Nursing students’ experiences of an educational model for professional development

• The present study investigated nursing students’ experiences of an educational model for professional development. • The students evaluated the model as valuable and supportive both to their learning, and their professional development. • “Leadership” and “Evidence-based care” are core competencies that need to be better implemented in future nursing education. There is a need for further knowledge and understanding of how educational models contribute to professional development, from the perspectives of nursing students. The aim of this study was to investigate nursing students’ expectations and experiences of an educational model for professional development. The design was descriptive and cross-sectional. Data collection included digital survey questions of expectations and experiences of learning activities within the educational model. Questions from a professional competence examination regarding students’ perceived strengths and challenges were included. Descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis were applied. High proportions of students experienced the model as valuable for learning and professional development. Person-centered care, and Teamwork and collaboration, were core nursing competencies most frequently identified as strengths. Leadership, and Evidence-based care were most often indicated as challenges. The students experienced the model as valuable towards becoming a nurse. Clarity in information and management of the model seem crucial for successful implementation. The students’ perceived strengths and challenges must be considered and need to be well implemented in future nursing education.