Mohawk Valley Community College Spring 2020 Nursing graduates achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination – Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).
The NCLEX is a standardized exam used to determine if a candidate is prepared for entry-level nursing practice after completing an accredited nursing degree. Since 2016, the MVCC Nursing program has made intentional and directed efforts to ensure that graduates are equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to practice nursing with professionalism and aptitude, and has implemented additional admission criteria, including an interview during the admissions process. All faculty are master-prepared, and an additional exam preparation resource, the ATI Capstone, is now included as a curriculum supplement to ensure students are well-prepared for the NCLEX.
After enacting these changes, first-time licensure pass rates have increased steadily each year from 2016 to 2020—77%, 87%, 97%, 96%, and 100%, respectively.
“The 100% pass rate for 2020, during the challenges students faced from COVID-19, is a true reflection of not only the College’s and program’s efforts, but the caliber of student who have entered the program,” said Dean of the School of Health Sciences Melissa Copperwheat. “We are beyond proud of our success and the success of our students. It has been a team effort and has certainly been a bright spot not only for our program and our college but also for the community we serve.”
MVCC's Nursing program educates students interested in performing the duties associated with being a Registered Nurse to practice in collaborative or leadership roles in hospitals as well as clinics, mental health facilities, and long-term care. Graduates receive an Associate in Applied Science degree, are prepared as beginning practitioners in nursing, and are eligible for the RN New York State licensing examination. Upon completion of the program and the RN licensure, graduates can get a job in nursing anywhere in the United States, and are often sought-after by area and regional employers.