Best Nursing Schools in Texas in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

If you’re looking for an in-demand career where you can make a difference, nursing could be perfect for you. More and more hospitals are requiring nurses to have a BSN degree to practice, so attending the right school is important. There are many accredited nursing schools in Texas to choose from. The following ranking consists of nursing schools in Austin, nursing programs in Arlington, and various other Texas cities. A good nursing school should incorporate community health, research, clinical experience, leadership, health promotion and managerial skills. Nurses with a BSN usually work in community settings and hold leadership roles within their employment, due to their education and training.

Be sure to look at the Texas Board of Nursing requirements for a nursing license and make sure that the program meets all of the requirements. If a program achieves less than a 75% pass rate on the licensing exam, the school could risk losing its accreditation. Make sure the school is accredited so you don’t waste any time or money.

BSN programs in Texas have requirements in order to apply, so you’ll want to be sure to research the requirements and have them prepared. Some requirements vary, but below is an example of what most schools require for their BSN program. If you’re a registered nurse looking to continue their education, check out our best RN to BSN programs in Texas rankings.

• Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better
• Achieving a minimum standard grade of C+ or better in prerequisite courses
• Must write an essay that expresses an interest in, and commitment to, the nursing profession

The Best Nursing Schools in Texas (Online & On-Campus)

1. Texas Christian University

Texas Christian University offers nursing programs with an exceptional and innovative curriculum. Learning takes place in classroom and patient care settings to help students develop their critical thinking, decision making, and clinical thinking skills. The four-year degree option takes approximately 124 credits to complete.

• Tuition: $40,720
• Acceptance Rate: 43.3%
• Graduation Rate: 75.5%
• BS in Nursing

2. West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University is a dedicated learning facility devoted to helping students become professional leaders in the healthcare field. The student-based curriculum focuses on quality nursing services and evidence-based nursing practices.

• Tuition: $7,041
• Acceptance Rate: 66.9%
• Graduation Rate: 41.2%
• Nursing – Pre-Licensure BSN
• Nursing – RN to BSN (licensed RNs)
• Nursing – RN to MSN (licensed RNs)
• Master of Science – Nursing

3. Abilene Christian University

Abilene Christian University is a Christian school that provides state-of-the-art labs and hands-on learning experiences. Students will be trained in a variety of settings to give them experience in the fast-paced healthcare field.

• Tuition: $30,830
• Acceptance Rate: 49.9%
• Graduation Rate: 61.9%
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing

4. University of Texas Austin

The University of Texas in Austin offers a theoretical and practical curriculum in the nursing sciences. Students will be prepared to work in a wide array of clinical settings while exercising critical thinking and clinical application to patient care.

• Tuition: $9,806
• Acceptance Rate: 39.2%
• Graduation Rate: 80.6%
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN)

5. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University offers a unique nursing program for all kinds of students. Students will be taught a dynamic curriculum which focuses on evidence-based practice and skills to be used in the healthcare field.

• Tuition: $10,176
• Acceptance Rate: 66.6%
• Graduation Rate: 79.3%
• Traditional BSN
• Second Degree BSN
• RN-to-BSN

6. University of Texas Arlington

The University of Texas in Arlington prepares students for successful careers of leadership in the nursing field with three different programs to choose from. An online program is available for the flexibility and convenience of students with busy schedules.

• Tuition: $9,208
• Acceptance Rate: 66.4%
• Graduation Rate: 41.9%

7. University of Houston

The University of Houston offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs for students at all walks of life. The programs are designed to give students the boost in career they’re seeking while obtaining skills and knowledge that will improve their performance in the medical field.

• Tuition: $5,662.56 (with consolidated fees). Varies by program, graduate level, residence status, and courses taken.
• Acceptance Rate: 65%
• Graduation Rate: 61%

8. Baptist Health System School of Health Professions

The Baptist Health System School of Health Professions offers an excellent graduate degree in nursing administration that builds on students understanding to give them a more thorough set of skills and knowledge. Offered fully online, this program can be completed in 20 months.

• Tuition: $5,636
• Acceptance Rate: 69.2%
• Graduation Rate: 86.8%

9. Hardin-Simmons University

Hardin-Simmons University offers students a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the healthcare field. Students will be taught critical thinking, clinical judgment, theory and practice to achieve a well-rounded curriculum.

• Tuition: $24,500
• Acceptance Rate: 60%
• Graduation Rate: 52.4%

10. Baylor University

Baylor University is a Christian institution that strives to promote excellence in their student population. Combining faith with leadership, service, professional practice, and community, Baylor provides a truly inspired nursing program.

• Tuition: $40,198
• Acceptance Rate: 43.7%
• Graduation Rate: 72.2%

11. University of St. Thomas Texas

The University of St. Thomas believes nursing is about caring for patient’s mind, body, and spirit to facilitate healing. Students will be taught to reason, write, and speak to make good decisions in the medical field.

• Tuition: $30,310
• Acceptance Rate: 78%
• Graduation Rate: 51.9%

12. Texas State University

Texas State University offers fantastic nursing programs that will prepare students to lead and succeed in the healthcare world. With a well-rounded curriculum and hands-on training, students will learn the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

• Tuition: $9,348
• Acceptance Rate: 70.8%
• Graduation Rate: 55.1%

13. University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston

University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston offers students the best experience possible with cutting-edge technology and hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings.

• Tuition: $17,184
• Acceptance Rate: 8%
• Graduation Rate: unknown

14. University of Texas Tyler

The University of Texas at Tyler offers several nursing programs to give students the best fit. With multiple options to choose from, students can focus on work, home life, and school all at their convenience. Graduates will be prepared to take the NCLEX exam.

• Tuition: $7,822
• Acceptance Rate: 64.5%
• Graduation Rate: 51.4%

15. Lamar University

Lamar University strives to provide excellence with their nursing programs. By preparing students to have a longitudinal focus, synthesize information, and solve problems critically, students will become excellent leaders in the delivery of healthcare.

• Tuition: $8,002
• Acceptance Rate: 79.1%
• Graduation Rate: 32.9%

16. University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor‘s BSN program can be completed in 124 credits hours. With state-of-the-art programs and experienced faculty, students will be given the best possible education.

• Tuition: $26,100
• Acceptance Rate: 80.4%
• Graduation Rate: 47.8%

17. Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University is one of the highest ranking programs in the nation. Students will be taught to balance patient care with science as they learn leadership skills and gain knowledge in the healthcare field.

• Tuition: $6,948
• Acceptance Rate: 85.9%
• Graduation Rate: 43.9%

18. Houston Baptist University

Houston Baptist University provides a rigorous nursing curriculum in academic and clinical performance. Students will be trained in a variety of healthcare settings to give a well-rounded education.

• Tuition: $29,800
• Acceptance Rate: 33.2%
• Graduation Rate: 44.6%

19. Angelo State University

Angelo State University offers the first step to a wide range of nursing careers in a competitive field. With exceptional faculty and a high quality curriculum, students can be guaranteed an excellent education.

• Tuition: $6,892
• Acceptance Rate: 76.7%
• Graduation Rate: 31.2%

20. Concordia Texas University

Concordia Texas University promotes high-quality, safe patient care combined with Christian leadership. An online track is available for students in need of flexibility with busy schedules.

• Tuition: $28,160
• Acceptance Rate: 82.1%
• Graduation Rate: 32.3%

21. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University offers an exceptional nursing program for the fast-growing field. Students will be trained in many different clinical settings with both theoretical and practical coursework.

• Tuition: $7,618
• Acceptance Rate: 72.7%
• Graduation Rate: 53.1%

22. Stephen F. Austin State University

Stephen F. Austin State University combines hands-on training with state-of-the-art facilities and a rigorous curriculum to create a phenomenal nursing program.

• Tuition: $7,560
• Acceptance Rate: 61.6%
• Graduation Rate: 43.7%

23. Prairie View A&M University

Prairie View A&M University offers a great nursing program. Students are trained by experienced faculty in a wide variety of clinical settings. Hands-on work combined with an extensive curriculum will give students an excellent education.

• Tuition: $9,745
• Acceptance Rate: 85.9%
• Graduation Rate: 35.7%

24. University of Texas El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso has created an innovative model for their nursing program. Each course increases in breadth and depth to increase students understanding and sharpen their skills they will need in the heath care field.

• Tuition: $7,259
• Acceptance Rate: 100%
• Graduation Rate: 38.3%

25. University of the Incarnate Word

The University of the Incarnate Word has a nursing program that focuses on the care of patients across the lifespan. With a brand new learning center and trained faculty, students will obtain a well-rounded education.

• Tuition: $46,766
• Acceptance Rate: 92.2%
• Graduation Rate: 19%

26. Southwestern Adventist University

Southwestern Adventist University offers a nursing program with small class sizes and dedicated professors that will help students become leaders in the field. Students will be taught wholistic thinking, clinical judgment, and assessment skills they need to be successful.

• Tuition: $19,916
• Acceptance Rate: 48.5%
• Graduation Rate: 40.2%

27. Tarleton State University

Tarleton State University offers nursing programs that will prepare students to be successful in an array of settings, whether it be the classroom, state-of-the-art labs, clinical agencies, or community settings.

• Tuition: $6,630
• Acceptance Rate: 49.7%
• Graduation Rate: 44.7%

28. Schreiner University

Schreiner University strives to produce nurses who are leaders and life-long learners who are dedicated to the protection and optimization of health. Students will be taught the prevention and alleviation of injuries and illness as well as diagnosis and treatment of individuals and communities.

• Tuition: $25,086
• Acceptance Rate: 90.1%
• Graduation Rate: 42.9%

29. Texas A&M International University

Texas A&M International University has a unique four-year nursing program. Taught by experienced faculty with cutting-edge technology, students will be prepared to provide health care to their own communities.

• Tuition: $6,635
• Acceptance Rate: 48%
• Graduation Rate: 41%

30. Midwestern State University

Midwestern State University strives to provide competent and compassionate nurses. Students will be taught through a variety of teaching methods building on their foundations to find creative and innovative solutions in the health care world.

• Tuition: $8,005
• Acceptance Rate: 76%
• Graduation Rate: 43.3%

31. Wayland University

Wayland University offers learning-intensive nursing programs. Students will learn in face-to-face classes, labs, and clinical studies to provide them with the best possible education.

• Tuition: $13,680
• Acceptance Rate: 98.7%
• Graduation Rate: 33%

32. East Texas Baptist University

East Texas Baptist University offers a holistic approach to nursing. Students will be taught to synthesize and incorporate evidence, demonstrate accountability, think critically, collaborate with team members, and provide care in a variety of health care settings.

• Tuition: $24,218
• Acceptance Rate: 55.3%
• Graduation Rate: 38.3%

33. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

The University of Texas in Rio Grande Valley offers a nursing program that teaches students to integrate knowledge and theory, skills, and leadership into the practice of nursing, which is an excellent foundation for graduate study.

• Tuition: $7,292
• Acceptance Rate: 82.2%
• Graduation Rate: 42.8%

34. Texas Lutheran University

Texas Lutheran University provides hands-on opportunities with their nursing program. Through an approved curriculum, students will be taught to provide healthcare in a variety of healthcare settings through classroom work and clinical studies.

• Tuition: $27,900
• Acceptance Rate: 50.7%
• Graduation Rate: 43.9%

35. Letourneau University

Letourneau University offers students a great nursing program. With cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art labs, students will be taught by trained faculty how to be a leader in the ever-growing field of health care.

• Tuition: $27,900
• Acceptance Rate: 45.5%
• Graduation Rate: 51.5%

Nursing Schools in Texas Ranking Methodology

Schools on this list were ranked mostly by NCLEX-RN pass rates, with other quality-indicating factors such as tuition and acceptance rate slightly affecting the rankings to push the higher-quality schools toward the top. See our methodology page for more detail.