Bachelor of Nursing Honours programs in Australia: Current trends and key challenges

Abstract

Background: To prepare nurses for a role in knowledge generation they need to engage in research training. Bachelor of Nursing (Honours) programs are a first step in this training. Developing a better understanding of current programs, their challenges and outcomes will provide an evidence base to inform curriculum development and policy making. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore current Australian Bachelor of Nursing (Honours) programs in terms of their composition, delivery and number of enrolments/graduates. Methods: Bachelor of Nursing Honours Coordinators or Heads of Schools of Nursing and Midwifery at Australian Universities were emailed an invitation to participate in an online survey. Findings: Of the 19 academics who responded to the survey, 15 (78.9%) reported currently offering a Bachelor of Nursing (Honours) program in their institution. A steady decline in mean enrolments was evident over recent years. There were clear differences in course delivery and assessment tasks between courses. Conclusion: This paper highlights the need to further explore Bachelor of Nursing (Honours) programs across Australia to ensure consistency in outcomes and to explore innovations in course delivery and project development. Such changes should incorporate feedback from students, supervisors, curriculum developers and professional stakeholders to ensure that programs address their various needs.

Global perspectives on under‐funding for Clinical Research Training Fellowships in Nursing

“…In Australia, the research pathway decision is often timed post-registration when nurses face a choice between undertaking a transition to practise (new graduate) programme or an honours degree. Bachelor honours are a common research training pathway into doctoral studies (Halcomb et al, 2018). However, we are witnessing a worrying downward trend in enrolments into these degree programmes, impacting on subsequent enrolment into doctoral training programmes.…”

“…In Australia, the research pathway decision is often timed post-registration when nurses face a choice between undertaking a transition to practise (new graduate) programme or an honours degree. Bachelor honours are a common research training pathway into doctoral studies (Halcomb et al, 2018).…”

“…To draw parallels, our medical colleagues have research identified as part of 'normal duties' in their job descriptions and have entitlements included in structural workforce policy recognising research as part of their work. This may include the allocation of research time in enterprise, public health awards to undertake research (Halcomb et al, 2018) and research infrastructure (such as grant office and research administrative support).…”

Undergraduate student-faculty collaborative research: A pilot study exploring care of a family member with dementia

“…[1][2][3] While faculty mentors facilitate student success in the research process, faculty mentors may also provide a stimulus for students to pursue graduate degrees, while simultaneously introducing students to faculty roles. [4] Using a student-faculty mentor model promotes immersion in knowledge generation, excitement about the research process, and the development of leadership skills. [2] Throughout an undergraduate nursing program, students experience a wide variety of clinical experiences exposing them to various nursing roles and practice areas.…”