Paracelsus Medical University (PMU)

Nursing Practice & Leadership
Program structure & Content

In addition to in-person courses and seminars in Salzburg, the Ph.D. program in Nursing Practice & Leadership—similar to the Bachelor's and Master's programs at the Institute of Nursing Science and Practice—relies heavily on specialized online learning formats and learning-on-demand strategies. This includes distance learning through innovative platforms, e-portfolios, podcasts, virtual classrooms, online tutoring, and more.

The program also strongly supports activities within the scientific community, including participation in summer schools, conferences, and research stays (7 days per year), enabling students to establish inter-/national contacts and professional networks for subject-specific and task-related exchange.

The graduate program modules are structured over a three-year period and must be completed together by all doctoral students in the same cohort. This promotes a collegial atmosphere, and in cases of unforeseen circumstances (e.g., parental leave), the modules may be extended beyond the intended timeframe. A detailed overview of the modules and courses is available in the download section.

The advancement of knowledge through original research—guided by both primary and secondary supervisors—is further supported by the graduate program's instruction in scientific knowledge and research methods, delivered by high-ranking inter-/national lecturers in nursing and health sciences. Key areas of focus include:

  • Advanced quantitative social and health research
  • Advanced qualitative social and health research
  • Health assessment and management
  • Scientific methods in evidence-based nursing and health research
  • Scientific learning, writing, working, and publishing
  • Health policy, economics, and ethics
  • Gender and diversity in nursing and health, among others

In addition to regular specialized online courses and research-related seminars, ample time is dedicated to private research colloquia, inter-university events, journal clubs, and so-called "Chocolate & Research Conversations." These activities help students develop their skills in critical analysis, reflection on problem-solving approaches, and presentation and discussion of their own research, with the support of inter-/national lecturers and staff from the Institute of Nursing Science and Practice.

Beyond subject-specific education, the program also offers opportunities to acquire transferable skills, which are relevant for careers as researchers or for leadership postions such as Senior Advanced Nurse Practitioners. These additional qualifications (e.g., developing and leading a nursing development unit, overseeing nursing development in healthcare organizations, or establishing and managing outpatient nursing centers) significantly enhance employment opportunities in the nursing and healthcare sectors.

Please note that the modules in the graduate program are assessed through written assignments or presentations.