University of Mary Achieves 100% Pass Rate on National Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam
Exceptional Success Highlights University of Mary’s Elite Nursing Program
BISMARCK, ND — The University of Mary continues to solidify its reputation as one of the nation’s premier nursing schools with its 2024 graduates achieving a 100% pass rate on the rigorous American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) certification exam. This extraordinary achievement places the graduates of the University of Mary’s Larry and Eileen Weigum Division of Nursing at the Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences well above the national average and underscores the institution’s unwavering commitment to academic and clinical excellence.
The AANP FNP certification exam is a highly regarded, competency-based assessment that validates a nurse’s clinical knowledge and professional expertise in providing care to individuals and families across the lifespan. Passing this exam grants nurses the FNP-C credential, a critical step toward licensure and clinical practice. According to the latest data from the AANP Certification Board, the national average pass rate for this exam stands at 73%, making the University of Mary’s perfect pass rate all the more impressive.
A Program Built for Success
The 100% pass rate reflects the exceptional quality of education and training provided by the University of Mary’s nursing program. The Family Nurse Practitioner program is distinguished by its rigorous, evidence-based curriculum, which seamlessly integrates advanced clinical practice, leadership development, and healthcare policy. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring the highest standards of academic excellence and professional preparation.
“Our graduates’ remarkable success on the AANP certification exam is a testament to the caliber of our program, the dedication of our faculty, and the commitment of our students,” said Dr. Billie Madler, associate dean of Nursing at the University of Mary. “At Mary, we prioritize a holistic approach to nurse practitioner education, combining cutting-edge clinical training with the Benedictine values of servant leadership and compassionate care. This achievement demonstrates that we are equipping our graduates with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation needed to excel in their careers and make a profound impact on their communities.”
Exceeding National Standards in Clinical Preparation
The University of Mary’s FNP program goes beyond national clinical training requirements, ensuring students receive superior hands-on experience before entering the workforce. With over 1,000 hours of clinical experience—exceeding national minimum requirements—students gain valuable exposure to diverse healthcare settings, working alongside experienced practitioners in primary care, specialty care, and rural healthcare environments. This extensive clinical preparation fosters confidence and competence, empowering graduates to seamlessly transition into their roles as nurse practitioners.
A Faculty Committed to Mentorship and Student Success
The success of the University of Mary’s FNP graduates is also a reflection of the dedicated faculty who bring decades of real-world experience to the classroom. The program’s faculty members, who are practicing nurse practitioners and healthcare leaders, provide unparalleled mentorship and personalized instruction, guiding students every step of the way. The university’s commitment to small class sizes, in-person and hybrid learning opportunities, and strong faculty-student relationships further supports student achievement and career readiness.
“This accomplishment is not just a milestone for our graduates, but a reflection of the University of Mary’s enduring commitment to excellence in nursing education,” added Dr. Madler. “We are proud to be shaping the next generation of nurse practitioners who will lead with skill, integrity, and a deep sense of service.”
Leading the Way in Nurse Practitioner Education
The University of Mary’s FNP graduates are now fully equipped to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care in a variety of clinical settings. With their FNP-C credentials, they are prepared to diagnose and manage acute and chronic conditions, prescribe treatments, and educate patients on disease prevention and health promotion—often working autonomously to meet the growing demand for primary care providers nationwide.
Nurse Practitioner: The No. 1 Job in America for 2025
The demand for nurse practitioners continues to rise nationwide, with U.S. News & World Report recently naming the nurse practitioner role as the No. 1 job in America for 2025. This ranking reflects both the profession’s high earning potential and its essential role in delivering quality healthcare. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 46% increase in nurse practitioner jobs between 2023 and 2033, adding more than 135,000 new positions to meet the growing need for advanced practice providers. With an aging population and an increasing emphasis on accessible healthcare, University of Mary graduates are entering a thriving profession with abundant opportunities to make a meaningful impact.
For more information about the University of Mary’s nursing programs, visit online.umary.edu/FNP.
Anyone who wishes to learn more about the University of Mary can do so at www.umary.edu or online.umary.edu, or by contacting an admissions representative at enroll@umary.edu, or by calling (701) 355-8030. The University of Mary is one of only 15 Recommended Cardinal Newman Society Residential Colleges and universities in the US.
About the University of Mary: True to its motto “lumen vitae”—The Light of Life—the University of Mary offers education for the whole of life through cutting-edge professional programs and graduate programs animated by moral courage and leadership in chosen professions and service to the community. A private, co-educational Catholic institution, the University of Mary welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds.
A Christian, Catholic, Benedictine institution founded in 1959 by the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Mary offers over 60 bachelor’s, 15 master’s, and five doctoral programs—in Business Administration, Education, Nursing Practice, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy. The 19-sport Athletic Department adheres to its Greatness Through Virtue mission under the governance of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) conferences. With more than 3,800 students, Mary has locations in North Dakota, Montana, Arizona, Rome, Italy, as well as vibrant online offerings.