This immersive approach allows students to earn academic credit while also receiving financial compensation from clinical partners for their work.
What is the Advanced Clinical Immersion Program?
The Advanced Clinical Immersion (ACI) program is a final-semester (Level 4) opportunity for ACC nursing students to earn academic credit and get paid through an immersive, hands-on hospital experience. Instead of traditional group clinicals, students work one-on-one with trained RN preceptors, aligning their schedules with real hospital shifts.
Preceptors provide direct supervision and mentorship, while each student remains academically supported by an ACC nursing professor to ensure clinical standards and learning objectives are met. ACI is designed to build confidence, competence, and job readiness before graduation.
Eligibility
Must have…
Minimum GPA of 2.5
Enrolled in a current ADN Traditional Track program moving from Level 3 to Level 4.
Consistent academic progression of ACC Nursing classes.
Be in good academic standing.
How has the ACI program shaped your journey to becoming a nurse?
ACI Student
I love the ACI/SNI program. It was a little rock at first trying to figure out everything, but everything moves smoothly once you are in it. You have the same expectation as normal clinical groups, but are able to do more and have more autonomy.
ADN Graduate
I feel much more prepared. Time management has been proven to be a very important but also difficult skill to gain. This opportunity and its responsibilities turned out to be extremely realistic but also helpful for my future journey.
Next Steps
Clinical Partner Resources
Find out more about our healthcare hospital partners.
Hospital partners expect students to:
- Complete the hospital’s application and onboarding process.
- Maintain good standing as an employee.
- Abide by the mutually agreed-upon good faith agreement.
Clinical Partner Resources
Find out more about our healthcare hospital partners.
St. David’s Healthcare
Deadline: April 11, 2025 at 5 p.m.
Coming Soon
Deadline: TBD
FAQ
What happens if I had to repeat a course?
Extenuating circumstances that led to the repeat of a nursing course will be considered individually.
Contact Professor Lori Lucas explaining your unique circumstances where you repeated a nursing course.
What is the Advanced Clinical Immersion (ACI) program?
The ACI is a unique clinical opportunity for final-semester (Level 4) nursing students that combines academic clinical credit with a paid clinical experience. Students work one-on-one with an RN preceptor in real hospital settings to build confidence, competence, and job readiness.
How does ACI differ from traditional clinicals?
Unlike traditional group clinicals led by an instructor, ACI students are paired with a dedicated RN preceptor. You’ll follow your preceptor’s work schedule, allowing for real-world immersion and individualized learning experiences.
Is this a paid program?
Yes. Students earn compensation from the hospital partner while also receiving academic clinical credit from ACC.
Who oversees my clinical learning?
You’ll have two key supporters:
- Your RN Preceptor – provides daily clinical mentorship.
- ACC Faculty Supervisor – ensures academic objectives are met and offers support throughout your experience.
What are the eligibility requirements for ACI?
To participate, students must:
- Be in good standing with ACC.
- Meet the application requirements for the ACI program.
- Be eligible for Level 4 clinical placement.
See Eligibility
What are the hospital partner’s expectations?
Hospital partners expect students to:
- Complete the hospital’s application and onboarding process.
- Maintain good standing as an employee.
- Abide by the mutually agreed-upon good faith agreement.
What is a “Good Faith Agreement”?
A good faith agreement outlines expectations between the student and the hospital. It may include training commitments and, in some cases, continued employment terms after completion. All terms must be clearly written and mutually agreed upon.
Am I required to work for the hospital after completing the ACI program?
Hospitals invest in your training through ACI because they believe in your potential and hope you’ll consider building your career with them after graduation—it’s a partnership built on mutual trust and opportunity.
What is a preceptor, and what do they do?
A preceptor is a licensed RN who guides your clinical learning, mentors you during shifts, and helps you meet your clinical objectives. They are essential to your development as a practice-ready nurse.
What is the typical schedule like for ACI students?
Your clinical shifts will follow your assigned preceptor’s schedule. You are expected to complete at least one shift between Wednesday and Friday. Night shift students typically work Tuesday through Friday, unless simulations or mastery activities are scheduled the following day.
Are there other program requirements outside of clinical shifts?
Yes. In addition to clinical shifts, students must:
- Attend all scheduled lectures.
- Participate in simulations (except virtual sim).
- Complete Mastery and Boot Camp sessions.
Can I share my experience in the ACI program?
- Absolutely! We encourage students to share their ACI stories to inspire and inform future cohorts.