In 2019, prompted by board pass rates in the nursing program, Missouri Southern State University and the Missouri State Board of Nursing began the process for curriculum and programmatic changes.

As a result, a hold has been placed on accepting a new cohort beginning in the spring of 2021. The hold will not affect the current Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students nor the program’s national accreditation status.

The Nursing Department at Missouri Southern historically has had an exceptional reputation – serving students and the community for more than 45 years. To improve student outcomes, significant changes are currently being implemented to ensure the program’s long-term vitality.

New nursing program leadership and faculty have been hired and are committed to Missouri Southern’s mission and values.

“We will continue to do what is best for students and focus on all facets of the program,” said Dr. Paula Carson, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Work has begun to improve curriculum in order to provide students with the classroom and clinical experiences needed to prepare them for the national board exam and career success. An experienced consultant has also been contracted to assist in this process.”

Those efforts have already shown positive results in creating improvements within the program, she said. During the Spring 2020 semester, 90% of students passed the national board exam on the first attempt which exceeds the 80% state requirement.

As the demand for well-prepared nurses grows – both locally and nationally – so does the demand for quality nursing education.

Missouri Southern is dedicated to strengthening the outcomes of the program while preparing students to enter the workforce. The president, Board of Governors and campus leadership will continue to support program progress and provide input to ensure that MSSU graduates top-notch nurses prepared to offer excellent care and meet the needs of a diverse patient population.

“By continuing to work with the Missouri State Board of Nursing, Missouri Southern will ensure students receive the right education for their professional field,” said Carson. “Our students are always our first priority.”

For more information about the nursing program at Missouri Southern, visit https://www.mssu.edu/academics/health-sciences/nursing.