ACI places students directly in the hospital setting, offering hands-on experience, academic credit, and paid compensation, all during Level 4 clinicals. Build confidence, sharpen skills, and prepare for your nursing career from day one.
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?
Austin Community College’s Accelerated Clinical Immersion (ACI) program provides nursing students with a unique dual-credit clinical experience in their final semester. Unlike traditional clinical placements, ACI allows students to directly integrate into the healthcare environment of participating hospital partners. This immersive approach enables students to earn academic credit and offer financial compensation from the clinical partners for their clinical work.
ACI student nurses do not attend clinical sessions in the typical group format led by a professor. Instead, they individually schedule their clinical hours to align with the work schedule of their designated nursing preceptor. The preceptor, trained and aware of ACC’s standards, takes on the instructional role traditionally held by a professor. Although the preceptor provides direct supervision on-site, each student remains under the academic oversight of a supervising nursing professor assigned to them by the Professional Nursing Department. The supervising professor is responsible for the student’s academic accountability, ensuring the clinical experience meets educational standards and objectives.
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 had a moment recently when it all clicked. I know my actual role as a nurse beyond the obvious. I know what my day is supposed to look like, what my responsibilities are, what is expected of me, and the quality of care I want to provide my patients. This program has allowed me to navigate myself to find those answers swiftly. It’s provided so many opportunities for direct patient care and learning.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.