What impact do master's degree programs have on career trajectories and professional development in nursing and midwifery? An explanatory mixed-methods study

Master’s programs in nursing and midwifery enhance professional skills and disciplinary content, though their impact on clinical application, career progression, and skill utilization remains underexplored. This study investigates graduates’ motivations, perceptions of program quality, and professio...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Nursing outlook Vol. 73; no. 3; p. 102382
Main Authors: Veronese, Mayra, Biasin, Elena, Zanotti, Renzo, Danielis, Matteo
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.05.2025
Subjects:
Adult
Career Mobility
Education, Nursing, Graduate - statistics & numerical data
Female
Humans
Male
Master’s degree program
Middle Aged
Midwifery
Midwifery - education
Mixed-methods study
Motivations
Nursing
Qualitative Research
Quality
Surveys and Questionnaires
Midwifery
Nursing
Master’s degree program
Motivations
Quality
Mixed-methods study
ISSN:0029-6554, 1528-3968, 1528-3968
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:Master’s programs in nursing and midwifery enhance professional skills and disciplinary content, though their impact on clinical application, career progression, and skill utilization remains underexplored. This study investigates graduates’ motivations, perceptions of program quality, and professional outcomes after a master’s in nursing and midwifery sciences. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, we surveyed 110 graduates (50% response rate) from 2018 to 2023, followed by semistructured interviews with 17 participants. Graduates reported high satisfaction with program quality, especially in research, management, and education, but noted limited clinical use of research and management skills. Career progression was achieved, though without corresponding professional recognition or financial reward. Six themes emerged from interviews, highlighting both program strengths and professional challenges. The program effectively builds advanced skills, yet structural barriers limit practical application. Aligning program objectives with workplace needs could enhance the impact of advanced nursing and midwifery degrees. •Significant improvements in research, management, and teaching skills.•Challenges in professional advancement and financial recognition.•Promoting a research-friendly environment and creating clear career pathways.•Strong emphasis on innovative teaching methods.
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ISSN:0029-6554
1528-3968
1528-3968
DOI:10.1016/j.outlook.2025.102382