Analysis of University Postgraduate Nursing Education in Spain

Abstract

Background: The nursing education program framework in Spain has recently been adapted and modified. This study aimed to analyze university postgraduate master'slevel nursing education during the past 21 years in Spain in terms of educational supply and demand. Method: A retrospective, longitudinal, descriptive, and observational design was used. The educational offerings at 15 university nursing schools in Spain were examined. The target population was 7,871 registered and licensed nurses who had completed postgraduate education. Results: Among the 211 programs offered, public universities' educational offerings focused on two areas public health and emergency care whereas most courses in private universities were in surgery. Regarding demand, 1,235 nurses were enrolled. The most frequently requested educational areas were surgery, emergency and urgent care, and public health. Conclusion: Although the postgraduate nursing education situation has changed, supply and demand for this type of education in Spain are well balanced at both public and private universities.