HARLINGEN — There are more than 6,600 vacant registered nursing jobs in Texas, and the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Texas State Technical College is working to help fill that void with well-trained graduates.
Prospective students for the upcoming cohort have until November 4 to submit completed applications for the 20-month program, which starts in January.
Shirley Byrd, TSTC’s Nursing program director in Harlingen, said the selection process for the program is strict.
“We require all of our selected students to meet every requirement, without exception,” Byrd said. “They are required to attend a registered nurse information session provided by the instructors so they know what is involved to be a success in our program.”
The program prepares students for an entry-level job as a registered nurse (RN).
Judy Medrano, a TSTC Nursing instructor, said the program provides a well-rounded learning experience.
“Our top-of-the-line nursing simulators provide a realistic patient experience,” Medrano said. “Practicing, learning and implementing new techniques ensures that our students reach graduation and are prepared to deliver the best health care in the field.”
Byrd said the program’s goal is to prepare students for successful careers.
“TSTC provides its Nursing instructors with educational opportunities to keep their skills and education up to date and enhance students’ learning,” she said. “We limit the cohorts to 30 students to facilitate learning in preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), which enables a student to become a functioning RN. With our pass rate, and the longevity of the instructors, we continue to be the best Nursing program in Texas.”
The application process for the Nursing program must be completed online. For program requirements, visit www.tstc.edu/program-requirements/nursing/.
Prospective students can contact Tanya Villarreal at 956-364-4690 for further guidance regarding the application.
According to onetonline.org, RN jobs were forecast to increase 17% in Texas between 2018 and 2028. The median salary for RNs in Texas is $77,320, the website showed.
For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.
