Available online 15 May 2024, 103996

To explore the learning experiences and career development expectations of nursing master's degree students.

With increasing demands for improved quality of life, there is a growing need for nursing graduate programs in clinical care. However, the existing training programs for nursing master's students in China require improvement. It is essential to analyze students' learning experiences, perceptions of the current status of nursing and expectations of the nursing profession to enhance and develop university training programs.

A descriptive qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews.

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 nursing master's degree students. The data obtained were analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step phenomenological analysis method. The study adhered to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ).

Three main themes emerged from the analysis—Theme 1: Career expectations, encompassing motivations for pursuing the nursing master's program and career aspirations; Theme 2: Study experiences, including nursing professional ability, nursing management ability, self-awareness ability and moral literacy; Theme 3: Occupational dilemmas, encompassing the current challenges and coping strategies.

The learning experiences of nursing master's students in universities are closely linked to their training programs. A disparity exists between students' career expectations and the actual employment landscape for nursing master's degree students.

Career Development

Healthcare industry

Nursing students

Nursing education

© 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.