Abstract
ADN transition program; curriculum changes to promote non-traditional student retention
Sayde Fitzgerald, BSN RN
Department of Nursing, Fort Hays State University
NURS 868: Nursing Education: Curriculum Planning
Dr. Chrstine Hober
March 29, 2026
Abstract
Barton nursing instructors have recognized retention challenges among non-traditional students entering the ADN program, a situation further complicated by a nursing shortage and high attrition rates ranging from 10% to 30% (Sheikoleslami et al., 2025). These factors significantly impede workforce development. Non-traditional students encounter distinctive difficulties in adapting to the demanding curriculum, often facing a lack of support and the need to balance personal responsibilities (Mazzotta et al., 2024; Priode, 2019; Sheikoleslami et al., 2025). Research shows that implementing targeted retention strategies- such as mentorship, academic skills training, and early identification of at-risk students- can boost student retention (Mazzotta et al., 2024). Redesigning the transition course to include orientation, mentoring, study skills, time management, simulation practice, and early monitoring can better prepare students, address their challenges, and increase their confidence. This approach should boost retention and help to stabilize the nursing workforce.
References
Mazzotta, R., Durante, A., Bressan, V., Cuoco, A., Vellone, E., Alvaro, R., & Bulfone, G. (2024). Perceptions of nursing staff and students regarding attrition: A qualitative study. International Journal of Nursing Education Scholarship, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.1515/ijnes-2023-0081
Priode, K. (2019). Juggling School with Life: How the Successful Non-traditional Nursing Student Stays in School. Teaching and Learning in Nursing, 14(2), 117–121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.teln.2018.12.010
Sheikoleslami, R. L., Princeton, D. M., Mihaila Hansen, L. I., Kisa, S., & Goyal, A. R. (2025). Examining Factors Associated with Attrition, Strategies for Retention Among Undergraduate Nursing Students, and Identified Research Gaps: A Scoping Review. Nursing Reports, 15(6), 182. https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15060182
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Chrstine Hober
Department/Program
Nursing
Submission Type
online only poster
Date
3-29-2026
Rights
Copyright the Author(s)
Recommended Citation
Fitzgerald, Sayde K.
(2026)
"ADN transition program; curriculum changes to promote non-traditional student retention,"
SACAD: Scholarly Activities: Vol. 2026, Article 133.
Available at:
https://scholars.fhsu.edu/sacad/vol2026/iss2026/133
