Mid-State Technical College’s Nursing program has been named the top RN program in Wisconsin for 2026 by RegisteredNursing.org, rising to No. 1 for the first time after consistently ranking in the state’s top ten in recent years.
RegisteredNursing.org praised Mid-State’s associate degree in nursing (ADN) for its hybrid learning model and strong student outcomes, noting the program’s 100 percent NCLEX pass rate in 2024 compared to the national average of 91.2 percent.
The ranking evaluated 41 Wisconsin colleges offering nursing degrees at the associate, bachelor’s and direct-entry master’s levels. NCLEX pass rates weighed heavily in the review, along with factors such as affordability, career readiness and clinical training opportunities.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, who bring both nursing expertise and a deep commitment to student success,” said Kelly Nelson, dean of Mid-State’s School of Nursing. “Their support and guidance help ensure our graduates are fully prepared for the demands of today’s healthcare workforce.”
Nelson also credited the program’s students. “Our nursing students consistently show incredible determination,” she said. “Passing the NCLEX on the first attempt is no small achievement, and their success reflects the hard work they put in from day one.”
Mid-State’s Nursing program stands out for its combination of affordable tuition, real-world clinical experiences, and advanced training facilities. Students gain additional practice at the College’s Healthcare Simulation Center, housed at Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital, where high-fidelity simulators replicate complex clinical scenarios—from strokes and sepsis to childbirth—allowing learners to build confidence in a safe environment.
The NCLEX, or National Council Licensure Examination, is the nationwide exam required for nurse licensure. Both past and present first-time NCLEX pass rates factored into the rankings, with more recent data weighted more heavily.
RegisteredNursing.org, based in Carlsbad, Calif., is dedicated to supporting excellence in the nursing profession through education and employment resources.
Learn more about Mid-State’s Nursing program at mstc.edu/programs.
