New Data Show Enrollment Declines in Schools of Nursing, Raising Concerns About the Nation’s Nursing Workforce

According to new data released today by AACN, the number of students in entry-level baccalaureate nursing programs decreased by 1.4% last year, ending a 20-year period of enrollment growth in programs designed to prepare new registered nurses (RNs). With declines also recorded in master’s and PhD programs, collective action must be taken to strengthen pathways into nursing to ensure the nation’s healthcare needs are met. Despite the decrease in enrolled students, nursing schools turned away thousands of qualified applicants last year due largely to a shortage of faculty and clinical training sites.

AACN Statement on Fraudulent Nursing Schools

AACN applauds the Department of Justice for shutting down a corrupt scheme involving three fraudulent nursing schools in Florida engaged in selling phony nursing diplomas and transcripts to individuals seeking nursing positions. 

Data Spotlight: RN to Baccalaureate Program Characteristics

RN to Baccalaureate (BSN) programs play a central role in preparing a better-educated nursing workforce. RN to BSN degree completion programs provides additional education to registered nurses (RNs) who received their initial nursing preparation in diploma and associate degree (ADN) programs.

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