There is no shortage of colleges and universities offering graduate nursing degree programs in Texas. If you are a Registered Nurse and would like to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree then you should find the list of nationally accredited MSN programs in Texas very useful in finding the program that is right for you.


Abilene Christian University School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at Abilene Christian University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree through an affiliation with the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing.

The following roles/specializations are offered:

  • Nurse Educator and Administrator
  • Family Nurse Practitioner

Applicants to the program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program at a regionally accredited institution. They must hold an undergraduate overall GPA of 3.0 or higher as well as a 3.0 or higher GPA on all undergraduate nurse course work. Applicants must score a minimum of 850 on verbal and quantitative sections of the GRE. Those who meet the GRE requirement and only one of the two GPA requirements can be admitted to the program provisionally, however they must maintain a 3.0 GPA on their first 9 hours of graduate work in order to be granted full admission. Candidates must hold an unencumbered license as an RN in Texas with at least one year of clinical nursing practice.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

205 Hardin Administration Building
ACU Box 29103
Abilene, TX 79699
(325) 671-2357

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Angelo State UniversityDepartment of Nursing and Rehabilitation Sciences

Angelo State University’s Department of Nursing and Rehabilitation Sciences offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree program. They offer two pathways to an MSN degree: an RN to MSN pathway and a traditional BSN to MSN pathway.

The MSN programs at Angelo State are delivered primarily online using Blackboard. However, some on campus visits are required. Students can typically complete their clinical requirements in the Texas city where the student resides.

The RN to MSN pathway is designed for those RNs who hold a diploma or Associate’s in degree in nursing from an accredited program. Students in the program are required to complete all 27 credit hours of BSN academic coursework as well as six BSN nursing courses (18 credit hours) before progressing to the MSN curriculum.

The following specializations are available to students in the MSN program regardless of pathway:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Educator

Students are also offered two additional specializations in collaboration with Texas Tech:

  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary care Nurse Practitioner

Applicants entering via the RN to MSN pathway are required to hold a diploma or Associate’s degree from an accredited nursing program with at least a 3.4 overall GPA on a 4.0 scale. Those with a diploma or degree from a non-accredited program may ask for special consideration. They must hold a current, unencumbered license to practice as an RN in Texas.

Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN program are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited nursing program with a 3.0 or higher overall GPA on a 4.0 scale. They are required to have completed an undergraduate course in Statistics and a basic Pathophysiology course, each with a grade of “C” or higher. They must also be licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse in Texas.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

ASU Station #10923
San Angelo, TX 76909
(325) 942-2224

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Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing

Baylor University’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing offers the Master of Science in Nursing degree in two advanced practice specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

The programs can be completed on both a full-time or part-time basis.

Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing with a cumulative undergraduate overall GPA of 3.0 or higher as well as a 3.0 or higher GPA in all undergraduate nursing courses. Students must have completed an undergraduate course in Statistics. All applicants are required to take the GRE or MAT. Candidates should hold an unencumbered license as an RN in the U.S. or one of its territories. Those entering the Family Nurse Practitioner program are required to have one year of experience as an RN. Those entering the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program are required to have one year of NICU experience.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

3700 Worth Street
Dallas, TX 75246
(214) 820-2792

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Hardin-Simmons University Affiliated with Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing

Hardin-Simmons University through its affiliation with Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Programs are offered in the following areas of specialty:

  • Nurse Educator
  • Family Nurse Practitioner

Applicants to the program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree with an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale as well as a 3.0 or higher GPA on all undergraduate nursing courses. All candidates are required to take the GRE and make acceptable scores (at least a 290 on the verbal and quantitative sections and a 3.0 on the writing section). Those entering the Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program must also sho proof of ACLS Provider certification.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

2200 Hickory
Abilene, TX 79698
(325) 671-2357

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Lamar UniversityJoAnn Gay Dishman Department of Nursing

Lamar University’s JoAnn Gay Dishman Department of Nursing offers Master of Science in Nursing Programs in two specialty areas:

  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Education

The MSN programs require the completion of 37 credit hours. There are six common core classes required for both specializations plus 22 additional credit hours specific to the specialty. Students can enroll either on a full-time or part-time basis.

Lamar also offers a dual MSN in Nursing Administration/Master of Business Administration degree program. Both degrees can be earned with 61 credit hours of course work (typically in about 3 years). There are 9 credit hours that count towards both the MBA and MSN degrees.

Applicants to the program are required to hold a BSN degree from a nationally accredited program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher for all undergraduate and graduate course work. Students must have taken a Statistics course in the last five years with a grade of “C” or higher. They must take and achieve satisfactory scores on either the GRE or MAT exam (can be waived for students who graduate with a BSN from a nationally accredited program with a 3.0 GPA or higher). Candidates should hold a current unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse in Texas.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

4400 Martin Luther King Boulevard
Beaumont, TX 77710
(409) 880-8817

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Lubbock Christian UniversityCollege of Professional Studies (Nursing)

The Master of Science in Nursing degree is offered through the College of Professional Studies (Nursing) at Lubbock Christian University. They offer students two MSN specializations including:

  • Nursing Education and Leadership
  • Family Nurse Practitioner

The Nursing Education and Leadership MSN requires 35 semester hours of course work with no thesis. Courses are offered in a hybrid format.

The Family Nurse Practitioner program requires 46 semester of course work with at least 720 hours of clinical practicum. The program can be completed in 2 years or 3 years of full-time or part-time enrollment, respectively.

Applicants to the MSN programs are required to hold a Bachelor degree from a regionally accredited university, preferably a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (either cumulative or last 60 hours). Students must hold current BLS and ACLS certifications. Candidates must be licensed as a Registered Nurse. Those entering the Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program must also have two years of full-time work experience as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

5601 19th Street
Lubbock, TX 79407
(800) 933-7601

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McMurry University Affiliated with Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing

McMurry University offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree through their affiliation with the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing. They offer MSN degrees in the following specialization:

  • Nursing Education
  • Family Nurse Practitioner

Applicants to the MSN programs should hold a Bachelor’s in nursing with an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale as well as an undergraduate nursing course work GPA of 3.0. Satisfactory scores on the GRE is required. For those entering the Family Nurse Practitioner, they are also required to hold current ACLS certification.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

1400 Sayles Boulevard
Abilene, TX 79697
(325) 671-2357

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Midwestern State University Wilson School of Nursing

The Wilson School of Nursing at Midwestern State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree. The MSN is offered in three specialization roles including:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Educator

Applicants to the MSN programs at Midwestern State University are required to have earned a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a nationally accredited program (graduates of non-accredited programs are considered on a case-by-case basis). Students must have a GPA of at least 3.0 on the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate work (exclusive of courses awarded as part of an Associate’s degree in nursing program). They should have completed an undergraduate Statistics course. They must have completed physical assessment content either as part of their undergraduate program or some other approved program. GRE scores are required. Candidates should have a current RN license in Texas and any other state relevant to their clinical practicum. Admission to the Nurse Practitioner programs on the types and lengths of previous nursing experience.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

3410 Taft Boulevard
Wichita Falls, TX 76308
(940) 397-3254

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Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing (Consortium of Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University and McMurry University)

The Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing offers Master of Science in Nursing programs in the following specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Educator

They also provide MSN programs on behalf of several universities through a consortium between the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing and Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, and McMurry University.

Applicants to the MSN programs are required to submit satisfactory scores on the GRE. They must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing with an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale as well as a 3.0 GPA on all undergraduate courses in nursing. Candidates must be licensed as a Registered Nurse in Texas. Those applying to the Family Nurse Practitioner program must hold current ACLS certification.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

2149 Hickory Street
Abilene, TX 79601
(325) 671-2399

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Prairie View A & M University College of Nursing

Prairie View A & M University’s College of Nursing offers two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree: an RN to MSN Bridge pathway and a BSN to MSN pathway.

The RN to MSN Bridge pathway is called the BANER Project (Bridge to Advanced Nurse Educator Role). It is designed for RNs with an Associate’s degree in nursing or nursing diploma to help facilitate first earning their BSN and then transitioning them seamlessly into the Nurse Education MSN program.

Those entering the Master’s level nursing program via the BSN to MSN pathway are offered three specialties:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Administration
  • Nurse Education

Applicants entering via the RN to MSN (BANER) pathway must be licensed Registered Nurses with an Associate’s degree in nursing or a nursing diploma. They must have completed all 63 credit hours of general education requirements. Students must have a 3.0 or higher GPA before beginning any Master’s level Bridge courses. Candidates are required to take the GRE and submit their official scores. They must be licensed as an RN in Texas or have applied for licensure as an RN in Texas.

Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a nationally (ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE) accredited program with a GPA of 2.75 or higher on a 4.0 scale in the last 60 hours of undergraduate nursing courses and a 3.0 GPA on all graduate course work (if applicable). They must have completed both Statistics and Health Assessment courses within the last 10 years. Students must submit satisfactory scores from the GRE within the last 10 years. Candidates must hold a current license as a Registered Nurse in the State of Texas (or have applied for licensure). They must have at least one year of experience as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

6436 Fannin Street
Houston, TX 77030
(713) 797-7000

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Texas A&M International UniversityDr. F.M. Canseco School of Nursing

Texas A&M International University’s Dr. F.M. Canseco School of Nursing offers multiple pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree: an RN to MSN Bridge pathway and a BSN to MSN pathway.

The RN to MSN Bridge pathway allows Associate’s and diploma prepared RNs with a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline to accelerate earning their MSN by completing 27 hours of required undergraduate nursing courses followed by the normal MSN course progression.

MSN programs are offered in two specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing Administration

The Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program requires 45 semester hours to complete. The Nursing Administration program requires 36 semester hours for completion.

Applicants entering the MSN program through the RN to MSN Bridge pathway must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline. Those entering through the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a college or university with a nationally accredited program. All students must have a 3.0 GPA for both all college work and all upper division courses. They must have completed an undergraduate Statistics course. Candidates must hold a valid license as an Registered Nurse in the State of Texas with at least one year of work experience as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

5201 University Boulevard
Laredo, TX 78041
(956) 326-2001

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Texas A & M University – Corpus Christi College of Nursing and Health Sciences

The College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Texas A & M University – Corpus Christi offers several pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree. They offer an RN to MSN program for those holding an Associate’s in Nursing. They offer an RN Bridge program for those RNs holding and Associate’s in Nursing in a non-nursing Bachelor’s degree. And they offer a traditional BSN to MSN program.

Three specializations are available for those in the MSN programs:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Leadership in Nursing Systems
  • Nurse Educator

Applicants to the Texas A & M Corpus Christi MSN program are required to complete and submit an application via the NursingCAS system. They must also have taken the HESI A2 with Critical Thinking Exam. Students have a set of core nursing courses which must be completed either before or after application, but they are required prior to beginning the nursing program. These must have a grade of “C” or better. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required on the student’s last 60 hours of credit.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

6300 Ocean Drive
Unit 5805
Corpus Christi, TX 78412
(361) 825-2649

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Texas A & M University – Texarkana College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Nursing

The College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Nursing at Texas A & M University – Texarkana offers a Master of Science in Nursing program for those who currently hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They offer an MSN in one specialization area: Nursing Administration.

Applicants should hold a BSN from a nationally accredited institution or have met the BSN transition pathway requirements with at least a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework. Candidates must have a minimum of 1 year of experience as an RN. Acceptable scores on either the GRE or MAT exam are also required.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

7101 University Avenue
Texarkana, TX 75503
(903) 223-3177

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Texas Christian University Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Texas Christian University’s Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences offers Master of Science in Nursing programs for those who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The MSN degree program is offered in the following roles/specializations:

  • Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nursing Education
  • Clinical Nurse Leader

All didactic coursework is offered online.

Applicants should hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, preferably with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. The GRE is required. Applicants should hold a current unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse in the state of Texas or the state in which clinical practicum will be performed. Those entering the CNS or Nursing Education program are preferred to have two years of full-time experience or its equivalent as a Registered Nurse in an area of adult, gerontology, or pediatric care. Those entering the Clinical Nurse Leader program are preferred to have two years of full-time experience or its equivalent as an RN in any area of nursing.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

2800 West Bowie Street, Suite 214A
TCU Box 298620
Fort Worth, TX 76129
(817) 257-6749

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Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers Master of Science in Nursing programs in a variety of specializations/roles. These include:

  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Midwifery
  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Informatics

All Nurse Practitioner MSN programs require 48 credit hours. The Nurse Midwifery program requires 51 credit hours. The Nursing Administration and Nursing Informatics programs require 39 credit hours. And the Nursing Education program requires 42 credits.

Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from a CCNE or ACEN/NLNAC accredited program with a 3.0 or higher GPA in upper division undergraduate nursing courses. They should have completed undergraduate Nursing Research and Statistics courses. Candidates should hold a valid RN license and BLS certification.

Additionally, those entering the Nurse Midwifery or Family Nurse Practitioner programs are required to hold Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification. Those entering the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program are required to hold Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification. Applicants to the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program must also have one year of experience as an RN in an acute care, critical care, or emergency department setting sometime within the last five years.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

3601 Fourth Street, Suite 2B164
Mail Stop 6264
Lubbock, TX 79430
(806) 743-1622

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Texas Woman’s University College of Nursing

Several pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree are offered by the College of Nursing at Texas Woman’s University. They offer an RN to MSN pathway for those RNs holding only a diploma or Associate’s degree. They offer a post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN pathway for those RNs with a diploma or Associate’s degree in Nursing who also hold a Bachelor’s degree in some other non-nursing field. And they offer a traditional BSN to MSN pathway.

MSN programs are offered in several specializations/roles including:

  • Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Administration (Nursing Health Systems Management)

Those entering the RN to MSN program complete their BSN with one year of full-time study. Three courses (10 credit hours) apply to both the BSN and MSN degree completion. The MSN program can be completed in 3-6 more semesters of full-time study, depending on the specialization chosen. This program can also be completed on a part-time basis.

Those entering the post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN program complete 10-15 hours of undergraduate work plus 10-13 hours of graduate work before progressing to unconditional admission to the MSN graduate program. This typically takes 2 semesters of full-time study. After moving to unconditional graduate status, students can complete the MSN program in an additional 3-6 semesters of full-time study. The program can be completed on a part-time basis. It should be noted that under this program, a BSN degree is not conferred.

Applicants to the RN to MSN program must hold a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in Nursing with a 3.0 average on a 4.0 scale on all prerequisite for admission as well as all diploma or Associate’s degree coursework, except for Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology coursework where a 2.0 or higher GPA is required. A basic Statistics course must be completed as part of the prerequisite coursework. Candidates must hold a current license as a Registered Nurse in the U.S. and have one year of full-time experience as an RN prior to taking their first clinical course at the Master’s level. The GRE or MAT is required.

Applicants to the post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN program must hold a non-nursing Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in addition to meeting all of the requirements for the RN to MSN program above.

Applicants to the BSN to MSN programs must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from a nationally accredited nursing program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 hours of coursework for their undergraduate degree and any prior graduate coursework. Those who cannot meet the 3.0 GPA requirements but have at least a 2.5 GPA will be considered for provisional admission on a case-by-case basis. A basic Statistics course must have been completed. Candidates must hold a current unencumbered license as an Registered Nurse in the U.S. The GRE or MAT is required.

Prior to enrolling in Master’s level clinical nursing courses, students must meet several additional requirements. They must have professional liability insurance, be licensed as an RN in Texas, have current required immunizations, and be certified in CPR. They must have one year of full-time clinical experience as a Registered Nurse.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

304 Administration Drive
PO Box 425498
Denton, TX 76204
(940) 898-2424

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The University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonSchool of Nursing

Masters of Science in Nursing programs are offered by the School of Nursing at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. MSN programs are available in six different roles/specializations including:

  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing leadership and Administration in Health Systems

Applicants to the MSN program are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from an accredited program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. They must have completed a basic Statistics course. Candidates should hold a current Texas nursing license as an RN as well as BCLS, ACLS, or PALS certification. Students must submit acceptable scores on either the GRE or MAT (Nurse Anesthesia applicants must take the GRE).

Applicants to the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Anesthesia programs should have at least one year of full-time experience as an RN in a critical care setting (two years are preferred for Nurse Anesthesia candidates). Those applying to the Nurse Anesthesia program must have completed an Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry course with the last 6 years. Applicants to the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner programs should hold one year of clinical experience as a Registered Nurse in any setting.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

6901 Bertner Avenue, Room 220
PO Box 20334
Houston,, TX 77030
(713) 500-2100

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University of Houston – Victoria School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of Houston – Victoria offers Master of Science in Nursing programs in the following specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Educator
  • Nurse Administrator

The Nurse Educator and Nurse Administrator programs are offered on both a full-time and part-time basis. The Family Nurse Practitioner program is offered only on a full-time basis.

Applicants to the MSN program are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale. They must hold a current, unencumbered valid license as a Registered Nurse in Texas. Candidates must provide official scores for the Health Sciences Reasoning Test (HSRT) or the GRE taken within the last five years.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

3007 North Ben Wilson Street
Victoria, TX 77901
(361) 570-4376

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University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Scott and White College of Nursing

Master of Science in Nursing programs are offered by the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s Scott and White College of Nursing. MSN programs are offered in the following specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Educator
  • Clinical Nurse Leader

The 36 credit hour programs can be completed in 17 months. Coursework is structured so that one third of each course is conducted in the classroom and the remaining two-thirds is conducted off campus. The classroom portion of each course is taught on Friday afternoons or Saturdays one weekend each month.

Applicants to the MSN programs are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. They must hold a current license as a Registered Nurse in the U.S., and be licensed as an RN in Texas prior to beginning clinical courses. The GRE is not required for entrance into the MSN programs.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

900 College Street
UMHB Station Box 8015
Belton, TX 76513
(254) 295-4667

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University of Texas at Arlington College of Nursing

University of Texas at Arlington’s College of Nursing offers a wide variety of Master of Science in Nursing programs via a BSN to MSN pathway. They will also consider applicants with Bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields on a case-by-case basis providing students with a post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN pathway as well.

MSN specializations offered include the following:

  • Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Administration

Several dual degrees are offer in combination with the MSN in Nursing Administration. They include an MSN/Master of Business Administration dual degree program, an MSN/Masters in Health Care Administration dual degree program, and the MSN/Master of Public Health dual degree program.

Applicants are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a nationally (CCNE or ACEN/NLNAC) accredited program. Those RNs whose BSN program was not nationally accredited or with a non-nursing Bachelor’s will be considered on a case by case basis. Students are required to have a minimum 3.0 GPA for unconditional admission. Those with lower GPAs will be considered by will be required to provide GRE scores. Candidates must hold a current unencumbered license as an RN in Texas or one of their designated compact states. Two years of clinical experience is recommended for all MSN programs, though those with less experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Those entering the Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, or Acute Care Nurse Practitioner programs are required to have two years of experience in an acute care setting.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

411 South Nedderman Drive
Box 19407
Arlington, TX 76019
(817) 272-2776

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University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing

Two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree are offered by the School of Nursing at The University of Texas at Austin. The university offers several pathways to an MSN: a direct entry MSN pathway, a post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN pathway, and a traditional BSN to MSN pathway.

The direct entry MSN pathway is referred to at The University of Texas at Austin as their “Alternative Entry” MSN. It is designed for those with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a non-nursing discipline who are interested in becoming a Registered Nurse and earning their MSN.

Those entering the Alternative MSN program can chose from concentration areas:

  • Child Health with Role Specialty in Administration, Public Health Nursing, or Teaching
  • Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Holistic Adult Health with Role Specialty in Administration or Teaching
  • Maternity with Role Specialty in Administration, Public health, or Teaching
  • Nursing Administration and Healthcare Systems Management
  • Public Health Nursing

Those entering the MSN program as an RN via either the post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN pathway or the BSN to MSN pathway can choose from the above seven concentration areas plus two additional concentrations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Applicants to the Alternative Entry MSN program are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a non-nursing discipline with a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in upper division coursework and any graduate work previously completed. All students must have completed the GRE within the last five years. Candidates are encouraged to have volunteer or work experience in a healthcare related field.

Applicants to the MSN program are required to hold either:

  • a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN to MSN pathway) or
  • a Nursing Diploma or Associate’s degree in Nursing plus a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline (post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN pathway)

They must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in all upper division undergraduate work as well as all graduate work. They must hold a current license in Texas as a Registered Nurse. And they must have completed the GRE within the past five years.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

1710 Red River Street
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 471-7913

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University of Texas at BrownsvilleCollege of Nursing

Two pathways to a Master’s of Science in Nursing degree are offered by the College of Nursing at University of Texas at Brownsville. The two MSN pathways offered are a post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN pathway and a BSN to MSN pathway.

MSN programs at the University of Texas at Brownsville produce nursing leaders in two areas:

  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Administration

Applicants entering the MSN program must hold both a Texas license as a Registered Nurse and a Bachelor’s degree. Those not holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing must both hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline as well as complete the NURS 5600 Transition to Graduate Nursing bridge course before applying for admission to the graduate MSN program. They must have a 3.0 or higher GPA on a 4.0 scale for all previous college work. Candidates must have completed an undergraduate Statistics course.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

One West University Boulevard
LHSB 2.720A
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 882-5070

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University of Texas at El Paso School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at University of Texas at El Paso offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree. The university offers two pathways to an MSN degree: an RN to BSN pathway and a BSN to MSN pathway.

MSN programs are offered in the following roles/specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Systems Management

Applicants to the MSN program must hold a current, unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse and hold either an Associate’s degree in Nursing or a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Those holding an Associate’s degree in Nursing but no Bachelor’s degree are required to complete five RN to BSN courses before being admitted into the graduate program. They must have a 3.0 or higher GPA for full admission into the program. Those with lower GPAs can be conditionally admitted, but must complete the core graduate course with a grade of “B” or better to gain full admission status.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

500 West University Avenue
El Paso, TX 79968
(915) 747-7273

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University of Texas at Tyler College of Nursing and Health Sciences

The College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Texas at Tyler offers two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree: an RN to MSN pathway and a BSN to MSN pathway.

MSN programs are offered in the following specializations/roles:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Education

They also offer a dual degree whereby students can earn both an MSN and MBA.

The programs are offered on both a full-time and part-time enrollment basis. The Nursing Administration and Nursing Education MSN programs are offered completely online. They Family Nurse Practitioner program uses a hybrid delivery format.

The RN to MSN program is designed for Registered Nurses with only a nursing diploma or Associate’s in Nursing degree. The program is an accelerated program which allows the student to fast-track their education earning both a BSN and and MSN degree.

Applicants to the RN to MSN program are required to hold a nursing diploma or Associate’s in Nursing from a nationally accredited program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all general education and College of Nursing prerequisite coursework. At least a 3.0 GPA is preferred on all nursing courses. An undergraduate Statistics course should have been completed with a grade of “C” or higher. Candidates must be licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state where clinical practicum is to be performed. Students must be certified in CPR. The GRE or MAT must be taken, though no minimum score is required.

Applicants to the BSN to MSN program are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited college. Those already holding a BSN can have the GRE/MAT requirement waived if they have a 3.2 or higher GPA on the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework. Again, they must have completed an undergraduate Statistics course with a “C” or better grade, hold a license as a Registered Nurse in the state where clinicals will be performed, and be certified in CPR.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

3900 University Boulevard
Braithwaite Building
Tyler, TX 75799
(903) 566-7320

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University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio School of Nursing

The Master of Science in Nursing degree can be earned via either of two pathways through the School of Nursing at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. The university offers a traditional BSN to MSN pathway as well as a Alternate Entry RN to MSN pathway for those RNs holding only a diploma or Associate’s degree.

MSN programs are offered in the following roles/specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Nursing Education
  • Administrative Management

Those RNs entering an MSN program via the Alternate Entry RN to MSN pathway will complete 21 credit hours of upper division undergraduate coursework while starting their graduate level courses. The program allows for both full-time and part-time sudy, and is typically completed in 3-4 years. Both BSN and MSN degrees are conferred upon successful completion of the program.

Applicants to the RN to MSN program are required to hold a diploma or Associate’s in Nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC accredited program with a 3.0 or higher GPA. Candidates must hold licensure as a Registered Nurse in Texas or one of its Compact States.

Applicants entering an MSN program via the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with at least 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. They must have completed an undergraduate Statistics course. Applicants must hold a license as an RN in Texas or one of its Compact States.

All those seeking an MSN in Nursing Education are required to have at least two years of nursing practice experience in the last four years.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

7703 Floyd Curl Drive
MSC 7942
San Antonio, TX 78229
(210) 567-5800

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University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston offers Master of Science in Nursing degrees in several roles/specializations including:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Executive Nurse Leader
  • Nurse Educator

The core courses for the Master’s programs are taught entirely online.

Applicants are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a nationally accredited program with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale on both all college work as well as all upper division courses. Those with BSNs from a non-accredited program will be considered individually. Candidates should hold an active, valid, unencumbered license to practice as an RN in the state(s) where clinical practicum will be performed. The GRE is not required for admission.

Experience requirements differ by program. Candidates entering the Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, or Clinical Nurse Leader program should have at least one year of recent experience as an RN. Special circumstances will be considered for those entering the Clinical Nurse Leader program. Those entering the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program need a minimum of two years of recent experience as an RN in a Level III nursery. Those entering the Nurse Educator program should have at least one year of recent experience as an RN, preferably in an acute care setting. Those entering the Executive Nurse Leader program should have at least one year of recent management/leadership experience as a Registered Nurse.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

301 University Boulevard
Galveston, TX 77555
(409) 772-2618

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University of Texas – Pan American Department of Nursing

The Department of Nursing at the University of Texas – Pan American offers Master of Science in Nursing degree programs in the following roles/specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Adult Health Nurse Administrator
  • Adult Health Nurse Educator

The program can be completed in two years as a full-time student, three years for those attending part-time.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited program. They should have completed a basic undergraduate Statistics course. Candidates should hold current licensure as a Registered Nurse in the state of Texas.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

1201 West University Drive
Edinburg, TX 78540
(956) 665-3496

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University of the Incarnate Word IlaFaye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions

Two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree are available through the IlaFaye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions at the University of the Incarnate Word. They offer a traditional BSN to MSN pathway as well as an post-Baccalaureate RN to MSN pathway.

Two roles/specializations are available to those seeking an MSN. They include:

  • Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Clinical Nurse Leader

The programs can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Most classes online or in the evenings and Saturdays so as to accommodate those students who need to work.

The RN to MSN pathway provides an accelerated method for those holding a diploma or Associate’s in Nursing as well as a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline to earn an Master’s in Nursing. A set of undergraduate bridge courses must be completed prior to beginning work on their MSN curriculum. Both a BSN and MSN will be conferred upon graduation. Or students who would like to receive their BSN soon can apply after 120 credits. The RN to MSN program can be completed in approximately three years.

Applicants entering via the RN to MSN pathway must hold a diploma or Associate’s in Nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC accredited program with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and a GPA of 3.0 on across all major nursing course. They must be licensed as a Registered Nurse in Texas or one of their recognized compact states and have at least three years of recent experience as an RN.

Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway are required a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a nationally accredited program with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 and a GPA of 3.0 in upper division nursing courses. Candidates must have completed a basic Statistics course and a Physical/Health Assessment course with a grade of “C” or better. They must hold licensure as an RN in Texas or one of their compact states. One year of experience as an RN is preferred, but not required.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

4301 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78209
(210) 829-6000

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West Texas A & M University College of Nursing and Health Sciences

The College of Nursing and Health Sciences at West Texas A & M University offers two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree: a traditional BSN to MSN pathway and an accelerated RN to MSN pathway designed for RNs with only a diploma or Associate’s in Nursing. Those entering via the accelerated RN to MSN pathway earn both BSN and MSN degrees upon completion of the program.

West Texas A & M offer a Comprehensive MSN program and a Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program. The Comprehensive MSN is a 39-40 hour program and is available online. The Family Nurse Practitioner program requires 47 hours and is only available on campus.

Applicants entering via the accelerated RN to MSN pathway must hold a diploma or Associate’s degree in Nursing with a 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with GPAs less than 3.0 but at least 2.5 can be granted conditional admission. Candidates must have completed a basic undergraduate Statistics course and should be certified in CPR. They must hold an unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse or become licensed within three months of graduating from their diploma or Associate’s program.

Applicants entering an MSN program via the BSN to MSN pathway are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a nationally accredited program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 hours of coursework (and have no individual grade below a “C” in the last 60 hours). They must have completed a basic undergraduate course in Statistics with a grade of “C” or higher. Candidates must have an active, unrestricted license as a Registered Nurse in the state where all clinical practicum will be performed. CPR certification is also required.

Those entering the Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program must have at least two years of recent clinical practice as an RN prior to taking any FNP specialty courses.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

2501 4th Avenue, Old Main 313
WTAMU Box 60969
Canyon, TX 79016
(806) 651-2950 Ext 2631

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