GuIDE to DegreeSM

Can't decide on a DNP or PHD? We're here to explain your options.
J.N. Johns Hopkins GuIDE Attendee:
“I am very thankful that I am staying healthy and my family is at the moment. My parents got COVID early on in the semester, but they are fully recovered. I hope and I am excited to keep you updated on my acceptance to JHSOU. Thanks for walking along side me and your guidance through the amazing GUIDE program.”

About

Are you considering applying for a Doctoral program? Not sure which program is right for you?

The Guiding Initiative for Doctoral Education, (GuIDE), is a program to guide and support Advanced Practice Nurses as you consider moving forward with your career development.

The GuiDE to DegreeSM program fosters and supports this cadre of pre-doctoral students toward successful admission into doctoral programs and result in an increased number of doctorally-prepared nurse faculty.

The GuiDE to Degree program is a uniquely crafted program for pre-doctoral health professionals. Participants will gain the maneuverability between practice and academe, be recognized for practice-based accomplishments, and experience the collegiality and collaborative skills needed to begin on their career paths from BSN to doctoral degree.

This short video showcases best practices in preparing your doctoral and graduate applications for any program.

Announcements/News

Flexing to Fit:
GuIDE Program Zooms to Nurses Across the Country

In 2020 COVID-19 affected all of us, due to the pandemic restrictions we were unable to have our GuIDE program as a face-to-face workshop. For four weeks in September every Thursday evening for two hours 25 participants logged in and participated in the GuIDE program. See our PAST WORKSHOPS page for a screenshot.
See our AWARDS page for the 2020 awards presented to Dr. Taylor.

What It Is

The GuIDE to Degree Bootcamp offers one and a half days of interactive discussion with colleagues and expert faculty on the distinct differences in the two major Doctoral education opportunities: DNP and PhD.

Discussion on how to choose the optimal doctoral program/university for you
"Must-Do's" to maximize your application strengths
Impact of strong mentorship teams
Balancing family/work/school demands

Past Participants

These are just some of the comments from past participants ...
"The Guide workshop gave me the tools I need to stand out on my graduate application! The presenters were full of energy the encouraging! I feel lucky to have had this experience!"
​"This was a game changer. The course allowed insight into this exciting yet intimidating next step. It built confidence in myself and likely all others because it was full of tangible tools as well as supportive conversation."
​"You mentioned one your mentors is the North Star, that’s how I see you! You are an inspiration and a role model."
"Loved it! The whole topic was broken down into manageable pieces to help process a very serious life altering decision.".
"The most valuable elements were, the availability of the faculty, and the sense of community created among the attendees."
"Prior to attending the graduate workshop, I was unsure of my options to obtain a PhD or DNP. In addition, I had no idea, which program to choose, .... I learned a great deal about the differences between the DNP and PhD, which I am now able to select wisely on my educational path. The eye opener for me was the self-SWOT analysis on my weaknesses, strengths, threats and opportunities. This was truly an eye opener exercise."
​"The generosity of Dr. Taylor and Dr. Terhaar in their time, wisdom, and guidance was a gift. The impact that these hours have had on me, prior to applying for a doctoral program, is significant."
​"I appreciate your holistic approach and positive affirmations."
"I left there feeling as if the mental barriers to furthering my education were beginning to lift."
"I had doubt about myself being not smart enough to get accepted for a DNP before attending the workshop, but through discussion about barriers, my confidence certainly increased for being successful to get in the program and get it done."
"Prior to this program, I thought I would pursue the DNP, but I discovered that the PhD program was a better fit! I was also concerned about money for scholarship, but the presentation highlighted many different avenues for covering the costs. I was surrounded by colleagues who are also interested in doctoral education, so having a cohort and academic team who can provide support and bolstering was very encouraging!"
"Thank you for bringing your brilliance, creativity, mindfulness and authenticity to the team!"

Who We Are

Laura A. Taylor, PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN

Dr. Laura Taylor received her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Nursing from the University of Maryland School of Nursing.  She received her PhD from the Catholic University of America School of Nursing, and a Post-Doctoral Fellowship from the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing.
Dr. Taylor is an expert in the use of computer-based information technologies to advance both research and education She is a recipient of Faculty of the Year Awards, Outstanding Dissemination of Health Information Award from the Maryland Nursing Association,  Health Information Technology Scholar (National League for Nursing. Dr. Taylor is a Professor in the Daniel K. Inouye Graduate School of Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Program at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. She is a Academy of Nurse Educators Fellow (ANEF), a Fellow in the American Academy of Nurses (FAAN), and President-Elect of the International Transplant Nursing Society (INTS).

Articles & Publications