UK College of Nursing Students Achieve 100-Percent Pass Rate on Licensure Exam

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 25, 2017) — For two consecutive semesters, students from the Fall 2015 and Spring 2016 classes in the University of Kentucky College of Nursing bachelor's of science in nursing program graduated with a 100-percent, first-time pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

Nursing graduates must pass the standardized NCLEX exam to demonstrate their ability to practice safely as entry-level nurses. The NCLEX-RN tests students’ application and analysis as well as critical thinking skills to making nursing judgments. The college uses this same format in formulating exam questions throughout the curriculum as well as computer-based exams so that students are well-prepared for the NCLEX.

“This is a remarkable accomplishment for which our students should be very proud,” Janie Heath, dean of the UK College of Nursing and Warwick Professor of Nursing, said. “It’s a major step for our students, bridging the gap between academia and practice. They are ready and prepared to skillfully care for their patients at the bedside.”

The class of May 2016 comprised 174 students, 96 of which are now practicing at UK HealthCare (UKHC). The national NCLEX pass rate average is 88.10 percent for those with bachelor's degrees.

“These outstanding outcomes speak volumes about the investment in student success cultivated by the College of Nursing” explains Patricia Burkhart, professor and associate dean of undergraduate faculty affairs. “Excellence in nursing knowledge and skill competency are a direct result of student motivation and the support and guidance students receive from our expert faculty. Our undergraduate faculty make student success a priority every day in the classroom and clinical practice setting."