[Strengthening doctoral programs in nursing based on health care needsFortalecimento dos programas de doutorado em enfermagem com base nas necessidades de saúde].

This article aims to analyze and contextualize the training of nurses at the postgraduate level, and to present strategic orientations to expand their doctoral education in Latin America and the Caribbean. This paper presents strategies to advance the potential of nurses' contribution to health systems and the development of scientific competencies through postgraduate studies-at the doctoral level-with emphasis on cooperation and internationalization, training aligned with the health needs of the population, transfer of knowledge to practice and sustainability of actions. Nurses are well positioned to act as researchers, faculty members and leaders, and to contribute to the development of more effective strategies for future actions and policies that are required by health systems. However, investment and commitment from different key stakeholders will be needed to transform nursing education.