Doctoral Degrees
When Lisa Williams began her nursing career 15 years ago, she had no plans to become a professor but that all changed when she began working on her doctoral degree at USC Columbia.
“As I pursued higher levels of academic achievement, I tutored more and more students who wanted to become nurses,” said Williams, who also has a nursing degree from USC Aiken. “While studying for my doctorate, I realized that not only did I love nursing, but I loved teaching as well. Being able to do both is the ultimate for me.”
Williams’ passion for teaching earned her the 2011 Outstanding Undergraduate Teacher of the Year Award in her first year as a professor. In addition to her teaching duties, Williams helps coordinate the medical-surgical classes at USC Columbia. She was named a 2011 “health care hero” by the Columbia Regional Business Report.
Her dedication and leadership exemplifies the college’s commitment to our profession by preparing the next generation of nurses, practitioners and professors.
USC offers two types of nursing doctoral degrees: clinical (DNP) and research (Ph.D.).