Date Approved

2-12-2015

Date Posted

7-22-2015

Degree Type

Open Access Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department or School

Leadership and Counseling

Committee Member

Ronald Williamson, Ed.D., Chair

Committee Member

Jaclynn C. Tracy, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Deborah deLaski-Smith, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Theresa Saunders, Ph.D.

Abstract

This study examined the shortage of nurse faculty in one Midwestern state. The purpose of the study was to identify facilitators and barriers to recruiting and retaining nurse faculty. Case studies were conducted, with the primary data source being semi-structured interviews with deans and directors of six nursing programs that offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The interviews and a review of institutional artifacts informed the study.

Rich, descriptive data gathered in this study revealed strategies employed by deans and directors, as they struggled to recruit and retain faculty at a time of burgeoning demand for the education of nurses. The single most important barrier was the lack of nurse faculty holding doctorate degrees that would make them eligible for promotion and tenure in their institution. The lower nurse faculty salaries when compared to clinical nursing salaries were identified as a significant barrier to recruitment of faculty. As identified by the deans and directors, factors that facilitate recruiting and retention of nurse educators included the presence of supportive administrators and research agendas anchored in collaborative relationships with a local healthcare system.

The study affirmed prior research regarding the complexity of the issue and the need to identify successful practices, which will provide a long-term solution to the shortage of nurse faculty. The findings of this study provided guidance for deans and directors, as they work within their institution, to acquire the resources, including administrative support, for a comprehensive plan to address this shortage.

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