NCLEX 100% pass rate badgeNorth Central Michigan College’s Class of 2023 nurses achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the National Council Licensing Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN), the test that qualifies graduates to practice as registered nurses.

NCMC Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences Brent LaFaive said the accomplishment further establishes North Central as a top-tier nursing program in the state.

“Any patient would be fortunate to have a North Central graduate for a nurse,” LaFaive said. “A perfect pass rate on the NCLEX-RN is not only a testament to our students’ hard work and ability, but also to the quality and dedication of our many talented full-time, adjunct, and clinical nursing instructors.”

This is the second time in four years that a North Central nursing class has achieved a 100% first-time pass rate. The first was in 2020, when nursing graduates overcame challenges related to COVID-19 to notch a perfect pass rate.

Both nursing classes were assisted by a generous gift from the Borra Family Foundation, which helped launch North Central’s NCLEX Success Program. The program covers the cost of a live NCLEX training session and provides financial support for students to take the exam and secure their nursing licenses if they follow a prescribed path to complete the NCLEX shortly after graduation.

“We appreciate the support of the Borra Family Foundation in launching and sustaining this important initiative, as well as the many donors whose gifts continue to strengthen our nursing program,” said Chelsea Platte, vice president for advancement and executive director of the NCMC Foundation.  “We can all be proud of our part in helping to send such qualified nurses into the health care field.”

North Central’s nurses consistently outperform other nursing grads from Michigan and nationwide on the NCLEX-RN. The college’s 2022—2023 annual pass rate was 88.89%, nearly 10% higher than the both the state average (78.87%) and the national average (80.13%).

The college expanded its slate of health care offerings last spring with the addition of a new practical nurse program. The three-semester, cohort-style program launches January 8, 2024. Graduates will gain the knowledge and experience to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed practical nurses, or LPNs, who implement patient care plans in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Cohort space is limited to 40 students, but a few seats are still available. Vice President of Academic Affairs Stephen Strom urged students who want to be part of the PN program to enroll now to complete the three general education courses ahead of formal admission to the program. Visit www.ncmich.edu/nursing for more information.

In addition to its practical and registered nurse programs, North Central offers Fast Track career programs leading to industry-specific certifications in a variety of health care concentrations, including medical assistant, phlebotomist, patient care technician, and a Certified Nurse Aide program.