Admission Requirements

TWU School of Nursing is committed to equity, diversity, inclusiveness, and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and communities. Applicants of diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

To be eligible to apply, students must meet the following requirements:

1. A master’s degree (MSN or equivalent) from an approved institution with clear evidence of research ability or potential and 3.4 GPA.
2. Graduate level courses in qualitative research, quantitative research and statistics, and foundations of nursing knowledge. 
3. Additional course specific prerequisites include the following. For NURS 750, a graduate level course in knowledge translation, health policy, or leadership. For NURS 760, a graduate level course in nursing education, nursing leadership or advanced nursing practice.
4. English proficiency: for students whose primary language is not English—a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 105, or a minimum IELTS of 7.5 on all bands or Duolingo English test score of 125 or higher.
5. Application includes: five-page single spaced statement of (i) academic, research, and professional plans, including research overview; (ii) motivation for doctoral studies; (iii) availability, workload, and other commitments. Provide an example of scholarly work; current CV; and two academic letters of reference. An interview may be required.
6. Transfer: A baccalaureate in nursing (BSN) with one year of study (12 credits) in TWU’S MSN program with an A average (3.7 GPA) may be considered for a fast-track admission to the doctoral program. Courses with less than a B grade are not eligible for transfer to the doctoral program.
7. Requests to transfer graduate courses from other qualifying institutions will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
8. The next cohort for the PhD program will be accepted for May 2026. Applications will open September 2025 and applications close December 1, 2025.

If you have any questions about these requirements, please contact the School of Nursing Graduate Director.