Revision and Evaluation of the Indiana University School of Nursing Baccalaureate Admission Process

This descriptive study evaluated the implementation of a revised admission policy for the Indiana University School of Nursing baccalaureate program. On the basis of our decision that grade point average (GPA) alone should not determine admission, new admission criteria were developed and implemented in spring 2007. In addition to a weighted GPA, criteria were added to include an interview, a writing sample, and a service requirement. Following the completion of all interviews and prior to notification of applicants of their admission status, students and interviewers who participated in the first admission cycle were mailed a survey asking their anonymous perceptions regarding the new process for application to the program. Responses indicate that both interviewers (n = 45) and students (n = 165) thought that the new policy and the interview were extremely positive. Results suggest that this comprehensive and varied approach to student admission was successful in its initial implementation. Further longitudinal studies are needed to determine how the new criteria affect student diversity; examination and course grades; progression, retention, and graduation; Assessment Technologies Institute tests; National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) scores; admission to graduate school; and satisfaction of faculty with students and future employers with graduates.

Index words: Admission criteria, Baccalaureate nursing, GPA, Interviews, Service, Research