Clark State nursing licensure pass rates surpass state, national averages

Clark State College will celebrate its nursing graduates during upcoming pinning ceremonies, with more than 125 students receiving pins including 11 from the college’s first bachelor of science in nursing cohort. The licensed practical nurse ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. on May 7 and the registered nursing ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. on May 8. Both events will be held at the Clark State Performing Arts Center, 300 S. Fountain Ave.

Clark State College nursing graduates continue to outperform peers across the state and nation, with 2025 licensure exam pass rates exceeding both Ohio and national averages.

The licensed practical nursing program achieved a 92 percent pass rate, surpassing the national average of 87 percent and Ohio’s average of 83 percent. The registered nursing program posted an 88 percent pass rate, exceeding the national average of 87 percent and the state average of 84 percent. Both programs also met or exceeded 95 percent of the national pass rate average, a threshold used by accrediting bodies such as the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Clark State nursing graduates also report a 95 percent graduation rate and 100 percent job placement, underscoring the college’s strong track record of student success

The strong results come as Ohio highlights workforce needs during In-Demand Jobs Week, May 4–8, underscoring the continued demand for nurses across the state and in the Springfield region.

“The licensure pass rates are a strong indicator of future workforce success,” said Scott Dolan, Ph.D., dean of the school of nursing. “Strong pass rates reflect the rigor of our curriculum, the depth of academic preparation and the effectiveness of faculty-guided clinical experiences.”

Clark State’s approach to nursing education includes evidence-based teaching strategies, simulation and experiential learning, robust academic support services and strong clinical partnerships. A competitive admission process further positions students for success from the outset.

Dolan said exceeding state and national pass rate averages, along with meeting accreditation thresholds, reinforces the quality and credibility of Clark State’s nursing programs among employers, clinical partners and prospective students.

Ongoing investments in curriculum development and data-driven program evaluation ensure the programs remain responsive to the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

“This commitment to excellence, combined with these outcomes, affirms Clark State’s role in preparing competent, practice-ready nurses to meet the needs of our communities,” Dolan said.

Home to the largest licensed practical nursing program in the Dayton and Springfield areas, Clark State offers a comprehensive pathway for students to advance from practical nursing and registered nursing credentials to advanced degrees. The college launched its bachelor of science in nursing degree in 2025, expanding opportunities for students to continue their education and meet regional workforce demand without leaving the area.

For more information about Clark State’s nursing programs, located at both Springfield and Beavercreek locations,  visit clarkstate.edu/programs/nursing-health-sciences.