Nursing Schools in San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas, offers a vibrant and enriching environment for aspiring nursing professionals, boasting several reputable nursing schools and institutions with varying degree programs.

The commitment to excellence in patient care and academic support is evident across San Antonio's nursing institutions. With state-of-the-art facilities, modern simulation labs, and clinical partnerships with renowned healthcare facilities, well-organized healthcare landscape, nursing students are well-equipped to translate their classroom knowledge into real-world practice.

Explore the various programs in San Antonio, where the pursuit of nursing excellence intertwines with the city's rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a resident of this vibrant city or considering relocating to embrace the opportunities it offers, San Antonio's commitment to innovative education and dedication to patient care will undoubtedly ignite your passion for the profession.

Nursing Schools in San Antonio

1. Baptist Health System - School of Health Professions

Located in San Antonio, Texas, the Baptist Health System School of Health Professions offers comprehensive nursing programs focused on excellence in patient care. This school has on-campus ADN (associate degree) and LVN (vocational or practical nursing degree) programs and an online RN to BSN program for nurses wanting to obtain their bachelor's degree. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, students receive hands-on training and clinical experience, preparing them for rewarding nursing careers.

Baptist Health System is accredited by ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing).

Programs offered:

• LVN: blended format, no evening schedule, spans three semesters and can be completed in a year, tuition fee of $13,760
• ADN: blended format, evening/weekend sessions available, spans four semesters depending on transfer credits, tuition fee of $26,400
• RN to BSN: 12 months, online learning, spans five semesters, tuition fee of $31,680 

2. Chamberlain College of Nursing - San Antonio

Chamberlain College of Nursing in San Antonio provides nursing students a supportive and personalized learning environment. With various nursing programs, including BSN and RN to BSN options, the college emphasizes student success, leadership development, and compassionate nursing practice. Chamberlain College offers year-round study options, allowing you to complete your BSN in as little as three years.

This program is CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) accredited.

Programs offered:

• BSN: 36 months full-time study, 122 credit hours, $705 per credit hour
• RN to BSN: 12 months, fully online, full-time and part-time options available, receive a minimum of 77 credits as a working RN plus qualifying transfer credits, 122 credits required

3. ECPI University

ECPI University offers an associate degree nursing program designed to equip students with practical skills for the healthcare industry in as little as 18 months. The university's nursing curriculum emphasizes hands-on training, technology integration, and a focus on real-world nursing scenarios to prepare you for success.

This program is ACEN accredited.

Programs offered:

• ADN: 71 credit hours, day/evening/weekend classes available, $49,500 approximate tuition fee for five semesters

4. Galen College of Nursing - San Antonio

Galen College of Nursing in San Antonio specializes in nursing education, fostering competent and compassionate nursing professionals. With a learner-centered approach and experienced faculty, the college provides nursing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the ever-evolving healthcare field.

The Galen College of Nursing is ACEN accredited.

Programs offered:

• VN: 12 months full-time program, 21 months for part-time, $22,900 approximate tuition fee
• LPN/LVN to ADN: 18 months full-time program, $435 per quarter credit hour 
• BSN: 36 months full-time program, 24 months for students with a second degree or approved transfer credits, $475 per quarter credit hour

5. San Antonio College

San Antonio College is a reputable institution known for its ADN and RN to BSN bridge programs that prepare students for entry-level nursing practice. With a comprehensive curriculum and clinical experiences, students gain a solid foundation in nursing care, positioning them for successful careers in healthcare.

These programs are ACEN accredited.

Programs offered:

• ADN: 24 months
• RN to BSN: Different variety of program types from online, hybrid, face-to-face, and fast-track program that can last for eight months, $3,412 estimated tuition excluding fees for in-state residents

6. St. Philip's College

St. Philip's College offers an ADN program designed to meet the needs of diverse healthcare settings. As part of the Alamo Colleges District, the college provides quality nursing education focusing on cultural competency and community engagement.

This college is ACEN accredited.

Programs offered:

• LVN/Military to ADN Mobility Program: The hybrid Accelerated LVN/Military to A.D.N. Mobility Program provides a swift route to attain an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Nursing. Delivered over three consecutive semesters or 12 months, this program is accessible to individuals holding a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) qualification. Tuition fee is $136 per semester credit.
• LVN: The program spans 12 months, full-time, and 40 hours per week.

7. University of The Incarnate Word

The University of The Incarnate Word's nursing school in San Antonio boasts a range of nursing programs, including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. With a commitment to academic excellence and holistic patient care, this university prepares nurses to make a meaningful impact on the health of their communities. These programs emphasize compassion and communication, and they are CCNE accredited.

Programs offered:

• BSN:
  • Traditional: five-semester program/28 months 
  • Accelerated: 16-month online program for those who hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree or 60 non-nursing college credits. To complete this course, 62 credit hours of online didactic coursework, labs, and clinicals must be accomplished.
• RN to MSN Accelerated Pathway: Complete the online program Master of Science in Nursing Leadership in six semesters with 31 credit hours and 312 clinical hours. Additionally, transfer 60 credits from an ADN program towards the BSN.
• BSN to DNP:
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): 77 credits, 1,152 clinical hours, blended learning format
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): 76 credits, 1,216 clinical hours, blended learning format

• Post-Graduate Nursing Certification

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): 22-25 credit hours, five semesters
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): 19-22 credit hours, five semesters

8. UT Health San Antonio

UT Health San Antonio's School of Nursing is renowned for its cutting-edge research and transformative nursing education. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration, the school prepares nursing students to address complex healthcare challenges. These programs prepare you for various nursing careers in multiple settings.

UT Health's San Antonio nursing programs are CCNE accredited.

Programs offered:

• BSN
  • Traditional: 22 months of full-time study for non-nurses
  • Accelerated: 15 months of full-time study for those who hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing
• DNP:
  • BSN to DNP: spans 36 months 
  • Post Master's DNP: 41-48 credit hours
  • Ph.D.: in-person classes required, 81 semester credits, full-time and part-time options available
  • Post-Graduate Certificate: Specialty includes Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia: 36 months, full-time program, 108 credit hours required

9. Wayland Baptist University

Wayland Baptist University's nursing programs in San Antonio focus on individualized attention and student success. With a supportive learning environment plus knowledgeable and experienced faculty, the university equips nursing students with the skills and knowledge necessary for professional growth and advancement in nursing.

These nursing programs are ACEN accredited.

Programs offered:

• BSN: 24 months, face-to-face classes 
• LVN to BSN: seven 8-week sessions
• RN to BSN: 18 credits
• MSN: 36 credits, transfer up to approved 12 credits

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 administration careers.

Studying Nursing in San Antonio

Studying nursing in San Antonio offers a rich and dynamic educational experience for aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals. Here are some key aspects of what it's like to study nursing in this vibrant Texan city:

• Diverse Range of Nursing Schools: San Antonio is home to various nursing schools and institutions, offering various nursing programs to cater to students' interests and career goals. There are multiple options, whether you're pursuing a BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, or another nursing degree.
• Thriving Healthcare Community: San Antonio has a robust and thriving healthcare community- with numerous hospitals, medical centers, clinics, and specialty facilities. As a nursing student, you'll have many opportunities for clinical rotations and hands-on experience in incredibly diverse healthcare settings. This provides valuable exposure to different patient populations and medical conditions.
• Supportive Learning Environment: Nursing schools in San Antonio have supportive learning environments. Faculty members are dedicated to helping their students succeed. They also provide academic resources, mentorship programs, and counseling services to support their students' educational journey.
• Emphasis on Interdisciplinary Learning: Nursing programs in San Antonio often emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration. Students can work alongside physicians, therapists, and a wide range of other healthcare professionals, fostering a comprehensive understanding of patient care and promoting teamwork skills.
• Cultural Diversity: San Antonio is known for its cultural diversity and welcoming atmosphere. Nursing students have the chance to interact with patients from various backgrounds. This enhances their cultural competency and communication skills, which are essential for providing patient-centered care.
• Research and Innovation: San Antonio is a hub of research and innovation in healthcare. Nursing students can access medical research opportunities, participate in clinical trials, and stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field.
• Community Engagement: Many nursing schools in San Antonio emphasize community engagement and service. Students can participate in health fairs, outreach programs, and volunteer opportunities. This grows a sense of social responsibility and a deeper connection with the San Antonio community.
• Career Opportunities: San Antonio's growing health service industry provides nursing students with many healthcare job opportunities. The city's healthcare network offers potential job placements and networking opportunities for students, increasing their prospects for employment after graduation.
• Work-Life Balance: Despite its bustling atmosphere, San Antonio offers a balanced lifestyle for nursing students. The city's diverse cultural scene, outdoor activities, and culinary experiences provide opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.
• Positive Impact on Patient Care: Studying nursing in San Antonio equips students with the knowledge, skills, and compassion to positively impact patient care and healthcare outcomes. With a focus on evidence-based practice and patient-centered care, nursing graduates are prepared to meet the healthcare needs of their communities.

Overall, studying nursing in San Antonio can provide a transformative educational journey. Students receive quality nursing education, gain diverse clinical experiences, and immerse themselves in a city known for its innovation, diversity, and commitment to healthcare excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What unique clinical experiences or opportunities does San Antonio offer for nursing students?

San Antonio's diverse healthcare landscape exposes students to various patient populations and medical conditions. The city's cultural diversity also provides opportunities for students to enhance their cultural competency and communication skills, which are essential for providing patient-centered care in a multicultural community.

How do nursing schools in San Antonio support students' career development?

Nursing schools in San Antonio often provide career counseling, resume-building workshops, and job placement assistance to support students' career development. Some schools may also offer networking events and connections with local healthcare organizations to facilitate job opportunities for their graduates.

Can I transfer credits from another nursing program to a San Antonio nursing school?

The ability to transfer credits between nursing programs may vary depending on the specific schools and their transfer policies. It's essential to check with the nursing schools in San Antonio to determine their credit transfer guidelines.