The Harry Crossley Children's Nursing Development Unit is committed to building children’s nursing in Africa for Africa. Core to this is the scholarship of building better evidence for education, practice and policy. 

Building a discipline requires leaders that bring diligent stewardship and thinking that is clear, critical and creative, as well as solution-focussed to the context of Africa’s health systems. The CNDU continues to rigorously research and develop evidence, and context-specific tools, approaches, and practice guidelines to underpin the practice and processes of children’s nursing. We also continue to develop the systems and capacity to monitor the workforce, and advocate for informed decision-making about workforce development, deployment, and training. 

If any of this resonates with you, and you are considering PhD study, please get in touch. 

To apply

Application process

Applicants are welcome to submit proposals to CNDU for consideration.
Proposals may be related to the clinical practice of working with children and their families or wider communities, and/or policy, health systems strengthening, education and community development related to working with children.

All potential candidates need to submit:

  • A 2000 word proposal for your study – including your study context, problem statement and proposed approach
  • A certified copy of their Master’s degree certificate
  • Transcripts for previous qualifications – degree and Master's
  • A short Curriculum Vitae

Whilst formal application for the PhD occurs through the UCT website, informal discussion with Associate Professor Minette Coetzee is strongly encouraged prior to application.

All initial enquiries and submission of documents above to be addressed to Mrs Jane Vos, Programme Manager.

Each application will be individually considered and assessed to ensure that our resources are best aligned to you and your study goals.

For more information about PhD programmes, please visit the UCT Doctoral Candidates site.

Still considering if you are ready to start a PhD?  We would strongly encourage you to first consider completing our PhD Preparedness Course. Click here to find out more.