Texas Nursing Schools and Programs
Texas boasts a multitude of nursing schools, each distinguished by unique offerings. This comprehensive guide delves into the premier nursing programs across the state, shedding light on Texas’s top-paying cities for nurses and elucidating the licensing guidelines. Continue reading to gain insights into the finest nursing schools and programs in Texas, uncovering essential details about admission requirements, job prospects, and the anticipated salaries for graduates.
The Best Nursing Schools in Texas
Our ranking system is meticulously crafted to aid you in discovering nursing programs in Texas that align with your professional aspirations, financial considerations, and lifestyle preferences.
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Methodology Overview: Employing a data-centric methodology, we systematically assess and rank the best nursing schools in Texas, streamlining the process of finding a program tailored to your needs. Our approach hinges on key metrics deemed crucial for students, encompassing academic excellence, affordability, reputation, and program diversity. Leveraging publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), we ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information presented here. It’s important to note that program-specific details may vary, and all data is current as of the publication date of this article.
Unveiling the Diversity of Nursing Education in Texas
Texas stands as a hub for diverse nursing education options, with a myriad of institutions offering distinct programs. This comprehensive guide is designed to assist prospective students in navigating the rich tapestry of nursing schools and programs in the state. By exploring key factors such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings, individuals can make informed decisions aligned with their educational and professional goals.
Navigating Nursing School Selection
Choosing the right nursing school is a pivotal decision that shapes your educational journey and future career. This guide aims to simplify the process by providing a data-driven ranking of the best nursing schools in Texas. We recognize the importance of factors such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings in your decision-making process. Leveraging publicly available data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), our methodology ensures the accuracy and relevance of the information presented. Prospective students can use this resource to explore various nursing programs, understand admission requirements, and gain insights into the job outlook and projected salaries for graduates.
Evaluating Criteria for Nursing School Rankings
Our methodology for ranking nursing schools in Texas is rooted in a comprehensive assessment of key criteria. By considering factors such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings, we aim to provide prospective students with valuable insights into the diverse landscape of nursing education in the state. Utilizing publicly available provisional datasets from IPEDS ensures the reliability of the information, keeping it current as of the publication date. As students embark on the journey of selecting a nursing program, this guide equips them with essential information to make well-informed choices tailored to their individual needs and goals.
#1 The University of Texas at Austin
The nursing program at the University of Texas at Austin, situated in Austin, TX, extends over four years and offers a blended learning experience, combining online and on-campus elements. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) equips full-time students with the skills necessary for a nursing career, with the possibility of progressing to master’s or doctoral programs. Coursework covers diverse areas such as public health nursing, nursing research, and complex nursing care. In addition to the undergraduate program, UT provides continuing education initiatives, certificates, and graduate programs.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $10,824
– Out-of-state: $38,326
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $11,998
– Out-of-state: $22,966
Retention Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 32%
Students Enrolled: 51,090
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 25%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Texas Christian University
Texas Christian University, located in Fort Worth, TX, offers a four-year nursing program, blending online and on-campus components. Qualified nurses with a master’s degree or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) can pursue TCU’s postgraduate certificate. This program prepares learners for advanced practice registered nursing roles, involving both online classes and practical experiences in their local communities. The certificate program requires completion of 12-22 credits.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $49,160
– Out-of-state: $49,160
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $30,780
– Out-of-state: $30,780
Retention Rate: 91%
Admission Rate: 47%
Students Enrolled: 11,024
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 3%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Texas A & M International University
Texas A & M International University, located in Laredo, TX, offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, combining online and on-campus components. The curriculum covers essential topics like pharmacology, community nursing, and nursing leadership. The program concludes with a capstone project. Additionally, this Texas nursing school provides two master’s degrees in nursing, allowing learners to specialize in nursing administration or family nurse practitioner.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $3,818
– Out-of-state: $13,946
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $3,350
– Out-of-state: $10,946
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 54%
Students Enrolled: 8,305
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 46%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Baylor University
Baylor University, located in Waco, TX, is a Baptist-affiliated institution offering a four-year nursing program with both online and on-campus components. Baylor provides six online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs, including family nurse practitioner and nurse midwifery. Post-master’s students are required to complete 75 credits and 1,000 clinical hours to earn these degrees, with the option to transfer up to 37 credits.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $42,842
– Out-of-state: $42,842
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $32,130
– Out-of-state: $32,130
Retention Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 45%
Students Enrolled: 18,033
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 10%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, located in Edinburg, TX, offers a four-year nursing program with both online and on-campus components. UTRGV provides a post-master’s nurse practitioner certificate in psychiatric mental health, involving 18 credits of didactic courses and clinical therapeutics/preceptorship. This program equips students with the skills to offer comprehensive care to patients across the lifespan.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $6,664
– Out-of-state: $16,792
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $5,959
– Out-of-state: $13,555
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Rate: 80%
Students Enrolled: 29,113
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 51%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 University of Houston
The University of Houston, located in Houston, TX, offers a four-year nursing program with both online and on-campus components. UH stands out as one of the premier nursing schools in Texas, providing three Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs building on the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The family nurse practitioner program qualifies students as family nurse practitioners, while those pursuing the nurse education degree can enter roles in research, teaching, or leadership. Online students are required to attend a two-day program at the program’s commencement.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $8,219
– Out-of-state: $20,747
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $8,370
– Out-of-state: $17,746
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 65%
Students Enrolled: 46,148
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 43%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Texas Lutheran University
Texas Lutheran University, located in Seguin, TX, offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program exclusively on campus. This comprehensive nursing program in Texas mandates the completion of 60 nursing credits following the fulfillment of prerequisites. Enrollees undergo extensive training, including 945 hours in simulations, hands-on experiences, and clinical rotations. Clinical groups, involving 6-10 learners, provide a personalized and interactive learning environment. The program ensures real-world exposure through partnerships with numerous nearby hospitals.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $30,550
– Out-of-state: $30,550
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $30,550
– Out-of-state: $30,550
Retention Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 56%
Students Enrolled: 1,476
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: Not provided
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 University of St Thomas
The University of St Thomas, situated in Houston, TX, offers some of the most distinguished nursing programs in Texas, including a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with both online and on-campus components. This 120-credit program is open to students who have completed two years of prerequisite coursework, either at UST or another institution. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on patient-centered care within a healing and holistic environment. Graduates are eligible to apply for registered nurse licensure.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $30,800
– Out-of-state: $30,800
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $20,934
– Out-of-state: $20,934
Retention Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 87%
Students Enrolled: 3,448
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 30%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 LeTourneau University
LeTourneau University, located in Longview, TX, is a Christian nursing school in Texas with a focus on technical and scientific education. The university offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with both online and on-campus components. This 122-credit program consists of 67 prerequisite credits and 55 credits of nursing courses. Graduates of this program may pursue careers as clinical consultants, occupational health nurses, or nurse managers.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $30,520
– Out-of-state: $30,520
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $18,618
– Out-of-state: $18,618
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Rate: 45%
Students Enrolled: 3,150
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 60%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Laredo College
Laredo College, located in Laredo, TX, stands out as one of the most affordable nursing schools in Texas, offering a four-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program exclusively on campus. Traditional students can pursue the two-year program, while licensed vocational nurses can transition to the ADN program. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills and guides students on adapting to the professional nurse role.
Average Undergraduate Tuition
– In-state: $2,400
– Out-of-state: $3,648
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 10,200
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 21%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Texas
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports that Texas witnesses an annual enrollment of over 36,000 students in nursing schools. The Lone Star State projects a substantial growth of 16.4% in registered nurse (RN) jobs from 2018 to 2028, doubling the national figure. Furthermore, the anticipated job growth rate for nurse practitioners (NPs) in Texas is even more significant at 31.9%.
This increasing demand is reflected in nursing salaries across the state. Registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) in Texas earn salaries surpassing the national median. Additionally, Texas legislation mandates hospitals to establish committees using nurse-driven ratios for staffing plans and policies, aiming to enhance working conditions.
Texas is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, facilitating the recognition of Texas nursing licenses in all 39 participating states. Nurses licensed in one NLC state can work in Texas after applying for licensure by endorsement, streamlining the process for those who did not attend nursing school in Texas.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Texas
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for nurses in Texas stands at $75,320, aligning with the national median for RNs. Nurse practitioners in Texas enjoy a median annual salary of $113,800, slightly exceeding the national median. With a cost of living index of 92.6, lower than the national average of 100, Texas presents an attractive proposition for nursing professionals.
Looking ahead to 2030, Texas anticipates a need for 15,300 more nurses as the state’s population grows, coupled with the aging U.S. population. This projected demand reinforces the idea that attending nursing school in Texas could be a wise investment.
The highest paying cities for nurses in Texas, including Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, also happen to be its largest. Smaller cities like Killeen-Temple and Victoria provide high-paying nursing job opportunities, catering to diverse preferences.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Median Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land | $84,220 |
| Killeen-Temple | $77,290 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $76,700 |
| Victoria | $75,070 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $74,290 |
Source: BLS
Steps to Enter the Nursing Profession in Texas
Becoming a nurse in Texas involves meeting educational and background standards and passing an examination on Texas nursing law.
RN Requirements
Texas RNs must obtain a nursing license by completing an accredited nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN, and applying to the Texas Board of Nursing. Additional requirements include an FBI background check with fingerprinting and passing the jurisprudence examination, covering state nursing laws.
For those who graduated from a school in an NLC state but did not attend nursing school in Texas, licensure by endorsement is an option. This process involves submitting an online application to the Board of Nursing, passing the jurisprudence examination, and paying an application fee.
APRN Requirements
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Texas must hold an MSN or a DNP, with nurse anesthetists mandated to earn a DNP as of 2025. Like RNs, APRNs need to attend an accredited school, pass the board certification examination, undergo a background check, and complete a jurisprudence exam before applying for Texas licensure.
The state board’s website provides detailed information for APRNs, including requirements and scope of practice.
Other Top Nursing Programs in Texas
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Texas
1. How long does it take to become an RN in Texas?
It typically takes two years to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and four years to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Following this, passing the jurisprudence exam and applying for a Texas RN license is required. Attending a nursing program in Texas is not mandatory for obtaining licensure.
2. What is the number one nursing program in Texas?
The top nursing program in Texas depends on individual needs and career goals. Consider factors such as NCLEX-RN pass rates when exploring options. The average Texas NCLEX-RN pass rate is 92.1%, exceeding the national rate of 88%.
3. How many nursing programs are in Texas?
Texas boasts 67 approved ADN nursing programs and 59 approved BSN programs, as per the State Board of Nursing.
4. How much does nursing school cost in Texas?
Tuition rates for nursing schools in Texas vary. ADN costs can range from under $10,000 to almost $50,000, while BSN prices vary from approximately $20,000 to over $100,000. Factors such as student residency status, enrollment, and financial aid eligibility influence tuition costs.
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