Examining the racial and ethnic diversity of associate degree in nursing programs by type of institution in the US, 2012-2018.

BACKGROUND

Increasing nursing workforce diversity is essential to quality health care. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs are a primary path to becoming a registered nurse and an important source of nursing diversity.

PURPOSE

To examine how the number of graduates and racial/ethnic student composition of ADN programs have changed since the Institute of Medicine's recommendation to increase the percentage of bachelor's-prepared nurses to 80%.

METHODS

Using data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education System, we analyzed the number of graduates and racial/ethnic composition of ADN programs across public, private not-for-profit, and private for-profit institutions, and financial aid awarded by type of institution from 2012-2018.

DISCUSSION

Racial/ethnic diversity among ADN programs grew from 2012-2018. Although private for-profits proportionally demonstrated greater ADN student diversity and provided financial aid institutionally to a higher percentage of students, public schools contributed the most to the number and racial/ethnic diversity of ADN graduates.

CONCLUSION

Given concerns regarding private for-profits, promoting public institutions may be the most effective strategy to enhance diversity among ADN nurses.