Comparing characteristics of underrepresented versus majority student groups enrolled in US nursing programs

Health workforce diversity is needed to achieve health equity. However, the 2023 ban on race-conscious admissions could result in reduced access to education for underrepresented students.

This study examined enrolled US nursing students' reports of program type and admission characteristics to identify access pathways for underrepresented students.

A cross-sectional, quantitative design was used, recruiting students currently enrolled in nursing programs through email, social media, and word-of-mouth.

Of 991 nursing students, 58.7 % were non-white. Most (70.2 %) were enrolled in Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, 54.5 % of which were second degree programs. LVN students comprised 13.2 % of the sample. Native American/Alaska Native and Black respondents more frequently reported attending second degree nursing programs and Historically Black Colleges and Universities. They also more frequently reported attending programs that had no prerequisites or grade point average requirements at admission.

The findings suggest that second degree programs could provide a more viable pathway for underrepresented students to access nursing education after obtaining a bachelor's degree in another field compared to traditional BSN programs. Recommendations to reduce barriers are discussed.