PAXTON—Anna Maria College’s 2024 nursing graduates have achieved a 96% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN, surpassing the national average of 83.51% for first-time, U.S.-educated baccalaureate test-takers from October to December and 91.92% year-to-date, according to newly released data from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
A total of 26 Anna Maria students took the exam, continuing the college’s strong track record of nursing education. The program also reported that 100% of its nursing graduates secured employment after graduation.
“As the dean of Nursing & Health Sciences at Anna Maria College, I am incredibly proud of our 96% NCLEX-RN pass rate,” Dr. Emily K. Cabrera, EdD, MSN, RN, said in an announcement. “This reflects the resilience of our students and the dedication of our faculty. Our holistic approach, combining rigorous nursing courses with a strong foundation in critical thinking, communication, and leadership, ensures our graduates are well-prepared for the complexities of modern healthcare.”
Anna Maria College has strengthened its nursing program in recent years, including a major upgrade to its facilities. In Fall 2024, the college opened a newly renovated nursing simulation lab and paramedic education space, funded by $1 million in federal community project funding secured by Congressman James P. McGovern. The lab provides students with hands-on training to better prepare them for real-world healthcare settings.
The achievement comes at a time of high demand for qualified nurses. The federal government estimates that 275,000 additional nurses will be needed by 2030 to prevent a workforce shortfall, while a 2022 survey by the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association identified approximately 19,000 unfilled acute care hospital positions in the state.
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