Background of the Study
Professional networking plays a crucial role in career advancement, particularly in highly specialized fields like nursing (Adeyemi et al., 2023). Networking enables nursing students to establish meaningful connections with professionals, mentors, and peers who can provide guidance, job opportunities, and career development support (Ogunleye & Bello, 2024). As the healthcare industry becomes increasingly competitive, networking has been identified as a key strategy for nursing students to secure employment, gain clinical exposure, and access continuing education opportunities (Ibrahim et al., 2025).
In developed countries, professional networking is integrated into nursing education through career fairs, mentorship programs, and alumni associations. However, in Nigeria, limited research has explored how networking influences nursing students' career prospects (Abdullahi & Usman, 2023). Many nursing students rely solely on academic performance to secure jobs, neglecting the role of professional connections in career progression (Chinwe et al., 2024). Networking provides an avenue for students to gain insights into industry trends, participate in professional organizations, and connect with potential employers (Osayomi & Adedeji, 2023).
Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, is one of Nigeria’s leading institutions for nursing education, producing graduates who enter various healthcare sectors. However, there is insufficient research on how professional networking impacts students' career opportunities within this institution. This study seeks to examine the extent to which professional networking influences nursing students' employment prospects and career advancement.
Statement of the Problem
Nursing students in Nigeria often face challenges in securing employment due to high competition and limited job openings (Adebayo et al., 2024). Many students focus primarily on academic excellence without leveraging networking opportunities, which may hinder their career progression (Ogunleye & Bello, 2024). The lack of structured networking programs in nursing education further exacerbates the problem, leaving students with limited industry exposure before graduation (Fatimah et al., 2023).
In Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, there is no systematic approach to integrating professional networking into the nursing curriculum. As a result, students may struggle to build valuable professional relationships that could facilitate career growth. This study seeks to investigate the effect of professional networking on nursing students' career opportunities and propose strategies for enhancing networking engagement.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nursing students at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, examining how networking impacts their career prospects. It will exclude other universities and professions outside nursing. Limitations include the reliance on self-reported data and potential differences in students' networking experiences.
Definitions of Terms
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