Nursing program ranked No. 3 in North Carolina by RegisteredNursing.org
Randolph Community College is thrilled to announce that its Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program has been named the No. 3 Nursing School in North Carolina for 2026 by RegisteredNursing.org in its 10th annual rankings. This prestigious state-level recognition comes on the heels of an impressive milestone: The program’s May 2025 graduates achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-RN — the fifth consecutive year of perfect results.
“Faculty continue to maintain a rigorous curriculum in a supportive environment, while students continue to push themselves beyond their imagined limits to excel in the classroom and clinical settings,” Nursing Department Head Kim Kimrey said. “I am very proud of all of them.”
This dual distinction is no accident. It reflects the unwavering dedication of RCC’s nursing faculty and staff to delivering a robust academic experience, hands-on training, and comprehensive support services that prime graduates to excel professionally. The program is housed in the state-of-the-art Allied Health Center, the newest building on the Asheboro Campus. Designed to replicate a real-world healthcare environment, the facility features cutting-edge simulation labs equipped with video-capture technology. This allows instructors to observe students in action and provide powerful, real-time learning opportunities through video playback and debriefing sessions, ensuring students gain the hands-on experience and confidence they need to excel in the healthcare field.
“Securing a top 3 ranking in North Carolina — while the other institutions in the top five are all private universities — and sustaining a five-year record of 100% first-time NCLEX pass rates reflects the exceptional quality and commitment of our nursing program,” RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan said. “While recognition is gratifying, our true focus is on empowering students to transform their futures, launch their careers with confidence, and ultimately lead with purpose to shape the future of healthcare.”
According to RegisteredNursing.org, RCC's program offers rigorous, campus-based training focused on patient-centered care, critical thinking, and advanced clinical skills. With competitive admission standards, state-of-the-art facilities in the Allied Health Center, and strong financial aid support, RCC graduates are fully prepared for successful nursing careers across diverse healthcare settings. To view more on the methodology used in the rankings, click here.
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About the RCC’s Nursing program: Ranked third in North Carolina among all collegiate programs by RegisteredNursing.org for 2026, Randolph Community College’s Associate Degree Nursing program prepares students for successful careers as registered nurses through rigorous coursework, hands-on clinical experience, and supportive faculty mentorship. With a focus on compassionate care, professional standards, and community impact, RCC nursing graduates consistently meet the highest expectations of the healthcare field. Graduates have achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) for five consecutive years. Learn more at rccurl.com/nursing.
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About Randolph Community College: Randolph Community College (RCC), under the leadership of President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan, is committed to providing relevant career training and educational opportunities. Ranked No. 1 in North Carolina by Niche.com, the College offers affordable degrees and short-term certificate programs that start throughout the year, both in person and online. To register, visit randolph.edu/register or call 336-633-0200 and expect to engage with the most competent and compassionate team of faculty and staff.