Advancing Scholarship and Capacity for Emerging Nursing Doctorates
Building Global Nursing Leadership
The ASCEND program at York University addresses a critical global need: strengthening nursing education and research capacity in regions facing significant healthcare challenges. Building a robust, well-educated nursing workforce is essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goals and improving health outcomes. Yet nursing education systems in many regions need additional capacity and support to prepare the next generation of nurse leaders and educators.
About ASCEND
Through ASCEND, we create pathways for exceptional nursing faculty from partner institutions to pursue their PhD in Nursing. Selected scholars may receive tuition scholarships from York University Faculty of Health, along with comprehensive support to develop research addressing critical health challenges in ASCEND scholars' home countries.
Selected ASCEND scholars engage in rigorous doctoral education while conducting research that addresses health priorities in their communities. Through mentorship, research collaboration, and professional development opportunities, scholars strengthen their expertise as nurse researchers and educators. The program builds on existing partnerships between York University and educational institutions globally, fostering knowledge exchange and advancing nursing scholarship across borders.
ASCEND scholars conduct research that addresses pressing healthcare challenges in their communities while strengthening nursing education capacity. Through mentored research opportunities, scholars develop expertise that directly enhances curriculum development, teaching practices, and healthcare delivery in their home institutions.
Collaborative Learning Environment
ASCEND scholars become part of a dynamic community of nurse researchers at York University who are passionate about global health innovation. This collaborative environment encourages rich knowledge exchange between scholars while maintaining vital connections with home institutions. The program integrates advanced coursework and research opportunities to develop expertise in both nursing research and education.
Scholars work alongside leading researchers whose interests align with their research goals and community health priorities. These mentoring relationships often evolve into lasting research partnerships that continue to benefit participating institutions.
Support our ASCEND Scholars
Join ASCEND
We welcome applications from nursing faculty at partner institutions who are committed to advancing nursing education and research.
ASCEND invites engagement from:
- Educational institutions interested in partnership opportunities
- Organizations and individuals interested in supporting scholarships
- Nursing faculty in regions facing significant healthcare challenges seeking to pursue doctoral studies