Carl Albert State College (CASC) is proud to announce that its Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-N) program has been named one of the Best Nursing Schools in Oklahoma for 2026, a recognition that highlights the program’s outstanding outcomes, affordability, and commitment to preparing the next generation of nurses.

CASC’s Nursing program achieved a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2023, underscoring the program’s excellence in preparing graduates for licensure and successful nursing careers. With campuses in both Poteau and Sallisaw, the program serves students across eastern Oklahoma through a comprehensive curriculum that combines rigorous theoretical instruction with extensive hands-on clinical experiences.

“Our program is built on a foundation of excellence and compassion,” Rebecca Sanders, Nursing Program Director at CASC said. “We emphasize evidence-based care, simulation training, and therapeutic communication so that our graduates are not only clinically skilled but also prepared to connect with patients and families. Seeing our students achieve a 100% pass rate reflects both their dedication and the strength of our faculty and community partnerships.”

President Dr. Jay Falkner echoed the program’s importance to the college and the region.

“Carl Albert State College is committed to providing affordable, high-quality education that meets the needs of our communities. The success of our Nursing program exemplifies how CASC changes lives—both for our students and for the countless patients they will go on to serve in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities across Oklahoma,” he said.

Program highlights

• Evidence-Based Care: Emphasis on safe, research-driven nursing practices.

• Simulation Training: State-of-theart labs to practice real- world scenarios.

• Therapeutic Communication: Building strong patient and family interaction skills.

• Community Healthcare Focus: Preparing students to meet the needs of diverse populations.

• Accessible Pathways: Affordable tuition with no entrance exam requirements.

• Career Readiness: Graduates are prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

The two-year program is designed not only to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce but also to instill a foundation for lifelong learning. Many CASC graduates choose to continue their education, pursuing advanced nursing degrees while serving as leaders in healthcare.