Nursing students’ satisfaction with the academic program: A cross sectional study

Abstract

In higher education, students’ satisfaction is viewed as an indicator of program success, and higher satisfaction levels among students are correlated with better intellectual and social achievements. This study aimed to assess nursing students’ satisfaction with the academic program at one academic institution. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted. A convenience sampling method was used to include 328 students using the Undergraduates Nursing Students Academic Satisfaction Scale (UNSASS) to assess the level of nursing students’ satisfaction with the academic program. The overall mean score of satisfaction was 51.72 out of 100 (SD=14.63). The highest score was observed regarding the program design and delivery dimension (mean±SD score=53.91±18.51), while the lowest satisfaction score was attributed to the support and resources dimension (49.62±18.13). The study recommends conducting a comprehensive and consistent evaluation to measure student satisfaction and expectations in resources and facilities in order to guide decision-making and improve the effectiveness of students’ educational programs. It is suggested that the UNSASS may expand its applicability to master students and evaluate programs that are not accredited by international accreditation in future studies.