Best Nursing Schools in Texas

Best RN Programs in Texas

Texas Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

There are three main pathways to RN licensure: earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), completing a nursing diploma program, or obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each option offers unique benefits tailored to different goals and timelines. Here's a closer look at what sets them apart.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

Selecting the right entry-level nursing degree in Texas depends on your background and career aspirations. For individuals without prior nursing experience, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma are common routes to becoming an RN. These programs are relatively short, typically taking one to two years to complete. If you’re seeking a more comprehensive education with plans for future graduate studies, an ADN may be the better fit. Another option is the LPN to RN bridge program, which is designed for active Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) looking to advance their qualifications. Each pathway provides valuable training, so it’s essential to align your choice with your long-term goals.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Texas include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
• Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Texas.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

In Texas, many students opt to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) instead of an ADN or nursing diploma. A BSN, typically completed in four years, provides comprehensive training and boosts employability, making it a strong choice for those not immediately pursuing a graduate degree. For current registered nurses, the RN to BSN program offers a streamlined path to earning this advanced degree. Additionally, individuals with a prior bachelor's degree in another field can take advantage of Accelerated BSN programs, which allow them to complete their nursing education more quickly. These flexible options make a BSN an attractive choice for advancing in the nursing profession.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Texas typically include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

RN to BSN

Working nurses in Texas who want to pursue a BSN have a convenient option through the Texas RN to BSN. This program is designed for nurses who hold an RN license, an ADN, and typically have at least one year of nursing experience. Most RN to BSN programs can be completed in as little as two years, enabling nurses to further their education and expand their career opportunities without needing to step away from their current roles.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, you can transition into the nursing profession by enrolling in a Texas ABSN program. These accelerated programs allow you to earn your BSN in just one to two years, making them an excellent choice for individuals pursuing a career change later in life.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

Lastly, if your goal is to practice independently as a nurse practitioner or pursue another advanced practice role, further education beyond a BSN is essential. This typically involves enrolling in a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These advanced programs usually require 2 to 6 years of study, depending on the program structure and whether you attend full-time or part-time. Such degrees prepare you for specialized roles, equipping you with advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and the expertise needed for independent practice or high-level positions within Texas’s healthcare system.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Texas:

• Texas Nurse Practitioner Programs
• Texas MSN Program
• Texas Accelerated MSN Program
• Texas RN to MSN Programs
• Texas Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
• Texas DNP Programs

Getting an RN License in Texas

The final step to becoming a licensed RN in Texas is completing the licensing process. To obtain your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, submit a completed application to the Texas Board of Nursing, and pay the required application fee. Once your application is reviewed and processed by the board, you can typically expect to receive your license within a few weeks to a couple of months. Remember, maintaining your license requires completing continuing education courses to meet Texas’s renewal requirements.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Texas

• Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Application to the Texas Board of Nursing
• Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

Before applying to nursing programs in Texas, it's essential to ensure that each program meets the required RN program accreditation standards. In the U.S., nursing programs are accredited by two primary organizations: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Choosing a program that is not accredited by one of these organizations means you may not meet the licensing requirements set by the Texas Board of Nursing. Confirming accreditation ensures a smoother path to licensure and a quality education.

Continued List of All RN Programs in Texas

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