An Australian perspective on the influences that drive mature aged nursing students to study : a review of the literature

Objective: The aim of this review is to determine the influences that drive mature aged students to enrol in the pre-registration nursing degree. Design: Literature review and thematic analysis. Method and Data Sources: The literature search identified 18 original articles from three databases including CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science. It further sourced information from three different university websites. Themes were derived using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Several key themes have become evident from the literature. Influences that affect the mature aged student's course progression include changes in social, lifestyle, personal, financial and academic transitions. These students enter tertiary nursing education for many reasons including vocational and altruistic sentiments that may have a base in developmental theories and as part of a learning trajectory. The benefits to mature aged student inclusion in the nursing workforce is substantial, therefore research needs to support this cohort's retainment in the Bachelor of Nursing Degree Conclusion: There are many factors that influence the mature aged student experience. As literature documents the many advantages that mature aged students bring to the Nursing profession there is a gap in the literature that needs to be explored regarding the drivers and influences of this cohort. Determination of these student factors will ensure their continued support and retainment in the pre-registration nursing degree.