Paper
Saturday, July 16, 2005
This presentation is part of : The Logic Model: A Framework for the Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of an Accelerated Master’s Entry Into Nursing Program
Moving In: Recruitment and Admission of Non-nursing College Graduates
Susan E. Elliott, PhD, RNC, FNP, WHNP and Phyllis Esslinger, RN, MS. School of Nursing, Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA, USA

Background: Decision making in the admission of graduate students presents a challenge amidst changing demographics, demand for student diversity, and the increased numbers of adult learners. Despite the growth in graduate nursing programs developed for college graduates entering nursing as a second career, limited literature provides information on the process and outcomes of the recruitment and admission of these non-traditional nursing students.

Purpose: This presentation describes the SCAN program's wholistic philosophical perspective in managing student recruitment and admission, and its plan to evaluate this process.

Conceptual Framework: The SCAN program's organizing framework is the Logic Model. Elements of the eligibility-based model, performance-based model, student capacity to benefit model, and student capacity to contribute model enhance the program's wholistic perspective on recruitment and admission decision making.

Research Questions: 1. What are the admitted students' personal and academic characteristics? 2. Which of these characteristics are predictors of success in the SCAN program?

Methodology: The recruitment and admissions process consists of service differentiation and market segmentation strategies, pre-admission interview and advising session, committee review of applications and admission decision making, and intensive two-day student orientation. Twenty-one students were admitted to the first cohort and student characteristics (e.g., age, ethnicity, baccalaureate major, GPA, jobs and achievements, reasons for selecting nursing as a second career and for selecting the SCAN program, source of financial support, etc.) were collected on interview and admission. Course grades, GPA, retention/attrition and graduation rates, NCLEX-RN scores, basic and advanced practice nursing competencies, and social and cultural competencies will be collected at specific data points as indicators of success.

Results and Implications: Student characteristics and success indicators for the first year of the program will be presented. Study results will suggest ways to enhance recruitment and admission which impact student success in this demanding graduate entry level program.