The Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Texas

Texas, recognized for its expansive terrains and varied populace, is also the residence of some of the nation’s best nurse practitioner (NP) programs. These programs play a crucial role in addressing the healthcare requirements of Texans, particularly in areas where there is a shortage of physicians. In response to the increasing demand for advanced practice nurses, Texas institutions are stepping up to provide comprehensive NP programs that combine academic rigor with practical clinical experiences.

Explore the finest of these NP programs below as we illuminate their offerings, specializations, and distinctive characteristics that distinguish them. We also provide insights into salary expectations post-graduation, the process of obtaining NP licensure, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

The subsequent schools have been chosen based on the methodology of surveying our readers about online nursing, understanding their preferences along with graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, pricing, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

The Best Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

1. The University of Texas at Austin

Situated in the heart of Austin, UT Austin’s School of Nursing is renowned for its dedication to excellence in nursing education and research. The school provides a diverse array of programs, spanning from undergraduate to doctoral studies, with a focus on practical learning, research initiatives, and community involvement, preparing students for success in various healthcare settings.

Through its MSN and post-graduate certificates, four NP concentrations are available:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PCP-NP)
• Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (ACP-NP)

2. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Located in Lubbock, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers nursing programs that amalgamate academic rigor with hands-on clinical experiences. The school is renowned for its research endeavors and cutting-edge simulation labs.

Various NP concentrations are offered through Texas Tech’s MSN, DNP, and post-graduate certificates:

• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

3. The University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington is esteemed for its commitment to nursing excellence and research. With a diverse range of programs and an emphasis on community engagement, the school readies its students to excel in various healthcare settings.

Through its MSN degree, the university provides seven NP concentrations:

• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

4. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Located in the southernmost part of Texas, this university delivers nursing programs tailored to the unique healthcare needs of the Rio Grande Valley community. The school emphasizes cultural competence and bilingual healthcare delivery.

Through its MSN and post-graduate certificates, two NP concentrations are offered:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

5. Texas A&M University – College Station

Texas A&M University – College Station is a respected institution offering comprehensive nursing programs that blend rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experiences. The school is recognized for its research initiatives and dedication to cultivating nurse leaders.

Through its MSN degree, the university provides a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration, with a post-graduate certificate available for a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

6. Texas A&M International University

Situated in Laredo, Texas A&M International University focuses on delivering nursing education that caters to the international community. The school emphasizes bilingual and bicultural healthcare delivery.

Through its MSN degree, the Dr. F.M. Canseco School of Nursing offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program designed to prepare nurses for enhancing the well-being of complex and diverse populations.

7. University of Houston

The University of Houston School of Nursing is committed to producing top-tier nursing professionals capable of addressing the diverse healthcare needs of the Houston community. With state-of-the-art facilities and a research focus, the school provides a robust nursing education.

Through its MSN degree, the university offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration. Graduates will be equipped to practice as FNPs, serve as educators in nursing programs, translate research into practice, or take on various other nursing leadership roles.

8. Texas State University

Situated in San Marcos, the School of Nursing at Texas State University provides programs emphasizing holistic patient care, research, and community engagement. The school is known for its innovative teaching methods and dedication to excellence.

Two NP concentrations are available through its MSN degree:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

9. The University of Texas at El Paso

Addressing the unique healthcare needs of the El Paso community, The University of Texas at El Paso emphasizes bilingual healthcare delivery and cultural competence. The school offers a range of programs, spanning from undergraduate to doctoral studies.

Through its MSN degree, six NP concentrations are provided:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

10. The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

Situated on the Gulf Coast, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston offers nursing programs emphasizing research, clinical excellence, and community engagement. The school is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to producing top-tier nursing professionals.

Through its MSN degree, the university provides four NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

11. Baylor University

Located in Waco, Baylor University’s School of Nursing is celebrated for its Christian values, academic rigor, and dedication to cultivating compassionate nursing professionals. The school offers a range of programs, spanning from undergraduate to doctoral studies.

Through its DNP degree, five NP concentrations are available:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

12. Texas Woman’s University

With a focus on women’s health and leadership in nursing, Texas Woman’s University provides nursing programs emphasizing research, clinical excellence, and community engagement. The school is recognized for its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to producing top-tier nursing professionals.

Through its online MSN degree, the university offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration designed to develop clinical skills with an emphasis on quality, accuracy, and the patient experience.

Nurse Practitioner Overview

In the state of Texas, nurse practitioners (NPs) play a pivotal role in the realm of advanced practice nursing, offering clinical insights across a diverse spectrum of care environments, from acute care hospitals to primary care clinics. The journey for an NP in Texas typically commences with the acquisition of a registered nurse (RN) license, followed by further academic pursuits leading to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

Upon completion of their NP education, graduates in Texas face the challenge of successfully passing a rigorous national certification exam to obtain their advanced practice license. Regular assessments of their clinical capabilities and active participation in ongoing peer evaluations are integral to maintaining the highest standards of patient care.

Nurse practitioners in Texas enjoy high regard in various healthcare settings, including emergency units, urgent care facilities, outpatient centers, hospitals, and private medical practices.

Primary Responsibilities of NPs:

1. Conduct thorough physical health examinations.
2. Utilize and interpret diagnostic tools such as X-rays and laboratory tests.
3. Identify and address a wide range of health issues, both acute and chronic.
4. Prescribe medications and implement curative protocols.
5. Provide guidance to patients on health preservation, potential treatment modalities, and self-care recommendations.

NP Specializations:

1. Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs offer comprehensive health services for all age groups, focusing on wellness promotion, illness prevention, and management of chronic ailments. They often serve as the primary health providers for entire families.

2. Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs specialize in addressing the unique health needs of women, covering aspects from teenage years to post-menopause. Their services include reproductive wellness, gynecological treatments, and support during and after pregnancy.

3. Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs cater to the health needs of adults, spanning from early adulthood to the elderly phase. Their expertise includes managing both sudden and long-term health issues, with a focus on personalized health guidance and patient education.

4. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs excel in providing care for newborns, particularly those born prematurely or facing severe health challenges. Their primary workspace is neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), collaborating with multidisciplinary medical teams.

5. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs concentrate on ensuring the health and development of children, covering infancy to teenage years. They address common pediatric health issues, conduct routine health assessments, and offer guidance on dietary choices and growth benchmarks.

6. Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs possess specialized skills to manage mental health challenges, providing evaluations, therapeutic solutions, and holistic care for various psychiatric disorders.

The Best Oncology Nurse Practitioner (ONP) Programs in 2024

Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Texas:

1. Secure RN Licensure in Texas:
– Graduate from a nursing program accredited by the Texas Board of Nursing (ADN or BSN).
– Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain an RN license in Texas.
– Many advanced nursing programs prefer BSN graduates.

2. Advance Your Nursing Education:
– Enroll in an MSN or DNP program with a nurse practitioner specialty track.
– Choose a program accredited by recognized bodies like CCNE or ACEN.
– Fulfill all academic and clinical requirements.

3. Achieve National Certification:
– After completing advanced studies, choose an NP specialty and sit for the corresponding national certification exam (e.g., ANCC or AANP).

4. Obtain NP Licensure in Texas:
– Apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure with the Texas Board of Nursing.
– Submit necessary documentation, including RN licensure, advanced degree completion, and national certification.
– Additional steps, such as a criminal background check and fingerprinting, may be required by Texas.

5. Maintain Licensure and Certification:
– Stay updated on nursing practices and Texas state regulations.
– Engage in ongoing professional development for license and certification renewal.
– Meet continuing education and clinical practice requirements.

It is advisable to regularly consult with the Texas Board of Nursing or relevant organizations to stay informed about any changes in requirements or procedures.

Salary Expectations:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides essential information on NP salaries in Texas. However, individual circumstances and employer-specific factors, such as educational qualifications, experience, healthcare facility, employer, nursing specialty demand, and working hours, influence earnings. In Texas, the average NP salary is $124,660 or $59.93 per hour, slightly below the national average of $124,680.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: What are the educational and clinical prerequisites for enrolling in a Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program in the state of Texas?

In the state of Texas, individuals with aspirations to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs) typically embark on their journey by attaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, followed by obtaining licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) through the successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam. Subsequent to the achievement of RN licensure, they have the opportunity to pursue advanced education. To enroll in an NP Program in Texas, the following criteria are considered:

• Educational Prerequisites: Entry into most NP programs in Texas requires the possession of a BSN degree. However, certain institutions offer RN-to-Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) bridge programs for individuals holding an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
• Clinical Experience: Many NP programs in Texas necessitate applicants to have accumulated a specific number of clinical hours as an RN. This requirement ensures that students possess a foundational understanding of patient care before transitioning into specialized roles.
• Additional Requirements: Typical entry prerequisites may also encompass maintaining a specific Grade Point Average (GPA), providing letters of recommendation, submitting a personal statement, and, in certain instances, participating in an interview.

Q: Are online NP programs accessible in Texas, and do they possess accreditation?

Numerous educational institutions in Texas offer online or hybrid NP programs designed to provide flexibility for nurses currently employed, allowing them to synchronize their work commitments with academic pursuits. Important considerations include:

• Accreditation: It is crucial to choose an NP program that holds accreditation from nationally recognized entities such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures that the program adheres to the highest standards of nursing education.
• Clinical Hours: Even for individuals enrolled in online programs, practical clinical experience remains a critical component. Schools typically mandate students to fulfill clinical hours in approved healthcare settings, often organized within the student’s local area.