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Nursing schools in Texas help RNs with an associate degree advance academically and professionally. Degree-seekers take classes in health assessment, community health practice for RNs, and research critique and utilization. Students often work full time while earning their BSN and immediately apply new skills. Most full-time learners graduate in 1-2 years.
Typical admission requirements include a Texas RN license, an associate degree, and a minimum undergraduate GPA. Many nursing programs in Texas require prerequisites. This article explores the nursing profession in Texas, salary potential for BSN-holders, and common classes in RN-to-BSN programs. The final section explains how to earn a Texas RN license.
Questions About Nursing Degrees in Texas
Initial RN licensure requires at least an associate degree. Some nursing programs in Texas confer bachelor's or master's degrees that qualify graduates for licensure.
Most associate programs require two years. RN-to-BSN programs and master's programs typically require two years, as well. Degree-seekers with transferable credits may graduate more quickly.
Some experienced RNs pursue a doctorate in nursing. A doctoral degree qualifies holders for postsecondary teaching roles. Graduates can also become certified nurse practitioners and clinical nursing leaders.
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Best Nursing Schools and Programs in Texas
#1 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Texas Christian University
Fort Worth, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Fort Worth, Texas, Texas Christian University offers 106 bachelor’s degrees through both in-person learning and remote formats. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment, world-class instruction, and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Students enrolled in the bachelor of science in nursing program will complete foundational and advanced coursework. Degree-seekers can choose to follow a traditional or accelerated track. To prepare for a career in healthcare, enrollees can also access career services, academic advising, and other resources.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. According to school data, 83% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
#2 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Austin offers 110 bachelor’s degrees to help students jumpstart their careers. The public college provides a supportive learning environment and personalized instruction to prepare students to enter the workforce or pursue an advanced degree.
Students enrolled in the bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a range of clinical settings. Depending on their career goals, students can also declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration in their field of study. Throughout their program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. On average, students receive $10,686 in financial aid.
#3 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Baylor University
Waco, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Waco, Texas, Baylor University provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. Located in Waco, Texas, the private institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. Learners can choose from one of 111 bachelor's degree programs.
Degree-seekers pursuing a bachelor's degree in nursing will connect with colleagues, faculty, and staff in a supportive learning community. Nursing students can benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with patient care.
In consultation with an academic advisor, nursing students can modify their coursework, choose electives, pursue minors, and choose to follow an accelerated or traditional program track to suit their career goals. Students can also receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to help offset educational expenses. At the college, 95% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.
#4 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in College Station, Texas A & M University-College Station supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Students can choose from 112 bachelor's degree programs, including an online program designed for registered nurses to earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree.
Registered nurses with an associate degree (ADN) can complete a 30-hour curriculum online to advance their education and career. Prior to entry into the bridge program, nursing students must have taken prerequisite courses in the sciences and humanities. Applicants must also hold an RN license or be licensed by the end of the first term. Throughout their program, nursing students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The institution reports that 76% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#5 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
University of Houston
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Nursing students seeking a flexible, comprehensive bachelor's degree program should consider the University of Houston. The public college offers 90 bachelor's degree programs, including a bridge program for registered nurses (RN). The bridge program allows registered nurses to earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree through in-person, online, or hybrid learning.
In the program, students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures on the principles and practices of nursing. In consultation with an academic advisor, nursing students can customize their coursework to reflect their interests and career goals. The college also connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their enrollment.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. On average, students receive $9,526 in financial aid.
#6 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. The public college supports both in-person and online learning. Regardless of location, students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
The college connects nursing students with peers, faculty, and staff across campus-based and remote learning communities. To earn a bachelor of science in nursing, students complete 60 credits of coursework to learn foundational and advanced concepts.
Students can also work with their academic advisor to select electives and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with career services and academic advisors to receive further guidance.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities.
#7 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. The college offers both in-person and fully remote bachelor's programs, including both traditional and accelerated program tracks in nursing.
While earning a bachelor of science in nursing degree, students gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. The traditional track includes 22 months of full-time study, while the accelerated track can be completed in 15 months. The accelerated track is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field of study.
Students also receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid.
#8 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Lubbock, Texas, Texas Tech University Health Science Center supports a variety of undergraduate-level degree options, including a program designed for registered nurses (RN) who seek to earn their bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN). These students can benefit from the program's flexibility, as many RN-BSN nursing classes are accessible online.
Whether in-person or online, RN-BSN students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
Students seeking academic and career guidance can also connect with campus resources, such as academic advisors and career services.
Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities.
#9 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of the Incarnate Word is a private college offering hybrid education opportunities for its students. The San Antonio-based college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. Through its state-of-the-art clinical learning center, nursing students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
To earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree, students complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. The college offers both a traditional and accelerated program track to accommodate student career goals and schedules. While enrolled, participants also benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The institution reports that 99% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#10 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Galveston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Learners can choose from a variety of degree programs, either in-person or online. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
Designed for working nurses (RN required), the RN-BSN Program offers an accelerated online track for students to earn their bachelor of science in nursing degree. Students build competency through rigorous coursework, improving their decision-making and clinical skills. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities.
A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources. The college also offers an RN-BSN-MSN program track, providing an advanced track for those seeking to earn their master's in nursing.
To manage the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office.
#11 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in San Marcos, Texas State University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Learners can choose from a variety of degree programs, either in-person or online. According to the college, undergraduates can access 90 bachelor's degree programs.
Through the institution's St. David's School of Nursing, students can earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree. The traditional program track prepares students for a career in nursing through rigorous coursework and nursing simulation labs. Learners also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors, as well as pursue other academic modifications. Students seeking academic and career guidance can connect with academic advisors and career services.
The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities to make the costs of college manageable. To date, 76% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.
#12 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Texas Lutheran University
Seguin, TX - 4 years
- Campus
Texas Lutheran University is a private college offering hybrid education in Seguin, Texas. The college offers 42 bachelor's degree programs, including a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN). Nursing students connect with peers, faculty, and staff to complete the 60-credit program.
Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can also select electives and customize their learning experience. Enrollees can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. At the college, 100% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
#13 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Hardin-Simmons University
Abilene, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Abilene, Hardin-Simmons University supports numerous academic options for undergraduate students to earn one of 70 bachelor's program degrees. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
To earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree, enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of the nursing field. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework and select electives. Degree-seekers can also access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program duration.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. At the college, 100% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
#14 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
The University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of the bachelor's programs at the University of Texas at Arlington. To date, the college offers 60 bachelor's programs, three of which are fully remote. While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.
Designed for working registered nurses (RN), the online RN-BSN program is an accelerated track that allows students to earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree through convenient five-week courses. Students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Students can also access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.
Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding to help offset their educational expenses. According to the institution, 90% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $8,603.
#15 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Lubbock Christian University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lubbock Christian University offers 50 bachelor’s degrees through campus-based and remote study programs. Designed for students with an associate's degree or diploma in nursing, the university's bachelor of science in nursing (RN-BSN) program allows degree-seekers to continue working as a nurse.
Nursing students gain skills and knowledge through rigorous coursework to advance their nursing careers or prepare for an advanced degree. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework. While enrolled, students can also access institutional resources including career services and academic advising.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. At the college, 99% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
#16 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of the bachelor's programs at Texas Woman's University. Students who choose to enroll in the Denton-based university's nursing program can benefit from rigorous coursework, as well as supportive faculty and peers.
To earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN), students complete fundamental and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to patient care. According to the university, the pass rate for the state licensure exam for nursing is 96%. The college also connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, during their enrollment.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. The average financial aid package earned by students amounts to $8,739.
#17 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Edinburg, Texas, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. Students can pursue remote study or learn from the college's campus in Edinburg, Texas. To date, the school offers 66 bachelor’s programs, including its registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing (RN-BSN) program.
Allowing registered nursing to continue working, the flexible online program builds competency through rigorous online coursework. Students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to further their careers in nursing or pursue an advanced degree.
Students also have the option to choose electives, as well as declare minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their studies, degree-seekers can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising,
The college connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs. At the college, 90% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.
#18 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tarleton State University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Located in Stephenville, Texas, the public institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
The university offers three types of nursing degree tracks for students. Along with a traditional program for undergraduates, there is also a track designed for registered nurses (RN) and a program designed for licensed vocational nurses (LVN). These tracks allow nursing professionals to earn their bachelor of science in nursing degree while continuing to work.
Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. While enrolled, learners can also connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied to educational expenses. According to the college, 87% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average student awarded $7,164 in aid.
#19 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Texas A & M International University supports a variety of undergraduate-level degree options. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Laredo, Texas, as well as opportunities to study remotely.
For students seeking a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree, the college provides degree-seekers with a competitive education in science, clinical judgment, patient care, and nursing practice. Students can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
In consultation with an academic advisor, learners can customize their studies to suit personal and professional goals. Students can also receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities to make the costs of college manageable. The institution states that 97% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#20 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Texas
Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Midwestern State University is a public college offering hybrid education in Wichita Falls, Texas. The college supports 50 bachelor's programs. While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.
Nursing students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as lectures on nursing practices, patient care, and clinical judgment. Along with earning a bachelor of science in nursing degree, students graduate well-prepared to take the state's licensure examination. Throughout their studies, students can also access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. According to the institution, 93% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $9,558.
Why Get a Degree in Nursing?
Nursing schools in Texas train students to assist individuals recovering from injury or illness. Completing an RN-to-BSN program can qualify graduates for higher-paying positions. Bachelor's degree-seekers select a specialization area. Learners also network with like-minded peers and explore the latest nursing best practices.
Many online RN-to-BSN programs feature asynchronous curricula. Students in these programs can complete academic requirements around work schedules. Maintaining employment while in school can help degree-seekers avoid debt and continue advancing their career. Additionally, online learners can consider all top nursing schools in Texas, regardless of proximity to their home.
How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost?
As of March 2022, Texas Tech University charges in-state learners $215 per credit in tuition. Out-of-state students pay $623 per credit. Degree-seekers also pay fees covering student services, technology, and immunization. With fees, learners pay about $5,170 per semester. Students should also budget for transportation costs and textbooks.
Degree-seekers can reduce out-of-pocket costs by applying for tuition reimbursement through their employer. Recipients of tuition reimbursement typically agree to stay with their employer for a specific number of years after graduation. Students with financial need should submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants.
How Much Do Nurses Make?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that registered nurses earn a median salary of $75,330 per year. This salary exceeds the median for all occupations by approximately 75%. Texas RNs earn an average annual salary of $76,800, according to BLS data.
Professionals can increase their salary potential by earning an MSN, which qualifies holders for nurse practitioner roles. According to the BLS, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners earn a median salary of $117,670 per year. The BLS projects employment for these professionals to increase 45% from 2020-2030.
In addition to earning a degree, RNs can increase their earning potential by obtaining professional certifications. The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses awards board certification in more than a dozen areas. The association's adult care certification requires a valid nursing license and 2-3 years of relevant experience.
Courses in a Nursing Program
Nursing programs in Texas feature curricula designed to help licensed RNs advance their knowledge and skills. Many top programs offer fully online and hybrid formats. Classes typically incorporate evidence-based practice, foundational nursing concepts, and management and leadership skills development. Degree-seekers synthesize their knowledge to complete a capstone project or an extended essay.
Many nursing programs in Texas require the classes below. However, curricula vary by program. Program requirements can significantly impact learners' academic experience. Texas RNs should consider their options and consult with admissions advisors before selecting a program.
Experienced nurses use evidence-based practices to provide excellent patient care. This class trains RNs to identify best practices. Participants complete online or in-person peer discussions, original research, and extended essays. Learners develop research skills and prepare for lifelong learning.Incorporation of Evidence Into Practice
This class explores nursing theories' evolution and roles in healthcare settings. Coursework covers philosophies, evidence-based practices, and healthcare policy. This introductory course prepares learners for graduate studies and healthcare leadership roles.Foundations of Nursing Knowledge
Many RNs with a bachelor's degree work in management or leadership positions. Learners in this class analyze how nursing leaders improve patient outcomes and overall safety. They explore how these professionals manage their employer's finances. Coursework covers various healthcare delivery models' benefits and drawbacks. Learners develop communication skills through collaborative exercises.Management and Leadership
How to Become a Nurse
Aspiring RNs complete a state-approved associate, bachelor's, or master's program. Individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree often earn an MSN. Candidates with a degree and clinical experience can obtain a nursing license and apply for RN positions.
Registered nurses' responsibilities vary by employer and experience level. RNs typically record patients' medical histories, administer medicine, and create reports for doctors. Other tasks include using medical equipment and providing guidance to patients' families. RNs with a bachelor's or master's may specialize in an area such as addiction, genetics, rehabilitation, or public health.
Licensure for Nurses
Nursing programs in Texas prepare students to obtain licensure. Candidates without a criminal record can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and the Texas nursing jurisprudence exam. As of March 2022, Texas nursing licensure candidates pay a $100 exam fee and a $150 endorsement fee. RN licensure renewal costs $68. The state charges additional fees to renew a delinquent or lapsed license.
Out-of-state and international RNs can apply for a Texas nursing license. RNs licensed in other states submit their current license through the national Nursys database. International RNs submit licensure verification through the state's credential evaluation service. Domestic and international candidates undergo a criminal background check.
The licensure renewal deadline depends on the nurse's birth month. Texas RNs renew their license every two years by completing at least 20 continuing education hours. Nurses can take classes, develop educational programs, and publish original research to fulfill continuing education requirements. RNs submit continuing education documentation online.