Texas has one of the largest nursing workforces in the country and a steady demand for new graduates, from big-city academic medical centers to rural clinics. The top nursing colleges in Texas reflect that range: research-intensive health science centers, large public universities with flexible online options, and private programs with faith-based or small-cohort models.
This guide groups the top nursing colleges in Texas by type, so you can match a program to your goals. For other states, see our guides to nursing colleges in Pennsylvania and nursing colleges in New York.
Tuition varies widely by residency, degree level and year. Confirm current figures with each school. Public in-state programs are generally far cheaper than private ones.
How We Selected the Top Nursing Colleges in Texas
We looked at programmatic accreditation (CCNE or ACEN), the range of degree levels offered, clinical partnerships, delivery options for working nurses, and cost tier. We did not rank the schools in strict order, because the best fit depends on where you want to practice and at what level. Always verify accreditation for the specific degree, not just the university.
Public Health Science Centers and Flagships
1. UT Austin School of Nursing. A flagship research university program offering BSN and graduate pathways, with strong ties to Austin’s growing healthcare sector. Best for: students who want a research-university environment and a large alumni network.
2. UT Health San Antonio (Long School of Nursing). Part of a health science center, with training alongside other health professions. Best for: students targeting San Antonio and South Texas health systems.
3. UT Health Houston (Cizik School of Nursing). Located within the Texas Medical Center, one of the largest medical complexes in the world. Best for: students who want clinical exposure in a major academic medical hub.
4. UTMB School of Nursing (Galveston). A long-established health science program on the Gulf Coast. Best for: students interested in coastal and academic medical center practice.
5. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing. Based in Lubbock, with a strong focus on rural and West Texas health needs. Best for: students who plan to serve rural communities.
Large Public Universities With Flexible Options
6. UT Arlington College of Nursing and Health Innovation. One of the largest nursing programs in the state, with extensive online graduate options. Best for: working RNs advancing to a BSN, MSN or doctoral degree.
7. Texas Woman’s University College of Nursing. A long record in nursing education with campuses in the Dallas and Houston areas. Best for: students seeking a nursing-focused public university with metro access.
8. Texas A&M University College of Nursing. A newer college within a large research university, with an emphasis on community and rural health. Best for: students who want an Aggie network and a public university setting.
9. UT Rio Grande Valley. Serves a large bilingual population in a region with significant healthcare demand. Best for: students planning to practice in South Texas and border communities.
Private Option
10. Baylor University, Louise Herrington School of Nursing. A private Christian program based in Dallas, known for small cohorts and clinical partnerships in North Texas. Best for: students who want a faith-integrated, small-class environment and can afford private tuition.
How to Choose Among the Top Nursing Colleges in Texas
Three questions narrow the field:
Where will you practice? Programs tend to build relationships with nearby hospitals. A school in Houston will connect you to Houston employers, while a school in Lubbock may focus on rural settings.
What is your starting point? Pre-licensure BSN, RN-to-BSN and graduate programs are different products. Working nurses often benefit most from large public programs with online delivery.
What is your budget? Texas offers strong public options. For many residents, a public program is the cost-effective route, and a private premium should buy something specific, such as a smaller cohort or a faith-based environment. For the investment mindset, see our guide to lifelong learning for successful professionals.
How to Verify the Top Nursing Colleges in Texas
Check programmatic accreditation. Look up the specific program at ccneaccreditation.org or acenursing.org.
Confirm board approval. The Texas Board of Nursing lists approved nursing programs, which affects your eligibility to sit for the licensure exam.
Confirm state authorization through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
For a general method that works for any institution, see how to choose the right online university.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top nursing colleges in Texas for working nurses?
UT Arlington, Texas Woman’s University and several UT System schools offer RN-to-BSN and graduate options designed for working nurses. Confirm formats with each school’s admissions office.
Do I need CCNE or ACEN accreditation?
Most employers and graduate programs expect it. Verify the specific program you plan to attend.
Is a public or private program better?
Neither is better by default. Public programs usually cost less for residents. Private programs may offer smaller cohorts or a specific institutional mission.
Can I become a nurse practitioner in Texas?
Yes, after completing an accredited graduate program and meeting Texas Board of Nursing requirements. Confirm current rules with the board.
