The Best Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs

When faced with numerous Texas acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP) programs, selecting the most suitable one for your requirements can be challenging.
This guide presents information on the best ACNP programs in Texas, including details on coursework, program expectations, and admission prerequisites.
Additionally, we address common queries students may have.
As an acute care nurse practitioner, you will play a crucial role in the healthcare sector. Discover the premier Texas ACNP certification programs that can help you launch a successful career as an ACNP in Texas.

How to Choose the Best ACNP Program in Texas

Selecting the right program requires careful consideration of several factors. It’s important to focus on key elements such as accreditation, faculty expertise, clinical experience opportunities, and flexibility. For example, some Texas ACNP programs are designed specifically for BSN nurses, offering a more streamlined path for those who already have nursing experience. Consider whether you want to attend full-time or part-time, and whether online options are available, especially for those who may have other responsibilities.

The Best ACNP Programs in Texas for BSN Nurses

If you already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you’re well-positioned to apply for top Texas Nurse Practitioner programs. Many of the best programs are designed for BSN nurses, offering a specialized path to becoming an acute care nurse practitioner. Whether you’re looking for an ACNP program in Houston, Dallas, or San Antonio, there are numerous options with high-quality clinical training and strong academic foundations.

The Best Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs

1. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Nursing
Location: Houston, TX
Website: https://nursing.uth.edu
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston offers a highly regarded Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) program that prepares nurses to provide advanced care to acutely ill and critically injured patients. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and focuses on critical care management, including the ability to handle emergency situations and life-threatening conditions in settings like intensive care units and emergency departments.

This ACNP program is designed for nurses who already have a background in nursing and wish to specialize in acute care. Students will receive training in pathophysiology, pharmacology, assessment skills, and advanced clinical practices in managing adult patients with acute conditions. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, with online coursework and clinical practice requirements.

Graduates of the ACNP program at UTHealth are eligible to sit for national certification exams, including those through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The program prepares nurses to work in a variety of acute care settings, including hospitals, trauma centers, and emergency departments.

Campus: Houston, TX
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $800 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with ACNP specialty
Programs: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care

2. Texas Woman’s University College of Nursing
Location: Denton, TX
Website: https://www.twu.edu/nursing
Texas Woman’s University offers an exceptional Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) program that focuses on providing students with advanced clinical skills in acute and critical care settings. The program is designed for nurses who already hold a BSN and want to specialize in treating acutely ill patients across the lifespan.

The ACNP program at TWU is available in both a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track, allowing students to choose the level of education that fits their career goals. Students gain expertise in managing patients with complex conditions, including those in intensive care units, emergency rooms, and trauma centers. The program includes both in-person clinical practice and online coursework.

TWU’s program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the ACNP certification exams, preparing them to work in a variety of acute care settings.

Campus: Denton, TX
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $400 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: MSN or DNP in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Programs: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care

3. University of Texas at Arlington College of Nursing
Location: Arlington, TX
Website: https://www.uta.edu/nursing
The University of Texas at Arlington offers a well-regarded Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) program designed to provide students with the skills necessary to deliver high-quality care to acutely ill adult patients. The program prepares nurses to manage patients with critical, complex conditions across a variety of clinical settings, including intensive care units, emergency departments, and trauma centers.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that students receive a high-standard education in advanced practice nursing. The curriculum includes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience, which is delivered in a hybrid format. Students take part in online courses, in-person intensives, and clinical placements in acute care settings.

Graduates of the ACNP program at UT Arlington are eligible to sit for the national certification exam for Acute Care Nurse Practitioners, allowing them to work in hospitals, trauma centers, and emergency care facilities.

Campus: Arlington, TX
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $600 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with Acute Care Nurse Practitioner specialty
Programs: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care

4. Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing
Location: Dallas, TX
Website: https://www.baylor.edu/nursing
Baylor University’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing offers a comprehensive Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) program with a focus on providing students with advanced clinical expertise in managing critically ill patients. Baylor’s program prepares nurses for leadership roles in acute care settings, including hospitals, intensive care units, and emergency departments.

The ACNP program at Baylor is delivered in a hybrid format that blends online coursework with in-person clinical rotations, ensuring that students gain the hands-on experience necessary for high-level practice. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and graduates are eligible to take the national certification exams for Acute Care Nurse Practitioners.

The program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and advanced clinical decision-making. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for certification and to assume leadership roles in critical care.

Campus: Dallas, TX
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,200 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: MSN or DNP in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Programs: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care

5. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing
Location: Lubbock, TX
Website: https://www.ttuhsc.edu/nursing
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) program designed to provide advanced education and training in acute and critical care. The program prepares nurses to work with patients in critical care settings such as intensive care units, emergency rooms, and trauma centers.

The program is available in a hybrid format, combining online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Texas Tech’s ACNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and students gain a deep understanding of complex pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical assessment skills required for the role of an ACNP.

Graduates are prepared to sit for the national certification exams for Acute Care Nurse Practitioners. The program is designed to meet the needs of working nurses and can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.

Campus: Lubbock, TX
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $500 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: MSN in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Programs: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care

6. University of Houston College of Nursing
Location: Houston, TX
Website: https://www.uh.edu/nursing
The University of Houston offers a highly respected Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) program that prepares nurses to deliver advanced care in critical care and emergency settings. The program focuses on adult and gerontology acute care, with the goal of training nurses to manage complex patient conditions requiring urgent and intensive care.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is delivered through a hybrid model, including online coursework and in-person clinical rotations. The curriculum includes advanced courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and clinical assessment, preparing students to become leaders in acute care.

Graduates of the ACNP program at the University of Houston are prepared to sit for national certification exams, positioning them for advanced practice roles in hospitals, trauma centers, and other healthcare facilities.

Campus: Houston, TX
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $900 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: MSN in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Programs: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care

These Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) programs in Texas provide a comprehensive education to prepare nurses for specialized roles in acute care environments. Whether you are looking to work in critical care units, emergency rooms, or trauma centers, these programs offer the advanced clinical training and flexibility you need to succeed in your career. With high accreditation standards and a combination of online learning and clinical practice, graduates of these programs are well-equipped to take on leadership roles and provide high-quality care in acute care settings.

Top Texas Schools Offering ACNP Programs

Several schools in Texas offer ACNP programs with a reputation for excellence. Some of the most highly regarded institutions include the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and Baylor College of Medicine. These schools provide a range of programs, including both traditional and accelerated options. Some also offer bridge programs for nurses looking to transition into an ACNP role, or BSN to NP programs that allow you to earn your certification in a shorter time frame.

Admission Requirements for Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

Most Texas ACNP programs require a BSN degree and an active RN license. Admission typically involves submitting transcripts from all postsecondary education, at least two references, a personal essay, and a criminal background check. Many programs have a GPA requirement of 3.0 or higher, and some may require completion of specific prerequisites like an undergraduate statistics course. Additionally, some Texas ACNP programs may offer bridge programs for RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or other nursing certifications.

What is the Salary Outlook for Acute Care Nurse Practitioners in Texas?

The salary of an acute care nurse practitioner in Texas varies based on location, experience, and the healthcare facility you work at. According to recent data, the average acute care nurse practitioner salary in Texas is approximately $103,270 annually. Salaries range from $86,540 at the 25th percentile to $123,440 at the 75th percentile. With the demand for nurse practitioners high, especially in Texas’ urban areas like Dallas and Houston, becoming an ACNP can be a financially rewarding career choice.

How Long Does it Take to Become an ACNP in Texas?

The duration of an ACNP program in Texas depends on your previous education and the specific program you choose. If you’re entering with a BSN, most programs take about two years to complete. However, if you have an ADN or are enrolled in a part-time program, it may take longer, typically three years or more. Some accelerated nurse practitioner programs in Texas may allow you to complete the degree in a shorter time frame if you meet specific eligibility requirements.

What is the Difference Between Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Acute Care NP?

The key distinction between a family nurse practitioner (FNP) and an acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP) lies in the type of care they provide. FNPs focus on general and preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and treating patients over the long term. In contrast, acute care NPs specialize in managing patients with severe, often life-threatening conditions, typically in hospital settings. While both roles are critical, FNPs are often primary care providers, while ACNPs handle acute medical crises in emergency rooms, intensive care units, or specialty clinics.

Accreditation and Its Importance for Texas ACNP Programs

Choosing an accredited ACNP program in Texas is essential for your future career as a nurse practitioner. Accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic and clinical standards, which is critical for eligibility for board certification and licensure. Only graduates from accredited acute care nurse practitioner programs in Texas are qualified to take the certification exam, so be sure to verify that the program you choose is accredited by a recognized agency, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Bridge and Accelerated Pathways to Becoming an ACNP in Texas

If you’re looking to transition quickly into an acute care nurse practitioner role, accelerated and bridge programs may be the right option for you. Accelerated nurse practitioner programs in Texas are designed for individuals who already hold a BSN and want to expedite their education. Bridge programs, on the other hand, offer a pathway for nurses with an ADN or another nursing credential to earn their ACNP certification in a more efficient manner. These programs can save you time, but it’s important to ensure that they meet all accreditation standards.

Nurse Practitioner Programs in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio

Texas offers a variety of nurse practitioner programs in cities such as Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Whether you prefer urban settings with diverse healthcare facilities for clinical practice or smaller, more focused academic environments, there are excellent ACNP programs available in these major cities. Houston, being a healthcare hub, has some of the top Texas ACNP programs, while Dallas and San Antonio are home to competitive programs offering clinical experiences in top-tier hospitals.

How to Apply to an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program in Texas

To apply for an acute care nurse practitioner program in Texas, you will need to submit several key documents, including official transcripts, proof of RN licensure, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. Some programs may require a GRE score or specific undergraduate courses in statistics or research methods. Be sure to research each program’s specific admission criteria and deadlines to ensure a smooth application process.

Accredited Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

When considering ACNP programs in Texas, accreditation is paramount. Accreditation ensures that you receive a high-quality education that will prepare you to meet the challenges of the acute care setting. Accredited programs in Texas are recognized for their commitment to excellence in nursing education, which means you will receive the best possible training and be fully prepared for your certification exam and career as an ACNP.

In conclusion, selecting the best acute care nurse practitioner program in Texas requires thorough research and planning. Consider factors such as program length, cost, accreditation, and the opportunities for clinical training. Whether you are looking to advance from a BSN to an NP, or seeking a bridge program to move from RN to ACNP, Texas offers a wealth of options to suit your career goals and aspirations.