Online Nursing Programs in Texas
If you decide to get an online nursing degree in Texas, you have several options with degrees ranging from associate to accelerated to doctoral in Texas schools.
Texas has the second-highest nursing shortage in the United States. So if you're interested in becoming a nurse in Texas, you'll quickly be able to secure a job.
To help decrease the shortage in Texas, online nursing degree programs are growing. These programs take around two to four years, allowing graduates to start their career as a certified registered nurse promptly.
Online Nursing Programs in Texas
The best online colleges and universities in Texas that provide fully online nursing programs can be found below. These programs include highly popular online RN to BSN programs.
1. Baylor University
At Baylor University, you can become a registered nurse with the accelerated bachelor's in nursing (ABSN).
Baylor also offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with seven different pathways, including midwifery (CNM), neonatal (NNP), and executive nurse leadership (DNPEL).
Even though the coursework is 100% online, there are on-campus immersions and hands-on skill development.
This program has a 96% first-time National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate. Also, it has a 100% pass rate for family and midwifery.
Baylor's online nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
2. Lamar University
Lamar University offers a 100% online nursing degree.
The program is designed for registered nurses who wish to obtain either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or a Master of Science in Nursing.
To ensure that students can take the skills to the workplace as soon as possible, the program can be completed in as little as 13 months.
Also, Lamar offers a dual nursing and business degrees that can be completed in 36 months. Career opportunities in healthcare management can be opened by obtaining an MSN-MBA degree.
Lamar's programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
3. Sam Houston State University
One of Texas's most reputable and state-of-the-art nursing schools, Sam Houston State University offers an RN-to-BSN program that is 100% online.
RNs can graduate earlier by enrolling in terms that only last seven and a half weeks. Plus, interested students can apply at any time without worrying about a deadline for enrollment.
Accreditation is given through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
4. Stephen F. Austin University
Stephen F. Austin University offers year-round admission with four start dates for the RN-to-BSN program, allowing RNs to start when it is convenient.
Unlike other programs, students can apply after completing their associate degree in nursing (ADN) program by completing a free application by working directly with a coordinator.
To complete this degree, students must finish 31 credit hours, including a practicum.
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) grants DeWitt School of Nursing accreditation.
5. Tarleton State University
A Texas A&M University System member, Tarleton State University offers a 100% online RN-to-BSN degree.
Nurses are accommodated by the courses that start frequently and a program lasts from 10 to 15 months, depending on whether you are a full-time or part-time student.
Tarleton's licensed vocational nurse (LVN) to BSN program takes approximately eighteen months to complete.
This program is ccredited by the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
6. Texas A&M University
With several bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificate programs in nursing, Texas A&M provides entirely online programs to help nurses advance their careers.
An ADN-to-BSN program is a hybrid program with online coursework and clinicals that must be arranged. The RN-to-BSN program is 30 credit hours.
Texas A&M also offers two remote MSN degrees, a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and two graduate nursing certification programs.
This university is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
7. Texas Woman's University
Offering an RN-to-BSN online degree along with MSN and DNP degrees, Texas Woman's University is a top-ranked nursing program in Texas and the United States.
TWU offers several nurse practitioner tracks ranging from adult to women's health online.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the TWU nursing program.
8. University of Texas, Arlington
Ranked the number one public nursing school in the United States, the University of Texas at Arlington offers accelerated programs and several MSN, postgraduate, and certificate programs.
The BSN program offers lectures online, but in-person clinical rotations are required. However, the RN-to-BSN program is 100% online.
Seven of the MSN program tracks are online, but check requirements regarding in-person clinical rotations.
UT Arlington is also accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
9. University of Texas, Medical Branch
The University of Texas's Medical Branch (UTMB) offers online flexibility with most of its nursing programs. Students will, however, have to come on campus for orientation and for two to three days each semester.
The RN-to-BSN program can be completed in two semesters online if students take six courses the first semester and four the following.
Also, it offers nursing leadership/education programs for those who want to advance their careers and are an RN, as well as seven other MSN tracks, including neonatal nurse practitioner.
Also, it allows you to earn your DPN 100% remotely.
UTMB is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
10. Western Governors University, Texas
Named a center of excellence in nursing education by the National League for Nursing, Western Governors University in Texas is a respected name in nursing.
The university offers pre-licensure BS degrees, an RN-to-BSN program, and a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration.
Plus the university has several professional tracks for an MSN degree, including a psychiatric mental health program, as well as many learning and leadership tracks.
WGU is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Types of Nursing Programs Offered Online in Texas
There are a few types of online nursing programs in Texas. Students can earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and participate in a registered nursing (RN) program. There are also traditional and self-paced RN to BSN programs online.
There is an expansive online collection of RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs and BSN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree programs with specific tracks to advance practice.
Students can become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) by entering a master's or doctoral program.
Read More: 6-Month RN to BSN Programs
What Are the Educational Requirements for a Nursing Degree?
Educational requirements for nurses vary on the type of degree and specialty in the field.
The entry-level degree requires a high school or equivalent education and admission into an accredited associate's program.
The next level, a BSN, requires earning a bachelor's degree, passing the National Council of Licensure (NCLEX-PN) examination, and being approved by the state boards.
Leveling up to an MSN has several paths or areas of expertise to concentrate on. With the various routes, nurses can gain expertise in nearly any field they want.
Finally, a DNP typically requires a capstone as part of its program. By getting a DNP or other doctoral degrees in nursing, nurses will be able to teach, assist in healthcare policy, and more.
Licensing Requirements for Nurses in Texas
To become a licensed nurse in Texas, one must have an ADN or BSN from an accredited nursing program. The nurse will also have to pass the jurisprudence exam and the NCLEX-RN exam.
Nurses in Texas will need to complete 20 hours of continuing nursing education (CNE) every two years.
Start Your Nursing Degree Online
Nurses are needed in Texas due to the size of the state and the need for qualified people. If you have the desire and passion to help, start an online nursing degree in Texas or one of the easiest RN to BSN programs online.