Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-2025

Publication Title

Sense of belonging of bachelor nursing students: a descriptive-comparative study

DOI

10.1016/j.teln.2025.09.008

Keywords

Academic achievement, Undergraduate Education, Participation, Nursing Students, Social support

Abstract

ackground: A sense of belonging, defined as acceptance, inclusion, and identity within a group, significantlyinfluences nursing students’ academic and social integration into college. Limited belonging causes studentattrition.Aim: This research explored factors influencing nursing students’ sense of belonging and identified elementspromoting or hindering this feeling.Methods: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive comparative study that was conducted with undergraduatenursing students (N = 201) from multiple campuses at a southwestern U.S. university. Data were collectedvia an anonymous survey using the Department Sense of Belonging and Involvement (DeSBI) tool. Descrip-tive and comparative statistics were analyzed.Results: Campus location significantly influenced students’ sense of belonging. Satellite campus studentsreported significantly higher belonging than main campus students.Conclusions: Campus location has a significant impact on nursing students’ sense of belonging, with studentsfrom satellite campuses reporting higher levels of inclusion and connection. These findings highlight theneed for targeted institutional interventions at main campuses to cultivate a stronger sense of community.Enhancing the sense of belonging on main campuses may contribute to improved academic performance,reduced attrition, and a more resilient nursing workforce.

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