A&M-Texarkana Nursing Program Implements New Clinical Immersion Experience for Senior Bachelor of Science in Nursing Students

TEXARKANA, Texas - Students working toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN) at A&M-Texarkana are getting a better glimpse of life as a practicing nurse thanks to the University's new Clinical Immersion Program. The new program was rolled out on a trial basis in the Fall 2025 semester, then fully implemented for Spring 2026 with excellent results. The new immersion program is exclusively for students in their senior clinical experience.

The program pairs each student with a preceptor who works with the student throughout the clinical experience. Students are paired with a nurse who works in an area or department they are interested in, and the nursing student mirrors the same schedule of the preceptor, including weekend or night shifts, if applicable.

"The Clinical Immersion Nursing Program is a vital investment in the preparation of our graduate nurses," said Micah Johnson, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer with CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System. "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. At CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System, integrating this program into our care delivery model helps us develop nurses who are better prepared to provide safe, high-quality care while also supporting engagement, retention, and long-term success within our organization."

"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," said Dr. Heather McKnight, Dean of the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at A&M-Texarkana. "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. We are fortunate to have a strong clinical partner who supports the vision and mission of A&M-Texarkana and the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services."

Graduates of the A&M-Texarkana B.S.N. program consistently score higher on the NCLEX-RN licensing exam than both the state and national averages. The average state and national passing percentages for the NCLEX-RN are 88% for the state of Texas, and 86% nationally. A&M-Texarkana's NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2026 was an impressive 95%. In addition to their NCLEX examination success 100% of the 2026 nursing graduates were placed in jobs before graduation. For additional information about the nursing program at Texas A&M University-Texarkana or to apply for admissions to the University, visit https://www.tamut.edu.