PhD programs in nursing in Iran and Canada: A qualitative study

Objective: To compare doctoral programmes of nursing in Iran and Canada. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in Mashhad, Iran, in April 2014. It was based on Beredy's model, including description, interpretation, juxtaposition and comparison. The validity of the related documents was assessed by internal validity, importance and accuracy of documents. Critique on the external validity and core of documents were reviewed. Then, they were interpreted, juxtaposed and compared. Results: Both the countries had significant differences in fundamental elements of their curricula, including mission, vision, aim, objectives, roles and tasks of graduates. Consequently, academic units, final comprehensive exam, and research courses were also different. Conclusion: Doctoral programmes in Canada focussed on competency-based, community-based, task-based and student-centred approaches. These approaches were ignored in the Iranian curriculum.