Best Online MSN Programs in Texas

Jessica Guzzetti, MBA, BSN, RN, CCHP-RN
Last Updated On Jan 8, 2025
Expert Verified: Jessica Guzzetti, MBA, BSN, RN, CCHP-RN
7 Min Read
Texas

The State of Texas is known for its diverse landscapes, booming cities, and thriving economy, but what many residents may not realize is that Texas is also home to a rapidly growing demand for nurses. Opportunities for both entry-level and advanced nursing positions, such as nurse practitioners or nurse executives, are expanding across the state. These advanced roles offer higher salaries and greater autonomy compared to traditional RN positions but require specialized education and training. For nurses seeking an affordable and efficient path to gain this advanced expertise, Master of Nursing Science (MSN) programs are often the ideal solution. Whether you’re in major cities like Houston, Dallas, Austin, or smaller communities, the sections below will guide you on how to find the fastest and most affordable MSN programs in Texas.

2025 - Best Online MSN Programs in Texas

RegisteredNursing.org has identified the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in Texas for 2025. These programs are celebrated for their academic excellence, flexible learning formats, and dedication to preparing nursing leaders. Rankings are determined using a comprehensive methodology evaluating program quality, accessibility, and student success. For more details, visit our rankings methodology page.

1.

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX

The University of Texas at Arlington's MSN programs are highly regarded for their rigorous curriculum, cutting-edge technology, and diverse clinical experiences. The College of Nursing and Health Innovation's philosophy centers on equipping students with the skills and knowledge to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and communities. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared to excel in the constantly evolving field of nursing.

MSN Programs
2.

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

Galveston, TX

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston offers MSN programs through its acclaimed nursing department, known for its dedication to excellence and innovation in healthcare education. The department's philosophy centers around preparing highly skilled and compassionate nurses who are equipped to address the complex and ever-evolving needs of patients and communities. UTMB's MSN programs provide a rigorous curriculum, cutting-edge research opportunities, and hands-on clinical experiences to develop leaders in the field of nursing.

MSN Programs
3.

Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX

Texas Woman's University offers top-rated Master of Science in Nursing programs through its College of Nursing. Their philosophy centers on empowering their students to become leaders in the nursing field. With a range of specialties and cutting-edge coursework, TWU provides a well-rounded education to advance nursing practice and positively impact patient care.

MSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs in Texas

An RN to MSN program is a tailored educational pathway designed for registered nurses in Texas with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma. These programs streamline the journey to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) by leveraging existing nursing education and experience, making the process faster and more cost-effective. RN to MSN programs typically combine undergraduate and graduate coursework, allowing nurses to seamlessly advance into roles such as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or healthcare administrators, meeting the growing demand for skilled professionals in Texas.

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

  • Texas RN license
  • ADN or nursing diploma
  • GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
  • Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
  • Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume

If you’re ready to start applying you can find RN to MSN programs offered by University of Texas, Arlington (UTA) and Texas A&M, Corpus Christi (TAMUCC). Other options include:

Beaumont, TX

Joanne Gay Dishman School of Nursing
4400 MLK Blvd., PO Box 10009
Beaumont, TX 77710

Canyon, TX

Department of Nursing
2501 4th Ave
Canyon, TX 79016

Corpus Christi, TX

College of Nursing and Health Sciences
6300 Ocean Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78412
(361) 825-2649

San Antonio, TX

Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions
4301 Broadway St
San Antonio, TX 78209
(210) 829-3982

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Texas

For full-time licensed nurses in Texas considering a career shift, the cost of tuition and time commitment to graduate school can be significant concerns. Fortunately, Texas MSN programs help mitigate these challenges by offering affordable options and flexible schedules, making advanced nursing education more accessible and manageable for working professionals.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

If you're pursuing a traditional MSN program in Texas, the typical timeline is around 3 to 4 years. However, not all programs in Texas require this level of commitment. By exploring your options, you may discover online MSN programs or those with accelerated schedules, such as summer courses, which can significantly reduce the time to completion. Some programs are designed to be inherently shorter. Below are a few examples worth considering.

SchoolEstimated LengthOnline Option?
University of Texas Health Houston (UTHealth Houston)5 -7 SemestersYes
Texas State University5 SemesterYes
University of Texas, Austin (UT)2 YearsNo

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

Texas offers several cost-effective options if you're looking to save on MSN education. When evaluating programs, consider factors such as tuition rates, program size, additional fees, cost of living, and eligibility for in-state tuition. Below are a few schools in Texas recognized for their affordable MSN programs.

SchoolEstimated CostCredits
Angelo State University (ASU)$9,000 – $18,00039
Texas A&M University, San Antonio (TAMUSA)$25,000 – $30,00039
Texas A&M International (TAMI)$12,000 – $18,00031

See Related MSN Articles

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Texas cater to individuals with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field who wish to transition into a nursing career. These programs integrate a BSN’s foundational nursing education with an MSN’s advanced training, offering a streamlined, fast-paced curriculum. By combining both degrees into one comprehensive pathway, MENP programs provide a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to earning each degree separately. Graduates are prepared for RN licensure and qualified for leadership or specialized roles in healthcare. Below are the typical admissions requirements for MENP programs in Texas:

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
  • GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
  • Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
  • Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
  • Admissions interview

To find MENP programs located in North Carolina, take a look at programs like the University of Texas, Austin (UT) and Texas Lutheran University (TLU).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

When exploring MSN programs in Texas, it's important to evaluate whether they offer options for specialization. Many programs provide pathways to focus on areas such as nursing informatics, family practice, psychiatric-mental health, or pediatrics. Specializing in a specific field can significantly enhance your career prospects and align your education with your professional goals. Below are examples of specialized MSN programs available in Texas.

SchoolSpecialtyCredits
Texas A&M (TAMU)Nursing Education36
University of Texas Health Houston (UTHH)Family Nurse Practitioner41
Texas Women's University (TWU)Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)45

What is MSN Accreditation?

One of the most important factors to evaluate when choosing an MSN program in Texas is accreditation. MSN accreditation ensures that a program's curriculum meets high-quality standards set by the state board and national accrediting bodies. In the U.S., MSN programs are commonly accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Graduating from an accredited program guarantees eligibility for advanced nursing licensure and certification. On the other hand, attending a non-accredited program can create significant challenges in obtaining these credentials. Always verify a program's accreditation status before applying.

2025 List of MSN Programs in Texas

Still not sure which MSN program to go with? Keep researching the full list of MSN programs in the state:

MSN Programs By City: