Online NP Programs in Texas: Compare Top Schools
Thinking of becoming a nurse practitioner in Texas? Take a look top online nurse practitioner programs in the state, learn more about educational and licensure requirements, and review salary projections for this nursing career.
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Program Profiles: Types of NP Programs in Texas
Earning your degree through an online nurse practitioner school in Texas can help you meet state requirements and connect with professional resources before you graduate. The outlook for NPs in Texas looks promising – the state has the third-highest employment level for NPs in the U.S.
Online NP programs in Texas fall into three main categories: master’s degrees, post-master’s certificates, and doctoral degrees. Online coursework makes it convenient to balance the next level of your education with your current job. As with most nursing programs, you’ll still need to perform clinical hours in person to gain hands-on experience. Some schools offer limited on-campus intensives throughout a program with online classroom learning on your schedule.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN programs prepare nurses for advanced nursing roles in practice, research, education, and leadership. Three types of MSN degrees are available in Texas: the RN-to-MSN is for students who already have an RN license and an associate degree (ADN), the standard MSN (sometimes called a BSN-to-MSN) that requires applicants to possess a bachelor’s degree and an RN license; and the Direct-entry MSN for students who have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing.
The University of Texas at Arlington
- Duration: 32-36 months
- Mode: Fully online
- Cost: $30,084
Post-Master’s Certificate
With post-master’s certificates online, students can expand their knowledge in a specialized area after completion of an MSN degree. It is common for APRNs to gain some work experience after their master’s degree and then realize they enjoy working with a specific patient population. Post-master’s certificates help develop the skills needed to work in a niche area without having to commit the time to another graduate degree program.
Texas A&M International University
- Duration: 12 months
- Mode: Fully online
- Cost: $9,542
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees prepare students for roles in healthcare leadership and advanced clinical practice. Standard DNP programs, often referred to as an MSN-to-DNP, are for students who have already earned a master’s degree in nursing. BSN-to-DNP programs are for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Students complete the coursework and training typically offered by a master’s program while completing other requirements for earning the DNP credential.
Texas Woman’s University
- Duration: Four years
- Mode: Fully online
- Cost: $323-$733/credit
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FAQs About Online NP Programs in Texas
Can I earn my nurse practitioner degree in Texas completely online?
For the most part, yes. There are MSN and DNP programs in Texas with academic and some specialized training online, but it’s also important to apply classroom knowledge to real-world practice during clinical hours. Nurse practitioner degrees are no different. You will need to complete your program’s clinical hours and other hands-on learning requirements in person at an approved facility.
I reside and hold my RN license in a different state, but I want to work in Texas after I graduate. Am I still eligible to enroll in an online NP program in Texas?
Yes, you can still apply to an online NP program in Texas even if you hold an out-of-state RN license. You will need to meet Texas licensure requirements before you can officially work in the state as an NP including applying for Texas RN licensure using the nurse endorsement application. The endorsement is only for RNs who haven’t previously held Texas licensure.
I plan to work in a different state after graduating. Will my online Texas NP degree meet licensing requirements there?
It depends on the state. Your Texas NP degree and licensure is valid in about 25 other states through the Nurse Licensure Compact. You won’t have any trouble meeting the licensure requirements in other states included in the compact, which includes Texas-bordering states like Arkansas and New Mexico and highly populated states like Arizona and Virginia. This number of states is expected to grow, as there is pending legislation in several other states, including Michigan, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
How long does it take to become a nurse practitioner in Texas?
It depends on your current level of education. Nurse practitioners need a master’s or doctoral degree to qualify for licensing and certification; these programs typically take three to four years, provided you already have a BSN. If you have an ADN, add an additional one to two years to earn a BSN before getting an advanced degree. If you’re a recent high school graduate who dreams of becoming an NP, then count on eight to 10 years of schooling.
What can NPs do in Texas?
In Texas, NPs have the authority to perform many high-level medical functions, like diagnosing and treating illness; ordering, performing, and interpreting diagnostic work; and prescribing medication. However, they must work under physician supervision and have at least 10% of their patient charts reviewed each month.
Licensing and Certification for Texas Nurse Practitioners
To become an NP in Texas, you’ll need to earn an ADN or BSN degree and pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-RN) exam. Next, you’ll need to complete an MSN or a DNP degree from an accredited school approved by the Texas Board of Nursing. The board requires that nursing candidates complete their education in three main categories: pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, and physical evaluation/assessment. You’ll also be required to complete 500 supervised clinical hours of direct patient care or client management in a healthcare setting.
You must apply for national certification within two years of finishing your degree program and required clinical hours. Depending on your specialty area, you will choose from five different certification boards to sit for their certification exam: The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB), The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Certification Program, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AANC) Certification Corporation, The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB), or National Certification Corporation (NCC).
Finally, you’ll need to apply for licensure in Texas, pay the $100 fee for the standard NP license ($150 for those who will be writing prescriptions), and meet a list of eligibility requirements.
Salary & Career Outlook for Nurse Practitioners in Texas
Confident that an online nurse practitioner program from one of these top Texas universities is your perfect fit? Wherever you pursue your next level of education, with the right skillset and credentials, you should have no problem finding a role as a nurse practitioner in the state afterward. Currently, Texas boasts a higher-than-average job growth rate for nurse practitioners, at 60%, compared to the national average of 44.5%. Then, once you do snag that job, you’ll enjoy an attractive annual salary. The median salary for a Texas nurse practitioner is $126,580, with those in the 10th percentile making just over $98,000 and those in the 90th percentile making just over $165,000. Of course, where you work will partially dictate your salary, too; you can find higher median salaries in cities like Victoria ($138,070) and Houston ($129,270), and lower median salaries in cities like Amarillo ($108,040) and Mission ($111,650). Find details for cities across Texas in the tables below.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $98,160 | $126,580 | $165,340 |
| Abilene, TX | $89,050 | $122,030 | $157,210 |
| Amarillo, TX | $94,300 | $108,040 | $144,560 |
| Austin-Round Rock, TX | $103,110 | $127,300 | $168,810 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | $96,180 | $128,460 | $158,710 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen, TX | $73,190 | $123,690 | $160,000 |
| College Station-Bryan, TX | $101,460 | $119,730 | $147,590 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | $98,670 | $121,310 | $153,390 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $98,160 | $127,850 | $162,510 |
| El Paso, TX | $89,230 | $126,830 | $164,320 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | $104,330 | $129,270 | $213,380 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | $101,440 | $120,220 | $143,290 |
| Laredo, TX | $88,140 | $112,760 | $160,850 |
| Longview, TX | $91,970 | $122,040 | $159,580 |
| Lubbock, TX | $83,080 | $114,980 | $139,080 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX | $92,390 | $111,650 | $169,140 |
| Midland, TX | $99,470 | $125,440 | $159,920 |
| Odessa, TX | $103,210 | $116,510 | $146,720 |
| San Angelo, TX | $97,180 | $118,120 | $137,990 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $98,080 | $123,130 | $160,950 |
| Sherman-Denison, TX | $97,870 | $114,230 | $157,870 |
| Texarkana, TX-AR | $91,480 | $124,380 | $160,400 |
| Tyler, TX | $98,900 | $124,990 | $163,740 |
| Victoria, TX | $102,570 | $138,070 | $167,350 |
| Waco, TX | $96,200 | $118,020 | $152,910 |
| Wichita Falls, TX | $93,650 | $121,100 | $161,520 |
Source: Nurse Practitioners, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 266,300 | 384,900 | 118,600 | 44.50% | 26,300 |
| Texas | 19,060 | 30,490 | 11,430 | 60.00% | 2,240 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking the Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas
Knowing which schools rank as the best of the best helps you choose the right one for you. We’ve ranked schools offering online NP programs in Texas based on availability of online programs, percentage of students in online education, tuition costs, and more. If you’d like to read more about our full ranking methodology, you can see our full criteria in the “About the Rankings” section.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas
Why We Selected The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley:
- The program offers a fully online format, allowing flexibility for working professionals.
- The UTRGV PMHNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring high standards.
- Students can utilize tele-psychiatry for up to 75 clinical hours, enhancing remote learning capabilities.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,857
- Average Institutional Aid$2,116
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course80%
- % of Students Receiving an Award44%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, Texas
Why We Selected Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:
- The program offers a specialized Family Nurse Practitioner track with a focus on rural and underserved settings.
- Eligible graduates can sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center's certification exams upon completion.
- The program provides opportunities for clinical practice in diverse healthcare settings, enhancing practical experience.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$6,665
- Average Institutional AidN/A
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course81%
- % of Students Receiving an AwardN/A
- Student/Faculty Ratio7/1
Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, Texas
Why We Selected Midwestern State University:
- The program offers a flexible online delivery method with periodic campus visits.
- The program prepares students for national certification examinations, enhancing career prospects.
- The program aligns with Texas Board of Nurse Examiners requirements, ensuring advanced practice readiness.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$5,877
- Average Institutional Aid$5,253
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course62%
- % of Students Receiving an Award45%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
The University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, Texas
Why We Selected The University of Texas at Arlington:
- The program offers specialized career tracks in family nurse practice, preparing students for diverse clinical settings.
- The curriculum includes intensive clinical experiences guided by certified preceptors, enhancing practical skills.
- Expert faculty provide mentorship, combining the latest nursing theory with hands-on practicum experiences.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,206
- Average Institutional Aid$5,658
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course60%
- % of Students Receiving an Award51%
- Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
The University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, Texas
Why We Selected The University of Texas at El Paso:
- The program offers specialized career tracks in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Family, and Pediatrics.
- The MSN program incorporates nationally recognized educational standards, ensuring high-quality professional preparation.
- Students benefit from flexible online learning options with minimal on-campus requirements.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,704
- Average Institutional Aid$1,857
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course64%
- % of Students Receiving an Award37%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, Texas
Why We Selected Texas A & M University-College Station:
- The program offers a 100% national certification exam pass rate for FNP first-time test-takers.
- Faculty provide personalized guidance through on-campus visits and clinical site observations.
- The curriculum emphasizes cultural competence and evidence-based practice.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,578
- Average Institutional Aid$7,398
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course42%
- % of Students Receiving an Award81%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Why We Selected Angelo State University:
- The program offers specialized career tracks in family primary care and mental health.
- Angelo State University provides on-campus immersions for hands-on skill development.
- Students benefit from faculty expertise in advanced nursing practices and health policy.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,495
- Average Institutional Aid$2,727
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course41%
- % of Students Receiving an Award40%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, Texas
Why We Selected Texas A & M International University:
- The program offers flexible online learning with limited on-campus requirements.
- The curriculum integrates clinical expertise with leadership and critical thinking skills.
- Graduates are eligible for prestigious certification exams upon completion.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$3,818
- Average Institutional Aid$3,887
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course57%
- % of Students Receiving an Award48%
- Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
