New doctoral degree aims to strengthen research and healthcare leadership
The University of Lahore (UOL) has launched Punjab’s first Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing, becoming the first university in the province to introduce the highest academic qualification in the discipline.
Offered through the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences and the Lahore School of Nursing (LSN), the programme marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s higher education and healthcare sectors. University officials said the initiative reflects UOL’s continued commitment to academic excellence, research and innovation while creating new opportunities for nursing professionals to pursue advanced education within the country.
The doctoral programme aims to develop nurse scientists, academic leaders, clinical researchers and healthcare policymakers capable of addressing emerging challenges in the healthcare system through evidence-based practice and indigenous research.
Furthermore, all programmes offered by the Lahore School of Nursing, including BSN, Post RN, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and the newly launched PhD, hold accreditation from the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council (PN&MC) and the Higher Education Commission (HEC).
University highlights research, global rankings and academic growth
Professor Sarfraz Masih, Principal of the Lahore School of Nursing, said the introduction of the PhD programme demonstrates the university’s commitment to advancing nursing education and empowering professionals to contribute to research, teaching, clinical practice and healthcare policy.
Doctoral candidates will have access to advanced laboratories, multidisciplinary research opportunities, clinical training at UOL-affiliated teaching hospitals and collaborations with national and international academic partners.
Meanwhile, UOL continues to strengthen its international academic profile. The university is ranked between 951 and 1000 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and 187th in Asia. It also remains Pakistan’s only private-sector university to receive the QS 5-Star University Rating 2026. Additionally, UOL ranks among leading global institutions in the Times Higher Education and UI GreenMetric rankings, reflecting its achievements in academic excellence and sustainability.
