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​​The PhD progra​mme in the Faculty of Health Sci​ences (FHS) at Aga Khan University is central to its mission of producing research-based knowledge that is rele​​vant to the developing world and which will have impact. With this a​im in view,​ a ​​graduate programme in Health Sciences was implemented at AKU in Octo​ber 1999. 

The PhD in Health Sciences programme is accredited by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Pakistan. ​​​​This is an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary programme with four specialities / streams. 

Admissions Open for Nursing Stream

Admissions are open for candidates pursuing a PhD in Nursing with intra-disciplinary qualifications​ The last date for submission of applications is March 19, 2026. ​

Eligibility Criteria

Route 1: ​​Direct Route (Applications closed on February 10, 2026)

Candidates must have 18 years of education including a MS/MPhil in Nursing degree based on a minimum of 30 credits after 16-years of education.

A minimum CGPA 3.0 (out of 4.0 in the Semester System) or First Division – 60% (in the Annual System) in MS / MPhil / FCPS / FRCP / equivalent degree is required. 

Route 2: Intra-disciplinary Route (Applications currently open) 

Applicants holding a Baccalaureate in Nursing (BScN/ Post RN) and a Master’s degree from an HEC recognized institution in a discipline (other than Nursing) but relevant** to nursing education, research, advanced practice, leadership, or health systems will be eligible to apply for admission to the PhD in Nursing programme.

A minimum CGPA 3.0 (out of 4.0 in the Semester System) or First Division – 60% (in the Annual System) in MS / MPhil / equivalent degree is required.

​​**Relevant Disciplines. ​The following examples are illustrative and not exhaustive:​

• Public Health; Epidemiology; Biostatistics; Health Professions Education, Education; Health Policy and Management; Healthcare Administration/Hospital Management; Information Technology; Sociology; Psychology; Bioethics; Early Childhood Development; Business Administration with Healthcare/ Leadership emphasis

Please note:

• ​Applicants must meet all AKU admission requirements, including successful completion of the prescribed subject-specific admission test and interview.
  

• ​​In addition, the admission Committee must be satisfied that the applicant’s knowledge of the primary area (level 7) has sufficiently prepared them to undertake the doctoral programme. The admissions committee can mandate the students to take specific courses and credit requirements (6-9 credit hours of deficiency courses of level 7), prior to the start of the programme.
  

• ​In cases of ambiguity, applicants may be required to submit written justification explaining the relevance of their qualification to doctoral study in Nursing.
  

Relevant Links for Nursing Stream

• Admission Information Booklet
  
• ​Reference Letter
• Sample Test Paper​​

​​​Eligibility Criteria​​​

Following is the eligibility criteria applicable for 2026-2027 admission cycle for the other specialities for which admissions have closed on February 10, 2026.

The University may request for additional documents to better understand and evaluate applicant’s eligibility as per University and regulatory body requirements. ​