The nursing faculty in the TWU School of Nursing are delighted to welcome our first cohort of students into a much-needed, novel PhD in Nursing program. 

The shortage of doctorally prepared nursing faculty, both nationally and internationally, has been well documented. This is the gap we are oriented toward—the next generation of the nursing professoriate.

This need has led us to the design of a groundbreaking PhD program. We have thought carefully about our niche in Canadian higher education. Along with the uniqueness of our well-rounded program educating for the full scope of the nursing professoriate, we are distinct in offering a values-based approach to higher education, leadership, and research, rooted in the Christian ethos of TWU. No other faith-based doctoral program in nursing exists in Canada (and few internationally), despite a growing cadre of nurses who desire to engage in the deep theological and philosophic traditions that underpin health, compassion, and healing, as well as sickness and suffering for the planet.

More than 25 years of undergraduate nursing education, a well-regarded MSN program, and the outstanding calibre of faculty provide the platform for this program. Our world-class faculty, with interdisciplinary colleagues at TWU and transdisciplinary connections beyond, have built a collaborative research environment while maximizing competitiveness for extramural funding. At a relatively small university, it is important that we are well connected to nursing and health researchers and leaders locally, nationally, and globally. 

With an ever-changing planet, we are equipping the next generation of nurse leaders and scholars to work alongside other disciplines for the well-being of the global community.

Sheryl Reimer-Kirkham, PhD, RN
TWU Dean of Nursing

Barbara Astle, PhD, RN
Director of MSN Program