How TAMUT Nursing Students Get Real-World Experience

If you are working towards a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, you're going to get an even closer look at what life is really like as a registered nurse, thanks to the university's Clinical Immersion Program.

The program began in Fall 2025 and was fully implemented in Spring 2026, giving senior nursing students valuable hands-on experience before they enter the workforce.

Learning Side-by-Side with Experienced Nurses in Texarkana

The Clinical Immersion Program pairs each senior nursing student with an experienced nurse preceptor who serves as a mentor throughout their clinical experience. Students are matched with nurses working in specialties or departments that align with their career interests.

According to a press release, to give an authentic experience, students follow the same schedule as their preceptor, including weekend and night shifts when applicable. This allows future nurses to experience the realities of the profession while building confidence and practical skills in a real healthcare setting.

Micah Johnson, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer with CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System, said:

The Clinical Immersion Nursing Program is a vital investment in the preparation of our graduate nurses. It provides the hands-on experience, support, and clinical exposure needed to build confidence, strengthen judgment, and ease the transition from the academic setting into professional practice.

Bridging the Gap Between Classroom and Career at Texas A&M -Texarkana

Dr. Heather McKnight, Dean of the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at A&M-Texarkana, said the partnership with CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System helps students make the transition from classroom learning to patient care.

McKnight said,

The A&M-Texarkana B.S.N. clinical immersion partnership with CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world practice. It is designed to strengthen clinical judgment, inspire confidence, and ensure graduates enter the workforce ready to deliver safe, competent, and compassionate care from day one.

A&M Texarkana Delivering Strong Results for Nursing Graduates

The program is already contributing to the success of A&M-Texarkana nursing graduates. Students in the BSN program continue to outperform state and national averages on the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

While the average NCLEX-RN pass rate is 88% in Texas and 86% nationally, A&M-Texarkana nursing graduates achieved an impressive 95% pass rate in 2026.

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The success doesn't stop there. University officials report that 100% of the 2026 nursing graduates secured employment before graduation, highlighting the strong demand for skilled nurses and the quality of the university's nursing program.

For more information about the nursing program or to apply for admission, visit TAMUT.edu.