A Historically Black University's Baccalaureate Enrollment and Success Tactics for Registered Nurses

A nursing department at a historically Black university has implemented a program designed to increase the enrollment and success of minority/disadvantaged students. This effort is consistent with the national initiative to increase the capacity and diversity of the nursing workforce. Previous research reveals that the percentages of minority students who enroll in and complete baccalaureate nursing programs are disproportionate to the percentages of minorities in the general population. Minority patients are less likely to be cared for by a nurse of similar ethnicity, creating a cultural variance that has been associated with health disparities. The project employs strategies to increase student enrollment, retention, and success, as well as the cultural competence of students and faculty. Program evaluation includes numerous internal measures and national benchmarking of key outcomes. Initial results include a 20% increase in student enrollment, a 25% increase in retention, and a 14% increase in National Council Licensure Examination pass rate. Program strengths and future directions are discussed.