If you’re planning on becoming a great nurse, one of the first things you have to consider is the nursing school you’re going to get your degree from. A good nursing school can instill not just the right skills and knowledge but the right attitude and traits, too.
Unfortunately, picking the best nursing school isn’t that easy. With so many options to choose from, it can be an intimidating and overwhelming experience.
So, to help you decide, here are 5 of the best nursing schools in Texas you should check out.
West Texas A & M University
Average Tuition: $6,918
West Texas A&M University is a part of the Texas A&M University System. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, their nursing department offers two entry paths for those who aspire to be nurses. You can choose to take the on-campus track if you are currently a Licensed Practical Nurse who wants to be Registered Nurse. You can take the online track if you are looking for an RN to BSN program.
No matter which you take, you’ll need to complete 120 credits to complete the degree. You can complete the RN track in as little as one year but you can choose to go longer in case you are working at the same time.
University of Texas Health Science Center At San Antonio
Average Tuition: $6,754
Established in 1959, UT Health San Antonio’s nursing program focuses on molding nurses who have leadership, compassion and great research skills.
If you decide to enroll in this nursing school, you’ll have the benefit of having access to its university hospital which is only a mile away. It’s also affiliated with a number of clinics and teaching hospitals within the area.
UT Health San Antonio offers a traditional and accelerated program for those who want to enter the profession. The traditional track can be completed in two years. You’ll have to complete 60 credits in lower-division nursing and another 60 credits in the upper division in four semesters.
The accelerated program, on the other hand, has a 15-month timeline.
See Also: Is Nursing School Hard?
Tarleton State University
Average Tuition: $6, 630
Formerly known as John Tarleton College, Tarleton State University became a part of the Texas A&M University System in 1917. In 1976, it has established its nursing program which enables graduates to be a registered nurse after taking the NCLEX-RN exam. It also offers transition courses for students who aspire to take BSN as an LVN.
What makes this nursing school one of the best in Texas is that it combines in-class lectures, clinical practice and laboratory work to really make sure its students understand what it’s like to be a nurse. In addition to that, the program also allows students to work 12-hour shifts before graduation to help them be more familiar with nursing work and schedules.
University of Texas of The Permian Basin
Average Tuition: $5, 250
UTPB offers three completion paths for aspiring nurses. It has Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN to BSN Campus-Based and RN to BSN Online tracks.
The BSN degree requires students to complete 120 to 124 credits. This track is most recommended for new students who are planning on taking the NCLEX-RN exam and becoming a registered nurse.
The RN to BSN track, on the other hand, requires 31 credits on top of other requirements. This is most suited for students who are already working. And if you have more responsibility, you can choose to take the online track as it offers more flexibility.
In case you decide to take the Campus-Based track, be prepared to meet one weekend every month. This can either be on your campus or another clinical location. Other activities and coursework will be available in a web-enhanced mode.
University of Houston- Victoria
Average Tuition: $5, 762
Located in Victoria, Texas, University of Houston- Victoria is a member of the University of Houston System and the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. Unlike the other nursing schools on this list, UHV only offers one BSN degree and it’s available online. There is no associate’s nursing program so you must take this at another school.
Graduates of UHV’s BSN program are expected to develop cultural sensitivity, ability to provide care to individuals, families and communities. They are also expected to possess great leadership and ethics.
See Also: Top 10 Nursing Schools in the US
