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Sarah Beattie, DNP, APRN (Editorial Team / Admin)
Are you a registered nurse (RN) ready to enhance your career with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree?
There are many factors to consider before applying to an RN to BSN program, and Texas has many choices. To help you decide which is best, we've provided details about the degree and expected salaries and ranked the 13 best available.
Best RN to BSN Programs in Texas
The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.
*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.
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#1 Texas A&M University, College Station
Bryan, Texas
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#2 The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Houston, Texas
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#3 University of Houston
Sugar Land, Texas
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#4 Texas State University
San Marcos, Texas
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#5 The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Galveston, Texas
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#6 Texas Woman's University
Denton, Texas
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#7 The University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, Texas
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#8 West Texas A&M University
Canyon, Texas
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#9 Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi, Texas
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#10 Schreiner University
Kerrville, Texas
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#11 Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, Texas
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#12 Southwestern Adventist University
Keene, Texas
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#13 Texas A&M University, Commerce
Commerce, Texas
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#14 Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
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#15 Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
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#16 Texas A&M International University, Laredo
Laredo, Texas
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#17 Lone Star College System
The Woodlands, Texas
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#18 Prairie View A&M University
Houston, Texas
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#19 Collin County Community College District
McKinney, Texas
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#20 Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, Texas
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#21 The University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, Texas
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#22 North Central Texas College
Gainesville, Texas
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#23 The University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, Texas
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#24 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas
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#25 Austin Community College DistricT
Austin, Texas
Learn More About Texas' Top RN to BSN Programs
Texas offers a diverse healthcare landscape, from bustling cities to rural communities. The state's RN to BSN programs are designed to equip nurses with advanced skills in clinical practice, leadership, and patient care, preparing them to excel in various healthcare settings. These programs empower nurses to enhance their expertise and advance their careers, whether they choose to work in Texas or beyond.
For information on tuition, accreditation, and program formats, refer to the section above.
1. Texas A&M University, College Station
Texas A&M's RN to BSN program is designed with your success in mind, offering a flexible and supportive online learning experience. With the option to complete the program in 3 to 4 semesters, depending on your pace, you can balance your education with your professional and personal commitments. The program is entirely online, with individual practicum experiences completed within your own community, allowing you to gain hands-on experience while advancing your education. The dedicated faculty at Texas A&M will guide and support you throughout your journey, ensuring you're prepared for success in the ever-evolving healthcare field.
- Credit Hours: 30
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- A cumulative GPA above 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale) is strongly recommended.
- A cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for prerequisite nursing science courses.
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
- Completion of 59 semester credit hours of prerequisite courses, including nutrition, anatomy and physiology, Microbiology, chemistry, lifespan growth and development, and Texas A&M University core equivalent math courses.
- Current, unencumbered RN license.
- Timed verbal responses and written assessments.
- Community service involvement.
- Leadership and participation in extracurricular or professional activities.
- TOEFL score required for international applicants.
Application Deadlines:
- Spring Admission Deadline: August 1st
- Summer Application Deadline: January 15th
2. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
The RN to BSN program at UTHealth Houston Cizik School of Nursing offers a flexible, 100% online pathway for registered nurses to advance their education. With the option for full-time or part-time enrollment, students can complete their degree in as few as two semesters or up to five, depending on their schedule. Clinical experiences are available throughout Texas, including the prestigious Texas Medical Center. Known for its affordability, UTHealth provides one of the most cost-effective RN to BSN programs in Texas, making it an excellent choice for nurses looking to further their careers.
Credit Hours: 31
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- Associate's degree in nursing or diploma in nursing.
- Active, unencumbered Texas RN license or ability to secure one in the first semester.
- 3.0 GPA or higher in 60 hours of nursing prerequisites.
- 3.0 GPA or higher in required science prerequisites.
- Completion of at least 40 prerequisite hours, including 8 hours of science prerequisites (Human Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and Chemistry).
Application Deadlines:
- Fall Term Admission: March 15
- Spring Term Admission: September 15
- Summer Term Admission: January 15
Financial Aid: UTHealth Houston offers nursing scholarships ranging from $1,000 to full tuition, along with need-based financial aid. S
3. University of Houston
The Andy & Barbara School of Nursing at the University of Houston offers an RN to BSN program designed to enhance career and educational opportunities for registered nurses. With a focus on leadership and management, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of the nursing profession. Delivered in a face-to-face format, students benefit from Tier One University education and expert faculty. Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to assume advanced roles in healthcare settings.
Credit Hours: To achieve a BSN degree, students must complete 30 core nursing hours at UH, along with 33 credit hours from associate degree coursework. Up to 73 credit hours of general education credits are transferable, totaling 120 undergraduate credit hours.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- Proof of graduation from an accredited associate degree or diploma
- A current unencumbered Texas RN license
- A minimum cumulative transfer GPA of 2.5
Application Deadlines: June 1
4. Texas State University
Texas State University offers a distinguished RN to BSN program, recognized for its strong academic foundation and exceptional student support. Designed for registered nurses looking to advance their careers, the program provides flexible learning options and a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership in healthcare. With opportunities for clinical experience, students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in diverse healthcare settings.
Credit Hours: 30
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% .
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- Hold an unencumbered RN license from an approved state or region.
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 in nursing and overall.
- Complete 42 hours of general education core courses.
- Complete 18 hours of support coursework.
- Earn 30 credit hours for an A.D.N. from an accredited community college.
- If no foreign language was completed in high school, take 6-8 hours of the same language.
Application Deadlines:
- Spring Term Admission: November 15
- Summer Term Admission: May 1
- Fall Term Admission: February 15 (priority) or July 15 (final)
5. University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB)
UTMB's RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses, with the option to fast-track and complete the degree in just two semesters. The 100% online program enhances advanced nursing skills, leadership, evidence-based practice, and the ability to address community healthcare needs. Students also have the opportunity to apply for the MSN program concurrently, further advancing their education. With flexible online coursework and 24-hour technical support, this program is ideal for nurses looking to advance their careers quickly.
Credit Hours: 30 through a total of 10 upper level nursing courses
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- An active and unencumbered RN license in the state the students intends to participate in clinical learning experiences
- 60 hours of prerequisite course at an accredited college or university
- A minimum GPA of 2.5 in all prerequisite courses
Application Deadlines: RN to BSN enrolls Fall Term start dates with an application period from September 15-March 15.
6. Texas Womans University
Credit Hours: 32 credits must be completed at TWU, in addition to transferred credits, for a total of 120 credits required for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- Hold a current, unencumbered RN license in the United States.
- Complete 60 semester credit hours, including required lower-division courses and 2 elective credits.
- Earn a minimum grade of C in Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Chemistry, and Microbiology (including labs).
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 for all required lower-division nursing courses.
Admission Deadlines:
- Spring Term - November 1
- Summer Term - March 15
- Fall Term - July 1
7. The University of Texas at Arlington
UTA's RN to BSN program is exceptionally comprehensive, covering a wide range of essential nursing skills, building on registered nursing experiences. Students learn how to be a nursing leader in a globally focused way, and meet the growing demand for nurses with tailored patient care. This cost-effective program is designed to help you balance your professional and personal lives.
- Credit Hours: 32
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- An Active RN license
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.25
- Application Deadlines:
- Application deadlines fall at the end of October
Admission Deadlines:
- Fall: March 1
- Spring: October 15
- Summer: April 1
Financial Aid: UTA offers over $40 million in scholarships annually, including merit-based and need-based options. Students can access these opportunities through Mav ScholarShop and the FAFSA application.
8. West Texas A&M University
The Laura and Joe Stree School of Nursing at West Texas A&M offers an RN to BSN program consistently ranked among the best for its value to students. Designed for the busy working nurse, this fully online program allows students to progress at their own pace, with no campus attendance required—even for the practicum.
Credit Hours: This program requires a total of 121 credit hours to earn a BSN degree, including at least 30 upper-division nursing credits to be completed at West Texas A&M. Credit requirements may vary based on the associate-level coursework transferred.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements: An unencumbered nursing license OR you will be receiving licensure within 3 months
Application Deadlines: Updated each semester.
Financial Aid: A partnership with Northwest Texas Healthcare System and West Texas A&M offers tuition reimbursement for RN-BSN students.
9. Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi
The RN to BSN or eLine BSN program at Texas A&M Corpus Christi is designed for registered nurses who have not completed associate coursework but are eager to advance their education and earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This flexible program offers online coursework, with in-person clinical experiences in the Corpus Christi area. The program typically takes five semesters to complete, providing students the opportunity to balance their education with professional and personal commitments.
Credit Hours: 120 credit hours are required to graduate with a bachelor's degree. However, credits from an ADN/ASN program may be transferrable, and students should consult with an academic advisor to develop a personalized study plan.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 72%
10. Lamar University
Lamar University's RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses looking to enhance their education and earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This flexible, fully online program allows students to progress independently while engaging in a project-based practicum for hands-on experience. With a focus on leadership, evidence-based practice, and community health, the program prepares graduates for advanced roles in healthcare and future academic pursuits.
- Credit Hours: 30 core RN to BSN courses
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98% first attempt
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- Current unencumbered RN License
- Cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5
Application Deadlines: Rolling admissions so you can apply online at any time.
11. Schreiner University
Schreiner University's Online RN to BSN program helps students stay current with nursing practices while integrating ethical principles and theory into the coursework. The program offers exceptional flexibility, with 100% online courses and 6-week terms. Students can complete the program in as little as one year.
- Credit Hours: 21 core nursing credits and 12 hours of electives required.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: Nearly 100%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- A cumulative GPA of 2.5 or Higher
- Associate's Degree in Nursing from a regionally accredited college
- Current unencumbered license as an RN
Application Deadlines: Apply online at any time with five start dates throughout the year.
Financial Aid: At Schreiner University, students can earn up to $100,000 in scholarships over four years. Additionally, once accepted, students can lock in their tuition rate, providing financial stability throughout their education.
12. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Texas Tech School of Nursing offers a flexible and accessible pathway for registered nurses to advance their careers through the RN to BSN program. Designed to build on existing experience, the program can be completed in just 2-3 semesters, depending on completed prerequisites. With online coursework that fits into your schedule, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to address new trends, critical nursing issues, and holistic care, all while balancing work and life commitments.
- Credit Hours: 30 core nursing credits
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97%
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- A 2.5 cumulative GPA for any prerequisite nurses classes
- All prerequisite coursework must have a grade of "C" or higher.
- A minimum of 84 credit hours of courses completed
Application Deadlines:
- Spring Term Application Period: August 15 - November 15
- SummerTerm Application Period: January 1 - April 1
- Fall Term Application Period: May 1 - August 1
13. Southwestern Adventist University
SWAU Online offers an affordable and flexible RN to BSN program designed to equip registered nurses with the expertise needed to meet today's healthcare standards. With 8-week modules and a fully online format, the program can be completed in as little as 40 weeks.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 76%.
RN-BSN Admission Requirements:
- Successfully complete a minimum of 84 semester credits prior to enrollment.
- Complete 21 credits of prerequisite nursing courses with a grade of "C" or higher, including Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Sociology, Math, and Psychology.
- Hold an Associate of Science degree or Diploma in Nursing from an accredited college or university.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- Hold an active, unencumbered RN license.
Financial Aid: Southwestern Adventist University offers a range of financial aid opportunities, including federal and state grants, federal loans, and a variety of institutional scholarships for both Texas residents and out-of-state students. Additionally, the university accepts nearly all external scholarships, providing further support for eligible students.
What Is an RN to BSN Program?
After completing the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and becoming a licensed RN by passing the NCLEX exam, many nurses advance their careers by returning to school for a one to two-year bridge to a BSN degree. A BSN degree is a baccalaureate degree focusing on expanding the foundations of nursing care. Areas of focus include evidence-based practice, research, and nursing theory.
Nurses with a BSN have access to a broader array of career opportunities and can work in more varied environments than those with an ADN. Although both ADN and BSN nurses can work in hospitals and nursing homes, BSN-prepared nurses often qualify for positions in educational services, leadership roles, government agencies, schools, community centers, hospices, dialysis centers, and virtual care settings. This advanced education and skill set open doors to specialized nursing roles, boosting career advancement and job satisfaction.
RN to BSN Coursework
- Pharmacology: Advanced study of medications, their effects on the human body, and their role in patient care.
- Physiology: In-depth exploration of human physiological processes and how they relate to nursing practices.
- Health Assessment: Techniques and methods for comprehensive patient assessments, including physical examinations and health history evaluations.
- Community Health Nursing: Study of public health principles and their application in community settings.
- Ethics in Nursing: Examination of ethical dilemmas and decision-making processes in nursing practice.
- Pathophysiology: Study of the changes in body systems and functions due to diseases.
These BSN higher-level nursing courses will build upon previous experience, skills, and knowledge to develop a stronger nursing foundation. The skills focus on clinical reasoning and the nursing profession from the broader viewpoint of factors affecting patient care. These courses can build upon essential foundations, including the following:
- Systems Leadership, Quality, and Patient Safety
- Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
- Information Management and Technology
- Healthcare Policy and Finance
- Population Health
- Interprofessional Collaboration and Communication
RN to BSN programs offer full-time and part-time coursework.
RN to BSN Clinical Training
Clinical experience is also part of RN to BSN programs, with students completing clinical time with other BSN-prepared nurses. This hands-on experience will enhance the BSN students' experience within health promotion, evidence-based practice, informatics, and nursing leadership roles.
- Hospital Rotations: Practical experience in various hospital departments, such as emergency, pediatrics, and surgery.
- Community Health Practicum: Hands-on experience in community health settings, focusing on public health initiatives and preventive care.
- Leadership Practicum: Opportunities to develop leadership skills in clinical settings, often involving project management or team leadership roles.
- Simulation Labs: Use of high-fidelity mannequins and simulations to practice clinical skills in a controlled environment.
- Capstone Project: A culminating project that integrates theoretical knowledge with clinical practice, often involving a specific patient population or healthcare issue.
Can RN to BSN Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?
RN to BSN programs are often available online, on campus, or as hybrid options. Designed for working RNs who have completed an ADN or nursing diploma program and obtained licensure, these programs build on the significant hands-on experience gained through initial training and work. However, some online programs may have in-person requirements like exams or capstone projects, so it's essential to check the specific requirements of each program to ensure it fits your needs.
Why Earn Your BSN?
Nurses with an ADN might wonder why they should pursue a BSN degree. Here are several key reasons:
- Expanded Career Opportunities: BSN-prepared nurses can access more diverse roles, including management and leadership positions that are often out of reach for ADN holders.
- Higher Earnings: BSN-prepared nurses typically earn higher salaries and have the option to pursue advanced degrees in nursing or other fields.
- Improved Patient Outcomes: BSN education enhances nursing skills, leading to better patient care and increased healthcare system revenue. Many healthcare organizations now require or encourage a BSN due to these benefits.
- Professional Standards: The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) states that a BSN is the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice.
- Magnet Recognition: Health systems aiming for Magnet status from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) often prefer baccalaureate-prepared nurses. This status signifies excellence in nursing and improved patient outcomes, prompting many employers to offer tuition reimbursement or assistance for BSN programs.
- Advanced Education: The BSN degree also provides the groundwork for nurses to further their future careers with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
RN to BSN Admnission Requirements
All schools have a separate list of prerequisites, although many similarities exist. First, you must have completed the ADN program through an accredited school and maintained a specific GPA. Once admitted, students complete a core curriculum before continuing to higher-level nursing courses.
- Completion of an ADN, ASN, or AAS program through an accredited institution.
- Passed your NCLEX-RN exam and have an unrestricted NC RN license
- Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
- Proof of transcripts from all prior schools
- Proof of clinical and practicum hours
- Background check and drug screen
- Up-to-date on immunizations and a current physical examination
- Many programs require a minimum grade point average (GPA) of B (3.0) in previous coursework
Prerequisite courses may include:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- General Chemistry with lab
- Microbiology with lab
- Anatomy and Physiology with lab
- College Algebra
- Statistics
- Human Nutrition
- Speech or Interpersonal Communication
Always verify the specific admission requirements for each RN to BSN program, as they can vary. Many programs accept prerequisites from community colleges or the university where you'll pursue your BSN. Ensure your credits transfer correctly by checking transfer eligibility with your chosen program.
Costs of RN to BSN Programs in Texas
When considering the costs of RN to BSN programs, it's important to take into account several factors that can influence the total expense. Here are key considerations:
- Tuition Rates: Tuition can vary significantly between institutions. Public universities often offer lower rates for in-state students, while private colleges may have higher tuition fees. Online programs might offer different rates compared to traditional on-campus programs.
- Per Credit Cost: Some programs charge per credit hour. The total number of credit hours required to complete the program will affect the overall cost.
- Program Length: Accelerated programs may be more expensive in the short term but can reduce overall costs by enabling quicker completion. Traditional programs spread over a longer period might have lower semester costs but could be more expensive in total.
- Fees and Additional Costs: Beyond tuition, additional fees such as technology fees, lab fees, and resources fees can add up. Also, consider the cost of textbooks and other learning materials.
- Online vs. On-Campus: Online programs might reduce costs related to commuting, housing, and other campus-related expenses.
- Part-Time vs. Full-Time Enrollment: Part-time enrollment might be more manageable financially but can extend the duration of the program, potentially increasing the total cost.
- Living Expenses: For on-campus programs, consider the cost of living in the area, including housing, food, and transportation.
It's important that prospective students research available financial aid, grants, and bursaries to offset the costs of their education. To reduce costs, explore the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.
RN Salary Expectations in Texas
According to the NCSBN National Workforce Survey, 41.8% of nurses completed a BSN program as their first licensure, and 37.7% of nurses in 2020 had their first licensure with an ADN degree. Geographic location, employer, and experience level each influence the salary of BSN-prepared nurses.
The most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the mean salary for RNs was $94,480 per year, while Texas RNs earned an annual mean wage of $90,210, which is 4-5% lower. This figure includes all RNs, regardless of whether they hold an ADN, BSN, or MSN degree.
Texas ranked second in the highest employment level of RNs:
- California (332,560) $137,690.00
- Texas (251,840) $90,210.00
- FLorida (207,910) $84,760.00
- New York (188,060) $106,620.00
- Pennsylvania (144,100) $87,530.00
Top Earning States for RNs were:
- California: $137,690.00
- Hawaii: $119,710.00
- Oregon: $113,440.00
- Washington: $111,030.00
- Alaska: $109,210.00
Other factors influencing salary include years of experience, nursing specialty, the healthcare system, and your location. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer higher salaries for RNs with a Bachelor's degree. Although the BLS does not distinguish between ADN RN and BSN RN salaries, ZipRecruiter offers valuable insights into the pay differences for ADN and BSN registered nurses.
Average ADN RN Salary
- Hourly Wage: $39.00
- Annual Wage: $80,321.00
U.S states with the highest ADN RN salaries are:
- Washington: $99,301.00
- New York: $88,028.00
- Vermont: $86,437.00
- California: $84,528.00
- Maine: $82,150.00
Average BSN RN Salary
- Hourly Wage: $49.00
- Annual Wage: $102,263.00
U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are:
- Washington: $126,428.00
- New York: $112,075.00
- Vermont: $110,049.00
- California: $107,620.00
- Maine: $104,591.00
According to ZipRecruiter, BSN RNs in Texas earn an average of $87,764.00 annually, with the top-paying cities in the state as follows:
- Emerald Bay, TX: $108,604.00
- Frankston, TX: $105,270.00
- Iraan, TX: $98,992.00
- Batesville, TX: $96,537.00
- Markham, TX: $93,334.00
Often employers require a BSN degree for nursing leadership positions, such as nursing director, clinical nurse manager, assistant nurse manager, and clinical educator. These leadership positions often have higher salaries than bedside nursing.
Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide, or learn more about nursing salaries in Texas.
Are RN to BSN Programs in Texas Worth It?
While RN to BSN programs in Texas offer several advantages, including higher salary potential and better job opportunities, they also require a significant investment of time and money.
Pros of RN to BSN Programs in Texas
- Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses often have higher earning potential compared to their ADN counterparts. This is particularly relevant in Texas, where the healthcare industry is booming.
- Increased Job Opportunities: Many healthcare facilities, especially magnet hospitals, prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses. Texas, with its large number of healthcare facilities, offers numerous opportunities for BSN-prepared nurses.
- Advancement Opportunities: A BSN is often a stepping stone for leadership roles or specialized nursing positions. In Texas's diverse healthcare landscape, this can open doors to various career paths.
- Educational Foundation for Further Studies: For nurses in Texas looking to advance their education further, a BSN is typically required for entry into MSN or DNP programs.
- Meeting Industry Standards: With the push towards a more educated nursing workforce, having a BSN aligns with the evolving standards of the nursing profession, which is particularly pertinent in a competitive state like Texas.
Cons of RN to BSN Programs in Texas
- Cost and Time Investment: Pursuing a BSN requires both time and financial resources. This can be a significant consideration, especially for those already working as RNs.
- Variable Return on Investment: Depending on the job market and location within Texas, the financial benefits of a BSN may vary and might not immediately offset the cost of education.
- Work-Life Balance Challenges: Balancing work, life, and studies can be challenging, especially for RNs who are working while pursuing their BSN.
- Potential Redundancy for Experienced RNs: For RNs with many years of experience, the additional degree may not significantly change their job prospects or salary in Texas, where experience is also highly valued.
- Online vs. In-Person Learning: Many RN to BSN programs are offered online, which can be a pro for some but a con for those who prefer in-person learning experiences.
Tips to Choose an RN to BSN Program
Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.
Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:
- Cost
- High NCLEX Pass Rate
- Location
- Academic Reputation
- Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Length of Time to Obtain Degree
- Flexibility of Schedule
- Curriculum
- Campus and Surroundings
- Nursing Clinicals Location
- Availability of Online Courses
Prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.
RN to BSN Program Accreditation
Another critical consideration is accreditation. Though its importance may not be immediately apparent, accreditation is crucial, especially for RN to BSN programs. Here's why you should choose an accredited RN to BSN program:
- Guaranteed Standards for Nursing Education
- Ensures Compliance with State Regulations
- Guarantees Minimum Clinical Hour Requirement
- Supports RN Licensure Eligibility
- Facilitates Credit Transfers
- Enhances Professional Credibility
- Improves Employment Prospects
- Enables Access to Financial Aid
- Promotes Long-Term Career Success
Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
RN to BSN Programs Near Me
Discover the best RN to BSN programs in the following states:
FAQ and Additional Readings
Will my credits from my ADN degree transfer to the RN-BSN program?
Most ADN class credits transfer to BSN programs. It is always a good idea to sit down with the admissions staff and discuss what will/will not transfer. Often, transferred credits can reduce the number of classes needed for graduation.
What if I don't have a Texas nursing license?
Most RN to BSN programs here require an unencumbered RN license from any state.
Do I have to actively work as a nurse to get my BSN degree?
No, as long as your RN license is in good standing with your state board of nursing, you don't have to work as an RN. Many nursing students do, however, choose to work part-time while obtaining their RN to BSN degree online.
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