Work-life Balance and Intention to Pursue Graduate Studies among Nurses

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to determine the relationship between work-life balance and the intention to pursue graduate studies among nurses in a selected hospital in Iloilo.  Study design:  A descriptive-correlational, cross-sectional, quantitative design was employed. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a selected hospital in Iloilo City among staff nurses during the Academic Year 2025–2026. Methodology: The study involved 73 registered nurses selected through total enumeration sampling. Data were collected using a validated survey instrument composed of two parts: work-life balance questionnaire and intention to pursue graduate studies questionnaire. Work-life balance was measured using a 30-item scale, while intention to pursue graduate studies was assessed using a 30-item questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Inferential analysis was conducted using Pearson’s correlation coefficient to determine the relationship between work-life balance and intention to pursue graduate studies. Results: Nurses demonstrated a high level of work-life balance (M = 3.82, SD = 0.62) and a strong intention to pursue graduate studies (M = 3.80, SD = 0.57). Pearson’s correlation showed a moderate positive relationship between work-life balance and intention to pursue graduate studies (r = 0.561, p = 0.000), indicating that nurses with better work-life balance are more likely to pursue further education. Conclusion: The assessment revealed that work-life balance significantly influences nurses’ intention to pursue graduate studies. Nurses who are able to manage their professional and personal responsibilities effectively are more motivated to engage in advanced education. The findings suggest that organizational support, flexible scheduling, and work-life balance initiatives may encourage nurses to pursue graduate studies.