CON Student Classifications - PhD Program

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UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER COLLEGE OF NURSING
Student Classifications for PhD Program	Policy: 2406 (5.4.6)
Student Policies - PhD Students	Originating Date: September 2012
Responsible Reviewing Agency: PhD Affairs Committee Related Documents: Policy 2303 Admission Policies for Master's Degree	Revised: May 2018 Revised: October 2023 (changes) Revised: August 2025 (administrative) (changes)

Purpose

Establishes classifications of PhD in Nursing students.

Scope

This policy applies to PhD applicants and students.

Policy

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing students are classified as follows:

1. Non-Degree Status:
   
   Non-Degree Status is given to individuals who have met the minimum requirements for admission (completed Non-Degree application and provided official transcripts). These students would need to get permission from the Director of the PhD in Nursing Program to enroll in any College of Nursing course, and preference is given to nursing students with full admission status.
2. Probationary Status:
   
   Probationary Status may be given when applicants show potential for graduate work and have excellent letters of support, but have not met the requirements for full graduate status. For students with a GPA below 3.0 changing from probationary status to full graduate status may require successful completion of one or more identified courses with a GPA of 3.0 or above in those courses. For new BSN graduates, probationary status may be given pending completion of the RN licensure exam and/or receipt of official transcript showing the equivalent of a baccalaureate degree in nursing is conferred.
3. Full Admission Status:
   
   Full Admission Status is given to students who have met the requirements for admission and who have been accepted by the PhD in Nursing Program.

Guidelines

The following guidelines are used to evaluate recommending progression from Non-Degree or probationary to full admission status.

1. Non-Degree to full status - completed application for full admission meeting criteria outlined in Policy 2303 Admission Policies for Master's Degree and acceptance into a nursing program of study.
2. Probationary to full status - successful completion of course work assigned by the PhD Affairs Committee as a condition of probationary admission.