RN-to-BSN Culture of Success Model: Promoting Student Achievement at a Hispanic-Serving Institution

Abstract

The purpose of this descriptive qualitative study was to explore registered nurse–to–bachelor of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN) students' views of facilitators and challenges associated with successful program completion. Twelve focus groups with RNs ( n = 109), enrolled in their final nursing course at a Hispanic-serving institution, were conducted over a 4-year period. One third of the focus group members were from underrepresented ethnic/racial groups (primarily Hispanic). Initial analysis identified similar themes among underrepresented and majority groups. Themes associated with student success were organized into 3 major categories: nursing program, student attributes, and competing student needs. For each category, themes were identified as follows: transparent curriculum, explicit belief in potential for student success, commitment to respect, individual resources, family support, employment considerations, interactions, requirements, learning, and value. To provide a visual representation of the themes, we developed the RN-to-BSN culture of success model. Findings support earlier studies demonstrating the importance of positive interactions between the academic program and the student. This model adds the following themes to the body of knowledge about RN-to-BSN education: explicit belief in potential student success and competing student needs. The findings have potential nursing curriculum implications for developing effective programs to promote RN-to-BSN student success.