Every May 2024 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate has passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) on the first attempt, fulfilling the requirement for licensure as a registered nurse.
Of the 34 students in the May graduating class, most are now working in the Chattanooga metropolitan area in major acute care facilities. Some have returned to their hometowns or have gone to a new city to start their careers.
“Our faculty and students share an unwavering commitment to excellence in preparing for careers in nursing,” School of Nursing Director and UTC Chief Health Affairs Officer Chris Smith said. “Achieving a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX is undeniable, objective proof of that dedication. Every individual involved deserves recognition for their hard work and determination.”
The NCLEX is a nationally recognized examination developed and maintained by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). According to the NCSBN, the national pass rate percentage for baccalaureate degree candidates taking the test this January through June was 94%.
State boards of nursing, which ultimately will issue or deny a candidate’s nursing license, consider the results of the NCLEX when deciding whether or not to issue a nursing license.
The Tennessee State Board of Nursing requires all schools and colleges of nursing to maintain a pass rate greater than 80%. UTC has exceeded that minimum every year since the statistics were first tracked in 2007, and the University has had an overall pass rate well exceeding the state pass rate every year since 2019.
“We continue to have excellent outcomes thanks to a dedicated faculty,” Smith said. “The NCLEX exam is a rigorous, standardized test that every state regulatory board uses to assess whether graduates are truly ready to become licensed and step into practice as entry-level nurses. Passing this exam signifies that a nurse has proven their ability to provide direct patient care, assume leadership roles, educate patients and families, and—most importantly—serve as a powerful advocate for their patients.
“Our BSN-prepared graduates go beyond the basics, delivering holistic care to patients, their families and the communities they serve.”
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