USM’s Accelerated Nursing Program Second Cohort Earns 100 Percent Pass Rate

Fri, 11/15/2024 - 10:50am | By: Gabriela Shinskie

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) College of Nursing and Health Professions’ (CNHP) second cohort in the accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program received a 100 percent pass rate–on their first attempt–on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), the gold standard for nursing programs. This is the second accelerated nursing class to receive 100 percent on the exam committed to the future of healthcare.

Dr. Lachel Story, dean of the CNHP, said the ABSN program’s pass rate is impressive and speaks to the hard work and dedication of the faculty and staff.

“This program is impactful not only to the workforce by providing much-needed nurses in South Mississippi, but it also changes the lives of the students who often had long desired to be a nurse. Through this program, those who wished to be a nurse but may have had obstacles that detoured them, can have a path to achieve that goal. It is important that we are not only providing a strong nursing workforce for Mississippi, but we are helping individuals achieve their career goals,” said Story.

The ABSN program allows students to earn a second BSN degree in one year from USM. Those enrolled are eligible to bypass certain BSN requirements due to already earning a degree. The program has a plethora of experienced nursing faculty dedicated to training students in a variety of nursing specialties. Students can use on-site simulations and other safe learning opportunities to prepare for future clinical facilities. Dr. LynLee Morgan, program coordinator, is proud of this cohort and their dedication to the future of healthcare.

“This outstanding accomplishment is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of both the students and the wonderful faculty who supported and guided them along the way. These students have navigated many obstacles to fulfill their commitment to serving their communities through compassionate nursing care. We look forward to seeing our graduates make a meaningful impact on the nursing profession and wish them all the best in their endeavors,” said Morgan.

Tynai Bridges, a current student in the program, said USM prepares their students to pass the exam and contributes to meeting the demand of healthcare professionals.

“USM prepares nursing students by emphasizing the most important information to know when taking care of patients. The instructors focus on real-world problems and scenarios that will be seen once we are in the healthcare field. I am very grateful to be in USM’s accelerated nursing program, and I feel that I will be properly prepared upon graduation to pass the NCLEX and do great work as a nurse in the near future,” said Bridges.

Much of the goal of the program is to prepare students to seek healthcare jobs in Mississippi. Thanks to The Bower Foundation and other supporters, many students can pursue the ABSN pathway through scholarships that help with tuition, fees, and a stipend. The Bower Foundation directs its funds to make sustainable, systemic improvements in the state’s health and education infrastructures. Dr. Rebecca Cockrell, Bower Foundation Healthcare Workforce Program director, is dedicated to partnering with USM and providing the tools needed for success in the healthcare industry.

“Investing in our students' healthcare education in Mississippi is a vital step toward building a skilled workforce that will effectively serve all residents of our state. We are committed to shaping a brighter future for Mississippi through education and excellence in healthcare,” said Cockrell.

Applications for the next ABSN cohort are due Feb. 1, 2025. For questions about USM’s ABSN degree, contact Taylor Williams, CNHP academic advisor, by email or call 228.214.3379.