All Polk State Nursing graduates pass licensure exam with 100% success rate

Polk State College’s Nursing Program has achieved a remarkable milestone with a 100% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for the last three quarters of 2023. This achievement is particularly significant considering the statewide pass rate for associate degree programs in Florida is only 58%. The program’s Associate in Science graduates accomplished this feat on their first NCLEX attempts, resulting in an overall annual pass rate of 95%.

The success of the Polk State Nursing Program can be attributed to recent investments made by the state and community partners to support nursing education and workforce development. These investments include $1.45 million through the Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) and Prepping Institutions, Programs, Employers, and Learners through Incentives for Nursing Education (PIPELINE) programs, as well as $1.7 million from AdventHealth to endow a Dean of Nursing position at Polk State.

Dr. Deleise Wilson, Polk State’s AdventHealth Dean of Nursing, highlighted the program’s unique approach to teaching clinical judgment and decision-making, as well as the expertise, professional experience, and genuine care of the faculty. With access to advanced technology, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong connections to clinical sites and community partners, Polk State Nursing students are well-prepared to secure nursing positions in their areas of interest.

The program’s 100% pass rate not only signifies the success of its students but also contributes to alleviating the shortage of nurses in Polk County and beyond. With approximately 300 nursing vacancies in the county each year, Polk State remains committed to preparing students for the in-demand field and ensuring they are equipped to meet the healthcare demands of the community.