This story was originally published by VermontBiz on 5/7/2025
Vermont State University (VTSU) nursing program graduates have demonstrated excellence by achieving outstanding National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) passing rates.
VTSU’s nursing program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in the dynamic and demanding field of nursing. From supporting patient health in critical care and long-term settings to strengthening systems and guiding staff as clinical leaders, the opportunities in nursing are many and the workforce demand for qualified nurses is exceptionally high.
Additionally, VTSU is in the process of expanding the nursing program, thanks in part to federal Congressionally Directed Spending secured by Senator Patrick Leahy. Additional seats will be made available at VTSU’s nursing locations around the state in the coming years, and the expansion includes bringing the program to the Johnson campus.
The NCLEX is a mandatory exam for nursing graduates to obtain their licenses. It includes the NCLEX-RN for registered nurses and the NCLEX-PN for practical nurses, assessing essential skills for safe practice. Passing the NCLEX is crucial for starting a professional nursing career.
We are proud to share the impressive NCLEX pass rates achieved by our nursing program graduates:
- NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse):
- 100% pass rate
- All 46 students passed on their first time sitting for the exam
- 76% of these students sat for licensure in Vermont
- ADN (Associate of Science in Nursing):
- 92% pass rate
- 154 students sat for the exam and 142 passed on the first attempt
- 90% of these students sat for licensure in Vermont
- NCLEX-PN (Practical Nurse):
- 99% pass rate
- 161 students sat for NCLEX-PN and 160 passed on the first sit
- 99% of these students sat for licensure in Vermont
“National Nurses Week is a time to celebrate the unwavering dedication and compassion of nurses who are the backbone of our healthcare system,” remarked Caitlin Stover, Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences at VTSU. “Vermont State University is immensely proud of our graduates, whose academic excellence and profound impact on the healthcare field in Vermont and beyond exemplify the true spirit of nursing. Their outstanding scores are also a testament to the exceptional nursing education provided by our dedicated and passionate faculty. Our graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of today’s healthcare environment, providing high-quality care and making a positive impact on the lives of their patients.”
“It’s no secret that Vermont has a dire workforce shortage in the field of nursing,” added VTSU President David Bergh. “Vermont State University is making progress on addressing that critical need by producing top-notch graduates from all levels of our nursing program, the vast majority of whom stay and work locally in their Vermont community after graduation and licensure. The nursing program is exemplary of our mission to serve Vermonters with the education, workforce training, and skills they need to economically advance and give back to their communities.”
