Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU), in collaboration with AdventHealth Southwest Region, is launching a unique pathway for Mexican licensed nurses seeking to transition into the U.S. healthcare workforce. This two-phase program begins as a 13-week online course followed by an in-person 3-week clinical and cultural immersion program in Texas. The program is designed specifically for internationally educated nurses.

This pathway program helps qualified nurses transition into the U.S. nursing workforce by preparing them for the NCLEX-RN examination, building English communication skills, enhancing cultural competence, and offering pre-employment training and licensing support. The program addresses the national nursing shortage by equipping international nurses with the knowledge, skills, and licensure preparation required to practice in the United States.

“I am thrilled we can offer this program for a number of reasons,” shares Nursing Department Chair Dr. Kerrie Kimbrow. “I believe there is added value in sharing cultural perspectives. I want to add international components to our programs whenever possible to enrich the learning experience for all our students. This is also a partnership with AdventHealth. They've helped us so much with our nursing program in the past; here is an opportunity we can help them answer the current nursing shortage. Plus, this is an opportunity for us to use our spaces to their full potential – the clinical simulation areas largely go unused during the summer – and now they will be used to aid additional students and further enhance our program during the summer months.”

In addition to the course and cultural immersion program, the University will provide housing, meals, and airport transportation. Successful candidates who complete the program and pass the NCLEX will be offered employment by AdventHealth, receive full visa sponsorship, and be supported through the relocation process to the U.S.

The program is currently open to only Mexican-licensed nurses. The University is exploring additional opportunities for nurses from other countries, pending visa requirements.

The online course will begin on February 2, 2026, and the in-person program will begin in July 2026. Enrollment is limited. Applications are now being accepted; the application deadline is January 16, 2026. To apply, please visit https://swau.edu/academics/professional-certifications/international-nursing/.

###

For 132 years, Southwestern Adventist University has offered Christian education. A small comprehensive university, the beautiful campus is in Keene, Texas, about 20 minutes south of Fort Worth. Southwestern Adventist University offers personable professors, numerous programs including business, music, education, nursing, master’s programs, and many ways for students to get involved both on campus and abroad. With a diverse student body that includes international students from dozens of countries and an average student/teacher ratio of 11:1, Southwestern Adventist University offers a uniquely diverse and personal college experience.