The Perceptions and Intentions of Undergraduate Nursing Students to Pursue Higher Education in Nursing

The purpose of this study was to explore the intentions of undergraduate nursing students and their perceptions related to pursuing higher education in nursing. This is related to recommendations issued in the Institute of Medicine 2011 report on nursing, including: “5) Double the number of nurses with a doctorate by 2020; 6) Ensure that nurses engage in lifelong learning; and 7) Prepare and enable nurses to lead change to advance health." 

A qualitative phenomenological study was implemented through individual interviews with undergraduate nursing students (N=16) recruited from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida between March and April 2013. Interviews were conducted using a scripted interview guide and analyzed using the NVivo qualitative research analysis program to identify resulting themes.

Results of this study found five main themes, including advanced practice nurse perceptions, BSN program influences, supports, barriers, and requests for more information. Of these main themes, there were particularly common points made throughout the interviews conducted. Identification of potential barriers to continuing their education was the most common theme and included financial concerns, family and work balance, and wanting to gain experience working as a registered nurse. Students expressed an understanding of the opportunity available with the nurse practitioner degree, with a less clear understanding of the PhD-prepared nurse. Another theme was the expressed interest of students wishing to learn about advanced degree options available to them prior to completing their BSN.

There is a need for unified support of nursing students to pursue an advanced degree to help meet the needs of the impending nurse faculty and clinical nurse shortage. It is expected that the results of this study will be helpful in the future to inform graduate recruitment efforts and assist in meeting the recommendations set forth by the Institute of Medicine (2011) related to nursing.