Students first need to enroll in a nursing degree program to become an RN. Graduates can then apply for licensure. Texas also requires students to take a licensing exam.
Accelerated Campus Nursing Programs in Texas
Nurses provide and coordinate care for patients based on their education and experience. For example, registered nurses (RNs) perform physical exams while licensed practical nurses change bandages and dress wounds. Nurses demonstrate compassion, drive, and good communication in their work. Nursing also requires openness to continuing education.
Depending on the degree, students can complete a nursing program in 2-7 years. Accelerated programs typically last 11-18 months. Prior to submitting applications, prospective students choose a career path in nursing. Defining career goals helps students choose an appropriate nursing program. Entry-level positions for nursing typically require a bachelor’s degree.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that jobs for RNs will grow 7% between 2019 and 2029, which is faster than average. This page lists the best nursing schools in Texas. The following sections review requirements for nursing degrees, common nursing courses, and scholarships for nursing students.
What Can I Do with a Degree in Nursing?
Nursing degrees prepare students to provide medical care for patients. Nurses require a specialized skill set to work with patients and address critical healthcare needs. Most careers in nursing require at least a certified nursing assistant certificate to practice. More advanced or higher-paying careers ask for at least a bachelor of science in nursing.
Nurses choose from a variety of career opportunities based on their interests, education, and experience. For example, nursing professionals with an associate degree can work as RNs, and those with a master’s degree (MSN) can work in administrative positions.
Earning a higher degree allows nurses to advance in their current career or start a new one. Advanced degrees also open up higher paying job opportunities. For example, nurses can earn an MSN to specialize in a field and earn a higher salary.
Graduate Degree Options for a Career in Nursing
Students interested in furthering their education may pursue nursing graduate degrees. Earning a graduate degree in nursing can lead to increased earning potential and career advancement. Many nursing professionals with graduate degrees go on to work in leadership and teaching positions.
Nurses with graduate degrees may choose to increase their expertise in a specific area of the field. For example, a nurse may specialize in anesthesiology, obstetrics, or pediatrics. Nursing professionals with a graduate degree can also obtain advanced practice registered nurse status.
Students who do not pursue graduate education can develop their resume by earning certifications. Certifications for career advancement include wound care or hospice and palliative care. Students can also join organizations, like the American Academy of Nursing, to increase their professional networks.
Accreditation for a Degree in Nursing
Prospective students should check a school’s accreditation status prior to application. Accreditation ensures that schools offer consistent and quality education to students. Organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) perform a rigorous accreditation process. Students also benefit from attending an accredited school. For example, only students enrolled in an accredited school can apply for federal grants and loans.
Schools may receive either national or regional accreditation. National accreditation agencies accredit schools across the country. Regional organizations focus on schools in a specific location. Students may benefit more from attending a regionally accredited school. For example, credits from regionally accredited schools transfer more easily than those from nationally accredited schools.
In addition to CHEA, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits nursing programs. The U.S. Secretary of Education recognizes the CCNE as an independent national accrediting agency. The CCNE assesses nursing programs to ensure they meet an effective standard of education. Find out a school’s accreditation status.
FAQ
-
What is required to be a RN in Texas?
Students first need to enroll in a nursing degree program to become an RN. Graduates can then apply for licensure. Texas also requires students to take a licensing exam.
-
How many years does it take to get a RN degree?
RN degrees typically take two to four years to complete. This timeline depends on the type of degree. The number of courses taken each semester also affects this timeline.
-
What is the yearly salary for a RN?
According to the BLS, RNs earned a median annual salary of $73,000 in May 2019. Annual salary depends on education level and industry.
-
How much do nurses earn in Texas?
The BLS reports that RNs in Texas earned a median annual wage of $74,540 in May 2019. RNs in Texas earn slightly more than the national median annual salary.
What are the Requirements for a Degree in Nursing?
Students seeking their first or second degrees may apply to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs. BSN programs typically ask prospective and enrolled students to complete certain requirements to obtain their degree.
Most BSN programs require at least a 2.5 GPA to qualify for admission. Many also ask applicants to take an admissions assessment exam. These exams include the Test of Essential Academic Skills or Health Education Systems Incorporated exams. Programs may also require math and science prerequisite courses on transcripts.
To graduate with a BSN, students complete coursework in different areas of nursing. These areas include nursing care for women, mental health clients, and newborns. Students also participate in clinical rotations, labs, and simulation activities to gain practical nursing experience.
Courses in a Nursing Program
A bachelor’s in nursing prepares students for careers as RNs or graduate work in the field. Nursing programs offer courses that teach students skills needed to practice. Some basic courses include health assessment and pathophysiology.
The top nursing schools in Texas teach students specialized care practices. These specialized courses focus on certain populations, such as the elderly, families, or children. Courses in specialized areas help students determine possible career paths. Students may take these courses toward the end of their degree program.
The following list provides a sample of courses found in nursing bachelor’s programs. Not all programs offer the courses listed below. Rather, these courses represent a sample curriculum from nursing programs in Texas.
Certifications and Licensure for Nursing Majors
Licensing and certification help nurses in career advancement. Obtaining licensure or certification also allows nurses to demonstrate their expertise in a specific area. The following list provides examples of licenses and certifications to assist nurses in their careers. This list also includes the qualifications of licensure and certification recipients. Each license and certification asks for specific requirements to earn the credential.
- Certified Emergency Nurse CENs qualify nurses to work in emergency rooms. Nurses need a valid RN license to take the certification exam. Although not required, the Board of Certification recommends two years professional experience prior to application. The CEN exam focuses on research and practices in emergency nursing.
- Registered Nurse RN licensing qualifies students for nursing practice. Prospective RNs must complete an accredited nursing program. They also need to pass the national licensing exam. Obtaining RN licensure allows nurses to pursue certification in a specialized area. Each state holds different RN licensure requirements. For example, Texas requires prospective RNs to initiate a criminal background check.
- Family Nurse Practitioner FNPs qualify nurses to provide healthcare to families. Obtaining an FNP demonstrates a nurses' clinical knowledge of families at various life stages. Nurses take the FNP exam to receive this certification. The FNP exam focuses on healthcare for various populations. These populations include infants, adolescents, and older people.
Professional Organizations for Nursing Students
Joining professional organizations provides networking and career advancement opportunities for nurses. Nurses can join a national or local nursing organization. They can also join organizations based on their specialization area. Membership varies for each organization. For example, only school nurses may join the National Association of School Nurses. Most memberships also require yearly fees to join. The following list provides some examples of professional organizations available to nurses.
-
National Student Nurses Association
NSNA connects and mentors student nurses finishing bachelor’s programs. An NSNA membership helps nursing students meet experienced nurses and other students. Membership with NSNA promotes leadership development. NSNA also offers scholarships and awards to members. Students must demonstrate enrollment status in a nursing or pre-nursing program to qualify for membership.
-
American Association of Nurse Practitioners
Nurse practitioners (NPs) can apply for membership with AANP. AANP offers education resources for NPs. Members also receive career and practice support through online forums. NPs, students, graduates, and retired NPs can join the organization. Each membership type has different requirements. All AANP memberships require annual dues.
-
National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health
NPWH facilitates leading conversations regarding women’s health. This organization also provides education and resources on this topic. Members can continue their education through courses and self-study materials provided by NPWH. NPWH members also receive discounts for certification in midwifery and women’s health. Current and retired nurses qualify for membership. NPWH also offers student membership.
-
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
AACN connects acute and critical care nursing professionals. This organization provides educational resources and leadership opportunities to members. Members receive access to continuing education courses and clinical toolkits. AACN members also receive discounts on conferences and certifications. Students interested in critical care qualify for membership. NPWH also offers membership to current and retired critical care nurses.
Scholarships for Nursing Students
Scholarships help students fund their education. Many nursing students utilize scholarships to earn their degrees. Students enrolled in accelerated nursing programs in Texas may qualify for various scholarships. They can apply to multiple scholarships based on their qualifications. This list includes scholarships available to students earning a nursing degree.
-
Greta James Memorial Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This scholarship awards prospective and currently enrolled nursing students. Applicants submit a 250 word essay detailing their motivation for entering the nursing field. They must also discuss their qualifications to receive this scholarship. Peers in the nursing profession vote on the recipient of this scholarship.
Amount: $2,500 -
National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) Scholarships
Who Can Apply: NAHN offers a variety of scholarships for hispanic nursing students. Applicants must be NAHN members to qualify for these scholarships. Students seen as role models and leaders in the field receive these scholarships. NAHN bases recipient selection on academic achievement, financial need, and supporting academic documentation.
Amount: up to $5,000 -
Barbara Rhomberg Nursing Scholarship
Who Can Apply: B4 Brands awards this scholarship to a nontraditional nursing student each year. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in an undergraduate nursing program. Nontraditional students include those who took at least a three year gap between high school and college enrollment. This includes individuals who entered the workforce or military directly after high school.
Amount: $1,000 -
Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Scholarships
Who Can Apply: ENA offers a variety of scholarships to nurses pursuing bachelor’s degrees in nursing. Depending on the scholarship, applicants typically hold ENA membership. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum 3.0 GPA to qualify for these scholarships. They must also submit two recommendation letters. Recipients provide confirmation of their school’s accreditation to the ENA.
Amount: Varies -
Niche Nursing Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This scholarship awards high school and college students interested in studying nursing. Prospective or current students enrolled in nursing or nursing-related majors can apply. This scholarship helps students pay for tuition, books, or other education-related costs. Recipients of this award are determined through a random drawing.
Amount: $500
Accelerated Campus Nursing Programs in Texas 2020
-
Texas A & M University-College StationLocation
College Station, TX
Tuition$$$$$
The flagship school of the A&M System, Texas A&M serves more than 69,000 students from its campus in College Station (located between Austin and Houston). The school's bachelor of science in nursing offers an accelerated second-degree track that serves candidates with a bachelor's in another field of study. The program uses face-to-face instruction, video conference lectures, clinical experiences, and simulation activities.
Candidates complete a total of 61 credits in four semesters, with courses including nursing dimensions and informatics, nursing care of mental health clients, care studies in patient safety and quality, and evidence-based practice for nurses. The program begins each spring and lasts all year, featuring a 10-week intensive session in the summer.
Along with a bachelor's degree, applicants must have completed at least 40 of the 59 required prerequisite courses. Enrollees can complete the remainder during their program. Nursing prerequisite courses include lifespan psychology, nutrition, and anatomy and physiology.
-
Texas Christian UniversityLocation
Fort Worth, TX
Tuition$$$$$
A private college based in Fort Worth, TCU ranks among the best nursing schools in Texas for Christian students. The school offers an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing that enrollees can complete in just 16 months. This rigorous program requires students to complete 59 credits during the first four semesters. Accelerated candidates complete the same number of course credits and clinical hours as traditional students.
The program includes 124 credits total, with courses including health assessment concepts, care of adults with health alterations, behavioral health nursing, and leadership in nursing practice. Candidates also complete a professional nursing residency during the program's final semester.
TCU students benefit from comprehensive hands-on training, including sophisticated simulation labs equipped with the latest technology. The college also maintains working relationships with a variety of healthcare agencies and institutions throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area, offering significant opportunities for experiential learning.
-
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San AntonioLocation
San Antonio, TX
Tuition$$$$$
One of the top nursing schools in Texas, UT Health San Antonio offers a 15-month accelerated bachelor of science in nursing for full-time students. Preparing graduates for generalist practice in an assortment of nursing competencies, the program allows enrollees to earn distinctions in clinical service and research. UT Health San Antonio frames nursing as an act of social justice, focusing on care for diverse individuals, families, and communities.
The accelerated nursing program serves candidates who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. Applicants need a minimum 2.5 cumulative undergraduate GPA and a 3.0 GPA on all prerequisite courses. Prerequisites include college algebra, chemistry, microbiology, and human nutrition. Candidates must complete at least 51 of 60 credits of prerequisite courses before applying. Applicants must also complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills with a minimum score of 65.
-
University of HoustonLocation
Houston, TX
Tuition$$$$$
Another of the best nursing schools in Texas, UH offers a second-degree bachelor of science in nursing for candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree in an unrelated field. Courses occur on campus at UH's Sugar Land campus (located about 25 miles southwest of downtown Houston). Beginning each spring semester, the 12-month program prepares graduates to serve as registered nurses.
Candidates complete 60 upper-division nursing credits, with a curriculum that covers pharmacology for professional nursing practice, reading and interpreting scientific literature, nursing process for symptom management, and introduction to evidence-based nursing practice. Students also complete three sections of clinical nursing practice, building professional experience in a healthcare environment.
Applicants need a minimum cumulative undergraduate 3.0 GPA and a 3.0 GPA for all courses in natural and behavioral sciences.
-
The University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonLocation
Houston, TX
Tuition$$$$$
A healthcare-focused member of the prestigious University of Texas system, UTHealth offers an accelerated "Pacesetter" bachelor of science in nursing. The program takes full-time learners just 15 months to complete. Given the program's intensive nature, UTHealth offers only full-time enrollment, and learners are encouraged not to work while completing their degree. The program features both online and campus courses, lasting four semesters total.
Nursing candidates complete a total of 60 credits. The curriculum features nursing theory courses during the first three semesters and intensive clinical experiences during the fourth semester. Students also complete clinical courses during the first three semesters. Typical courses include health assessment, psychiatric and mental healthcare, community/public health nursing, and management of patients in high-acuity settings. Program graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam.
-
The University of Texas Medical BranchLocation
Galveston, TX
Tuition$$$$$
A member of the prestigious University of Texas system focused on health sciences, UTMB operates a campus in Galveston. Ranked among Texas' best nursing schools, UTMB offers an accelerated RN-to-BSN program that learners can complete in only eight months. Focusing on clinical reasoning and decision-making, the program helps enrollees develop leadership skills.
The two-semester program requires a minimum of 30 credits. Completing 15 credits each semester, candidates take courses such as foundations for evidence-based practice, contemporary professional nursing, and clinical reasoning in health management.
Applicants need a current registered nurse license and 60 credits of prerequisite courses, at least 40 of which must be complete when they appy. Applicants also need a minimum 2.5 GPA on all undergraduate coursework.
-
The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyLocation
Edinburg, TX
Tuition$$$$$
Based in Brownsville, UTRGV hosts one of the top accelerated nursing programs in Texas. The school's second-degree bachelor of science in nursing serves bachelor's degree-holders looking to enter the nursing field. Offering start dates in the fall, spring, and summer, the program takes just 15 months of full-time study.
The nursing curriculum integrates practical skills, theory and research, and leadership concepts, preparing graduates for both professional nursing practice and graduate study. The degree features 78 credits of nursing major courses, including topics in wellness and health promotion, pharmacology, mental health, and family clinical health. Depending on academic background, some candidates may need to complete additional support courses in areas such as chemistry, clinical nutrition, clinical microbiology, and medical terminology.
-
Tarleton State UniversityLocation
Stephenville, TX
Tuition$$$$$
A member of the Texas A&M University system, Tarleton serves more than 13,000 students annually from its main campus in Stephenville. Tarleton offers a bachelor's pathway for licensed vocational nurses, enabling candidates to earn their bachelor of science in nursing through a streamlined curriculum model. This accelerated nursing program occurs in Waco (about halfway between Dallas and Austin) on the campus of McLennan Community College, an affiliate of Tarleton.
Candidates complete a minimum of 52 credits over the course of four semesters. Typical courses include maternal and child health nursing, lifespan healthcare delivery, nursing leadership in healthcare, and population and global perspectives in nursing. During the final semesters, candidates complete a four-credit course in transition to professional nursing practice, along with a one-credit synthesis course that highlights major program principles.
-
Baylor UniversityLocation
Waco, TX
Tuition$$$$$
A private Baptist college in Waco, Baylor is one of the top nursing schools in Texas for Christian students. The school's FastBacc accelerated bachelor of science in nursing enables bachelor's degree-holders to complete their degree in just 12 months of full-time study. This intensive program runs primarily in Dallas, with significant classroom and clinical components. Courses combine several learning styles and delivery modes, including classroom, online, clinical and lab, and hybrid interactive options.
The program begins in the summer with a five-credit minimester that features two introductory courses: health assessment and foundations of nursing practice. Students complete two additional summer sessions for a total of 19 credits, along with traditional fall and spring semesters, for a total of 62 program credits. Other typical courses include community health nursing, mental health nursing, the childbearing family, and analysis and synthesis of complex human needs.
-
Midwestern State UniversityLocation
Wichita Falls, TX
Tuition$$$$$
Texas' only public liberal arts college, MSU is also one of the state's only independent public colleges unaffiliated with a major university system. Based in Wichita Falls (about 140 miles northwest of Dallas), the school hosts an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing program for bachelor's or master's degree-holders. Full-time enrollees can complete the program in 15 months and go on to take the national NCLEX nursing licensure examination.
The program begins in the summer, running through the fall, spring, and following summer semesters. Candidates complete a total of 57 major credits, including courses such as nursing research, concepts in mental healthcare, medical terminology, and concepts in clinical reasoning and judgement. During the final summer semester, candidates complete an 11-credit critical competency integration clinical experience, which applies overall program learning to hands-on nursing practice.
-
University of the Incarnate WordLocation
San Antonio, TX
Tuition$$$$$
A private Catholic college in San Antonio, UIW offers some of Texas' top nursing programs. The school's accelerated bachelor of science in nursing enrolls students who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing major. The program offers three annual start dates and takes full-time students 16 months to complete. The curriculum prepares graduates for the NCLEX exam.
UIW's nursing program uses a mixture of online coursework, hands-on simulation labs, and clinical rotations at healthcare facilities throughout San Antonio. Candidates complete much of the coursework online, but the program also features weekly in-person requirements for labs, exams, review sessions, and other activities.
Clinical rotations form a key component of UIW's nursing curriculum. All students complete more than 900 clinical hours as part of the degree. Clinicals begin during the first semester, and students complete an array of hands-on training activities throughout the program.
-
Prairie View A & M UniversityLocation
Prairie View, TX
Tuition$$$$$
Located about 50 miles northwest of Houston, PVAMU offers an accelerated RN-to-BSN program that enables registered nurses to earn their bachelor of science in nursing in just 12 months. The program uses a mixture of online and campus courses, with clinicals, labs, and other hands-on activities occurring in person. Applicants need either an associate degree or diploma in nursing along with a current nursing license.
The curriculum includes 30 credits of nursing major courses, which cover key topics such as individual health assessment, trends and issues in professional nursing, nursing leadership and management, and introduction to the research process. Candidates also complete two practicum sections focusing on community health nursing and nursing leadership. These two-credit experiences draw connections between coursework and nursing practice, helping students develop their skills in a professional healthcare setting.
-
Texas A & M University-CommerceLocation
Commerce, TX
Tuition$$$$$
Another member of the Texas A&M system, A&M-Corpus Christi serves about 12,000 students annually from its campus on the Gulf Coast. The school offers an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing that takes just four semesters to complete. Focusing on community-based primary care, the program emphasizes health promotion, health maintenance, behavioral health, and disease prevention and management.
The program uses a hybrid format that combines campus and online learning. Courses begin in the summer and usually conclude the following August. Enrollees complete courses including biobehavioral nursing interventions, wellness and health promotion across the lifespan, and care of chronic conditions.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree in any subject. The school requires a minimum cumulative 2.75 GPA and a 3.0 GPA on all prerequisite courses, including chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and statistics.
-
Texas A & M University-Corpus ChristiLocation
Corpus Christi, TX
Tuition$$$$$
A private liberal arts college, Concordia offers Christian-centered education from its campus in Austin. Ranked among the best nursing schools in Texas for Christian students, Concordia offers an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing that full-time enrollees can complete in 16 months. The program features three annual start dates in January, May, and August.
Corondoria's accelerated nursing program uses a hybrid format, combining online coursework with in-person simulation labs and clinical rotations at Austin-area hospitals. Online courses run primarily asynchronously, allowing students to complete assignments at their convenience. Simulation labs occur on the Concordia campus, enabling students to build basic skills and practice responding to patient care scenarios.
Clinical rotations build hands-on experience in key areas of nursing, including adult health, mental health, obstetrics, and pediatrics. Concordia's relationships with healthcare agencies around Austin offer varied opportunities for clinical experience.
-
Concordia University TexasLocation
Austin, TX
Tuition$$$$$
A major community college based in Austin, ACC offers an accelerated RN-to-BSN program for practicing nurses. Full-time enrollees can complete the program in just 12 months. ACC also offers a part-time option that takes 18 months to complete.
The program uses a hybrid format, mixing online courses and campus sessions at ACC's Eastview campus in East Austin. Courses begin each fall and generally use an eight-week format. Candidates complete a minimum of 32 credits, with courses including informatics and technology in healthcare, health assessment across the lifespan, and public and global health policy.
Applicants need a current, unencumbered Texas registered nurse license and an associate degree in nursing with a minimum 2.5 GPA. The college reserves priority admission for graduates of ACC's own associate in nursing program, with secondary priority offered to nurses who live and work in the Austin area. For secondary consideration, GPA plays a larger role in application consideration.
Popular Resources
Whether you’re looking to earn your online degree or you’re a parent looking for answers, you can find all of your questions covered here. Explore these resources to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever is thrown your way.
See All Posts

How Does College Accreditation Work?
Find out if your online school is accredited, and learn about the importance of accreditation.

Colleges That Don’t Require the SAT or ACT
A list of test-optional schools that don't use standardized test scores for admission into their bachelor's degree programs.

How to Find a College That Doesn’t Require the GED or High School Diploma
Even if you don’t have a diploma or your GED, there are still alternatives available if you’re interested in pursuing a college education.
Shape your future with an online degree
Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.