SEMO nursing graduates achieve 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Southeast Missouri State University’s spring 2026 Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX-RN.
SEMO said the pass rate exceeded the national average of 73.9%.
The NCLEX-RN is used to determine whether nursing graduates are prepared to safely and effectively practice as registered nurses.
“This outstanding accomplishment reflects the hard work and dedication of the students, staff and nursing faculty,” said Dr. Kyle Schneider, interim director of SEMO’s School of Health Sciences. “It also represents the high quality of SEMO’s nursing program in preparing graduates with the knowledge and skills to enter this critical profession.”
SEMO’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning in health care settings. Students also train in simulation labs designed to replicate real-world patient care environments.
Dr. Gina Koch, associate professor and nursing program lead, said students spent significant time preparing for the licensing exam.
“Our students put in countless hours of studying and preparation for this exam,” Koch said. “Our faculty are equally committed to making sure students get the support they need.”
Koch said she looks forward to seeing the impact the graduates will make as they begin their nursing careers.
More information about SEMO’s nursing program is available through the university’s School of Health Sciences.
