Exploring Future Nursing Leadership Through Student Insights in a Transforming Healthcare Landscape: A Descriptive...

This study aimed to assess leadership perceptions, aspirations, and preparedness among final-year nursing students in India, examining the influence of academic level, curriculum support, and mentorship on leadership readiness.

A cross-sectional, mixed-methods design was employed at SVS College of Nursing, Telangana. The study included 200 final-year students from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc. nursing), general nursing and midwifery (GNM), post-basic B.Sc. nursing, and Master of Science in Nursing (M.Sc. nursing) programs. Quantitative data were collected using a pre-validated, self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, and ANOVA. Qualitative data were obtained through four focus group discussions, analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke's framework, and triangulated with quantitative findings.

High aspirations for leadership were reported across all programs, with slightly higher levels among B.Sc. and M.Sc. students. However, perceived preparedness was moderate overall, with no statistically significant differences between programs (p > 0.05). Access to mentorship varied but did not significantly correlate with leadership aspirations or confidence. The qualitative findings highlighted barriers such as curriculum gaps, limited role modelling, hierarchical constraints, and the lack of structured leadership exposure during clinical placements.

Final-year nursing students in India show strong motivation to take on leadership roles; however, a noticeable gap remains between their aspirations and perceived readiness. Strengthening curriculum content, enhancing faculty development, improving mentorship systems, and increasing institutional support are essential to developing future nursing leaders.