Board adjusts UTPB BSN program approval status to conditional amid leadership search

The Texas Board of Nursing made a significant decision during its April 24, 2025, meeting, impacting the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The board voted to change the program's approval status from full approval with warning to conditional approval. This decision was based on the program's 2024 NCLEX RN exam pass rate and noncompliance with specific regulatory standards.

The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by UTPB, described as a low-resource university with a thin operational margin. The interim leadership at UTPB has been working diligently to stabilize the program, which has seen an overwhelming need for a full-time dean and director to effectively manage its operations. A recent survey underscored this necessity, indicating that a more comprehensive faculty orientation and clearer definitions regarding student enrollment status are also critical for the program's success.

The board expressed appreciation for the interim leadership's efforts to navigate these challenges and emphasized the importance of finding permanent leadership soon. The decision to place the program on conditional approval reflects the board's commitment to ensuring that nursing education standards are met while also supporting the university's transition.

As UTPB works to address these issues, the board remains optimistic about the future of the nursing program and its ability to provide quality education to its students. The next steps will involve closely monitoring the program's progress and compliance with the established standards, ensuring that students receive the support they need to succeed in their nursing careers.