What began as a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in 1970, evolved into an
accredited associate degree program leading to Registered Nurse licensure in 1975.
Each year, Kishwaukee accepts 80 (40 per semester) students into its Nursing program.
After two years of theoretical and clinical coursework in both general and specialty
areas in Nursing, the student graduates with an Associate in Applied Science degree
and is eligible to sit for licensure examination.
Kishwaukee's Nursing Program has one of the highest overall NCLEX-RN (State Board
Examination) pass rates in Illinois and in the country. For 2018, Kishwaukee's overall
average is 90% compared with a state & national average of 88%.
- Completion Rate: 61% of students graduate in 2 years; 85% of students graduate in
3 years. National comparison groups for degree completion is 15% in 2 years and 25%
in 3 years. (2018 data).
- NCLEX Pass Rate: In 2018, the graduating class achieved a 90% first-time pass rate
on the National Council Licensure Exam for Nurses (NCLEX) nursing exam; State of Illinois
88% and National Average 88%. Graduates from our program have consistently exceeded
the state and national pass rates on the National Council Licensure Exam-Registered
Nurse (NCLEX-RN). New data will be available in November.
- Job Placement: 95% of Kishwaukee College nursing graduates are employed as a registered
nurse within six months of graduation. Guidance for job placement is offered with
the curriculum, and resources exist at the College to assist with this process. (2018
data).