Nursing Program Pathways

Nursing excellence at UTMB is driven by a culture of continuous learning, professional development, and the Nursing Clinical Ladder, which supports career growth at every stage. Through our Nurse Residency Program and Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) apprenticeship program pathways, our staff gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and advanced training to stay at the forefront of healthcare innovation.

Nurse Residency ProgramEmpowering new nurses with the skills, confidence, and support to thrive from day one.

At UTMB, we are committed to supporting new graduate nurses as they transition into professional practice through our Nurse Residency Program—a structured, supportive experience designed to build confidence, competence, and career success.

This comprehensive program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and provides new nurses with the resources, education, and mentorship needed to thrive in a dynamic healthcare environment. Through a series of seminars, workshops, and hands-on learning experiences, nurse residents strengthen critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and leadership skills essential to delivering high-quality patient care.

A cornerstone of the program is a focus on evidence-based practice, empowering nurse residents to actively engage in improving patient outcomes and advancing nursing practice. Participants also develop individualized professional goals, laying the foundation for continued growth and lifelong learning.

As part of a nationally recognized residency collaborative, this program reflects best practices in nurse transition-to-practice, ensuring our newest nurses are well-prepared to provide safe, compassionate, and expert care to the communities we serve.

Visit our UTMB Careers page for information on how to apply.

Cohort of UTMB Nurse Residents pose for a group photo.

 PROGRAM BENEFITS

Nurse residents are considered full-time employees and are eligible for:

  • Free employee medical insurance
  • Disability and life insurance options
  • State retirement with employer contributions
  • Paid time off for vacation, sick and holidays
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Clinical Ladder career advancement
  • Continued nursing education opportunities
  • And more!

Contact Our Residency Manager

CNA Training Apprenticeship Program An earn-while-you-learn pathway preparing CNAs for confident, compassionate care.

Since launching in October 2023, our Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Training Apprenticeship program has supported over 100 participants through an earn-while-you-learn model that blends classroom learning, hands-on clinical experience, and mentorship from experienced healthcare professionals.

Apprentices gain training that meets Texas Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) requirements and builds confidence through advanced learning in areas like dementia care, end-of-life support, workplace safety, and basic life support.

This innovative program reflects our commitment to education, high-quality patient care, and building the future of healthcare.

View all program benefits, check eligibility requirements, and apply today by visiting our UTMB Careers page.

Group photo of CNA program graduates smiling together in Levin Hall.

 PROGRAM BENEFITS

CNA Program participants are considered full-time employees and are eligible for:

  • Full-time benefits as a Hospital Aide
  • Minimum starting wage of $15/hour
  • Progressive pay increases during first year
  • Paid on-the-job training and class instruction
  • Ongoing mentorship from clinical instructors
  • Promotion to PCT upon completion
  • Eligible to take the CNA certification exam upon program completion

Contact Our CNA Program Manager

Nursing Clinical LadderAdvance Your Nursing Career at UTMB.

At UTMB, our nursing clinical career ladder is thoughtfully designed to empower nurse clinicians to grow, excel, and achieve professional advancement.

This structured pathway supports career progression by recognizing increased clinical expertise, expanding knowledge, and elevated responsibilities at every stage. Whether you’re beginning your nursing journey or seeking to advance to the next level, UTMB provides the resources, mentorship, and opportunities you need to succeed in a dynamic healthcare environment.

Take the next step in your nursing career with a program that values your dedication and rewards your professional development.

Start your clinical advancement journey today—connect with a UTMB HR representative to learn more about our Nursing Clinical Ladder.

A group of smiling nurses in black scrubs stand together for a group portrait in a garden.

QUESTIONS?

We're here to answer any questions you have about our UTMB Nursing Clinical Ladder and professional advancement.

Get in Touch with Our Team