<![CDATA[Introduction: Ghana has seen a significant increase in enrollment in college nursing programs. This study aimed to assess perceptions and motivations for choosing nursing as a career among first-year student nurses and midwives.Method: The study adopted a cross-sectional design. Data were collected from 270 students through a structured questionnaire using simple random sampling method. Data were analyzed using JMP Professional Statistical Software.Results: The findings revealed a positive perception of nursing as a career among students (4.17 ± 0.56). A significant majority, 97.4%, agreed that nursing is a profession that facilitates ongoing personal and professional development; 97.0% viewed nursing as a unique profession, and 89.6% regarded it as a well-respected career. In terms of motivations for selecting nursing, 98.5% expressed that the profession allows them to connect with diverse individuals, 97.8% indicated a desire to develop skills in caring for the sick, and 94.8% demonstrated a strong interest in educating others about health. One-way ANOVA analysis revealed no significant association between students' perceptions of nursing and their prior experiences or familiarity with the field (p > 0.05). However, Pearson correlation analysis indicated that motivations for choosing nursing positively influence perception of nursing as a career among students (r = 0.63, p < 0.0001).Conclusions: This study recommends that nursing training institutions collaborate with healthcare facilities, community organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance the educational experience for first-year nursing and midwifery students.]]>
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