This study aimed to present the trajectory of doctoral education in nursing in Brazil from 1981 to 2004. A descriptive and analytical study was carried out, using documents available at the Brazilian Federal Agency for Support and Evaluation of Graduate Education, a body responsible for the recognition, evaluation and coordination of graduate studies in Brazil. Data analysis revealed that there are 13 doctoral courses in nursing, most of which are concentrated in the Southeast (69.2%), and that teaching and scientific production have been influenced by demographic and epidemiological transitions and by historical, social and political movements. Knowledge production is related to Nursing Care, Health Management and Practices and Theoretical Foundations of Care. Doctoral programs have prepared leaders in the fields of education, research and public policy development, in health institutions as well as in public policies, health institutions and governmental entities.
education, nursing; education; nursing
