Doctoral Programs
PhD Program in Nursing
Due to the severe shortage of PhD holders at the national level and the urgent need to prepare highly qualified Saudi nursing professionals capable of studying causes and proposing solutions to nursing-related issues within the healthcare system in the Kingdom, King Saud University approved the establishment of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Program on 24/08/1437H.
This initiative was launched to strengthen the role of nursing and to help overcome challenges faced by the profession at the national level. The program aims to prepare scientists who will contribute to discovering and expanding scientific knowledge, which in turn will advance the various fields of nursing science and practice.
Furthermore, the program is designed to align nursing specializations in the Kingdom with international standards by expanding and diversifying nursing disciplines. It also provides Saudi nurses holding a master’s degree the opportunity to pursue further studies and address the shortage of qualified nursing leaders, thereby ensuring sustainable contributions to healthcare improvement and policy development.
Admission Requirements for the PhD Program
1) General Criteria for Admission to Graduate Programs at King Saud University
- The applicant must hold a Master’s degree from a recognized institution with a minimum GPA of Very Good (3.75/5) or equivalent.
- Submission of two supporting recommendation letters for admission.
2) Program-Specific Criteria at the College
- Master’s degree in Nursing (full-time) from King Saud University or another recognized institution with a GPA not less than Very Good (3.75/5) or equivalent (if the university grants grades).
- Minimum score of 6.0 in IELTS Academic or its equivalent.
- Professional classification from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties.
- Passing the written exam administered by the department with a score of 60% or higher.
- At least two (2) years of professional experience in the field of specialization.