Educating Nursing Scientists: Integrating Genetics and Genomics into PhD Curricula

Nursing science is a diverse field of study, the scope of which has broadened to more fully incorporate genetics and genomics. In recent years, these topics have become focus areas for many nursing researchers. However, recent evidence suggests that doctoral level nursing students and nursing faculty may be underprepared to conduct independent research using genomic approaches. Furthermore, genetics and genomics are severely underrepresented in doctoral level nursing curricula across the United States. This article suggests a thorough, yet manageable three-part curriculum designed to educate doctoral level nursing students on genetics, genomics, and their use in nursing science. Recommendations are then given for the integration of the curriculum into existing nursing PhD programs.