Understanding the value of a PhD for post-doctoral registered UK nurses : a survey

Aims This study investigated: “What is the perceived value of a PhD to doctoral and postdoctoral nurses in the UK?”

Background Little is known about what happens to the careers of nurses who undertake a doctorate, and whether they use these skills in the next career steps.

Methods Nurses (n= 47) with doctorates were recruited via professional networks and twitter (@NMAHP_DoctorateStudy). Qualitative responses from the nurses were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results Three themes emerged from qualitative analysis; impact on career, utilisation and value, impact on self.

Conclusions This study provides one of the few insights into how doctoral trained nurses understand and experience the value and utility of their studies to themselves and others.

Implications for nurse management Nurse managers can play a crucial role in generating a research led culture within their clinical setting. This would include promoting an understanding of research as something directly related to patient benefit rather than an abstract, intellectual activity.