Chart the Future of Doctoral Nursing Education
The Doctoral Education Conference explores national trends in doctoral nursing education, strategies to increase enrollment, and ways to increase or maintain rigor in terminal degree programs. With content addressing both the practice and the research doctorate, and the willingness to debate the provocative issues that surround doctoral education, this conference provides ample opportunity for the development of teaching, research, and administrative roles.
“As a first-time attendee, I enjoyed hearing the current issues, trends, and challenges from colleagues across the country and building my network.”
“The leadership networking opportunities, as well as hearing the different statuses and goals of other programs and opportunities, were superb.”
“The conference provided a great opportunity to hear what other schools are doing and what challenges they are facing. It was also helpful to hear about program outcomes and innovations around recruitment of students.”
“It was an experience I will never forget. It was well-organized and informative. It was my first time doing a poster presentation. I met some great people and received valuable feedback on advancing my research.”
PhD Pre-Conference January 13, 2026
This event is designed specifically for deans and associate deans from schools offering research-focused doctoral nursing programs or those planning a new program and explores challenges and solutions germane to PhD education.
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Faculty Practice Pre-Conference January 13, 2026
This event is hosted by AACN’s Practice Leadership Network (PLN), a network for individuals involved in promoting, administering, and engaging in faculty practice. Emphasis is being placed on the need for practice savvy educators who can translate current healthcare environment scenarios to the classroom at every level.
Research Leadership Network (RLN) Program January 14, 2026
This program is hosted annually by AACN’s Research Leadership Network (RLN), a network specifically for faculty who have leadership roles facilitating research within their nursing programs. The key focus of this program lies on advancing nursing science with cutting-edge research methods.
Deans, directors, and faculty who teach in doctoral programs, as well as those with a primary responsibility for advancing a research agenda.
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point 5001 Coconut Road Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Phone: 202-463-6930 | Email: conferences@aacnnursing.org | Website: www.aacnnursing.org/conferences