An exploration of the career choices of nursing and midwifery students in a UK university: a survey

Abstract
Background:
There is a worldwide shortage of nurses, so an increase in the supply of graduating nurses is needed. Little is known about nursing students' career choices and the reasons why certain jobs, specialties and locations are chosen. Gaining a better understanding of these choices could help healthcare employers to plan the nursing workforce of the future.
Aims:
The study explored the career choices of nursing and midwifery students.
Methods:
A convenience sample of 163 final-year nursing, midwifery and nursing associate students responded to an online survey exploring career choices.
Findings:
Most students (87.1%; n=142) had secured their first job, with the vast majority staying in the region where they trained. Reasons for this choice included it being local, having a supportive team and having had a positive placement experience.
Conclusion:
This evidence provides a framework to build longitudinal data to help recruitment and retention strategies that support the ambitions of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan.