Integrating knowledge on diversity in nursing education: A bibliometric review of thematic trends and trajectories

Aim: This study aims to analyze the thematic advances and trajectory of diversity in nursing education through bibliometric analysis. Background: The growing emphasis on diversity in nursing education underscores its increasing importance and impact on nursing practice and healthcare outcomes. However, a key gap remains, as diversity in nursing education has largely been studied in a manner that lacks integration of the various topics composing the scholarly knowledge and lacks cohesive thematic development or exploration of this knowledge base. Consequently, a comprehensive bibliometric review that provides an integrated overview of this critical area, highlighting its thematic evolution and historical development, is still needed. Design: Bibliometric analytic methods. Methods: The data were analyzed, and the graphic representation was made using the Bibliometrix Package of R software. A search of the Web of Science Core Collection was conducted on April 29, 2025. Descriptive analysis, citation analysis, co-word analysis, cooperation analysis and theme map analysis were among the techniques employed. Results: From 658 articles, 1521 author keywords were identified. Publications have increased over three decades at an annual rate of 10.64 %. Core themes forming the foundation of the field include nursing education and nursing education diversity. Key research drivers are represented by themes such as COVID-19, nursing diversity, cultural safety and health workforce. Conclusions: This bibliometric study highlights the growing recognition of diversity's importance in nursing education. Findings show a global rise in research, reflecting increased commitment to addressing diversity-related challenges.