Double degree destinations: nursing or midwifery
Yates, Karen, Birks, Melanie, Coxhead, Helen, and Zhao, Lin (2020) Double degree destinations: nursing or midwifery. Collegian, 27 (1). pp. 135-40.
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Abstract
Background: Double degrees in nursing and midwifery have evolved in Australia as a proposed solution to possible impending shortages of qualified midwives in the healthcare workforce. The double degree is seen as a more acceptable option in non-metropolitan areas in particular. Concern has been expressed however, about dilution of midwifery philosophy and graduates’ opportunities in respect of future clinical practice. Aim: This study aimed to provide a better understanding of motivations and intentions of students who undertake the Bachelor of Nursing Science/Bachelor of Midwifery double degree. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was employed at four universities that offered double degrees in nursing and midwifery in three states of Australia. Students enrolled in first and fourth year of a double degree and graduates of a double degree were invited to complete an online survey comprised of Likert scales and items requiring free text responses. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS and thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. Findings: Participants indicated a clear preference for midwifery as a career with this preference increasing for each cohort at each stage of study. Discussion: Primary reasons for selecting a double degree were perceived increased opportunity for employment and use of nursing skills to enhance midwifery practice in a population with growing co-morbidities. A strong identification with midwifery philosophy and identity was also demonstrated. Conclusion: An understanding of motivations and career intentions of students undertaking double degree studies can inform future program development and workforce planning.
| Item ID: | 61970 |
|---|---|
| Item Type: | Article (Research - C1) |
| ISSN: | 1876-7575 |
| Keywords: | double degree, midwifery philosophy, midwifery student, workforce |
| Copyright Information: | © 2019 Australian College of Nursing Ltd. This article is Open Access under a Creative Commons Non-Commercial No Derivative Works international license. |
| Date Deposited: | 05 Feb 2020 01:55 |
| FoR Codes: | 42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4204 Midwifery > 420499 Midwifery not elsewhere classified @ 50% 42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4205 Nursing > 420599 Nursing not elsewhere classified @ 50% |
| SEO Codes: | 92 HEALTH > 9202 Health and Support Services > 920210 Nursing @ 60% 93 EDUCATION AND TRAINING > 9399 Other Education and Training > 939999 Education and Training not elsewhere classified @ 40% |
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