University of Texas Permian Basin nursing program faces conditional approval from Texas Board of Nursing

The Texas Board of Nursing convened on April 24, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding the University of Texas Permian Basin's (UTPB) Baccalaureate Degree Nursing Education Program. This meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges and improvements within the program, particularly in light of recent NCLEX RN pass rate concerns.

UTPB's nursing program, which received initial approval from the Texas Board of Nursing in April 2013, has faced scrutiny due to its NCLEX pass rates falling below the required 80% benchmark. In 2023, the program recorded a pass rate of 72.46%, prompting a change in its approval status from full approval to "full approval with warning." This status change necessitated an in-person survey, which was conducted in March 2025.

During the meeting, Dr. Michael Hall, the interim nursing program director, presented a comprehensive self-study report detailing corrective measures implemented to address the program's performance issues. Key changes included revising admission criteria to ensure that students complete foundational courses before entering the nursing program. Additionally, the curriculum was adjusted to move pharmacology from an online format to in-person instruction, which has already shown positive impacts on student learning.

Dr. Hall emphasized the importance of these changes, noting that the faculty and administration have been supportive in identifying areas for improvement. The program has also introduced a new testing requirement, the TEAS, to better assess incoming students' readiness for nursing education.

The board members were presented with UTPB's response to the concerns raised, which included a commitment to ongoing evaluation and enhancement of the program. Representatives from UTPB, including President Sandy Woodley and interim dean Dr. Camille Reese, expressed gratitude for the board's support and outlined their dedication to improving student outcomes.

As the board deliberates on the potential change of UTPB's approval status to conditional, the implications of this decision could significantly affect the program's future and its ability to attract and retain students. The meeting underscored the importance of maintaining high educational standards in nursing programs, which are crucial for ensuring the quality of healthcare professionals entering the workforce.

In conclusion, the Texas Board of Nursing's discussions regarding UTPB's nursing program reflect broader concerns about nursing education quality and the need for continuous improvement. The board's upcoming decision will be pivotal in shaping the future of UTPB's nursing education and its impact on the healthcare landscape in Texas.