build the evidence used in nursing practice. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the other nursing doctorate, focused on clinical practice and leadership.

At a glance

Also writtenDoctor of Philosophy

Related terms

evidence-based practice

Care that combines the best research findings with clinical experience and the client's own wishes.

registered nurse

A nurse who has passed the NCLEX-RN and holds a state license to practice as an RN.

Filed under

Look up another word