WCU nursing graduates post 100 percent NCLEX pass rate
In February, more than 60 nursing students graduated from William Carey University campuses in Hattiesburg, Tradition/Biloxi, and Baton Rouge, La. The university has received word that this group of new registered nurses went on to achieve a 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX licensing exam – and they did it on their first attempt.
The Mississippi Board of Nursing released these results based on data from NCLEX, the National Council Licensure Examination.
“The perfect pass rate at all three sites is a testament to our students’ hard work, ability, perseverance, and the quality and dedication of our nursing faculty and staff. We are proud of the students, faculty, and staff for this amazing accomplishment,” said Dr. Kelly Williamson, dean of nursing.
These graduates are entering a workforce still experiencing shortages due to nurse retirements, a growing number of retirement-age people with enhanced healthcare needs, and workforce exits caused by burnout. The National Council for State Boards of Nursing predicts that almost 900,000 registered nurses, almost one-fifth of the nation’s RNs, plan to leave the workforce by 2027.
In this environment, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts faster than average job growth for nurses. About 193,000 job openings are projected each year over the next decade to replace retiring healthcare workers and meet the rising demand for care.
“William Carey University is striving to place graduates in areas of most need in our state – doctors, nurses, teachers, and ministers,” said WCU President Dr. Ben Burnett.
I’m proud of the huge number of nursing students, more than 600, but I’m impressed by the quality of the nursing program as evidenced by this 100 percent pass rate. We are thankful for Dr. Janet Williams and Dr. Alicia Purvis, our vice president and academic dean of the WCU College of Health Sciences, and their entire team for leading their students so well.
WCU’s next class of registered nurses will graduate in August.