Cumberland University’s Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing and Health Professions announced today that its nursing students achieved a 100% NCLEX pass rate for 2021. 

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a nationwide test taken by nursing students to assess their competency before becoming a licensed nurse. For the last several years, Cumberland’s NCLEX scores have been steadily increasing from 82% in 2018, 93% in 2019 and 96.49% in 2020. In 2021, Cumberland’s aim for excellence in nursing was achieved. 

“As a university that prioritizes excellence, this accomplishment speaks to the considerable time and effort that our students dedicate to their studies and the faculty dedicate to our students and their success,” said Dr. Mary Bess Griffith, Dean of The Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing and Health Professions. 

During the last year, enhancements have been made to The Rudy School including the addition of a full-time learning specialist to facilitate student success throughout the nursing program, the creation of an on-campus Living and Learning Community and soon, a new nursing laboratory and classroom space. 

The new Living and Learning Community opened in South Hall during the Fall semester for nursing students to provide peer support, additional academic support, nurture relationships between students and faculty and provide programming support for the totality of the college experience. 

To support the growing number of nursing students and RNs that will be added to the Middle Tennessee workforce, Cumberland’s new nursing laboratory and classroom space will open this spring. 

“We are proud to have graduates who continually receive positive feedback from the healthcare facilities in which they work with regard to the quality of their preparation and practice as nurses,” said Dr. Griffith. “I am confident they are well-equipped to serve patients with compassion and professionalism.” 

With approximately 96% of Cumberland’s nursing graduates remaining in Middle Tennessee, it is important for the university to support current students and alumni with the continued expansion and improvement of its nursing program.