Texas MSN Programs
Abilene Christian University: RN to MSN Program Review
Abilene Christian University, 1949 ACU Drive, Abilene, TX 79699
Abilene Christian University was established as Childers Classical Institute in 1906. The university serves over 4,500 students. Abilene Christian University is affiliated with the Churches of Christ denomination of the Christian faith.
The Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree program with an administration, education or Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) focus. The Family Nurse Practitioner program is 44 credits of study and must be completed within six years of the degree program commencing. In order to successfully graduate from the MSN FNP program, students must maintain a 3.0 or above in addition to completing all required coursework. The MSN education program is 33 credits and must also be completed within six years of the program’s start date.
In addition to the admission application, aspiring MSN students should submit three letters of reference, a personal statement and scores for the Graduate Record Exam. The minimum required score for the GRE is 850 on both verbal and quantitative sections. In addition, applicants should have a grade point average of 3.0 or above and at least one year of clinical nursing experience. An admission interview, Texas RN license and Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification are also required for admission to the RN to MSN program.
Angelo State University: RN to MSN Program Review
Angelo State University
2601 W. Avenue N
San Angelo, Texas 76909
Angelo State University was established in 1928. The university maintains an affiliation with the Texas Tech University System. More than 6,750 students are enrolled at Angelo State University.
The Department of Nursing at Angelo State University offers both a Masters of Science in Nursing and Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing (RN to MSN) program for nurses with an associate degree or diploma. Concentrations offered in the MSN programs include an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse certification as a Family, Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (GNP), Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). The GNP, ACNP, and PNP specializations are offered in collaboration with Texas Tech.
Applicants to the nursing masters program will need to complete prerequisite courses in pathophysiology and statistics. A GPA of 3.0 or above is required to apply to the nursing masters program. Nurses should be graduates of a nursing program accredited by the National League for Nursing or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. In addition to the application, an essay, three letters of recommendation and proof of competency in health or physical assessment is required.
Applicants to the RN to MSN program should complete all BSN degree requirements as listed on the departmental website and have a GPA of 3.4 or above.
Baylor University: RN to MSN Program Review
Baylor University
1311 S 5th St
Waco, Texas 76798
Baylor University is affiliated with the Christian faith and was founded in 1845. In addition to being Texas oldest post-secondary institution, Baylor University is one of the oldest universities in the USA.
Baylor University offers an RN to MSN program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The nursing masters degree program offers Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specializations. Students enrolled in the Louise Herrington School of Nursing MSN program will benefit from excellent resources, including access to a 24/7 computer lab and designated patient simulation lab. Furthermore, the university librarians have a specialization in medical resources in order to aid nurses in their research.
Applicants to the nursing masters program should have taken an undergraduate level course in statistics. In addition to applying to both the nursing school and graduate school, applicants to the MSN program should submit scores for the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT), letters of reference, resume and an essay. In order to meet academic requirements for the MSN program, applicants should have a bachelors degree in nursing with a 3.0 grade point average in both nursing major courses and overall.
At least one year of nursing experience is required to apply to the MSN program. MSN NNP applicants should have a year of experience in NICU.
Hardin-Simmons University: RN to MSN Program Review
Hardin-Simmons University
2200 Hickory
Abilene, TX, 79698
Hardin-Simmons University maintains an affiliation with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. The university was established in1941 and is based in Taylor County. Hardin-Simmons University has received honors from The Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report. Approximately 2,300 students are enrolled at Hardin-Simmons University.
The Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing manages graduate nursing programs for Hardin-Simmons University. Education, Family Nurse Practitioner and Administration tracks are offered. Upon completing the nursing masters program, applicants receive a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Hardin-Simmons University. Students in the MSN FNP program are trained and prepared to take the FNP certification exam upon completion of the nursing masters degree program. The RN to MSN programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
All applicants to the nursing masters degree program at Hardin-Simmons University should submit Graduate Record Exam scores of 290 or above in the quantitative and verbal sections and 3.0 or above in the writing section. In addition, MSN applicants should have a Texas RN license and a GPA of 3.0 or above in their undergraduate nursing program and overall. In some cases, conditional admission may be offered to applicants who meet at least one of the GPA requirements.
Lamar University: RN to MSN Program
Lamar University
4400 S M L King Jr Pkwy
Beaumont, TX 77710
Lamar University is a public post-secondary institution based in Beaumont, Texas. The university serves over 14,000 students and was established in 1923.
The Dishman Department of Nursing at Lamar University holds several distinctions. The university was ranked second among online nursing degree programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. In addition, the online nursing masters degree program has been ranked third in the nation for the quality of its faculty. Three nursing tracks are offered, MSN Nursing Education, MSN Nursing Administration (MSNA) and a joint degree Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program.
With the exception of the dual masters degree program, the RN To MSN program is offered part-time and full-time. Courses for the nursing component of the program are available online. Students in the MSNA and MSN/MBA track may be required to attend campus-based business courses. Both scholarships and graduate assistantships are available to students in the nursing masters degree program.
In order to apply to the masters in nursing program, applicants should have a bachelor of science in nursing degree from a program accredited by CCNE or NLNAC, a GPA of 3.0 or above in previous coursework and a completed statistics course with a “C” or above. Graduate Record Exam or Miller Analogies Test scores are required for admission to the nursing masters degree program.
McMurry University: RN to MSN Program
McMurry University
1401 Sayles Blvd
Abilene, TX 79605
McMurry University is a private liberal arts college founded in 1923. The university was founded in the United Methodist denomination of the Christian faith. Approximately 1,400 students are enrolled in academic programs at McMurry University.
McMurry University offers Masters degree programs through Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing. The school offers degree programs in MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN Nursing Education and MSN Nursing Administration. The nursing masters degree programs can be completed in two years of study. The MSN FNP program concludes in the summer with 144 practice hours following two prior semesters of 228 practicum hours each. the MSN Nursing Education program includes a 90 hour practicum experience in the spring.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the nursing MS programs at Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing. For admission consideration to the RN To MSN program, applicants should have a Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree earned with a 3.0 nursing major and overall GPA. A minimum writing score of 3.0 is required for the GRE in addition to a 290 on the verbal and quantitative sections. Applicants to the MSN FNP should have an Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification. All applicants should have a valid Texas nursing license.
Midwestern State University: RN to MSN Program Review
Midwestern State University
3410 Taft Blvd
Wichita Falls, TX 76308
Midwestern State University is a public post-secondary institution in Wichita Falls, Texas. The university enrolls over 5,500 students each year. Midwestern State University was founded in 1922.
The Wilson School of Nursing at Midwestern State University offers a nursing masters program with Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator and Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentrations. In addition to the traditional option for bachelors prepared nurses, an RN to MSN program is offered for nurses with an associate’s degree or diploma. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the masters in nursing programs.
Applicants to the MSN program should submit an application to the Wilson School of Nursing and Midwestern State University’s Graduate School. In addition to the application, an essay, transcripts and Graduate Record Exam scores should also be submitted to the admission committee. Applicants to the traditional track of the MSN program should have a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, Texas RN license and prerequisite courses in statistics and physical assessment. In lieu of the physical assessment course, applicants may provide proof of competency in this area.
A grade point average of 3.0 or above is required in the last 60 credits of the undergraduate nursing program. Applicants who do not meet these requirements may be offered provisional admission. Nurses with a bachelors degree in nursing and a masters degree in an unrelated field may be admitted based on their masters degree.
Prairie View A&M University: RN to MSN Program Review
Prairie View A&M University
FM 1098 Rd & University Dr
Prairie View, TX 77446
Prairie View A&M University is a HBCU (Historically Black College University) and part of the Texas A&M University system. The university was established in 1876 during reconstruction after the Civil War.
Three concentrations, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Education and Nurse Administration, are offered in the Prairie View A&M University College of Nursing. An RN to MSN program named the Bridge to Advanced Nurse Educator Role (BANER) is offered to aspiring nurses who have an associate’s degree or diploma. Nurses in this program will first complete a BSN and then the MSN Nurse Educator track.
In order to be accepted to the RN to MSN BANER program, applicants should have an associate’s degree or diploma from a nursing program, and a GPA of 3.0 or above prior to beginning masters coursework. An admission interview, Graduate Record Exam Scores and 63 credits of transferable general education coursework are also required.
The traditional nursing masters degree program is offered full or part time and accredited by both the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Courses are held in the evenings. The nursing masters degree program requires 5-8 semesters of study to complete. Applicants to the traditional track of the MSN program should have a 2.75 or above GPA in nursing classes and a 3.0 GPA if previous graduate work was completed. GRE scores within the past 10 years are accepted.
Stephen F. Austin State University: RN to MSN Program Review
Stephen F. Austin State University
1936 North St.
Nacogdoches TX 75962
Stephen F. Austin State University was originally a college for teachers. The university was established in 1923. Stephen F. Austin State University, is named after Stephen F. Austin, a leader in the development of the state of Texas. The university is referred to as SFA or SFASU for short.
The Master of Science in Nursing program at Stephen F. Austin State University offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization. The program is designed to be completed in 3 years and 46 credits of study. Students enrolled in the nursing masters degree program will complete approximately 850 clinical practicum hours beginning in their second year of study.
A grade point average of 3.0 or above in an accredited BSN program is required for admission to the MSN FNP program. Along with the RN to MSN program application, nurses should submit proof of at least one year of clinical nursing experience, three letters of recommendation and an essay. The letters of references should come from one academic resource and two professional resources.
A score above the 50th percentile on the Miller Analogies Test or combined GRE score of 1,000 or above on verbal and quantitative sections is required for admission to the nursing masters program. A BLS (Basic Life Support) certification must be obtained by all applicants. International students to the MSN program should submit TOEFL scores.
Texas A &M International University: RN to MSN Program Review
Texas A&M International University
5201 University Blvd
Laredo, TX 78041
Texas A&M International University is part of the Texas A&M system. Approximately 7,000 students are enrolled at Texas A&M International University. The university was established in 1970 as Texas A&I University at Laredo. The acronym TAMIU is also used to refer to the university.
The Dr. F.M. Canseco School of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree program with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) focus. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission accredits the MSN FNP. The MSN program is 45 credits and also requires a clinical practicum.
Applicants to the MSN FNP program should have a valid Texas nursing license, a BSN from an accredited post-secondary institution and at least one year of career experience as a nurse prior to applying to the MSN program. For academic requirements, MSN applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0. The Graduate Record Exam must be taken prior to commencing nursing masters coursework.
Three letters of recommendation and an admission interview are also required as part of the RN to MSN application process. In some cases nurses with a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing may be permitted to enroll in the MSN program pending completion of 27 required credit hours.
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi: RN to MSN Program Review
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
6300 Ocean Dr
Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi was established in 1947. The university is part of the Texas A&M University system. Because the university is located on the Gulf of Mexico, it is nicknamed “The Island University.” Over 10,000 students are enrolled at the Corpus Christi campus. Nearly all states (48) and over 65 countries are represented in the student body.
The Master of Science in Nursing program delivered through the College of Nursing and Health Sciences is offered online. In addition to the traditional masters track, an ADN to MSN program is offered for nurses with an associate’s degree or diploma as well as an RN to MSN bridge course for nurses with a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing. Students in the nursing masters program can choose from a Leadership in Nursing Systems, Family Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator focus. Nursing masters programs are offered part-time.
Entrance requirements to the masters in nursing program include a GPA of 3.0 or better in the last 60 credit hours of the degree program. Along with the application, nurses should submit a copy of their nursing license, resume, and transcripts for all previous institutions attended. A prerequisite course completed with a grade of “C” or better is required for admission. Applicants to the RN to MSN program should complete prerequisite courses prior to applying for admission to the program.
Texas Christian University: RN to MSN Program Review
Texas Christian University
2800 S University Dr
Fort Worth, TX 76129
Texas Christian University is a private post-secondary institution affiliated with the Disciples of Christ denomination of the Christian faith. Over 9,000 students are enrolled at Texas Christian University. Texas Christian University is often referred to as TCU and was founded in 1873.
The Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers several specializations for the masters in nursing program. Students can enroll in a Clinical Nurse Leader, Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist or Nursing Education specialization. The MSN curriculum ranges from 33 to 40 hours of study. All nursing masters degree programs include a clinical practicum. Applications to the RN to MSN program are accepted annually in November.
In addition to academic requirements, students should meet the following professional requirements for consideration to the nursing masters degree program:
CPR certification
Texas RN license (or RN license in state in which clinical practicum experience is carried out)
At least two years of experience as a full-time nurse (departmental requirements vary by specialty)
For the academic entrance requirments, nursing students should submit Graduate Record Exam scores and transcripts showing a GPA of 3.0 or above. In addition to the application, nursing masters program applicants should submit three letters of recommendation and a personal essay.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center: RN to MSN Program Review
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
3601 4th Street
Lubbock, TX 79430
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center is affiliated with the Texas Tech University System. The university was established in 1969 as Texas Tech University School of Medicine, but today offers degree programs in a range of healthcare fields.
The Texas Tech University School of Nursing offers the following MSN specializations:
MSN Administration
MSN Education
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
MSN Nurse Midwifery
MSN Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
Scholarships are available to students in the School of Nursing. All prospective students interested in obtaining a scholarship should file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to be considered. In order to apply to the nursing masters degree leadership tracks, Administration and Education, applicants should have a 3.0 or above GPA in their upper division coursework. Three letters of reference, a personal essay and prerequisite courses in statistics and research are also required for admission.
After completing all requirements for the degree program, students in the Midwifery and Nurse Practitioner tracks are eligible to take the certification exam in their area of practice. In addition to the requirements for the leadership track, applicants to the advanced practice MSN programs should also have at least one year of nursing experience. Detailed information about the years of experience and departmental requirements are listed on the nursing website.
Texas Wesleyan University: RN to MS Program Review
Texas Wesleyan University
1201 Wesleyan St
Fort Worth, TX 76105
Texas Wesleyan University is a private post-secondary institution affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church. The university was founded in 1890.
Texas Wesleyan University offers a nursing masters program leading to a MS in Nurse Anesthesia. The program is designed for current Registered Nurses. In addition to academic coursework, students in the CRNA program will complete sixteen months of full-time clinical practicum experience. The coursework portion of the nursing masters program is 1 year, making the program 28 months total.
The nurse anesthia program is offered through distance education. In both cases, students may be required to take some courses at the Texas Wesleyan University campus, though much of the course can be completed on-site.
Nurses applying to the Nurse ANesthia masters program should have at least one year of full-time experience in adult or pediatric ICU. In addition to a RN license, nurses should also have certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support. At minimum, RN to MS applicants should have a 2.5 GPA or above.
Applicants must meet two of four academic requirements for GPA and GRE scores. GRE requirements include a combined score of 1,000 or 297 on the newer version of the GRE. GPA requirements include a 3.0 or above science GPA, 3.0 or above GPA in last 60 credits of coursework and an overall 3.0 GPA.
Texas Women’s University: RN to MS Program Review
Texas Women’s University
304 Administration Drive
Denton, TX 76204, USA
Texas Women’s University offers distance education and degree programs at sites throughout Texas in Denton, Dallas and Houston. The university was established in 1901 as Girls Industrial College.
Texas Women’s University offers the following concentrations in their nursing masters degree program:
Nursing Education (delivered completely online)
Nursing Health Systems Management
Clinical Nurse Leader (Adult Health, Child Health)
Nurse Practitioner (Adult Health, Family Health, Women’s Health, Acute Care, Pediatrics)
In addition to the traditional entry for nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Texas Women’s University offers two points of entry for nurses without a BSN. An RN to MS program is offered for nurses with an associate’s degree. Nurses with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing can enroll in the Post Baccalaureate RN MS program. Depending on the specialization, the nursing programs are held on-campus in Denton, Dallas or Houston. Some MS programs are offered at more than one location.
Applicants that do not meet all requirements for the nursing masters program may be offered conditional admission. Admission requirements to the MS Nursing program include a 3.0 or above GPA in all graduate courses and the last 60 credits of the undergraduate program. Scores for the Graduate Record Exam or Miller Analogies Test, an RN license and completion of a prerequisite course in statistics are also required for admission to the nursing masters program.
University of Texas at Austin: RN to MSN Program
University of Texas at Austin
1 University Station
Austin, TX 78712
The University of Texas at Austin is a public research university located in Texas. The university was established in 1883 and serves over 50,000 students.
The University of Texas at Austin offers a Master of Science Nursing program and AE MSN (Alternate Entry Master of Science in Nursing) program for college graduates seeking both a nursing license and MSN.
The traditional MSN program serves nurses with a bachelors degree in nursing or another field. Areas of study offered in the MSN program include the following:
Public Health Nursing Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Nursing Administration and Healthcare Systems Management
Maternity (further specialized in Administration, Teaching or Public Health Nursing)
Holistic Adult Health (further specialized into Administration or teaching)
Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Family Nurse Practitioner
Child Health (further specialized into Administration, Teaching or Public Health Nursing)
The MSN program can be completed on full or part time study, and can be completed in a campus-based setting only. Nurses can complete the RN to MSN program in approximately 2 years. Students are only admitted to the MSN program in the fall. Entrance requirements include a BSN completed with a 3.0 or above GPA, Graduate Record Exam Scores and a valid Texas nursing license.
Aspiring nurses applying to the AE MSN program are admitted during the summer term. Prior to being coursework all prerequisite courses must be completed.
The University of Texas at Arlington: RN to MSN Program Review
The University of Texas at Arlington
701 S Nedderman Dr
Arlington, TX 76019
The University of Texas at Arlington also referred to as UTA or UT Arlington, is one of the largest universities in Texas. More than 33,000 students are enrolled at the University of Texas at Arlington and it is also the second largest university in the University of Texas system. The university was founded in 1895 and has been a part of the University of Texas system since 1965.
The College of Nursing offers several MSN program specializations. Nurse Educator and Nurse Administration tracks are offered through an academic partnership program. Nursing Administration Executive, Nursing Administration (different from the executive track) and Nursing Education tracks are offered through the College of Nursing. MSN programs are also available for the following nurse practitioner specializations:
Acute Care
Acute Care Pediatric
Adult- Gerontology Primary Care
Family
Neonatal
Pediatric
Psychiatric/Mental Health
Dual degree programs are offered in Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration (MSN/MBA), Master of Science in Nursing/ Master in Health Care Administration (MSN/HCAD) and Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Public Health (MSN/MPH).
Admission requirements to the RN to MSN program include a GPA of 3.0 or above in the last 60 credits of the nursing degree program, Texas RN license or nursing license valid in a compact state and a BSN degree from a program accredited by a nursing body. It is preferred that all applicants have at least two years of full-time nursing experience, however, for certain programs specific nursing experience is required. Provisional admission may be offered to applicants with a minimum 2.8 GPA.
The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College: RN to MSN Program Review
The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College
80 Fort Brown St
Brownsville, TX 78520
The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College can trace its founding to 1926. The university is part of the University of Texas system. More than 15,000 students are enrolled in programs at the University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College, also referred to as UTB and TSC. Though the colleges have been united since 1991, shortly after the University of Texas at Brownsville, UTB will soon be a completely autonomous institution.
The College of Nursing offers masters degree programs in Nursing Education, Nursing Administration and Clinical Nursing Leadership. All programs are offered on a full or part time plan of study. Students in all tracks have the option of completing a thesis or pursuing a capstone project. The nursing masters degree program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Admission requirements to the RN to MSN program include Texas RN license and completion of statistics prerequisite course. Applicants should have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above and are required to interview with the director of MSN admissions.
Provisional admission may be offered to students that do not meet all admission requirements. Nurses with a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing may also be admitted via provisional admission. Provisional admission requires students to complete a transition to nursing course prior to enrolling in MSN coursework.
University of Texas at El Paso: RN to MSN Program Review
University of Texas at El Paso
500 W University Ave
El Paso, TX 79968
The University of Texas at El Paso is commonly referred to as UTEP. The university was established in 1914 and is part of the University of Texas system.
A Nursing Education and Nursing Systems Management MSN program are offered in the School of Nursing. Additionally, an RN to MSN program is offered for nurses with a diploma or ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and a bachelors degree in a field other than nursing. The RN to MSN program does not offer a bachelors degree.
The Nursing Systems Management (NSM) degree is offered online and can be completed in 1.5 years of study. Applicants to the Nursing Systems Management program should be RNs with a valid license and graduates of an accredited undergraduate program. Generally, a GPA of 3.0 or above is required for admission to the nursing masters program, though students who do not meet the GPA requirement may be offered provisional admission. Students offered provisional admission must earn a “B” or better in the MSN core.
A Nursing Education focus is also offered online and prepares students to teach in academic or clinical nursing settings. The admission requirements are the same as the MSN NSM degree. The Graduate Record Exam and letters of reference are not required for admission to either masters in nursing program.
University of Texas at Tyler: RN to MSN Program Review
University of Texas at Tyler
3900 University Blvd
Tyler, TX 75799
The University of Texas at Tyler has campuses in Longview, Tyler and Palestine. The university is part of the University of Texas system. The public post-secondary institution was established in 1971.
The College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Texas at Tyler offers the following RN to MSN programs:
MSN Education
MSN Administration
Family Nurse Practitioner
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
MSN/MBA (joint degree leading to a Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration)
In addition to the traditional MSN program, a RN to MSN program is offered for nurses with an ADN (associate degree in nursing) or a diploma. Students in the RN to MSN program will earn both BSN and MSN degrees. In some cases, applicants to the MSN program may be offered conditional admission, in which they must complete a designated amount of coursework before gaining full acceptance in to the nursing masters program.
Entrance requirements to the traditional nursing masters program include a bachelor of science in nursing and a grade of “C” or better in a statistics course. Though a GPA of 3.0 or above is normally required for admission, applicants with a GPA of 3.2 or above do not have to provide scores for the Graduate Record Exam or Miller Analogies Test. All other applicants are required to submit GRE or MAT scores, and no minimum score is required.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston: RN to MSN Program Review
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
7000 Fannin, Suite 1200
Houston, Texas 77030
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston is commonly referred to as UTHealth. The institution was founded in 1972 and is part of the University of Texas system. U.S. News & World Report ranked the graduate nursing programs at UTHealth the best in Texas and in the top 5% of programs in the nation.
The following specializations are offered in the nursing masters program at the University of Texas Health Science Center:
Adult Gerontology Acute Care
Adult Gerontology Primary Care
Family Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Anesthesia
Nursing Education
Nursing Leadership and Administration in Health Systems
MSN-MPH (a joint degree program offering a Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Public Health degree)
The nursing masters degree program is delivered in a hybrid format with classes offered both online and in a classroom setting. Admission requirements to the RN to MSN program include a bachelors degree in nursing and 3.0 or above GPA. Students with a masters degree in a field other than nursing do not have to take the Graduate Record Exam or Miller Analogies Test. However, all students applying to the Nurse Anesthesia track must take the GRE (MAT is not accepted for Nurse Anesthesia) regardless of their background.
A Texas RN license and three letters of recommendation are also required for admission to the nursing masters program. Required years of experience for the advanced practice specializations, including Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Anesthetist, vary though generally at least one year of experience in the practice area is required.
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio: RN to MSN Program Review
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
7703 Floyd Curl Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78229
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is one of two University of Texas Health Science Centers in the University of Texas system. The other campus is located in Houston. The university of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio was established in 1959.
Master of science in nursing and Alternate Entry Master of Science in Nursing (AE MSN) programs are offered at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Specializations available in the nursing masters program include the following:
Clinical Nurse Leader
Administrative Management
Family Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
The nursing masters programs require between 40 and 50 credit hours. Students can enroll in the nursing masters program full or part time. Nurses with an ADN or diploma enrolled in the AE MSN will also complete the requirements for the BSN in the course of their studies.
Admission requirements to the nursing masters program include a 3.0 or above GPA in the undergraduate nursing program. In addition to an RN license, applicants should have a CPR certification. Three letters of recommendation and a personal essay are also required for admission consideration. The RN license may be from Texas or a state that is part of the compact agreement for nursing licenses.
University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston: RN to MSN Program Review
University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
301 University Boulevard
Galveston, Texas, 77555
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, also referred to as UTMB Health, is part of the University of Texas and based less than 60 miles from Houston. Since its establishment in 1891 as University of Texas Medical Department, the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston has grown to serve over 2,500 students.
The School of Nursing at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston offers nursing masters programs in the following areas:
Executive Nurse Leader (ENL)
Nurse Educator (NE)
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
Some nursing courses including the Nurse Educator track offer courses online. Admission requirements to the RN to MSN programs vary slightly according to specialization. In general, applicants should have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a program accredited by a nursing body, the CCNE or NLNAC. A personal statement and a GPA of 3.0 or above are required for admission to the nursing masters program. All masters in nursing programs either prefer or require at least one year of RN experience prior to being accepted in to the nursing masters program. The area or department in which the applicant should have experience is listed below:
ENL – Preferred one year of nursing management experience
CNL – One year experience as a RN is required, exceptions may be considered
FNP/AGNP- One year of experience as a Registered Nurse is preferred
NNP- Requirement of at least two years experience in a Level III nursery
Nurse Educator –Required experience of 1 year as an RN, preference for experience in acute
The University of Texas- Pan American: RN to MSN Program Review
University of Texas-Pan American
1201 W University Dr
Edinburg, TX 78539
The University of Texas-Pan American was established in 1927. The university is part of the University of Texas system and serves students in the Rio Grande Valley. The university was originally established as Edinburg College and served approximately 200 students.
A Master of Science in nursing program with a Nurse Educator, Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Health focus is offered in the School of Nursing. Admission requirements to the nursing masters program include a GPA of 2.75 in graduate or upper division undergraduate coursework. Three letters of reference and completion of a prerequisite course in statistics are also required as part of the application process. All applicants should have a BSN degree and a Texas RN license. Applicants with a minimum 2.5 GPA may be granted provisional admission to the RN to MSN program.
The Nurse Educator track can be completed in as little as four semesters. The program prepares nurses to work in a variety of settings including nursing schools and hospitals and numerous roles including patient education and staff development. The Adult Health nursing program requires 31 credits of study, while the Family Nurse Practitioner program requires 48 or 51 credits for the project-based or thesis option respectively. Nurses in the Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult Health nursing masters program will also complete a Nurse Educator course sequence.
University of Houston Victoria: RN to MSN Program Review
University of Houston Victoria
3007 N Ben Wilson
Victoria, TX 77901
The University of Houston Victoria is part of the University of Houston System. Other campuses are based in Katy and Sugar Land. The university was established in 1973.
The University of Houston Victoria offers a dual degree Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration program in addition to the general MSN programs. MSN programs are offered in the following areas of concentration:
Nurse Administration
Nurse Educator
The RN to MSN program is also offered at the Sugarland and Cinco Ranch campuses. The nursing masters degree program admits students in the spring and fall terms. The School of Nursing’s masters degree program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
The Nurse Education program requires 42 credits of study, while the Nurse Administration program requires 36 hours of study. The masters in nursing program offers both conditional and full admission. Applicants should be graduates of an undergraduate nursing program from one of the six major regional accrediting organizations recognized by the University of Houston Victoria in their admission booklet. Work experience, two letters of recommendation, and an admission interview review are also required for admission consideration.
All applicants to the MSN program should submit a personal essay, copy of their Texas RN license and scores for the Health Sciences Reasoning Test (HSRT) or Graduate Record Exam (GRE). A combined score of 1000 or 297, depending on which GRE version taken is required. The required HSRT score is 18 or above.
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor: RN to MSN Program Review
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
900 College St
Belton, TX 76513
The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor serves more than 3,000 students. The university is affiliated with the Christian faith and was named in honor of one of the university’s benefactors. The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor was founded in 1845.
The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor offers three Master of Science in Nursing tracks for bachelors prepared nurses. The specializations offered are Nurse Educator, Clinical Nurse Leader and Family Nurse Practitioner. Two-thirds of the program is completed through distance education and the remaining one-third of the nursing masters program is completed through campus-based study.
The master of science in Nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and can be completed in approximately two years of study. All students take the same core courses in the first year of the program. In the second year of the program, students take a comprehensive exam, and subsequently take courses in their area of specialization.
The nursing masters degree program ranges from 39 to 45 credits of study. Students in the nursing masters degree program must complete all degree requirements within five years of beginning the program. Students in the Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Leader tracks are eligible to take the certification exam in their area of study upon completing the program. Admission requirements to the MSN program include submitting two letters of reference with the application and sitting for an interview with a member of the nursing department. GRE scores are not required for admission.
University of the Incarnate Word: RN to MSN Program Review
University of the Incarnate Word
4301 Broadway St
San Antonio, TX 78209
The University of the Incarnate Word is a private Catholic liberal arts institution. The university was founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word.
The Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree program. Students in the RN to MSN program choose from a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) role. Students in the MSN program can further specialize their program to a specific subset of the population. Though the nursing masters degree program is not delivered completely online, its offered in a hybrid format to accommodate working nurses. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the nursing masters program.
An RN to MSN program is offered for nurses with a bachelors degree in a non-nursing field. Admission to the RN to MSN program requires completion of an National League for Nursing accredited undergraduate nursing program and a GPA of 3.0 or above in nursing courses. Applicants to the RN to MSN program should have a minimum of 3 years experience as a nurse in the recent past.
Admission to the traditional MSN program requires a 2.5 overall GPA and a 3.0 or above GPA in nursing classes. Applicants should have a BSN accredited by the CCNE or NLNAC and three academic and professional letters of reference. It is preferred, though not required, that MSN applicants have at least one year of nursing experience. Prerequisite courses in statistics and physical assessment are required.
Wayland Baptist University: RN to MSN Program Review
Wayland Baptist University
1900 W 7th St
Plainview, TX 79072
Wayland Baptist University is a private university founded in the Baptist tradition of the Christian faith. In addition to the main campus in Plainview, additional campuses are located in several Texas cities, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Alaska, Hawaii, Arizona and abroad in Kenya. Wayland Baptist University was established in 1908.
The School of Nursing offers a campus-based Master of Science in Nursing degree program. The RN to MSN program is designed for bachelors prepared nurses, and prepares students for a career in nursing education. The MSN program can be completed in 36 hours of study. Admission to the nursing masters degree program requires a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) from a CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) or NLNAC (National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission) accredited program.
Students enrolled in the MSN program may transfer up to 12 credits from a graduate nursing degree program. Upon completion of the masters in nursing coursework, students are required to complete a nursing practicum. In order to graduate from the MSN, students must maintain a 3.0 or above GPA.
Applicants with a GPA of 3.0 or above are generally guaranteed admission to the nursing masters program. Applicants with a 2.7-2.9 GPA must submit a writing sample along with their applications. MSN applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.69 may be offered provisional admission to the nursing masters degree program and required to complete additional requirements. Applicants with a GPA of 2.5 or lower are generally not admitted to the MSN program.
West Texas A&M University: RN to MSN Program Review
West Texas A&M University
2501 4th Ave
Canyon, TX 79016
West Texas A&M University is a public university located near the city of Amarillo. The university was established in 1910 and belongs to the Texas A&M University system.
The Department of Nursing offers both an MSN Family Nurse Practitioner specialization and a Comprehensive MSN track. The latter specialization prepares nurses in a variety of areas including Nursing Informatics, Holistic Nursing, School Nursing and Nursing Management.
An RN to MSN degree program is offered in conjunction with the RN to BSN program. The RN to MSN program is for nurses with an associate’s degree or diploma and is offered in an accelerated format. Students in the accelerated MSN program will complete BSN requirements before moving on to MSN coursework. Both BSN and MSN degrees are awarded upon completion of the RN to MSN program.
Admission to the Master of Science in nursing program requires a Bachelors degree in nursing from a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or National League for Nursing. In addition to having a GPA of 3.0 or above in the final 60 credits of the undergraduate program, all grades should be a “C” or better. A prerequisite course in statistics is required for admission to the nursing masters program. Applicants to the Family Nurse Practitioner track should have a minimum of two years experience as a Registered Nurse before starting the MSN program.
