Nursing Schools in Austin, Texas

 

In Austin, Texas, the dynamic and enriching environment for aspiring healthcare professionals pursuing nursing education and degree programs is shaped by the interplay of public health, an effective community health care plan, and the evolving healthcare landscape.

With a strong emphasis on hands-on training, interdisciplinary learning, and community engagement, studying nursing in Austin prepares students for successful and fulfilling careers.

Explore the best nursing schools in Austin, program types available, and what it's like to study nursing in this vibrant city. Additionally, we'll address frequently asked questions specific to nursing education in Austin and provide valuable insights for prospective students.

Nursing Schools in Austin

1. Aspen University

Aspen University offers online nursing programs with both flexibility and personalized support. Through innovative education, the school aims to prepare nurses for career advancement and leadership roles. This program offers clinical rotations at some of the largest hospitals in the Austin/Round Rock area and clinical rotations at other acute care locations, community-based settings, ambulatory settings, and clinics.

Aspen University's nursing program is accredited by CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education).

Programs offered:

• BSN: 36 months, hybrid, 120 credits, $41,445 tuition fee
• RN to BSN: 12 months, $11,624 tuition fee; Individuals possessing an active RN license can apply 60 credits toward the RN to BSN program. The degree requires a minimum of 120 credits, with a stipulation that at least 30 of these credits must be earned at Aspen University.
• RN to MSN: flexible and self-paced fully online mode of learning, full-time or part-time options, tuition fee of $375 per month
• MSN Programs: flexible and self-paced fully online mode of learning, full-time or part-time options, tuition fee of $375 per month, 24-month program
  • Forensic Nursing: The MSN program, specializing in Forensic Nursing, equips nurses to grasp and adapt to the latest developments in forensic research and techniques.
  • Nursing Informatics: Pursuing a Master of Science in Informatics empowers nurses in gathering and analyzing data for the health benefit of the individual and the entire population.
  • Administration and Management: This curriculum prepares nurses for all leadership roles, as well as hospital management, administrative, and clinical settings.
  • Nursing Education: Nursing graduates can implement educational methods, develop and implement an engaging nursing curriculum.
  • Public Health: This course delves into the crucial public health roles of a nurse as an educator, advocate, and evaluator.
• DNP: 11 online specialty courses with 1,000 hours of local immersion, tuition fee of $395 per month 

2. Austin Community College

Austin Community College provides affordable associate degree nursing education with a strong emphasis on hands-on training. Austin Community College also offers a vocational nursing LPN/LVN degree and an RN-BSN degree. The college's comprehensive programs equip students with the skills needed for diverse healthcare settings. There are a wide variety of programs and tracks to choose from.

These nursing programs are ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) accredited. 

Programs offered:

• LPN/LVN: This program offers weekend and evening classes. The estimated tuition fee for this program costs $7,330.99 for In-district students.
• ADN: Students have multiple entry options into the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program, including the Traditional Track for non-licensed individuals, Mobility Track for licensed or certified individuals, Alternate Entry for Vocational Nursing graduates, or Transfer.
• RN to BSN: offers flexible learning options, online and hybrid learning, part-time (five semesters), full-time (three semesters), 54 credits for completion

3. Concordia University Texas

Concordia University Texas offers nursing programs focusing on compassionate care and ethical practice. The university's small class sizes and experienced faculty provide a supportive learning environment for aspiring nurses. You will be prepared for both a professional nursing career and the NCLEX-RN exam. This university also offers an accelerated BSN program for those with a bachelor's degree in another field.

Concordia University's nursing programs are CCNE accredited.

Programs offered:

• Traditional BSN: Traditional BSN students complete foundational Pre-Nursing Sequence courses in their first two years, encompassing sciences and humanities. By the last semester, they can apply for the BSN Professional Nursing Sequence. Traditional BSN spans for four years or 48 months.
• Direct-Entry BSN: Accepted freshmen at Concordia with Pre-Nursing majors undergo evaluation for direct entry into the BSN program. If granted, their position is secured pending completion of final requirements, including successfully finishing the Pre-Nursing Sequence, before starting the nursing course.
• Accelerated BSN: To be eligible for the Accelerated BSN track, students need prior college experience in a field other than nursing. The program involves online coursework, nursing simulation and skill labs, and in-hospital clinical rotations. This program can be completed within 16 months.

4. University of Texas - Austin

The University of Texas - Austin's School of Nursing is renowned for its cutting-edge research and top-tier nursing education. The school emphasizes evidence-based practice and prepares nurses to excel in various healthcare roles. The curriculum includes coursework and clinical experiences, and the BSN program provides a great foundation for those considering obtaining an advanced degree.

All of UT-Austin's nursing programs are CCNE accredited.

Programs offered:

• BSN: 4 years or 48 months, full-time and in-person program
• AE-MSN: program starts on Summer only, 36 months full-time
• MSN Programs
  • Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist: 87 credits
  • Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: 86 credits
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 86 credits
  • Leadership in Diverse Settings: 77 credit hours
• DNP: program starts on Fall only, 5 consecutive semesters, hybrid learning; The complete cost for the DNP program, covering 45 credit hours, amounts to $30,000.
• Ph.D.: 4 years or 48 months, program starts on Fall only, part-time option offered, in-person classes only
• AE-Ph.D.: program starts on Summer only, 4.5 years full-time, part-time study offered after the first year, in-person classes only

5. Western Governors University

Western Governors University offers an on-campus nursing program in Austin, Texas, and online nursing programs for working professionals. The university's competency-based model allows students to progress at their pace and gain practical skills for nursing practice. The curriculum includes classroom and clinical experiences, and WGU's nursing program is CCNE accredited. The average yearly tuition for bachelor's degree is $8,010.

Programs offered:

• RN to BSN/ADN to BSN: 24 months online program, transfer up to 90 credits, $4,685 tuition per six-month term
• MSN Programs: The MSN programs listed below span for 24 months, cost $4,795 tuition per six-month term, and accepts up to 17 transfer credits, except for the FNP and PMHNP programs.
  • Nursing Education
  • Leadership and Management
  • Nursing Informatics
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 30-month program, $6,525 tuition fee per six-month term
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 30-month program, $6,625  tuition fee per six-month term
• Graduate Certificates
  • Nursing Education: 12-month program, $4,795 tuition fee per six-month term
  • Leadership and Management: 12-month program, $4,795 tuition fee per six-month term
  • Family Nurse Practitioner: 12-month program, $6,252 tuition fee per six-month term
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 18-month program, $6,625  tuition fee per six-month term

Nursing Program Types

Many different types of nursing schools, certificates, and diplomas are available. However, the most common programs obtained by nursing professionals include:

• LPN Programs: 12-18 months, leading to an LPN career.
• ADN Programs: 24 months, leading to an RN career.
• BSN Programs: 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• RN to BSN Programs: Nine to 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• MSN Programs: 48 months, leading to APRN careers.
• DNP Programs: 48-60 months, leading to APRN and nursing administration careers.

Studying Nursing in Austin, Texas

Studying nursing in Austin, Texas, offers aspiring healthcare professionals a unique and enriching experience. Here's what to expect:

• Renowned Nursing Schools: Austin has several reputable nursing schools and universities offering diverse nursing programs. These institutions boast experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong commitment to providing quality nursing education.
• Thriving Healthcare Community: Austin has a thriving healthcare community with numerous hospitals, medical centers, and specialty clinics. As a nursing student, you'll have ample opportunities to gain hands-on clinical experience and work with different patient populations.
• Emphasis on Interdisciplinary Learning: Nursing programs in Austin often emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration. Students can work alongside physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals, comprehensively understanding patient care and promoting teamwork skills.
• Cultural Diversity: Austin is known for its welcoming atmosphere and cultural diversity. Nursing students can interact with patients from various backgrounds, enhancing their communication skills and nursing care.
• Research and Innovation: Austin is a hub of innovation and research in healthcare. Nursing students may have access to cutting-edge research opportunities, participate in clinical trials, and stay current on the latest advancements in the field.
• Supportive Learning Environment: Nursing schools in Austin have supportive learning environments. Faculty and staff are dedicated to helping students succeed, providing academic resources, mentorship programs, and counseling services to support their educational journey.
• Public Health Initiatives: Austin places a strong emphasis on both public health initiatives and preventive care. Nursing programs prioritize community health and wellness programs. They prepare students to address public health challenges and positively contribute to the local community.
• Career Opportunities: The city's growing healthcare industry provides nursing students ample healthcare job opportunities in Austin, Texas. The city's healthcare network offers potential job placements and networking opportunities for students, which increases their prospects for employment after graduation.
• Work-Life Balance: Despite its bustling and exciting atmosphere, Austin offers a balanced lifestyle for nursing students. The city's music scene, outdoor recreational activities, and dining experiences provide opportunities for both relaxation and leisure.
• Community Engagement: Many nursing schools in Austin emphasize community service and community engagement. Students can participate in health fairs, outreach programs, volunteer opportunities, and more. This fosters a sense of social responsibility and a deeper connection with the local community.

Overall, studying nursing in Austin can provide a valuable educational journey. Students receive quality nursing education, gain valuable clinical experiences, and immerse themselves in a city known for its innovation, diversity, and dynamic healthcare environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the admission requirements for nursing schools in Austin?

Admission requirements may vary between schools, but common prerequisites include a high school diploma or GED, completion of specific prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry), satisfactory GPA, letters of recommendation, and completion of entrance exams (e.g., TEAS).

Are nursing schools in Austin accredited?

Most nursing schools in Austin are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures that the nursing programs meet high education standards and prepare students for nursing licensure and practice.

What are the clinical opportunities available for nursing students in Austin?

Austin's robust healthcare community provides nursing students with diverse clinical opportunities. Students may have clinical rotations in leading medical centers, hospitals, community health clinics, long-term care facilities, and specialty hospitals, gaining valuable hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.