Your Guide to the Best Online RN to BSN Programs in TX

An Overview of Online RN to BSN Programs in Texas

Through an online RN to BSN program in Texas, RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a diploma in nursing can advance their careers, qualify for leadership positions, become more competitive in the job market, and boost their earnings by upgrading to a bachelor’s degree. These programs are 100% online for classes, though many do require in-person practicums that are usually completed in a student’s local area and potentially through their current employer. Considerations when choosing the right RN to BS program for you include curriculum concentration and cost. You also want to make sure the course schedule allows for the type of flexibility you need to keep working as an RN. The three school spotlights below show the variety of options available in these programs.

Responding to FAQs for RN to BSN Students

Since most students in your shoeshave similar questions about RN to BSN online programs, we have provided answers to the most commonly asked questions below. Included are those related to cost, program length, and admissions qualifications in addition to information on online learning and income potential.

Can I earn my Texas RN to BSN online while working full time?

Absolutely. As addressed in the previous section, most RN to BSN programs are completely online with no on-campus requirements. Many courses are asynchronous, so working RNs can schedule their studies around other responsibilities. The ability to take two to four classes at a time depending on what your schedule allows is another way these programs are flexible for busy RNs. Most programs, though online, also have students engage in discussions and interactive activities to not just demonstrate learning of the material but also provide the connection and support most students need to be successful in school and in their nursing careers. Hands-on practicums can usually be completed at a healthcare facility where you already work as an RN.

How much do online RN to BSN programs cost in Texas, and how long do they take?

The cost of tuition for an RN to BSN program varies but expect to pay $10,000 to $20,000 for the entire program if you’re a Texas resident. Cost and program length depend on tuition, obviously, but also on how many transfer credits you have and how many classes you take at a time. These programs can take as little as a year when taken full time and two or three years when taken part time. Program structure also affects length with accelerated programs taking the least amount of time but requiring concentrated effort for that period.

What are the requirements to get into an online RN to BSN program in Texas?

You need an ADN or a diploma in nursing and a current RN license to complete an RN to BSN bridge program. Most schools also have minimum GPA as one of their requirements for admissions. While some schools only admit students with active RN licenses, others allow students who plan to take the NCLEX-RN soon, enroll in up to three classes in their RN to BSN programs before they need a license. Some schools also have requirements that include community service, leadership, extracurricular, and professional activities. There are also some programs that have no prerequisite requirement, but you might still need letters of recommendation and a certain amount of professional nursing experience.

What is the potential for an RN after completing an RN to BSN program in Texas?

The potential for an RN who completes an RN to BS bridge program include increased career potential with better job opportunities and higher salaries. Jobs that include more leadership opportunities are also more available to RNs with BSNs. Some employers, especially hospitals, are much more likely to hire RNs that have bachelor’s degrees over those with an ADN or nursing diploma because they know patient outcomes are impacted positively the more BSNs they have on staff. This is because RNs with bachelor’s degrees have improved critical thinking skills, can take on more complex patient care responsibilities, and have a wider base of knowledge.

Are all online RN to BSN programs in Texas alike?

Yes and no. All online RN to BSN bridge programs in Texas will build on the foundational knowledge and skills RNs already have through their training and experience. Program overlap is found mainly in the general education requirements, core nursing courses, and flexible coursework. Differences among the RN to BSN bridge programs include how each emphasizes topics like leadership and community health, for example. Also, some programs place more emphasis on readiness for higher education, such as pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Nurse Practitioner education, or even a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Top Online RN to BSN Bridge Programs in Texas

The following ranking of the best online RN to BSN bridge programs in Texas is based on data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and only includes schools with institutional accreditation, an online component, academic counseling, and career placement services. Though there are more schools in Texas with these qualifications, the ranked schools are above the rest because of the number of online programs they offer, tuition, and student to faculty ratio, among other metrics. See the “About the Rankings” dropdown for additional details on how schools are chosen and ranked.

Salary & Career Outlook for RN to BSN Track

RNs in Texas make an average of $90,210 per year, significant in its own right but even more so when compared to the national average of $86,070 per year. Though you will likely make more money with a bachelor’s degree since workers who expand their education tend to earn better pay and better job security, there are many factors involved in determining just how much more money you’ll make when going from an RN to a BSN. Those factors include where you work, how long you’ve been a nurse, and any special skills or certifications you have.

Career potential is a bit easier to identify since BSN nurses are highly sought after because of their critical thinking skills, leadership and management skills, and ability to practice across various patient settings. For these reasons, diploma and associate degree RNs are encouraged to advance their education through bachelor’s and higher degrees. It’s important to note, however, that RNs without bachelor’s degrees still have plenty of career options. Whether you earn a diploma, an ADN, or a BSN, finding the right educational path for you as an RN is crucial, so consider the benefits and drawbacks of each one.