Best Online Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Texas

Are you feeling stagnant in your role as a registered nurse? Have you ever considered going back to school to become a nurse practitioner? Compared to other states, there is a considerable need for nurse practitioners, especially those who work in a specialized field. Texas is also a fantastic state to look for nurse practitioner degree programs and you are sure to find a perfect program that meets your specific needs whether you’re based in Dallas or San Antonio or somewhere else located amongst Texas’ vast scenic rural communities. Jump to program listings.

2025 - Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

RegisteredNursing.org's 2025 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas highlights the top online options for aspiring nurse practitioners. The programs are evaluated based on key factors such as completion rates, affordability, institutional reputation, program variety, and faculty expertise. To gain a deeper understanding of how the rankings are determined, visit the methodology page.

1.

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX

The University of Texas at Arlington offers highly ranked nurse practitioner programs that prepare students to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care to diverse populations. The nursing department's philosophy emphasizes the importance of innovation, collaboration, and leadership in addressing complex healthcare needs. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements and have opportunities to engage in research and community service.

MSN Programs

• Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner MSN Online/Hybrid
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

2.

The University of Texas at Tyler

Tyler, TX

The University of Texas at Tyler offers a comprehensive nurse practitioner program that prepares students for advanced practice in various healthcare settings. The program emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and culturally competent care. The nursing department at UT Tyler follows the philosophy of promoting holistic care, advocating for social justice, and fostering leadership skills in their students.

MSN Programs

• Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

Graduate Certificate Programs

• Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Adult Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Post-MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

3.

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Houston, TX

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston offers highly competitive nurse practitioner programs, with a focus on evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cultural competency. The nursing department philosophy is centered around providing high-quality, compassionate care to diverse populations and equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the ever-evolving healthcare field.

MSN Programs

• Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Online/Hybrid
• Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Online/Hybrid
• Psych/Mental Health Online/Hybrid

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

Regardless of the type of practice area you’re interested in pursuing as a nurse practitioner, the obvious questions are “Is it going to be affordable?” and “Am I going to be able to complete the programs with my busy schedule?” You can be rest assured that Texas has some of the cheapest and quickest nurse practitioner programs available in the country — if you know where to look.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

Nurse practitioner programs can take between two years and eight years, depending on the type of degree program you choose. Due to their 2-year timespan, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree programs are usually considered the quickest option compared to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree programs which can take much longer. Depending on your specific background, you may even be able to graduate in less than 2 years, especially if you have a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) and transferable credits. Here are a few of the quickest options in Texas:

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

The cost of tuition is often a deterrent for many nurses who have considered going back to school to become nurse practitioners. It is true that graduate school can become pricey, but there are plenty of MSN degree programs in Texas that can cut the cost of tuition considerably, especially if you have residency in the state. Here are a few of the cheapest options for nursing students in Texas:

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

As mentioned, nurse practitioners often undergo specialized training which allows them to narrow their focus of practice in an area that they’re passionate about. This specialized training usually begins during graduate school and is followed by the certification process (see more below). The following schools offer nurse practitioner specializations in Texas:

Find out more about popular NP specialty programs: Acute Care (ACNP), Adult Gerontology (AGNP), Family (FNP), Pediatric (PNP), Psychiatric (PHMNP), Women’s Health (WHNP).

Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus

Beyond the most common nurse practitioner degrees such as MSNs and DNPs, you can also find that there are plenty of alternative options that allow nursing students to graduate much faster and for less money. Here is a breakdown of the various types of nurse practitioner tracks available in Texas:

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

As mentioned, most future nurse practitioners usually go for a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. This is because MSN programs are usually the fastest and cheapest option for most people who don’t meet the enrollment requirements of the alternative nurse practitioner program options below. MSN programs can be found at almost every school that offers a nursing program including:

• University of Texas, Austin – Austin, TX
• Texas A&M University, San Antonio – San Antonio, TX

RN to NP Program

If you already have an RN license and an ADN or ASN, you will likely qualify to enroll in an RN to NP program (otherwise known as an RN to MSN program or an ADN/ASN to MSN program). This allows you to become a nurse practitioner in as little as four years, instead of doing an ADN/ASN to BSN to MSN route, which can take upwards of 8 years or longer. Here are a few that are available in Texas:

• University of Texas, Arlington – Arlington, TX
• Texas A&M, Corpus Christi – Corpus Christi, TX

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

If you’re looking to invest more time into your education in order to seek higher-paying and more advanced career opportunities, you’ll likely want to look at Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. Here are a few you can find in Texas:

• Texas Women’s University – Denton, TX
• University of Texas, Austin – Austin, TX

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

If you complete your nurse practitioner program and you decide to add to your existing certification or get a different certification, a Post-Master's Nursing Certificate is a great option. Though it’s technically not a degree, it provides a short and affordable route to choosing a new NP specialization. Here are some options in Texas:

• University of Texas, Austin – Austin, TX
• Texas Tech University – Lubbock, TX

Accelerated, Direct & Master’s Entry (MENP/MEPN) to Nursing Practice

Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs, also called direct-entry or accelerated MSN programs, are designed so that bachelor’s level graduates can achieve an MSN-level education even if they don’t have a nursing degree. Here are a few you can find in Texas:

• University of Texas, Austin – Austin, TX
• Texas Lutheran University – Seguin, TX

General Admissions Requirements

If you’re ready to become a nurse practitioner and start applying to schools, you’ll need to make sure that you meet the school’s admissions requirements. Below are the most common ones you’ll see in the application process:

• BSN from an accredited school
• Transcripts from all colleges attended
• Minimum grade point average (often 3.0 or above, but varies by school/program)
• Active, unencumbered RN license
• Essay or statement of purpose outlining career goals
• Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
• Resume or CV

Texas NP License and Certification Requirements

The final step to becoming a nurse practitioner is getting licensed and certified in a practice area of your choice. To this, you must meet these requirements:

• Valid RN License: Candidates must hold an active, unencumbered registered nurse license issued by the Texas Board of Nursing.
• Educational Background: Applicants must have completed a graduate-level nurse practitioner program accredited by a recognized body, which includes both didactic and clinical components that prepare them for specialized roles in healthcare.

In addition to these basic qualifications, prospective nurse practitioners in Texas are required to submit the necessary documents, including proof of their education and RN licensure, along with a completed application form. The application process also requires an associated fee, which generally amounts to about $150. Detailed information about how to apply for NP licensure or certification in Texas can be found on the Texas Board of Nursing's official website.

NPs in Texas are also required to obtain national certification in their area of specialty. Certification can be achieved through recognized bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or other accredited certifying organizations. Candidates will need to pass a certification exam and present proof of having completed an advanced degree program relevant to their specialty.

Unlike some states, Texas does not grant full practice authority to nurse practitioners as of 2024. NPs in Texas must work under the supervision of a collaborating physician for certain aspects of their practice, such as prescribing medications. However, NPs play a critical role in providing healthcare across the state, particularly in underserved areas. Resources and further support can be accessed through professional organizations like the Texas Nurse Practitioners (TNP), which advocate for the profession and provide valuable networking and educational opportunities.

List of NP Programs in Texas