Predictors of student veterans progression and graduation in Veteran to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (VBSN) Programs: A multisite study.

Abstract

BACKGROUND\nCapitalizing on the veteran s extensive service experience, values, and norms, Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) proposed Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention - Veterans Bachelor of Science (VBSN) Program grants (2016-2019).\n\n\nPURPOSE\nThe purpose was to identify predictors of student veterans (SV) progression and graduation rates in VBSN programs.\n\n\nMETHODS\nA descriptive correlational retrospective design was used. Two hundred and eighty-two (282) SV records were examined.\n\n\nRESULTS\nOne hundred and forty (140) SVs graduated (49.6%) and 107 (37.9%) were still enrolled. Only program delivery mode (hybrid) was significantly associated with completion and confirmed by logistic regression modeling. An increased representation of SVs gender, race/ethnicity was present; however, gender, age, race, ethnicity, and veteran status did not significantly predict progression nor graduation.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nHybrid program delivery became the single predictor influencing VBSN progression and graduation. As non-traditional students in higher education with a history of social isolation and help-seeking stigma, this delivery mode may have assisted SV retention and persistence. With a registered nurse shortage and workforce calls for increased gender, race, and ethnic diversity, the findings suggest nursing education programs designed for veterans are a viable solution.