This case study was undertaken at a college of nursing in Northern Ire
land with its first cohort of Project 2000 student nurses. The aim was
to investigate perceived stress on the course. A qualitative approach
was adopted utilizing Cox's (1991) transactional model of stress as t
he guiding theoretical framework. Data were collected through question
naires and in-depth semi-structured interviews and analysed using a gr
ounded theory methodology. Findings reveal that stress is perceived in
relation to non-integration with tertiary education and non-integrati
on with the ward team. This stress results from a tension between depe
ndence and the quest for independence in the pursuit of academic freed
om and clinical competence. The dependence/independence continuum has
been identified as the core variable underpinning student-reported str
ess. Valuable insights have been gained in relation to how student nur
ses perceive and cope with stress associated with the introduction of
the new Project 20000 curriculum, especially at this time of flux in n
urse education. It is concluded that student stress could be minimized
if tutors acknowledged its presence and reflected the course philosop
hy in their practice. Better liaison between the college and clinical
areas may resolve some of the ward staff's negative attitudes and misu
nderstanding of the course aims. Finally, students have a need to deve
lop clinical skills much earlier in the course than at present, in ord
er to feel valued, to contribute to patient care and to integrate with
the ward team.