Washington Adventist University Nursing Program Earns Full State Approval

Takoma Park, MD — Washington Adventist University (WAU) has received Full Approval from the Maryland Board of Nursing for its Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program, marking a major milestone in the university’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and healthcare leadership. The Board’s approval, granted on September 24, 2025, affirms that WAU’s Nursing Program meets and exceeds the state’s rigorous standards for nursing education, student outcomes, and institutional quality.

Outstanding Performance Above State and National Averages
According to Mountain Measurement’s 2025 report, compiled in partnership with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), WAU nursing graduates achieved a 92% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate, surpassing both the Maryland state average of 90.67% and the national average of 89.69%. Maryland’s benchmark minimum is 79%, making WAU’s performance a clear indicator of program strength and student preparedness.

Employment Success and Professional Readiness
WAU’s Nursing Program maintains a 100% employment rate for its graduates, reflecting strong partnerships with healthcare providers and the high demand for WAU-trained nurses. Employers consistently praise the program for producing nurses who combine clinical excellence with compassion, professionalism, and leadership.

Meeting a Growing National Need
As the U.S. faces an ongoing nursing shortage, projected to intensify over the next decade, WAU is stepping up to help close the gap. The university’s nursing graduates are already making an impact in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community health settings throughout the region.

“Nursing at WAU is more than a degree, it’s a mission,” said Dr. Weymouth Spence, President of Washington Adventist University. “Our graduates embody the university’s commitment to service, faith, and excellence, ensuring that every patient receives care that heals both body and spirit.”

“This full approval by the Maryland Board of Nursing aligns with the Washington Adventist University legacy commitment to provide distinctive excellence in nursing care through distinctive excellence in nursing education as anchored in the program’s history as the institution’s inaugural course of study as launched in 1904.” said Dr. Cheryl Kisunzu, Provost of Washington Adventist University.  “It is for this reason, that we renew our commitment to more than ever, “press toward the Highest” (Phil. 3:14) on behalf of the “ministry of healing” entrusted to our students as they bring Christ’s healing to our world.”

“As a grateful graduate of the WAU nursing program, I give thanks to the Lord for allowing me to play minor a role in its renewal.” said Dr. Tijuana Griffin, Director of Nursing for Washington Adventist University. “This season of success is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our full-time and adjunct faculty, 31% of whom are WAU alumni, whose dedication to excellence in nursing education directly translates into exceptional care for patients.”

A Legacy of Leadership in Nursing Education
Founded in 1904, Washington Adventist University has a long-standing history of preparing nurses to meet the evolving challenges of modern healthcare. The university’s combination of rigorous academics, immersive clinical experiences, and a values-based approach continues to produce graduates who are ready to lead and serve with distinction.

For students inspired to make a difference in the lives of others, WAU’s fully approved Nursing Program offers a pathway to a meaningful and impactful career.

Washington Adventist University Nursing: Preparing nurses today for the health of tomorrow.