Which degree is the research-focused degree?

• A. Master's Ed.
• B. PhD
• C. DNP
• D. NLN Position Statement

Answer: (B)

In nursing, the degree that centers on creating new knowledge through original research is the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing. This path emphasizes designing and conducting studies, mastering advanced research methods and statistics, and producing scholarly work that expands nursing theory and evidence. The Doctor of Nursing Practice, while highly respected and scholarly, is focused on applying existing research to improve patient care and leading changes in clinical practice, not on generating new research. A Master’s in Education is a graduate degree in education rather than nursing research, and an NLN Position Statement is a policy document, not a degree. So the degree geared toward research and contributing new knowledge is the PhD.