Top 20 Online Nursing Schools In Texas (2026)

Texas offers a comprehensive and highly regarded landscape for online nursing education, with programs that provide flexible pathways for registered nurses to advance their careers or for new students to enter the profession.

The state’s online nursing schools include top-ranked RN-to-BSN tracks, nationally recognized graduate programs, and affordable community college options, all designed to accommodate working professionals and students with diverse scheduling needs. With the increasing demand for qualified nurses and the flexibility of online learning, Texas nursing schools offer accessible and high-quality education.

Top 20 Online Nursing Schools In Texas

1. Texas A&M University (College Station)

Texas A&M’s online RN-to-BSN track is ranked No. 1 in Texas and 11th nationally for overall online bachelor’s degrees by U.S. News & World Report for the current year, reflecting its exceptional quality and reputation. The program is designed for registered nurses with an associate degree who are seeking a BSN and can be completed in as little as 12 to 15 months, with practicum experiences completed in the student’s local community. The university’s College of Nursing has a 98% NCLEX pass rate and is accredited by CCNE, ensuring that graduates meet the highest standards of professional nursing practice.

2. The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) (Galveston)

UTMB’s online graduate nursing programs are ranked No. 1 in Texas and No. 19 in the United States among distance-learning graduate nursing programs by U.S. News & World Report, a testament to their outstanding quality and student outcomes. UTMB’s School of Nursing, established in 1890, is the oldest nursing school in Texas and offers high-quality, flexible online pathways for nurses to advance their expertise as leaders and practitioners in diverse healthcare settings. The programs are designed to provide a rigorous education while accommodating the busy schedules of working professionals seeking career advancement.

3. Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston (Houston)

Cizik School of Nursing offers a flexible online RN-to-BSN track designed specifically for working nurses, which can be completed in two, three, or five semesters depending on the student’s pace and schedule. The program provides a 100% online lecture format with an in-person community clinical project that allows students to apply their learning in real-world settings, and it is notable for being one of the most affordable options in Texas. The school is part of UTHealth Houston, a leading academic health center, and offers free tuition for qualifying full-time BSN students earning less than $100,000 annually, making it an exceptional value.

4. Lamar University (Beaumont)

Lamar University offers online nursing programs that are nationally ranked and feature ACEN accreditation and approval from the Texas Board of Nursing, ensuring that graduates meet all requirements for licensure and professional practice. Its online programs are designed for working professionals and include a 100% online format with no campus visits required, dedicated academic advisors, and clinical placement assistance throughout Texas to support student success. Graduates earn a median of $49,652 a decade after enrolling, with a net price of $9,366, reflecting a strong return on investment for students.

5. Dallas College (Dallas)

Dallas College offers one of the most affordable online RN-to-BSN programs in the region, providing flexible scheduling to be completed in 12 or 24 months to accommodate students with varying schedules and commitments. The tuition for Dallas County residents is $2,970, including books and learning materials, and clinicals can be completed at a location of the student’s choice, making it highly accessible and convenient. The program is designed to provide a seamless transition for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career opportunities.

6. The University of Texas at Arlington (Arlington)

UT Arlington’s online nursing programs provide an accessible path for working nurses, featuring CCNE accreditation, a 93% NCLEX pass rate, and a flexible online format designed for career advancement and professional growth. Graduates earn a median of $63,199 a decade after enrolling, with a net price of $13,951, reflecting strong career outcomes for nursing graduates. The program has a 55% graduation rate and is an excellent option for students seeking both quality and affordability.

7. Texas State University (San Marcos)

Texas State offers multiple online graduate nursing programs, including a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a major in Leadership and Administration in Nursing (LAN), preparing nurses for advanced leadership roles in healthcare organizations. The university also offers MSN programs for Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health NP (PMHNP) tracks, with most coursework delivered online and requiring significant clinical practicum hours for hands-on experience. The programs are accredited by CCNE and are recognized among the “Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs for Veterans” by U.S. News & World Report for 2026, reflecting strong support for military-connected students.

8. The University of Texas at Tyler (Tyler)

UT Tyler’s online nursing program is recognized as a solid option for working nurses, with a median graduate earnings of $57,053 a decade after enrolling and a net price of $13,323. It provides an accessible online format with a 94% acceptance rate, making it an attractive option for students seeking a flexible and supportive learning environment. The school also offers an FNP track in its MSN program as well as a DNP degree, providing a comprehensive range of graduate nursing education options.

9. West Texas A&M University (Canyon)

WTAMU offers online nursing programs with a strong focus on academic quality and career preparation, with graduates earning a median of $50,741 a decade after enrolling. The university has a 99% acceptance rate and a net price of $19,487, making it accessible to a wide range of students seeking online nursing education. The school launched its Doctor of Nursing Practice program for Fall of the current year, marking the first DNP program in the Texas Panhandle region and addressing the critical need for advanced practice nurses in rural communities.

10. McMurry University (Abilene)

McMurry University offers online nursing programs through a private, faith-based institution, with a 41% graduation rate and strong student support services that help students succeed in their academic and professional goals. Graduates earn a median of $48,779 a decade after enrolling, with a net price of $19,581, reflecting solid career outcomes for nursing graduates . The university’s commitment to values-based education provides a unique learning environment for students.

11. The University of Texas Permian Basin (Odessa)

UTPB’s online nursing program offers a strong return on investment, with graduates earning a median of $56,073 a decade after enrolling and an average net price of $12,723, making it an excellent value for students. The school has a 42% graduation rate and a student debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32x, indicating good financial outcomes for graduates . It serves the Permian Basin region with a focus on preparing nurses for the healthcare needs of West Texas communities.

12. Odessa College (Odessa)

Odessa College provides an affordable online nursing option with a low net price of $6,368 and a strong value for students, with graduates earning a median of $42,026 a decade after enrolling. The college has a 32% graduation rate and a median debt of $7,750, making it one of the most cost-effective options for nursing education in Texas . The program provides accessible education for students in West Texas seeking entry into the nursing profession.

13. East Texas A&M University (Commerce)

East Texas A&M offers online nursing programs with a 44% graduation rate and median earnings of $50,296, providing accessible education for nursing students in the North Texas region. The school has a net price of $11,841, making it an affordable option for students seeking quality online nursing education . The program is designed to prepare graduates for successful careers in diverse healthcare settings.

14. Paul Quinn College (Dallas)

Paul Quinn College offers online nursing programs through a private HBCU with a focus on social mobility and student development, providing a supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. The school has a 33% graduation rate and a net price of $12,709, and is known as the “Work College” due to its innovative work-study program . The university provides a unique educational model combined with its nursing programs, offering students a distinctive pathway to success.

15. Sul Ross State University (Alpine)

Sul Ross State offers online nursing programs for students seeking career advancement, with graduates earning a median of $41,871 a decade after enrolling. The school has a net price of $13,286 and a median debt of $15,900, providing accessible education for students in the West Texas region . The program serves the Alpine and surrounding communities with a focus on addressing regional healthcare needs.

16. McLennan Community College (Waco)

McLennan Community College provides an accessible online nursing option with a low net price of $5,051, making it a strong value for nursing students seeking affordable education. The college has a 37% graduation rate and graduates earn a median of $39,163 a decade after enrolling. The program provides foundational nursing education and career preparation for students in the Central Texas region.

17. LeTourneau University (Longview)

LeTourneau University offers online nursing programs with a 60% graduation rate and median earnings of $57,103, reflecting strong career outcomes for graduates. The school has a net price of $28,185 and a student debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46x, indicating solid financial outcomes for nursing graduates . The program provides a Christian-based education with a focus on preparing students for careers in healthcare.

18. Herzing University (Texas)

Herzing University offers a Direct-Entry MSN program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders in Texas, allowing students to earn both a BSN and an MSN while preparing for RN licensure and advancing into leadership roles in nursing. The program combines foundational nursing education with graduate-level coursework in areas such as healthcare leadership, nursing research, healthcare policy, and population health. Herzing is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and the credential is stackable into a full associate degree for students who wish to continue their education.

19. Western Texas College (Snyder)

Western Texas College provides an affordable online nursing program with a low net price of $3,562 and a 56% graduation rate, offering excellent value for students seeking accessible nursing education. Graduates earn a median of $42,508 a decade after enrolling, with a median debt of $7,515, making it one of the most cost-effective options in Texas. The program serves the West Texas region with a focus on preparing students for entry-level nursing positions.

20. Clarendon College (Clarendon)

Clarendon College offers online nursing education with a focus on affordability, featuring a low net price of $8,390 and a 51% graduation rate that reflects strong student persistence and academic support. Graduates earn a median of $38,696 a decade after enrolling, with a median debt of $11,000, providing a solid return on investment. The program serves the Texas Panhandle region with accessible nursing education and career preparation.

Comparison Table

Success Tips for Choosing an Online Nursing School

Start by identifying your career goals and whether you need an RN-to-BSN, MSN, or DNP program to advance in your nursing career, as each program serves different professional objectives and levels of practice.

Accreditation matters significantly; look for programs that are accredited by CCNE or ACEN and approved by the Texas Board of Nursing, as this is essential for licensure and future employment in healthcare settings.

Consider the program format and delivery method; many online nursing programs offer a 100% online format for coursework, but most require in-person clinical components, such as clinical placements or community projects that provide hands-on experience.

Evaluate the cost and financial aid options available; compare tuition and net prices, as costs can vary widely, and look for programs with low tuition, such as Dallas College’s RN-to-BSN for as low as $2,970 for Dallas County residents, making it one of the most affordable options in the state.

Research each school’s NCLEX pass rates and job placement statistics, as these are strong indicators of program quality and how well graduates are prepared for professional practice and licensure examinations.

Closing

Texas offers a wide range of reputable online nursing programs, from the top-ranked RN-to-BSN at Texas A&M and the #1 online graduate program at UTMB to highly affordable options like Dallas College and Western Texas College. Whether you are aiming to become a registered nurse, advance your leadership skills as a nurse administrator, or pursue a graduate degree as a nurse practitioner, there is an online nursing school in Texas to meet your needs and career aspirations.

These programs provide flexibility, affordability, and high-quality education designed to prepare nurses for the demands of modern healthcare. Note that all information, including rankings and program details, is subject to change, so it is essential to verify current details directly with each school through their official websites and admissions offices to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your decision-making process.