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Northwestern’s Nursing Program Returns to Top Spot in Minnesota


Thursday, February 25, 2021

The nursing program at University of Northwestern — St. Paul (UNW) has retained its first place ranking over the past four years among 45-plus schools in Minnesota, according to RegisteredNursing.org. NCLEX-RN pass rates were analyzed by RegisteredNursing.org, using data from the past five years, to determine the rankings. UNW boasts a five-year average NCLEX pass rate of 98 percent, which is nearly 15 percent higher than the average statewide pass rate of 83.8 percent. 

UNW’s nursing program is characterized by a depth of hands-on training, transcultural clinical experience, the integration of faith and ministry in patient care, and a curriculum that trains students to effectively serve individuals with disabilities. Northwestern seeks to provide Christ-centered, service-focused nursing education, equipping students with the skills and abilities required of professional nurses to effectively serve Christ and to assume servant-leadership roles while providing ministry and service to humankind.

Ginger Wolgemuth, Chief Nurse Administrator and Assistant Dean of UNW’s School of Nursing, attributes the program’s ongoing success to both esteemed faculty and hard-working students. “Our faculty, who possess significant experience in both the classroom and the field, care for and grow our students at a personal level,” Wolgemuth stated. 

She continued, “I also commend our students who have poured themselves into their coursework and personal development. Our nursing students enter their profession ready to serve.” UNW nursing students spend more than 900 hours in simulation labs and clinical environments, including nearly 100 hours in transcultural clinical experiences.

Northwestern offers a degree in Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This pre-licensure program provides a strong foundation in biblical studies, liberal arts, and the sciences. This degree prepares students for top graduate programs in nursing and careers in healthcare. Northwestern’s baccalaureate degree program in nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).