Wegmans School of Nursing Solidifies Reputation as Leading Force in Nursing Education

In 2023, the Wegmans School of Nursing at St. John Fisher University continued to solidify its place as best-in-class, emerging as the seventh largest producer of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates in New York State, and the largest program outside of New York City.

Dr. Tricia Gatlin, dean of the School, said its commitment to excellence is evident not just in its size, but in the quality of nurses it produces. With consistently high pass rates on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)—including achieving the highest among the top seven baccalaureate programs in the state in 2023—Fisher graduates are entering the workforce exceptionally prepared.

As of the second quarter of 2024, the School continues to set the standard, boasting an NCLEX pass rate of 98.77 percent. Gatlin said that NCLEX pass rates are a clear indicator of the School’s dedication to maintaining its status as a leader in nursing education.

Within Monroe County, the School of Nursing plays a pivotal role in meeting the region’s health care needs. Of the eight local programs that graduate registered nurses, Fisher alone accounts for 35.8 percent of BSN graduates and 25.9 percent of all registered nurses in 2023.

“This makes the School of Nursing not only the largest contributor of new nurses in the county but also the program with the highest NCLEX pass rate—a testament to its rigorous academic standards and commitment to student success,” Gatlin said.

Fisher’s impact extends beyond undergraduate education. With a total enrollment of 1,209 students for Fall 2024—679 undergraduates and 530 graduate students—the School has become a crucial source for the region’s advanced practice nurses. As demand for highly skilled health care professionals continues to rise, the School’s thriving graduate programs are playing a vital role in addressing these needs, making it one of the leading graduate nursing programs in both the state and Monroe County, Gatlin said.

“Through a combination of academic excellence, student support, and a commitment to the community, the Wegmans School of Nursing is shaping the future of nursing and health care in New York and beyond,” Gatlin said. “With our continued growth and leadership, the School is not just educating nurses, but empowering a new generation of health care leaders.”