University of Houston's Gessner College ranks No.1 nationally by NCSBN

The University of Houston's Andy & Barbara Gessner College of Nursing has achieved a significant milestone by being ranked No. 1 in the nation across several categories, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). This ranking is based on the first-time pass rates for the 2023-24 National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), a standardized test required for nursing graduates to become registered nurses in the United States and Canada.

The Gessner College reported a 100% first-time pass rate for its students during this period, marking the fifth instance that it has achieved such results. As a result, NCSBN placed Gessner College at the top among 123 programs in Texas, as well as among 1,124 Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs nationwide and 2,228 nursing programs overall.

"The rankings highlight our strong curriculum, dedicated staff, outstanding clinical programs, effective administration and generous donors," said Kathryn Tart, founding dean and Humana Endowed Dean’s Chair in Nursing.

This achievement is not new for Gessner College. It has previously held the top spot during academic years 2019-20, 2016-17, 2015-16 and its inaugural year in 2014-15.

Dean Tart emphasized that this success is due to collective efforts. "I want to thank our nursing faculty, adjunct faculty, staff and administration... It takes each one of us to help support our students," she stated.

Gessner College's impact extends beyond rankings. A significant number of its graduates choose to remain in Texas after completing their studies. "Our graduates are choosing to stay in Texas, which means the college is making an impact on the nursing shortage in the state," added Dean Tart.

As it approaches its tenth anniversary at the University of Houston in 2025, Gessner College continues to focus on serving educational needs and advancing excellence in health care both regionally and globally.