Top Accelerated BSN Programs Texas

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing, ABSN, programs are an excellent option for aspiring nurses with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. These programs graduate students on accelerated timelines, allowing them to sit the NCLEX exam and earn their registered nursing (RN) license.

Learn about your options for accelerated nursing programs in Texas, including available programs, locations, tuition, and online options. 

How to Become a BSN in Texas

To become a BSN-RN in Texas, you must graduate from an accredited BSN program. The most common way of earning a BSN in Texas is through a traditional four-year program. However, students with prior non-nursing degrees will attend ABSN programs in Texas.

ABSN programs range from one to two years, and graduates are eligible to sit the NCLEX-RN examination. After passing your exam, you can register as a nurse with the Texas State Board of Nursing.

Top 10 ABSN Programs in Texas

1. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M is one of the best nursing schools in Texas with an accelerated program. The university's 15-month ABSN is for students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees eager to enter the nursing field quickly. The program combines in-person instruction, simulations, and clinicals with video conferencing lectures. 

However, strict regulations from the Texas Board of Nursing prevent students from transferring between campuses.

• Location: Round Rock, TX
• Program Cost: Resident: $32,204 | Nonresident: $61,020
• Program Length: 15 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Public
• Online Options Available? No

2. Fairfield University 

Students searching for a quality ABSN in Texas enjoy Fairfield's program as a quick, affordable private school option. The school mixes hands-on simulations in a cutting-edge lab with clinical rotations rooted in a Jesuit education.

• Location: Austin, TX
• Program Cost: $53,500
• Program Length: 15 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Private
• Online Options Available? No

3. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

The Texas Tech accelerated BSN may be one of the most flexible second-degree nursing programs in Texas. Not only do students attend online didactic courses, but they also complete all clinical hours in their own communities. These areas include Abilene, Amarillo, Austin-Hill County, Dallas, Lubbock, and Permian Basin.

Since students have a lot of independence in this program, it might not be ideal for those needing structure or in-person instruction.

• Location: Lubbock, TX
• Program Cost: Resident: $61,8845 | Nonresident: $87,505
• Program Length: 12 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Public
• Online Options Available? Yes

4. UT Health San Antonio

Students who prefer face-to-face learning will enjoy UT Health's accelerated BSN program. As an entirely in-person accelerated BSN in Texas, the program requires students to physically attend classes and clinicals. Students may complete clinicals at over 400 sites in a 60-mile radius of the San Antonio campus.

• Location: San Antonio, TX
• Cost Per Credit: Resident: $3,311 |Nonresident: $3,877
• Program Length: 15 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Public
• Online Options Available? No

5. University of St. Thomas Houston

The University of St. Thomas has three annual start dates, allowing it to accept more students than other Texas ABSN schools. This school's ABSN program offers a hybrid learning environment. While students complete coursework online, they also attend in-person labs at three sites in the greater Houston area. These locations include Shenandoah, Sugarland, and downtown Houston.

• Location: Shenandoah, Sugar Land, or Houston, TX
• Program Cost: $66,495
• Program Length: 12 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Private
• Online Options Available? Yes

6. Baylor University 

Baylor University's ABSN program consistently ranks among the top programs in the United States. With 98% of students passing the NCLEX licensure exam on their first attempt, Baylor alums have an easier time finding job placement at top Texas hospitals than other ABSN graduates. 

• Location: Waco, TX
• Program Cost: $68,100
• Program Length: 12 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Private
• Online Options Available? Yes

7. University of Houston

ABSN students at the University of Houston complete over 900 hours of lab and clinical experience. They earn this hands-on training at several locations throughout Houston and at Texas Medical Center. The university offers ABSN classes in-person and online.

• Location: Sugar Land, TX
• Cost Per Credit: Resident: $485 | Nonresident: $1,005
• Program Length: 12 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Private
• Online Options Available? Hybrid

8. University of Texas Arlington

University of Texas Arlington's ABSN is a fast-paced, affordable option for aspiring nurses. With multiple start dates annually, it's also a good option for students eager to start school right away. The program encompasses 51 credits over 15 months to earn a BSN degree.

• Location: Arlington, TX
• Program Cost: $21,675
• Program Length: 15 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Private
• Online Options Available? Hybrid

9. Texas Lutheran University

Students at Texas Lutheran University can enroll in the ABSN program at the New Braunfels or Houston campus. They'll complete 945 hours of hands-on clinical training across various care settings and populations throughout the course. 

The university also offers ABSN scholarships that dramatically reduce total tuition costs to boost enrollment.

• Location: New Braunfels and Houston, TX
• Cost Per Credit: $875
• Program Length: 16 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Private
• Online Options Available? Hybrid

10. Concordia University Texas

As one of the top accelerated nursing programs in Dallas, Concordia offers convenient hybrid learning options. Students do coursework online and skills and simulations at a high-fidelity lab on campus. Additionally, students must complete clinical rotations in Austin or Dallas, depending on their campus.

• Location: Dallas and Austin, TX
• Program Cost: $69,200
• Program Length: 16 months
• Degree Offered: BSN 
• Program Offered: Accelerated BSN
• School Type: Private
• Online Options Available? Hybrid

>> Read About Every Accelerated BSN Program in Texas and the US

What to Expect in an Accelerated BSN Program in Texas

As an ABSN student in Texas, you'll take pre-set classes each semester as determined by the program director. Building upon your progression of knowledge, you'll first learn the foundations of nursing and finish with more theoretical courses.

Depending on the program, you should expect each semester to combine didactic and hands-on learning. Many schools offer didactic courses online. Your in-person requirements will include simulations, labs, and clinical rotations.

Tuition for Accelerated BSN Programs in Texas

Accelerated BSN programs in Texas cost between $20,000 and $70,000, depending on the program. Usually, these degrees have a set tuition rate based on the number of credit hours. This method differs from traditional BSN programs, which have a flat tuition rate that applies to the entire program.

Admission Requirements for Texas Accelerated BSN Programs

Each ABSN program will have its own specific admission requirements. However, every program will require a non-nursing bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

In addition, some standard accelerated BSN requirements in Texas include:

• Non-nursing bachelor’s degree
• Minimum 3.0 prerequisite GPA 
• Prerequisite courses
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• All transcripts 
• Application fee
• Admissions interview 

How Hard are ABSN Programs in Texas?

Accelerated BSN programs, regardless of state, are incredibly time-consuming and difficult. The programs are fast-paced and intense. 

Additionally, these programs have limited spots available, making them highly competitive. Their focused coursework and condensed clinical hours only make ABSN degrees more challenging.

How Long is Accelerated BSN School in Texas?

Accelerated BSN programs in Texas typically take 12 to 16 months to complete. These courses have a set progression plan you must follow to graduate. Additionally, you must attend ABSN programs in Texas full-time -- Part-time options are not available.

What to Expect Working as a Nurse in Texas

BSN Salary in Texas

RNs in Texas earn $84,320 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure slightly exceeds the national median RN income of $81,220 annually or $39.05 per hour.

Texas BSN-RNs often earn higher wages than ADN-RNs, according to ZipRecruiter. The site reports the average salary of a BSN-prepared nurse in Texas is $42 an hour. Comparatively, ADN-prepared nurses earn $39 an hour.

Career Outlook

Currently, there are 231,060 nurses in Texas. The BLS estimates that the need for RNs will grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. As of 2022, the BLS projects 193,100 openings for registered nurses each year.

Where Can You Work? BSN Jobs in Texas

Nurses can work in a large variety of locations depending on their interests. The largest and most common employer of nurses is hospitals. Other possible job locations include:

• Ambulatory healthcare services
• Government agencies
• Academia
• Medical and aesthetic spas
• Outpatient clinics
• Long-term care facilities
• Private practice
• Surgery centers
• Urgent care centers

Next Steps

Accelerated BSN programs in Texas are an excellent option for aspiring nurses with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. The Lone Star State offers a wide range of programs at varying costs, locations, start dates, and course delivery methods. This diversity provides you with plenty of options to find a Texas ABSN program that suits your needs.

Learn more about what it takes to start this rewarding and exciting career change with our accelerated BSN degree guide.

FAQs

• How long does it take to become a BSN in Texas?

  • Accelerated BSN programs in Texas can take anywhere from 12 to 16 months. 

• What is the fastest way to become a nurse in Texas?

  • If you already have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, then an ABSN program is your best option. 

• What is the hourly salary of a BSN in Texas?

  • ZipRecruiter reports the average salary of a BSN-prepared nurse in Texas is $42 an hour. Comparatively, Texas ADN-prepared nurses earn $39 an hour.

• Can you be an RN in Texas without a BSN?

  • Yes, you can become an RN with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN). However, this might limit your ability to further your education or obtain some jobs. 

• How much does an accelerated BSN cost in Texas?

  • Accelerated BSN programs in Texas cost between $20,000 and $70,000, depending on the specific program.