Nursing’s forensic science rotation hits milestone

July 6, 2026 - HOUSTON - In a year of prominent anniversaries that includes the United States' 250th and Texas Woman's 125th, the university's College of Nursing is marking its 10th year of a partnership in forensic sciences no textbook can match.

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences provides a two-week, total immersion clinical rotation for TWU's nurse practitioner students. The rotation covers autopsies, death investigation, ethical considerations and broad intersections of health care, law and public health.

Nurse practitioner students take a peek outside traditional practice environments to gain a deeper understanding of trauma, violence, unexplained death, elder abuse, neglect and societal factors influencing health outcomes.

Associate Clinical Professor Emeritus Michael Mistric, PhD, APRN, FAANP, began the partnership in August 2016 following a chance meeting with former Harris County Medical Examiner Luis Sanchez, MD. The two agreed Mistric would provide artwork on behalf of TWU's College of Nursing while the institute provided rotations for TWU's NP students.

Mistric would serve as the program coordinator in two separate stints, and a plaque recognizing Mistric's art contributions still hangs at the institute today.

"After 10 years, this partnership stands as a compelling example of how a single, creative idea rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose can evolve into a lasting educational legacy," Mistric said. "It reflects the best of both institutions: TWU's commitment to preparing highly competent, compassionate nurse practitioners and the dedication of the HCIFS to service, education and professional development."

This year, Ngozi Mbue, PhD, APRN, became coordinator of the rotation, leading her first cohort in Spring 2026. Now, the rotation also includes Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and PhD students in addition to the nurse practitioner students.

"It is incredibly rewarding to lead this program. Having worked as a nurse for many years and as a nurse practitioner for more than 23 years, I often wish I had access to an opportunity like this during my own training," Mbue said. "It is a transformative experience that I believe would benefit every advanced practice nurse."

Mbue said that a student recently described the rotation to her as a hidden gem in TWU's program.

"One of the most rewarding aspects is hearing students reflect on what they have learned and how the experience has changed their perspective on patient care and the broader healthcare system," Mbue said.

Mbue and Mistric praised the staff and clinicians at the institute - one of the nation's premier forensic science facilities - for the success of the rotation. The HCIFS boasts a medical examiner service and crime laboratory service that provide top-notch opportunities for TWU's students on rotation.

"These experiences provide a rare and comprehensive view of how forensic science supports public health and the justice system," Mbue said.

Page last updated 5:18 PM, July 6, 2026