Florida A&M University School of Nursing Achieves an 11-point Improvement on Licensure Exam Pass Rate
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida A&M University School of Nursing announced the success of its nursing program on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The program received a passage rate of 93%, which is an 11-point increase over last year, and exceeding the national benchmark of 92%.
“This achievement is a testament to the collective dedication of our faculty, staff, and—most importantly—our students. Faculty have worked diligently to align the curriculum with professional standards, the NCLEX, and clinical expectations,” said Dean Shannon Bright Smith, Ph.D., DNP, APRN. “Our staff has played a vital role in supporting these efforts, ensuring students have the resources and guidance needed to succeed. Strong administrative support has helped drive these initiatives forward. Most importantly, our students have shown incredible determination and commitment to their success. I’m proud and excited to lead this team as we continue striving for excellence.”
Since 2022, Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature have invested $138 million to expand and enhance nursing programs within the SUS through Prepping Institutions, Programs, Employers, and Learners through Incentives for Nursing Education (PIPELINE) and Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) funds. These funds have expanded the capacity of SUS nursing programs, leading to more than 1,900 nursing graduates, a record high for the SUS.
Nursing Students in Lab
“The nursing programs within the SUS have maintained a standard of excellence by ensuring graduates excel on the nursing exam and are prepared to provide quality healthcare to Floridians,” said Chancellor Ray Rodrigues. “Continued investments in nursing through LINE and PIPELINE will ensure our state remains a top producer of highly skilled nurses.”
The improved NCLEX-RN pass rate reflects the University’s Boldly Striking Strategic Plan and the goals of SUS 30, the System's new strategic plan. SUS 30 emphasizes elevating student success by modeling excellence and producing highly skilled graduates, as demonstrated by strong performance on professional licensure and certification exams.
"Nursing stands as a top 50 profession in Florida, reflecting its vital role in meeting the state's growing healthcare and workforce demands,” said Provost Allyson Watson, Ph.D., vice president of Academic Affairs. “As the backbone of patient care, nurses add immense value to communities, bridging the gap between quality healthcare and career advancement. FAMU is proud of our continued improvement and is investing in nursing education. Workforce development ensures a stronger, healthier future for all."
Media Contact:
Alonda Thomas
Alonda.Thomas@FAMU.edu
