OSU-OKC nursing students pass national exam at 100% rate
All graduates of first class of LPN to RN program pass licensure on first attempt
OKLAHOMA CITY (August 9, 2022) – Every graduate from OSU-OKC’s inaugural LPN/Paramedic to RN class passed the national licensure test to become a Registered Nurse on the first attempt.
Those who wish to become licensed registered nurses must have an approved nursing degree and pass the NCLEX-RN.
All nine students in the class passed the NCLEX, which stands for National Council Licensure Examination.
OSU-OKC created a dedicated cohort in 2020 for LPNs and Paramedics to become RNs as a separate pathway in addition to the traditional two-year program. This was done to make it easier for working nurses to advance their careers with more online instruction and weekend clinical rotations.
As the first graduating class from that initiative, these nurses surpassed the 82 percent national average of successful first-time licensure testing, as well as OSU-OKC’s own average of nearly 93 percent.
Tracy Edwards, Nurse Science department head, said creating this pathway makes a direct impact on the nursing shortage in the state, and will help lead to improved health outcomes for all Oklahomans. He praised those who helped make this pathway into a reality.
“Support from both our advisory committee and from campus administration were integral to development of this pathway,” Edwards said. “This initiative recognizes the student’s existing skills and knowledge, thus decreasing the time it takes them to graduate and start working at the bedside.”
The nursing program at OSU-OKC ranks in the top five programs in the state according to RNcareers.org. Applications are being accepted for the traditional nursing program until Sept. 1. For those interested in the LPN to RN program, applications for the January start will be accepted from Sept. 1 – Dec. 1. For more information, call (405) 945-3210.
About Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC) is part of the modern land-grant system of Oklahoma State University. OSU-OKC is a two-year public institution, offering more than 40 degrees and certificate options. Through quality education, a supportive environment, leadership training and service opportunities, OSU-OKC trains students to work and educates them to lead. OSU-OKC graduates are found throughout the community serving as police officers, firefighters, nurses, teachers, healthcare professionals and business owners. More information is available at www.osuokc.edu.