Orientation to higher education: the challenges and rewards

A new 'starter' course for qualified nurses entering higher education is discussed in this article. The background and aims of this course, which enables traditionally trained nurses to enter a pathway of professional and academic development, are presented. Learning outcomes of the course, identified through a formal evaluation procedure, were categorized into product and process components. Course teachers anticipated that the product outcomes would be evaluated most highly but the participants reported that the process outcomes were more important to them. They believed these process outcomes would empower them not only to undertake further academic studies but also to take a greater part in clinical decision-making. The results of this evaluation demonstrate that for many nurses, who seek to launch themselves into higher education, a 'bridging' programme is necessary to support this transition.