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Comparing characteristics of underrepresented versus majority student groups enrolled in US nursing programs
Michelle DeCoux Hampton1, Regine Lopez2, Lynette Apen3
1Samuel Merritt University, Oakland, CA, USA.
Second degree nursing programs may offer better access for underrepresented students. These pathways, often with fewer prerequisites, can improve diversity in the health workforce.
Area of Science:
- Health equity
- Nursing education
- Health workforce diversity
Background:
- Health workforce diversity is crucial for achieving health equity.
- The 2023 ban on race-conscious admissions may limit educational opportunities for underrepresented students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine nursing students' program types and admission characteristics.
- To identify accessible pathways for underrepresented students in US nursing programs.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional, quantitative study design.
- Recruitment of currently enrolled nursing students via email, social media, and word-of-mouth.
Main Results:
- 58.7% of 991 nursing students identified as non-white.
- Second degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs were common (54.5% of BSN programs).
- Native American/Alaska Native and Black students more frequently reported attending programs with no prerequisites or GPA requirements, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Conclusions:
- Second degree nursing programs may offer a more accessible route for underrepresented students compared to traditional BSN programs.
- Recommendations to reduce barriers in nursing education access are discussed.
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