RCC nursing school ranked among top 3 in North Carolina

ASHEBORO — Randolph Community College’s 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, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

For more information about RCC’s Nursing program, visit rccurl.com/nursing.