Is the PhD in nursing in terminal decline?

This discussion paper critically examines the current state and future viability of the PhD in nursing, questioning whether it remains a sustainable and attractive terminal degree for the next generation of nurse researchers. Drawing on international evidence, it is argued that the nursing PhD is in crisis, undermined by structural, financial, and cultural challenges. These include declining enrolments, reduced funding, limited academic job prospects, and inequitable access, particularly affecting women, international students, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Toxic academic environments and a growing preference for alternative qualifications like the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) further threaten the PhD pipeline. Despite these issues, the paper affirms the essential role of PhD-trained nurses in advancing healthcare through rigorous research and evidence-based practice. To reverse the decline, a coordinated action is required from universities, governments, and professional bodies to improve funding, supervision, inclusivity, and public perception of the nursing PhD. Strategies include early recruitment, better programme design, and structural reforms such as recognising PhD students as employees. The authors advocate for a renewed commitment to nurturing nurse scientists and collecting robust data to inform future planning, asserting that without such action, the academic and clinical contributions of nursing science may diminish significantly.