Key Details: Understanding Online ADN Programs in Texas

Fast way to become a licensed RN in Texas

While earning a BSN degree can help pave the way for access to managerial positions and the eventual pursuit of a master’s degree, it takes twice as long to earn as the ADN. Earning a traditional BSN degree typically takes a student at least four years of full-time study to complete, while completing an ADN degree can take as little as two years. The vast majority of associate RN programs, such as the one from North Central Texas College’s ADN program, will consist of 60 credits as opposed to the minimum 120 credits typically required for a bachelor’s degree. The ADN is for those who want to earn an RN license and enter the workforce quickly. Yet, ADN graduates still retain the option to return to school later to obtain a Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Affordability

Tuition costs can play an important role when choosing your academic path toward professional nursing. An ADN degree costs considerably less than a bachelor’s degree because it’s a shorter program, and associate degree programs are often offered by two-year schools where the cost per credit is often cheaper than a four-year institution. For example, Amarillo College’s ADN tuition is roughly half that of Texas A&M’s four-year nursing program. After factoring in two additional years of study, additional fees, and other costs associated with being in college, the price difference can be staggering. An ADN program in Texas offers an effective way of keeping costs low while getting to work quickly.

Flexibility and convenience of online classes

The option to take some classes online enables flexibility when managing your schedule. This is especially important for working students. For certified nursing aides, licensed vocational nurses, and other healthcare professionals pursuing an ADN in Texas, online coursework can make a world of difference when attempting to balance work, school, and personal obligations. Being able to continue working while in school also makes it far easier to afford the cost of your ADN education. Asynchronous options are often available, which enable students to interact with course content at any time that fits into their schedule.

Higher earning potential and more professional responsibility for RNs vs. other entry-level nursing careers in Texas

Compared to other allied health programs, ADN programs offer graduates higher earning potential, an expanded level of professional responsibility, and more career opportunities. Wage differences between RNs, licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), and certified nursing aides (CNAs) are notable. An associate degree and accompanying RN licensure can enhance your earning potential based on your increased academic training.

In addition to the economic benefits, RNs acquire the knowledge and skill set they need to work as hands-on and confident contributors in a variety of medical settings, making decisions and working alongside other healthcare professionals while delivering excellent patient care. LVNs and CNAs play a vital role in healthcare settings, but the added education and training completed by registered nurses lead to higher pay and more responsibility.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023

Opportunity to advance your nursing education in the future

Even if your main reason for completing an ADN is to start working as a registered nurse as soon as possible, the degree also opens up additional academic opportunities. Just as an LVN program can lead to an ADN degree with additional education, the RN associate degree offers a clear path to a bachelor’s degree down the road. Many colleges and universities offer ADN-to-BSN programs specifically tailored for the working RN. Additionally, some institutions also offer ADN-to-MSN programs, allowing for an accelerated path to a master’s degree in nursing and the opportunity to work as a nurse administrator, nurse educator, or advanced practice registered nurse.

Continued demand for registered nurses in Texas

The demand for nurses in Texas continues to rise as the supply of working professionals in nursing remains relatively static. Texas is far from alone in this shortage. The state has implemented initiatives to broaden access to nursing programs, incentivize Doctor of Nursing (DNP) programs, and encourage diversity to more closely reflect the state’s demographics but room for growth still exists. The Texas Department of State Health Services predicts a supply deficit in excess of 57,000 nurses by 2032. You can rest assured that Texas needs nurses and if you complete an ADN program, you are likely to have promising job prospects when you graduate.

Check out our main guide to online Texas nursing programs for even more RN salary and job outlook information.

Approved by the Texas Board of Nurses

The Texas Board of Nursing strongly suggests that prospective students pay close attention to the credentials of a program before enrolling. Make sure any school you’re looking at holds approval from the Texas Board of Nursing. The vast majority of ADN programs in Texas are board approved, but if a program you are interested isn’t, don’t apply there. You won’t be able to secure the necessary licensure to become a practicing RN in Texas after you complete that program. You can find a list of approved Texas ADN schools further down on this page.

Accredited by the ACEN or CCNE

Enroll in an ADN program that holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. These nationally recognized accrediting bodies validate the quality and integrity of nursing programs in Texas and other states. These organizations set standards and evaluate nursing programs, making sure your education stays current with the field’s ever-evolving standards. Graduating from a program without either type of programmatic accreditation doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t become an RN in Texas, but it can make it harder to find a job or continue your nursing education later on.

High NCLEX-RN Exam Pass Rates

Considering a potential ADN program’s NCLEX-RN exam pass rates provides a quick and easy way to assess the quality of education it provides. The NCLEX-RN exam is your last step to securing an RN license and getting to work. If a program has a high pass rate, there’s a good chance the program helps provide students with the tools needed to succeed. See the table at the bottom of the page for exam pass rates of Texas ADN programs.