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North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) is celebrating the impressive success of its Spring 2024 nursing graduates. The latest National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) results are in, and the College’s nursing programs have once again set a high standard. 

The College's two-year Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Registered Nursing program achieved a perfect 100% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam. Similarly, the Practical Nursing program graduates also recorded a 100% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-PN exam. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN) cohort followed suit with an impressive 92.3% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-RN. 

North Dakota evaluates NCLEX pass rates quarterly, and NDSCS has consistently exceeded the national average. For the 2023-2024 year, the first-time pass rate for NDSCS Registered Nursing students was 95.45%, while the Practical Nursing students achieved a pass rate of 96%. 

“We are incredibly proud of our students’ hard work and dedication,” commented Deb Smith, Associate Dean of Allied Health/Nursing. “Their commitment to excellence in nursing education has been evident in these results.” 

The state of North Dakota continues to lead the nation in NCLEX success, with NCLEX-PN pass rates at 99.24%, far surpassing the national average of 89.65%. North Dakota's NCLEX-RN pass rate of 97.55% also significantly exceeds the national average of 92.7%. 

This year’s exams introduced the Next Generation NCLEX format, featuring case-based questions that require nursing candidates to apply their knowledge to real-life scenarios. The new format requires a deeper understanding of clinical concepts and the application of knowledge in patient care scenarios, challenging students to make informed decisions based on comprehensive information. NDSCS students have adapted well to these changes, further showcasing the strength of the College’s programs.

For those interested in pursuing a career in nursing, NDSCS offers several academic pathways:

• Practical Nursing (Diploma): A one-year program for those looking to start their nursing career or advance to higher nursing degrees.
• Registered Nursing (A.A.S.): A two-year program for students aiming to become Registered Nurses.
• LPN to RN Program: A specialized pathway for Licensed Practical Nurses who wish to become Registered Nurses. 

NDSCS’s nursing programs continue to grow due to their strong reputation for high NCLEX pass rates and excellent preparation for the nursing profession. For more information, visit NDSCS.edu/Nursing.

The Beta Mu Rho chapter of Phi Kappa Theta at North Dakota State College of Science is proud to announce that four students have been named to the 2024 North Dakota Academic All-State Team, which recognizes the academic achievements of community college students.

Workforce Pathway Scholars plan to begin their careers immediately upon graduation, and Transfer Pathway Scholars plan to continue their education at a four-year institution after completing their studies at a community college.

The students, listed with their program of study and their hometown, are:

• Transfer Pathway Scholars:
  • Rose Wendel, Agriculture, LaMoure, N.D.
  • Kyra Bellew, Dental Hygiene, Wahpeton, N.D.
• Workforce Pathway Scholars:
  • Brayden Schmeichel, Construction Management Technology, Jamestown, N.D.
  • Katie Willprecht, Nursing, Lidgerwood, N.D.

The Academic All-State team is sponsored by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and Coca Cola. Students named to the North Dakota Academic All-State Team will be considered for nomination as the state’s New Century Scholar as well as membership on the All-USA Academic Team.

The students will be recognized at the North Dakota Academic All-State Team banquet hosted by North Dakota State College of Science on Wednesday, March 20th.