PhD Program

PhD Distance Program Format

In the Fall 2002 semester, the University of Utah College of Nursing implemented a pilot program that would utilize internet-based videoconferencing technology to deliver doctoral nursing coursework to students located across the country. The program has since proven to be a great success, as 14 of the 29 students enrolled have graduated, and the 14 remaining students are still making excellent progress through the program. As a result, the College of Nursing has continued to admit PhD distance students, both locally and from around the country, who wish to obtain a Doctoral degree from the University of Utah utilizing the same internet-based videoconferencing technology.

PhD Distance Format Expectations

Students most successful with distance education coursework typically have several common characteristics:

  • Self-motivated
  • Mature
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Independent learner
  • Flexible and patient with the use of educational technology

While the PhD Distance Program is designed to overcome traditional barriers to doctoral education and recognizes students will continue to maintain some level of employment, successful students must maintain a strong commitment to the program and have the ability to set priorities. Discussion and active participant learning is the cornerstone of doctoral education and creates a community of learning. Therefore, students are expected to attend and participate in all scheduled synchronous videoconferencing classes and on-campus orientations.

PhD Distance Format Technological Requirements

Although it is suggested that students obtain the highest quality computer and printer available to them, the following are the minimum requirements for computer access to the program:

  • PC desktop or laptop running Windows XP SP2 (minimum); Vista can also be used but will need to contact Polycom for a patch. A MacIntosh running Windows OS is not acceptable under any circumstances.
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo Processor E7200
  • 3 GB RAM
  • 2 GB available hard drive space
  • Hard Drive speed of 7200 RPM preferred
  • NIC (Network Interface Card) that can run at 100 MBPS full duplex (this is the minimum now - most computers come with this included)
  • Dual monitors required to optimize the student experience, as you will often have multiple programs running during class. Monitor size is up to the individual but we recommend at least 20" for ease of viewing multiple individuals during class. If you purchase a laptop, the minimum laptop screen size is 15" and the second 20" monitor is still required.
  • Dual-head video card with a minimum of 256 MB RAM (the more RAM the better with video cards)
  • Speakers and sound card are required
  • USB Headset with microphone (headset optional)
  • Polycom PVX Desktop Videoconferencing Software
  • Logitech Pro 9000 Video conferencing camera; if using a laptop an external camera is still required.
  • A high quality printer (laser printer is strongly recommended)

Note: XP is also a compatible OS but Microsoft has stopped selling XP and will discontinue full support in April 2009. Extended support will last through April 2014.

Additional Requirements

  • McAfee Antivirus Software
  • Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, PowerPoint
  • SPSS Graduate Pack
  • Other software may be required for individual courses
  • High-quality/speed internet connection (DSL or cable modem); upload/download speeds of at least 1.44 MB
  • Static IP Address is required - no exceptions

For more information contact:

Melissa Pederson, M.Ed.
PhD Program Manager
phdprogram@nurs.utah.edu
(801) 793-5732

or

Lauren Clark, RN, PhD, FAAN
Professor and PhD Program Director
lauren.clark@nurs.utah.edu
Phone: 801-503-4755

Last updated: 6/5/2009