The Professional Socialization of Graduating Students in Generic and Two-Plus-Two Baccalaureate Completion Nursing Programs

Abstract

This non-experimental, descriptive study explored the differences in professional socialization between graduating students of two-plus-two baccalaureate completion nursing programs and generic baccalaureate nursing (BSN) programs. The survey population was graduating students from NLN-accredited baccalaureate nursing programs in a 15-state region. Autonomy, noted as a mark of professionalism, was measured by the Nursing Activity Scale developed by Schutzenhofer. No significant difference was found between the level of professional socialization of graduating students of two-plus-two baccalaureate completion nursing programs and generic BSN programs. No significant difference was found in professional socialization between students from the two basic RN education programs prior to BSN completion. A positive, but not significant, correlation was found between professional socialization and years of employment as an RN. No significant relationship was found between professional role socialization and area of major nursing experience for the baccalaureate completion nursing students.