Feel free to use these questions in your interview with your student-nurse as “ice” breakers or create a list of your own questions.
Program and Curriculum
- How would you describe the overall quality of the nursing program you are in?
- Is the curriculum up-to-date with current nursing practices and healthcare trends?
- How challenging is the coursework compared to your expectations?
- Are the lectures engaging and well-organized?
- How much time do you spend on studying outside of class?
- Does the program provide a good balance between theory and practical skills?
- How effective are the teaching methods used by the faculty?
- Are simulation labs or other practical training provided?
- How does the program integrate evidence-based practice into the coursework?
- Are online or hybrid class options available, and how effective are they?
- How accessible are learning resources such as libraries, databases, and online journals?
- Are there opportunities for research involvement as a student?
- How is critical thinking developed throughout the program?
Clinical Experience
- How many clinical hours are required, and do they meet your learning needs?
- Are clinical rotations diverse in terms of healthcare settings (e.g., hospitals, community clinics)?
- Do you feel adequately prepared for clinical placements?
- How supportive are clinical instructors during rotations?
- Are students paired with experienced nurses or mentors during clinicals?
- How are clinical evaluations conducted?
- Are students able to select or influence their clinical placements?
- How early in the program do you begin clinical rotations?
- How well are students supervised during clinicals to ensure patient safety?
- Are there any clinical sites that students commonly prefer or avoid? Why?
- How do clinical experiences differ between various semesters or years?
- How often do clinical schedules change, and how flexible are they?
- Are you able to practice specialized skills during clinicals, such as IV insertion or catheterization?
- What challenges have you faced in clinical settings, and how were they addressed?
Faculty and Support
- How accessible and approachable are the nursing faculty members?
- Do faculty members provide constructive feedback?
- Are there academic advisors or mentors available for guidance?
- How responsive is the program administration to student concerns?
- Are tutoring or remedial resources available if you struggle with coursework?
- Is there mental health or counseling support available for students?
- Are faculty members practicing nurses or primarily academic?
- How are conflicts or issues with faculty resolved?
- Do faculty provide career guidance or mentorship beyond academics?
- Are guest lectures or industry speakers incorporated into the program?
- How diverse is the faculty in terms of background and expertise?
- Does the program encourage student feedback about courses and faculty?
- How accessible are faculty during clinical rotations for consultation?
- Are there peer mentorship programs for new nursing students?
- Is tutoring free, or are there additional costs involved?
Student Life and Workload
- What is the average weekly time commitment for classes and study?
- How manageable is the workload alongside personal or work responsibilities?
- Are there student organizations or nursing clubs you can join?
- How do students typically balance clinicals, classes, and personal time?
- What is the attrition or dropout rate in the program?
- Are students allowed or encouraged to work part-time during the program?
- How competitive is the atmosphere among students?
- Are there study groups or collaborative learning initiatives?
- What are common coping strategies among students for managing stress?
- Are clinical uniforms and equipment provided, or does the student supply them?
- How often do students participate in community service or health fairs?
- What is the typical class size and student-to-faculty ratio?
- How does the program support students with disabilities or special needs?
- Are there social events or networking opportunities within the program?
- What is the average number of assignments or papers per semester?
Exams and Evaluations
- How often are exams and quizzes administered?
- Are there standardized tests like the NCLEX practice exams integrated into the program?
- How well does the program prepare you for the NCLEX licensing exam?
- Are practical skills assessments part of the grading system?
- What grading scale or criteria are used for passing courses?
- How is clinical performance evaluated throughout the program?
- Are there oral exams or presentations required?
- How often do you receive grades or feedback on your performance?
- What types of study materials or review courses does the school recommend?
- How much emphasis is placed on memorization versus application of knowledge?
- Are standardized tests used before graduation besides the NCLEX?
- What happens if a student fails an exam or clinical rotation?
- Are makeup exams or alternative assessments allowed?
- How prepared did you feel on your first exam compared to now?
- Are there opportunities to practice NCLEX-style questions during the program?
Career and Post-Graduation
- Does the school provide career placement or job assistance?
- Are there alumni networks or professional connections facilitated by the program?
- What kinds of nursing jobs have recent graduates obtained?
- Does the program encourage or support continuing education (e.g., BSN, MSN)?
Financial and Administrative
- How affordable is the program relative to other nursing schools?
- What does the programs overall cost?
- Are there scholarships or financial aid options specific to nursing students?
- How transparent is the school about tuition and additional costs (e.g., uniforms, supplies)?
- Does the program offer flexible scheduling options (e.g., part-time, evening classes)?
Personal Reflections
- What do you like most about the program?
- What are the biggest challenges you have faced as a nursing student here?
- If you could change one thing about the program, what would it be?
- How confident do you feel about your skills and knowledge upon graduation?
- Would you recommend this nursing program to others? Why or why not?
- What advice would you give to someone considering enrollment in this program?