In a recent report from the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX®), University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing graduates who took the exam ranked number one not only in Nevada, but in the entire United States. The exam is designed to test graduates’ decision-making abilities with clinical judgment problems through an adaptive test that evolves as the student answers questions. The accomplishment is no easy feat – with an average of about 1,400 students taking the exam each quarter, Cameron Duncan, interim dean for the Orvis School of Nursing, is incredibly proud of the University’s graduates, faculty and staff whose hard work led to such a high passing rate.

“This accomplishment is evidence of the dedication of students, faculty and staff to maintaining the highest standards of education and preparing nurses for successful careers in nursing,” Duncan said. “It also reflects the effectiveness of the program in providing a demanding and wide-ranging curriculum that prepares students with the knowledge and skills needed for success in the nursing profession.”

Graduates from the Orvis School of Nursing have steadily and more frequently been passing the exam since 2022, with numbers improving dramatically over even a single year. Their success is thanks to faculty and staff who use student data to identify gaps and areas of improvement in the program and frequently update the curriculum to prepare students for the rapidly evolving medical field.

“The curriculum is frequently updated to reflect the most up-to-date nursing education and compliance with accreditation guidelines,” Duncan said. “We also have wonderful clinical agency partners who provide feedback to prepare the best nurses to care for the sickest patients with ever-increasing expectations and technology.”

Staff and faculty in the Orvis School of Nursing constantly look for ways to elevate and enrich their curriculum, providing opportunities to connect textbook material to the praxis. Programs unique to the University of Nevada, Reno, like the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or BSN, are instrumental in preparing students for real-world scenarios, and have been the base for increased passing rates for NCLEX®.

“One example is the increased use of simulation at all levels of the BSN Program,” Duncan said.  “Students, under the guidance of experienced simulation faculty, face realistic scenarios with simulation manikins that allow them to clinically reason and safely assume the role of the nurse. Immediately following the simulation, detailed debriefing is provided to support learning and reinforce skills and concepts. Using this technology, students can practice in a safe environment and move confidently and competently into the clinical setting.”

Being ranked the number one nursing program is a multi-faceted accomplishment. Students’ high passing rate for the NCLEX® is the result of staff and faculty coming together to create an unmatched curriculum. This achievement demonstrates the Orvis School of Nursing's dedication to excellence and positions it as a leader in nursing education. With this distinguishment, the University will continue to attract talented students and faculty and continue to produce high-caliber nurses that endlessly continue to represent and inspire the Wolf Pack as leaders in the medical community.

“Being ranked the number one nursing program nationwide is a significant accomplishment for the Orvis School of Nursing,” Duncan said. “These rankings indicate that the program has excelled in various aspects, including curriculum, faculty expertise, clinical training opportunities, and student outcomes. It highlights the school's commitment to providing high-quality education and producing competent and skilled nurses.”