Aim

The aim of the study was to assess how state-based support-for-service (SFS) programs are used by deans and directors of nursing programs and to evaluate their perceived impact.

Background

Given projected nurse faculty shortages, stakeholders are looking for ways to address the maldistribution and shortage of nurse faculty. One state-level strategy is the implementation of loan repayment and scholarship programs, which incentivize individuals with, or currently pursuing, graduate degrees to become or remain nurse faculty.

Method

This study used a mixed-method and multilevel approach to assess the impact of SFS programs in seven states.

Results

Programs are perceived to affect both recruitment and retention of faculty and play a role in increasing the educational qualifications of current nurse faculty.

Conclusion

Nurse educators need to be aware of SFS programs and how best to use them to support nurse faculty.