Kaplan University nursing alumni stand out among peers for their optimism about the future of nursing in 10th anniversary survey
Davenport, Iowa (April 14, 2014) – Nurses looked beyond traditional clinical settings when contemplating career opportunities for the “Then, Now and Next” national graduate survey commissioned by Kaplan University’s School of Nursing. Nursing education and nursing informatics were the leading opportunities among current and prospective nursing students and together they garnered 42 percent of the responses. Positions in geriatrics, family health, and population health rounded out the top five specialties for career potential.
The national survey was conducted to mark the school’s 10th anniversary by examining the career journeys of graduates and discovering insights that can be shared with future nurses.
“We’ve witnessed tremendous changes in healthcare delivery and the nursing profession over the last 10 years, and our graduates are optimistic about the diversity of career opportunities that are now open to nurses,” said Sheila Burke, RN, MSN, MBA, DNP (c), associate dean of the School of Nursing, in describing the findings of the graduate survey.
Looking Back, Looking Ahead
When asked to look back over the past ten years, 71 percent of survey respondents said both the value and image of nurses within the healthcare team has improved. Looking ahead, more than three-quarters (76%) of respondents see the profession’s image improving in the coming decade.
“The positive attitudes projected by Kaplan University alumni in their survey feedback are in marked contrast to what we’ve seen in some recent national surveys that show a more negative outlook for the profession and the quality of nursing care,” noted Burke.
In further departure from peers, a large majority (77%) of Kaplan respondents believe they will need to pursue additional education to reach the next stage of their career. Among these individuals, 69 percent plan to return to school within the next two years.
“Individuals who recognize the value of education are better positioned to take advantage of professional opportunities and will ultimately have a more positive outlook about their career and chosen field,” said Dr.
Timothy Legg, associate dean for the School of Nursing. “Kaplan Nursing graduates clearly identify education as an avenue to opportunities.”
The “Then, Now, and Next” survey was administered by an independent research company and conducted online between January 13 and February 7, 2014. Surveys were completed by 174 Kaplan University School of Nursing alumni.
Additional Findings
A full report of survey results is available: http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu/nursing/experience/alumni-survey-report.aspx
Kaplan, Inc. was named one of Fast Company’s most innovative companies in education for 2014. More information about Kaplan University and School of Nursing programs, which include the Doctorate of Nursing Practice program, Master of Science in Nursing program, and five post-master’s certificates, can be found at http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu/nursing.aspx
About Kaplan University
Kaplan University offers a different school of thought for higher education. It strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The University, which has its main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and its headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (www.ncahlc.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan University serves approximately 43,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 11 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Florida.
Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education Group and Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. serves approximately 60,000 students online and through 56 campus-based schools across the United States. Kaplan’s higher education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan serves students of all ages through a wide array of offerings including higher education, test preparation, professional training and programs for kids in grades K-12. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company and its largest division. For more information, visit www.kaplanuniversity.edu.
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