Education – Out-of-State Nursing Programs Approved to Conduct Clinical Learning Experiences

Out-of-State nursing education programs planning to conduct clinical learning experiences in Texas require approval from the Texas Board of Nursing (Board/BON) prior to the initiation of any clinical learning experience.  Approval from the BON exempts nursing students from the Nursing Practice Act [Sec.301.004, (a)(6)]. Education Guideline 3.1.1.f. provides information relevant to the application process.

Process for Approval of a Pre-licensure Nursing Education Program Outside Texas’ Jurisdiction to Conduct Clinicals in Texas.

To conduct business/educational activities in the State of Texas, approval/accreditation/licensing or exemption of such from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) is required.  This approval must precede the approval process conducted by the Texas BON. 

TWC  - http://www.twc.state.tx.us/
THECB - http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/

List of out-of-state nursing education programs currently approved to conduct clinical learning experiences in Texas

• The BON has an educational guideline that sets forth rules, allowing out-of-state pre-licensure nursing programs to conduct clinical learning experiences in Texas healthcare facilities. This includes VN and RN education programs.

• Currently, 12 out-of-state nursing programs have been approved to conduct clinical learning experiences in Texas. Approved states include: Arkansas, Indiana, Oklahoma, Maryland, New Mexico, Washington, D.C..

• For programs seeking to obtain approval from Board staff, they must follow our guideline of required steps, including a $500.00 fee, evidence of approval from their home state board of nursing, and evidence of an 80% licensure pass rate for the previous reporting year.