BACKGROUND: Innovative strategies may support the Institute of Medicine's recommendation to increase the number of doctorally prepared nurses by 50% by 2020. Moreover, strategies implemented may increase the number and diversity of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)-prepared nurses in particular. METHOD: The purpose of this article is to describe the approaches used by one college of nursing to enact a research-doctorate pipeline initiative to inspire a diverse pool of undergraduate students to consider pursuing a PhD degree. Principles that served as the foundation for this pipeline initiative are identified. RESULTS: Sixteen undergraduate students, with varying degrees of research interest, participated in this initiative. Students contributed an average of 35 hours as full members of research teams, and 94% completed the experience. Students with initial low interest in research reported enhanced interest after participation. Overall student experiences were positive and influenced future career plans. CONCLUSION: Lessons learned and future steps for the pipeline initiative are presented. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.
BACKGROUND: Innovative strategies may support the Institute of Medicine's recommendation to increase the number of doctorally prepared nurses by 50% by 2020. Moreover, strategies implemented may increase the number and diversity of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)-prepared nurses in particular. METHOD: The purpose of this article is to describe the approaches used by one college of nursing to enact a research-doctorate pipeline initiative to inspire a diverse pool of undergraduate students to consider pursuing a PhD degree. Principles that served as the foundation for this pipeline initiative are identified. RESULTS: Sixteen undergraduate students, with varying degrees of research interest, participated in this initiative. Students contributed an average of 35 hours as full members of research teams, and 94% completed the experience. Students with initial low interest in research reported enhanced interest after participation. Overall student experiences were positive and influenced future career plans. CONCLUSION: Lessons learned and future steps for the pipeline initiative are presented. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.