The Opinions of Graduates, Nurse Educators and Nurses on the Competencies Gained by Graduate Education in Nursing: A Qualitative Study
Nursing and Health Sciences, vol.27, no.3, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 27 Issue: 3
- Publication Date: 2025
- Doi Number: 10.1111/nhs.70232
- Journal Name: Nursing and Health Sciences
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, ASSIA, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Psycinfo, Public Affairs Index
- Keywords: competency, competency in nursing, postgraduate education competencies, postgraduate education in nursing
- Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Continuous and systematic monitoring, evaluation, and restructuring of postgraduate nursing education—through active stakeholder engagement—has become increasingly vital. This qualitative study aimed to explore the perspectives of graduates, nurse educators, and practicing nurses concerning the competencies acquired through postgraduate nursing education. A total of 24 participants from these three stakeholder groups contributed to the research. Data were collected via tailored information forms and semistructured interview guides, and analyzed using the MAXQDA software. The findings were categorized into three main themes and 14 subthemes. The results revealed a strong alignment between the competencies expected from postgraduate education and those actually attained, while also highlighting several challenges and offering constructive recommendations. The study underscores the need to enhance postgraduate nursing education within a competency-based framework and calls for further research involving broader and more diverse populations to facilitate both national and international comparisons.