Post-graduate education in the nursing school of Sao Paulo at Ribeirao Preto: historical evolution and contributions to nursing development

This study aims at reviewing the 25 years (1975-2000) since the first graduate program was offered by the University of S?o Paulo at Ribeir?o Preto College of Nursing based on a critical reflection about the creation and development of graduate programs. The methodology applied was a quantitative assessment regarding the scientific production published in the literature about the theme. Results showed that the graduate programs were consolidated in the 1990s, when three doctoral programs were created.: Psychiatric Nursing, Fundamental Nursing and Public Health Nursing. These accomplishments require an increase in international visibility.