The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) is actively addressing the nursing shortage in Texas through a variety of programs as part of the state's strategic plan for higher education, Building a Talent Strong Texas.
According to a statement from THECB, the demand for registered and licensed vocational nurses in Texas is surpassing the current supply, with projections indicating a widening gap over the next decade.
Among the programs aimed at addressing this issue is the Emergency and Trauma Care Education Partnership Program (ETEP), which supports training opportunities in emergency and trauma care. Since 2012, ETEP has allocated approximately $19.6 million to fellow and resident positions and $6.8 million for graduate nursing positions.
The Nursing Shortage Reduction Program (NSRP), established in 2001, focuses on increasing the production of licensed nurses by providing grants to institutions for initiatives related to enrolling, retaining, and graduating more nurses. The allocation for the 2024-2025 period was $46.8 million across three programs.
Another initiative, the Nursing & Allied Health Nursing Innovation Grant Program (NIGP), provides funding to nursing programs for innovative projects that enhance student preparation. Since 2000, around $46 million has been awarded to 96 institutions through this program.
In terms of financial aid, THECB offers the Future Occupations and Reskilling Workforce Advancement to Reach Demand (FORWARD) Loan Program, a low-interest loan program for students enrolled in high-demand occupations like nursing and patient care.
Additionally, the ONE Project, led by THECB's Digital Learning division, provides free textbooks and course materials to nursing students and educators, aiming to improve the learning experience and reduce the costs associated with nursing education.
These programs, combined with the increasing number of nursing programs across Texas institutions, demonstrate THECB's commitment to helping Texans obtain valuable credentials with minimal debt while addressing the state's economic and healthcare needs.
