Washington Adventist University Nursing Program Earns Full State Approval

Story by Everett Wiles

Washington Adventist University (WAU) has achieved Full Approval status for its Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program from the Maryland Board of Nursing, recognizing the university’s continued excellence in nursing education and student outcomes.

The approval, granted on September 24, 2025, signifies that WAU’s nursing program meets and exceeds the state’s high standards for academic rigor, faculty qualifications, clinical preparation, and graduate success.

According to data from Mountain Measurement (2025), 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 the Maryland average (90.67%), Maryland BSN average (90.29%), and national average (89.69%). Maryland’s benchmark minimum for approval is 79%, placing WAU well above the threshold.

WAU’s nursing graduates also continue to achieve 100% employment upon graduation, reflecting both the quality of the program and the high demand for its graduates among healthcare employers.

“Nursing at WAU is more than a degree, it’s a mission,” said Weymouth Spence, President of Washington Adventist University. “This full approval reflects our unwavering commitment to developing nurses who excel clinically, lead with compassion, and uphold the highest ethical standards in healthcare.”

“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"n 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 commitmentof 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.”

The approval comes at a time when the United States faces a projected nursing shortage exceeding one million positions by 2030. WAU’s program is meeting that challenge by preparing practice-ready nurses who combine technical skill with a heart for service, ensuring that the university continues its long-standing legacy of excellence in nursing education.

Since its founding, Washington Adventist University has prepared nurses who make a difference in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community health settings throughout the region and beyond.

To apply or learn more, visit www.wau.edu.