Evaluating the Outcomes of a Distance-Accessible PhD Program

The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS) Program at Indiana University School of Nursing matriculated the first students in 1978. In 1996, the DNS program was phased out and the PhD in Nursing Science program was approved. Given advances in technology, market demand, and faculty expertise, a decision was made in 2002 to revise the PhD program to make it “distance-accessible” with courses and other learning experiences designed to be delivered using both synchronous and asynchronous Web-based technologies. As part of the newly designed program, distance-accessible courses were paired with an annual 2-week summer residential intensive learning experience on the Indiana University–Purdue University at Indianapolis (IUPUI) campus. This article discusses the process and outcome evaluation for this innovative program, with a particular focus on pedagogies faculty have found effective for scholarly mentoring and on best practices for distance-accessible doctoral education. Evaluation of program outcomes indicates graduates are well positioned to provide leadership in the areas of knowledge development for nursing science, practice, and education.