About

The College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers nationally recognized, comprehensive programs in nursing and medical laboratory science. From our modern nursing labs and instrumentation in our MLS labs, to our outstanding faculty and local clinical partners, our rigorous programs prepare you to begin your health sciences career and to advance in this exciting and challenging profession.

Points of distinction: Nursing

  • Class of 2023 graduates: Traditional BS, 96; ABSN, 18
  • 96%: first-time pass rate on the NCLEX national nursing examination for traditional BS graduates (2023)
  • 94%: first-time pass rate on the NCLEX national nursing examination for second degree/accelerated BS graduates (2023) 
  • Top 20%: U.S. News and World Report ranks the College of Nursing & Health Sciences Doctor of Nursing Practice Program in the top 20% of "Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice" in the U.S. (2024)
  • Top 18%: U.S. News and World Report ranks the College of Nursing & Health Sciences online master's degree program in the top 18% of "Best Online Master's in Nursing Programs" in the U.S. (2024)
  • #43 nationally: UMass Dartmouth's online RN to BS degree in nursing ranks #43 in the nation by College Choice for best online RN to BS programs
  • Top 50: The College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers one of the top 50 best value PhD nursing programs according to Value Colleges
  • Up-to-date facilities: our multi-functional learning environment, with state-of-the-art equipment, is central to the practice of advanced nursing skills

Outcomes measures: Medical Laboratory Science

Graduation/attrition rate

For students who begin the senior year, the graduation rate is:
Class of 2023: 100% (with a 0% attrition rate)

Results from the ASCP MLS Exam

The national certification examination for graduates from the Clinical Laboratory Science program is the Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) examination offered by the Board of Certification (American Society for Clinical Pathology). The pass rate for graduates who have taken the exam within one year following graduation:
Class of 2023: 82% Pass Rate (National pass rate was 76%)

Employment success rate

Class of 2023: Twenty (20) graduates had a job or continued with education within one year of graduation with a placement rate of 100%.

Academic programs for every step in your career

Join a vibrant community of exceptional faculty and students who are leaders in the practice and scholarship of nursing.

CNHS faculty scientists

The College’s faculty members combine strong academic credentials with diverse experiences in clinical practice, leadership, and scholarship. They are dedicated to personalized teaching and mentorship. They are involved in important research and encourage their students—at both the undergraduate and graduate levels—to collaborate with them on research.