Association between admission criteria to nurse practitioner program in Israel and academic success: a retrospective study analysis

OBJECTIVES: Various criteria have been examined in different studies of factors predicting success in nursing studies, and results are not always conclusive. The aim of the current study is to examine the admission criteria factors that are associated with success in master's degree studies for NPs. METHODS: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 89 student records of nurse practitioner students specializing in either palliative care or geriatrics. The admission criteria, based on the guidelines from the Israeli Ministry of Health, were analyzed in relation to student success in the licensing exam, completion of specialty courses and clinical rotations. RESULTS: Significant correlations were found between academic variables, such as work experience, post-basic specialty course, years of work experience, and educational background, and degree of success at various points of the program. CONCLUSIONS: Understanding academic and professional development factors can help educators and policymakers develop more effective strategies to enhance the performance and success of NP students in their respective fields.