Texas Online Nursing Programs: What Students Should Know
Thinking about becoming a nurse in Texas or advancing your RN career? Explore top state-approved online programs that fit your busy schedule and get other key info about nursing in Texas.
If you live in Texas and are interested in pursuing or advancing your registered nursing career, earning a nursing degree online from a Texas college could be your best option. Schools with online nursing programs in Texas offer several important benefits, including affordability, schedule flexibility, and the convenience of attending class from anywhere there’s access to a high-speed internet connection. Living near school means you’ll be able to complete your clinical requirements locally, take advantage of program-related networking opportunities, and attend classes or labs in-person class if required. You’ll also be completing a degree program that supports Texas state RN licensing requirements.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to find a quality degree program and take the next step in your nursing career. You’ll find a list of the top accredited nursing schools and get a look at the different types of online programs available. We’ve also included a step-by-step guide to becoming a Texas RN, answers to frequently asked questions about online nursing programs in Texas, and a list of useful online resources.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, Texas
Public
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas
Public
West Texas A & M University
Canyon, Texas
Public
Stephen F Austin State University
Nacogdoches, Texas
Public
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, Texas
Public
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, Texas
Public
Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
Public
Texas Woman’s University
Denton, Texas
Public
The University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, Texas
Public
The University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, Texas
Public
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Public
The University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, Texas
Public
Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, Texas
Public
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, Texas
Public
Texas A&M University-Central Texas
Killeen, Texas
Public
Hardin-Simmons University
Abilene, Texas
Private
University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, Texas
Private
Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Public
Abilene Christian University-Undergraduate Online
Addison, Texas
Private
Schreiner University
Kerrville, Texas
Private
Weatherford College
Weatherford, Texas
Public
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Belton, Texas
Private
Texas Christian University
Fort Worth, Texas
Private
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Galveston, Texas
Public
Panola College
Carthage, Texas
Public
Amarillo College
Amarillo, Texas
Public
Find Online Texas Nursing Programs in a City Near You
- Nursing Schools in Austin (Online & Campus Programs)
- Nursing Schools in Dallas (Online & Campus Programs)
- Nursing Schools in Houston (Online & Campus Programs)
- Nursing Schools in San Antonio (Online & Campus Programs)
What It’s Like Earning Your Nursing Degree Online in Texas
Online classes in nursing are practically identical to those taken on-campus in terms of course content, assignments and activities, student resources, and even the amount and quality of interaction you’ll have with teachers and peers.
Online nursing programs in Texas typically feature fully online coursework consisting of lectures, assignments, discussions, and testing. Most Texas nursing programs offer online courses in an asynchronous format, allowing students to access and complete their coursework at a time that fits their busy schedules. Students are usually able to access important student services, such as program and career advisement, entirely online. As a result, online nursing students may not be required to come to their school’s campus at any time during their degree studies. You can expect to complete in-person clinical requirements at a program-approved facility in your local area, although some programs require clinicals to be completed at facilities in or around the school’s local community.
Every online nursing degree program has its own curriculum, online learning platform, course formats, and established protocol, so it’s crucial to have a clear and detailed understanding of all degree and course requirements before enrolling in any online nursing degree program.
Popular Types of Online RN Programs in Texas
Online nursing schools in Texas offer programs to prospective and current nurses at every career and education level. Many of these programs feature fully online and hybrid format options. Explore some of the most common online RN and other nursing degree programs currently available in Texas.
Pre-Licensure Online RN Programs in Texas
ADN Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs in Texas provide students with basic nursing competencies and qualify graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). ADN programs include general education course requirements and typically require two years of full-time study to complete. While online ADN programs aren’t common in Texas, many schools offer general education courses that can be taken online. Some programs, like Blinn College District’s ADN program, offer nursing theory courses in online and blended formats. All Texas ADN programs include in-person clinical components.
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN programs are structured to allow pre-licensure students to earn a BSN degree in less time than the four years typically required. There are two basic types of accelerated BSN programs available in Texas that feature online coursework. One program is for students who currently hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing major that allows them to apply credits earned for their non-nursing bachelor’s to the accelerated BSN program. The other program is for students who haven’t earned a bachelor’s degree but have earned a substantial number of transferable college credits or have committed to completing credits upon acceptance into the program before advancing to the nursing curriculum.
Online RN Bridge Programs in Texas for Current Nurses
LVN to RN Programs
LVN to RN programs in Texas are commonly described as “bridge” or “transition” programs because they provide currently licensed vocational nurses a simplified path to qualify to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and advance their nursing careers as licensed RNs. These programs typically require 12 months of study and culminate in the awarding of an ADN degree. As with traditional ADN programs in Texas, LVN to RN programs are primarily offered on-campus, although some required courses may be available in fully or partially online formats. LVN to RN programs include in-personal clinical components.
RN to BSN
RN to BSN programs are designed to provide currently employed RNs who’ve already earned a nursing associate degree or diploma a convenient and time-saving way to earn their bachelor’s degree. RN to BSN programs are popular in Texas and nationally because earning a BSN makes RNs more attractive to employers, provides them with advanced practice and leadership skills, and prepares them to continue on to graduate-level degree opportunities. Coursework for these programs is often completed entirely online with clinical requirements completed through the student’s current employment. Program lengths vary (typically between two and five semesters) depending on the student’s choice of full- or part-time study and previous education.
RN to MSN
Online RN to MSN degree programs are designed for currently licensed RNs who are interested in streamlining their education and moving quickly into advanced practice and leadership positions. Most RN to MSN programs essentially act as combined BSN/MSN programs, with students awarded the BSN credential upon completion of either the program’s undergraduate requirements or at the end of the entire degree program alongside the MSN. RN to MSN programs often include substantial online and hybrid coursework, especially on the graduate course level. Program lengths vary, but can typically be completed in three years of full-time study. Part-time options are sometimes available. Specialization tracks, like administration, education, and family nurse practitioner, are available.
Other Online Nursing Programs in Texas You May Be Interested In
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Texas
Can I earn my nursing degree in Texas completely online?
It depends on the program and how you define “completely online.” For example, with the exception of online ADN programs, the majority of online nursing programs at Texas schools today feature coursework that can be completed 100% online. However, all pre-RN licensure programs, some online RN to BSN programs, and most graduate-level nursing programs include in-person clinical components. In most cases, RNs will complete these in-person requirements at their current places of employment.
Will my online Texas nursing degree be considered less valuable by employers?
Most likely not. There was a time when degrees earned online were thought to be of lesser quality than those earned through a traditional on-campus program. That’s simply no longer the case. Employers today (and for many years now) are fully aware that online nursing degree programs meet the same academic standards and feature the same curriculum requirements as their traditional on-campus counterparts.
If I plan to work in a different state, will my online Texas nursing degree meet RN licensing requirements there?
It will depend on your state’s specific licensing requirements, so it’s crucial that you clearly understand those requirements prior to enrolling in any Texas nursing degree program. You can get the licensing information you need by contacting the board of nursing in the state in which you intend to practice. The most important factor in choosing any nursing degree program that leads to becoming an RN is that the program qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, since passing the exam is a requirement to RN licensure in every state in the U.S.
Another way in which an online Texas nursing degree can qualify you for RN practice in another state is through the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC allows an RN licensed in one NLC member state (like Texas) to practice in another member state without having to obtain separate licensure, as long as the RN meets all uniform license requirements.
How Do I Become an RN Online in Texas?
There is more than one path that you can take to becoming a fully-licensed RN in Texas. All paths, though, eventually lead to either a nursing diploma or degree (ADN or BSN) program. It doesn’t make a difference if the program is completed online or on campus, as long it is properly accredited and prepares you to meet all licensing qualifications. Here’s a look at the key steps online nursing degree students need to follow to reach their goal of becoming a Texas RN:
1
The first step toward becoming a licensed RN in Texas is to enroll in a properly accredited nursing degree or diploma program that qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination. The degree program must be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Your Texas online degree program should additionally be approved by the Texas Board of Nursing. The chances are high that the online degree program you’re considering meets these qualifications, but it’s imperative that you confirm this before signing up.
2
You must successfully complete all degree requirements including courses and clinical requirements and receive your credential in order to qualify to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and meet other specific Texas RN licensure requirements. It’s essential that you take your studies seriously through every part of the academic process and follow up on all documentation requirements.
3
The NCLEX-RN is a written exam consisting of between 75 and 365 multiple-choice questions covering four major nursing-practice categories and eight subcategories. The exam must be taken in-person at one of over 240 Pearson Professional Centers located throughout the U.S. Passing the exam is a requirement for Texas RN licensure. For more information on the NCLEX-RN exam and useful advice and tips for passing it, check out our Beginner’s Guide to the NCLEX.
4
Finally, you’ll complete all other nursing licensing requirements required by Texas, ensure that your paperwork and records are in order, and apply for your RN license. Learn more about specific requirements for obtaining and maintaining RN licensure in Texas.
RN Licensing Information and Requirements in Texas
Before beginning any nursing degree or diploma program leading to a Texas RN licensure, be sure you clearly understand exactly what will be required of you to obtain your license. Initial RN licensing and licensing renewals in Texas are administered through the Texas Board of Nursing (BON). Here’s a quick look at the major requirements for obtaining a Texas RN license:
Criminal Background Check
A criminal background check (CBC) is required of all Texas RN licensure applicants and must be completed prior to sitting for the NCLEX-RN in Texas. The background check is conducted through the Texas Department of Public Safety and the FBI based on the applicant’s fingerprints. Applicants must submit their fingerprints via MorphoTrust, an electronic fingerprinting service that operates over 80 IdentoGo centers throughout the state. Detailed information on the CBC and links to fingerprinting instructions can be found on the BON Licensure-Examination Information webpage.
Professional Nursing Examinations
Texas RN license applicants must take and pass two examinations as part of the licensure process: the NCLEX-RN exam and the Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam. The Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam is an online, open-book test consisting of 50 questions covering rules and regulations related to nursing practice in the state. RN licensure applicants must pass the exam prior to receiving authorization to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam in Texas. Visit the Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam webpage to register for the exam and to access information on the BON’s exam prep course.
Renewal Timeline and Requirements
The initial RN licensure period in Texas is between six and 29 months, depending on the license holder’s birthdate. Subsequent license periods are two years in length. License renewal requires the holder to either demonstrate maintenance of a BON-approved national nursing certification or, more commonly, complete a minimum of 20 contact hours of continuing nursing education (CNE) in the holder’s area of practice. A clean criminal record during the licensing period must also be maintained. Detailed information on RN continuing education and license renewal requirements can be found on the BON Education – Continuing Competency Requirements webpage.
Salary and Job Outlook for RNs in Texas
The data on Registered Nurses (RNs) in Texas reveals promising salary potential and job growth. RNs in Texas earn an average of $85,110 annually, with the 10th percentile earning around $64,580 and the 90th percentile reaching up to $115,740. Salary ranges vary significantly by location, with cities like Austin and Dallas offering higher wages, especially for experienced nurses. For instance, RNs in Austin earn a median salary of $93,470, while those in rural areas like Brownsville-Harlingen make a median of $72,830.
The job outlook for RNs in Texas is also robust, with a projected 14.6% growth in RN positions, adding over 34,000 new jobs by 2031. This growth is significantly higher than the national average of 5.6%, suggesting a strong demand for RNs in the state. With a high number of annual openings (16,900), Texas offers substantial opportunities for individuals pursuing a nursing career.
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $64,580 | $85,110 | $115,740 |
| Abilene, TX | $63,510 | $73,610 | $84,370 |
| Amarillo, TX | $64,830 | $80,680 | $105,890 |
| Austin-Round Rock, TX | $69,600 | $93,470 | $117,990 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | $62,600 | $80,180 | $102,330 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen, TX | $52,430 | $72,830 | $94,750 |
| College Station-Bryan, TX | $63,290 | $80,300 | $94,640 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | $61,050 | $79,840 | $100,190 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $66,560 | $93,300 | $117,390 |
| El Paso, TX | $60,570 | $77,950 | $113,690 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | $67,810 | $93,330 | $115,460 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | $62,400 | $85,380 | $109,410 |
| Laredo, TX | $59,090 | $74,650 | $91,240 |
| Longview, TX | $60,720 | $78,160 | $99,900 |
| Lubbock, TX | $63,790 | $76,780 | $98,920 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX | $59,180 | $76,160 | $93,270 |
| Midland, TX | $63,530 | $81,790 | $102,740 |
| Odessa, TX | $58,330 | $80,850 | $103,870 |
| San Angelo, TX | $63,720 | $77,690 | $93,850 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $63,480 | $83,740 | $108,660 |
| Sherman-Denison, TX | $65,750 | $77,710 | $95,900 |
| Texarkana, TX-AR | $51,660 | $75,220 | $101,510 |
| Tyler, TX | $63,230 | $78,050 | $94,690 |
| Victoria, TX | $61,620 | $80,900 | $96,130 |
| Waco, TX | $62,650 | $79,740 | $104,060 |
| Wichita Falls, TX | $62,700 | $83,820 | $85,460 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Texas | 233,850 | 267,980 | 34,130 | 14.60% | 16,900 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Texas Online Nursing Resources
- Texas Board of Nursing The Texas Board of Nursing is the state governmental agency tasked with the regulation of nursing practice and the approval of nursing education programs within Texas. It’s through this agency that all Texas nursing professionals, including RNs, obtain their nursing licensure. The board additionally offers a range of nursing resources and services, including CNE online courses and workshops.
- Texas Emergency Nurses Association (TXENA) The TXENA is a professional non-profit organization providing advocacy, education, and leadership services in support of the professional practice of emergency nursing in Texas. TXENA’s scholarship program sponsors a number of undergraduate and graduate scholarships for TXENA members interested in pursuing or advancing careers in emergency nursing.
- Texas Nurse Practitioners (TNP) Texas Nurse Practitioners is an association of nurse practitioner professionals and students whose purpose is to advance NP practice and promote the accessibility of quality healthcare provided by NPs to patients throughout the state. Member benefits include organization-sponsored seminars and events, and access to Texas-specific CE programs.
- Texas Nurses Association (TNA) With over 12,000 members, the Texas Nurses Association is the largest and oldest membership-based association of licensed nursing professionals in Texas. Membership in the TNA provides access to a wide range of services and benefits, such as continuing education courses and job search resources. Student member benefits include scholarship and student loan opportunities.
- Texas Nursing Students’ Association (TNSA) An affiliate of the National Student Nurses’ Association, the TNSA is an association of over 3,000 nursing students throughout Texas preparing for initial RN licensure. The TNSA sponsors a number of support services for student nurses, including networking events, career search resources, and an annual scholarship. Visitors to the website can access current and past copies of the association’s official publication, The Central Line.
- Texas Organization for Nursing Leadership (TONL) The TONL is a non-profit organization of current, student, and aspiring Texas RNs, nursing executives and administrators, and other nursing leaders that provides a range of professional services and activities to its members. There are 13 local TONL chapters located throughout the state.
- Texas School Nurses Organization (TSNO) The TSNO is a professional association of nurses dedicated to the promotion and enhancement of school nurse practice to support students’ well-being and readiness to learn. Membership benefits include several organization-sponsored scholarships to help members advance their nursing educations. The TSNO is an affiliate organization of the National Association of School Nurses, Inc. (NASN).
