What is an Accelerated Nursing Program?

An accelerated nursing program is a way for people with bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing field to earn their BSN quickly. With the nursing profession projected as one of the fastest growing professions in the Texas, it is no wonder that people from all backgrounds are considering nursing as a career change, and an accelerated nursing program is one such option.  Not only does it offer job stability and a sustainable salary, but it is also highly rewarding and challenging.  However, for the career-changer who has already completed a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, or even for the LVN who has completed some level of training, the idea of obtaining a second Bachelor’s degree, can be daunting and deter people from entering the field. Fortunately, many universities in Texas offer accelerated nursing programs and LPN to BSN degree programs for just such populations.

Why Should I Complete an Accelerated Nursing Program In Texas?

Accelerated nursing programs are specifically geared toward students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in something else.  If you have already proven you ability to manage time, study effectively and retain knowledge, and are hoping to become a nurse, this may be the program for you. If you have your bachelors you likely already taken most foundational courses in a bachelor’s degree program.

This means that if you complete a 4 year BSN program, you will repeat a lot of classes. While there may be some science pre-requisites to complete, almost all courses in an accelerated nursing program are focused specifically on the skills needed to be an RN. When you finish the program you will have your BSN and be a highly sought after nurse. You will have the training and skills to complete the NCLEX-RN exam and work in almost any clinical setting.

In a standard BSN, students spend at least the first year, and sometimes the first two years, taking only foundational bachelor’s degree courses; nursing courses do not typically begin until the sophomore or junior year, and even  then, they are often mixed in with other college courses.  The student in an accelerated nursing program takes only the nursing courses, significantly shortening the time it takes to complete the degree.  Most programs take between 11 and 18 months.  A key component of any BSN degree is the clinical.  Students in accelerated programs receive the same number of clinical hours as do their standard BSN counterparts.

Additionally, if you are an LPN and are hoping to earn your BSN you do not need to take 4 years of classes. There are accelerated programs for you too! These are called LPN to BSN programs, but unlike the accelerated programs we’re discussing here you DO NOT need to have your Bachelor’s degree to enter them, but you do need to be licensed as an LPN. These programs are shorter than 4 years but slightly longer than RN to BSN programs. During 4-5 semester program you will complete the foundational courses to earn your BSN as well as additional nursing courses. 

Guide to ABSN and MSN Accelerated Nursing Programs

Entrance Requirements for a Texas Accelerated Nursing Program

  • Bachelor’s degree: You need to have your bachelor’s degree to be eligible for accelerated nursing programs, but it can be in any subject!  
  • GPA: You do not need to take a test for eligibility but most schools will require that you have a minimum GPA of 3.0. These can vary by school so check before applying!
  • Complete pre-requisites: While your bachelor’s degree can be in anything, you may need to complete certain courses before you can apply to an accelerated nursing program. Usually these will be science courses such as biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and more.
  • Letters of recommendation: Like any application you need letters of recommendation. Make sure to reach out ahead of time to the people you want to write your letters so that you are not scrambling at the last minute. 
  • Submit applications: You should look over the applications in advance so you know how much time you will need to complete them. In addition to demographics and basic questions, you may have essays to write. You will also need to collect past transcripts, submit and updated resume, and possibly additional paperwork.
  • Interview: Most schools will not require an interview but it always helps to check!

List of 11 Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs in Texas

Jump to school

Angelo State University

  • 2601 W. Avenue N, San Angelo, TX - 76909
  • 325-942-2555
Nurse Admin: Jennifer Braziel, DNP, RN, ACNP-BC, APRN
Title: Interim Dept. Chair & Program Director

Angelo State University Department of Nursing is the pride of Angelo, Texas. It is in the Concho Valley, a region of West Texas between the Permian Basin to the northwest, Chihuahuan Desert to the southwest, Osage Plains to the northeast, and Central Texas to the southeast Students learn from talented professors at this public institution with real-world experience as they develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a registered nurse (RN). They can chose to move on to graduate school or become an advanced-practice nurse. All programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and hold full approval status from the Texas Board of Nursing. The Nursing Department is a nationally-recognized program that enables graduates to work in virtually any healthcare setting. Students can practice their skills during our campus clinics and join the student organizations to connect with others and local healthcare professionals. Dedicated instructors with real-world experience offer education in various healthcare settings, always with a small class size.

Accelerated programs – The school’s BSN. Second Degree Option is for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and would appreciated an accelerated program. Students can hands-on experience through clinical rotations at local area hospitals. They learn in state-of-the-art simulation cents and skills lab among other fine facilities in the new Health and Human Services Building.

Baylor University

  • Baylor University, Waco, TX - 76798
  • 254-710-1011
Nurse Admin: Linda Plank, PhD, RN, NEA-BC
Title: Dean

The Louise Herrington School of Nursing near downtown Dallas offers both undergraduate and graduate options for nursing students. A traditional BSN and FastBacc BSN are offered. It is conveniently located near Baylor University Medical Center. There are more than150 professional nursing practice sites within the community. The Nursing school is housed in a modern facility laden with active learning classrooms facilitating state-of-the-art instruction. In novate methodologies are the hallmark of the program. Students enjoy a large learning center open at all times and the Barnabus Success Center for tutoring and support. The unique mission of the Louise Herrington School of Nursing of Baylor University is to prepare baccalaureate and graduate level nurses within a Christian community who are ready for professional practice, healthcare leadership, and worldwide service. The Christian faith is at the heart of nursing theory and practice.

Accelerated programs  -The FastBacc program allows a student with a prior bachelor’s degree to earn their BSN degree in 12 months. Students complete a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline and then complete 62 hours of nursing coursework on the Dallas campus. The main coursework is online with one 2-week, on-campus visit followed by clinicals in the field Practicum requirement for a total 720 hours  Courses range from 3 to 10 weeks in length, with 2 admission dates each year

This intensive accelerated full-time program begins each summer with a combination of teaching methodologies that entail traditional classroom, on-line courses, clinical and lab experiences, and hybrid interactive learning courses. Graduates will show their clinical experience working with underserved communities. They benefit from strong academics and a well-earned reputation as they learn nursing through a Christian worldview. They are expected to change their live and the lives of others.

Concordia University-Texas

  • 11400 Concordia University Drive, Austin, TX - 78726
  • 512-313-3000
Nurse Admin: Amber Shammas, PhD, RN, ACNS-BC
Title: Senior Director College Of Health Sciences & Associate Professor

The mission of the College of Health Sciences is to develop each health science student’s ability to serve as a Christian leader in professional and/or advanced healthcare practice, promoting high-quality, safe patient/client care within diverse healthcare settings. Graduates as change agents positively impact the health of individuals, families, communities, and populations in Texas and beyond. Concordia was founded in 1926 as a four-year high school for young men entering ministry under the auspices of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Concordia University Texas has grown to become a private, nonprofit higher learning institution based in the northwest region of Austin. It is a member of the highly respected Concordia University System that enrolls more than 36,000 students nationwide. The Austin campus is Christ-centered and comprises four colleges. the College of Nursing meets the approval of the Texas Board of Nursing (BON). The BSN in nursing and the master’s degree in nursing at Concordia University Texas are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. 

 Accelerated programs – the College’s Accelerated BSN track is a faster path to becoming an RN. No previous healthcare experience is required. The degree is earned after a rigorous blend of online coursework, hands-on labs, and real-world clinical practice in Austin or Dallas. existing college credits can be transferred to help the student complete their BSN in as few as 16 months of professional nursing study. The in-hospital clinical rotations take place top area hospitals. There are three start dates each year: January, May, and August. The accelerated curriculum meets the professional nursing standards and guidelines required by today’s healthcare employers.

University of the Incarnate Word

  • 4301 Broadway, San Antonio, TX - 78209
  • 210-829-6000
Nurse Admin: Holly Cassells, PhD, MPH, RNC
Title: Dean And Professor

The School of Nursing and Health Professions has the mission to provide students with a variety of choices in selecting major that best fits their career aspirations. Students are welcome who bring a passion for helping others and embrace the challenge of active and lifelong learning. A variety of School of Nursing and Health Professions programs will meet this need. The can choose the specialty or program that best fits their career aspirations. All nursing programs meet applicable state and national accreditation standards, including from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and Texas Board of Nursing. Additionally, UIW is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Accelerated programs – The School of Nursing and Health Profession offers a traditional or accelerated program. The latter is a 16-month, online BSN program for non-nurses offered for flexibility and faster degree completion, conducted at the student’s convenience. With three starts each year and seats available, students can start their journey toward becoming a registered nurse much sooner than with other programs. This full-time intense program is designed for the self-motivated and committed student. It is recommended that students treat the accelerated nursing track as a full-time job. The rigorous ABSN includes 62 credit hours of online didactic coursework, hands-on learning at the learning site in San Antonio, simulation and clinical experiences in a variety of settings with clients across the lifespan. The 900 hours of clinical rotations at a variety of clinical sites in and around San Antonio include CHRISTUS Health System and Methodist Healthcare System. Whether the applicant seeks a career change or is a recent graduate, the ABSN track is the fastest path. Because of the16 condensed format of the ABSN, students begin clinicals during the first semester. They will graduate with a wealth of diverse clinical experiences in a number of specialties.

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

  • 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX - 78229-3900
  • 210-567-2620
Nurse Admin: Eileen T. Breslin, PhD, RN, FAAN
Title: Dean And Professor

The School of Nursing is one of five schools at UT Health San Antonio. It is the only academic health science center in South Texas and the chief catalyst for San Antonio’s thriving $40.2-billion-dollar healthcare and biosciences industry. Located in the 900-acre medical center of San Antonio, the offers a BSN through a traditional or accelerated track. The School of Nursing, part of the Health Science Center, has the mission to lead academic excellence through innovative teaching, quality research, compassionate care and community service in South Texas and beyond. It is at the forefront of academic nursing. The programs are designed to prepare tomorrow’s nurse leaders. From pre-licensure degree options to graduate and post-degree certificates, students pursue a wide range of career pathways in nursing from clinical care to research. The over ten thousand nursing graduates of UT Health San Antonio School of Nursing are busy shaping the new era of nursing and transforming the future. As leaders in community outreach, UT Health also operates a mobile health unit used for disaster relief and other missions.

Accelerated Programs – Apart from the longer traditional track, students at UT Health can earn a BSN in Nursing in 15 months with full-time study. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Accelerated Track program is for those who are not yet registered nurses and already hold a baccalaureate degree or higher in a non-nursing field. Applicants to the program must have completed prerequisites in order to gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for entry into the nursing profession. Students may earn distinction in the areas of research and clinical service. The accelerated track prepares graduates for generalist nursing practice across a range of pre-licensure competencies. Their goal is to focus on making lives better by promoting health as an act of social justice.

Of note, the school employs a state-of-the-art Center for Simulation Innovation for clinical education, as well as a growing patient care practice that offers primary and acute care at the school’s own clinic, Wellness 360, along with a variety of community partner sites. Students will enjoy a variety of clinical rotations and our low student to faculty ratio. With more than 400 clinical affiliates, preceptors for students are readily available.

The University of Texas at Arlington

  • 701 S. Nedderman Dr., Arlington, TX - 76013
  • 817-272-2011
Nurse Admin: Elizabeth Merwin, PhD, RN, FAAN
Title: Dean

Those seeking to earn a degree online turn to the national leader in online higher education. University of Texas Arlington programs offer both academic excellence and opportunities to advance in several careers. UTA programs feature 100% online coursework, affordable tuition rates, and accelerated completion times to fit the student’s busy lifestyle. Not only does the College of Nursing at University of Texas Arlington have a stellar reputation, but it also offers a variety of online degree programs designed for working RNs. It has become a top source for an affordable, quality accelerated nursing education, and an efficient way to advance one’s nursing practice. UTA boasts a leading nursing program in Texas and the US.

Accelerated programs: The accelerated RN to BSN online program builds on existing nursing skills with research-based nursing science, basic principles of nursing leadership, all within a liberal arts foundation. BSN-prepared nurses offer patients a high level of knowledge and expertise. The degree is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. With the accelerated degree option, students can complete their degree in as little as nine months with 5-10 week courses provided online. They will enhance both their decision-making and critical-thinking skills while learning to apply evidence-based data to strengthen patient care.

The Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing (RN to MSN) online program advances the student’s education to be a leader in nursing education or hospital nursing administration. Students can choose between the MSN Nurse Administrator or MSN Nurse Educator degree tracks. In addition, they can opt for the Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (RN to MSN – FNP) online program with an emphasis on health promotion and primary care management of the acute and stable chronically ill patient. These accelerated nursing programs feature 100% online lectures and in-person clinical rotations with partner facilities in Texas.

The University of Texas at El Paso

  • 500 W. University Ave, El Paso, TX - 79968-0691
  • 915-747-5000
Nurse Admin: Leslie K. Robbins, PhD, APRN, PMHNP/CNS-BC, FAANP, ANEF
Title: Dean

The School of Nursing at University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is among the top programs across the US and ranks high by NursingSchoolsAlmanac.com among 350 nursing schools in the Southwest, including schools in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and Oklahoma. It boasts a diverse faculty and student population. The baccalaureate degree in nursing program, master’s degree in nursing, post-graduate APRN certificate program and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing traditional four-year degree plan consists of a professional nursing curriculum. Along with the accelerated option, both provide an innovative integrated and conceptual model for teaching and learning. Coursework is grounded in the sciences that leads to more difficult and complex nursing care concepts and practice. Each course includes care across the patient’s lifespan with increasing complexity, breadth, and depth. Critical thinking and decision making are emphasized to provide comprehensive nursing care.

Accelerated Programs –  The School of Nursing at University of Texas El Paso accommodates the working nurse with a flexible educational opportunity. It is an affordable accelerated option for Registered Nurses who desire a bachelor’s degree. Specific “RN-Only” courses build on the RNs’ educational and professional experience after attaining an associate degree. Students attend all nursing courses online and receive individual academic advisement. They all experience exposure to patient care in a state-of-the-art Simulation Lab. The degree can be completed in as little as 2.5 semesters. Students select a mentor within their place of employment to mentor them through all practicum assignments. This requirement mandates that students meet with their mentor weekly and work together to create a project for their assignment/course. A transfer student has 12 or more transferable credits from another college or university and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Only students living in authorized states are eligible to enroll in the UTEP RN-to-BSN program.

The University of Texas at Tyler

  • 3900 University Blvd, Tyler, TX - 75799-6699
  • 903-566-7000
Nurse Admin: Barbara Haas, PhD, RN
Title: Dean

To its credit, the University of Texas at Tyler School of Nursing has the mission to empower students to excel as nurse clinicians, leaders, and scholars in a caring, learner-centered, strengths-based environment. School of Nursing students, faculty, and staff are deeply connected to the local community and immersed in real world problem solving. Both faculty and alumni serve in leadership positions in professional organizations and businesses and advocate for the health of constituents at the local, state, and national level. The University of Texas at Tyler School of Nursing prepares graduates to meet health care needs as generalists ready for more advanced training.

Accelerated programs – The University of Texas at Tyler School of Nursing is known for its flexible accelerated programs with numerous degree options. The BSN program has a track for entry-level or registered nurses over two years of prerequisite courses  and four consecutive semesters of nursing coursework. Year-round courses are offered for accelerated completion in 18 months. All tracks work in the and skills simulation lab. Of note, the BSN curriculum is offered at the Tyler, Longview, or Palestine campus. Students admitted to UT Tyler as freshmen (with fewer than 30 semester credit hours) are guaranteed admission to the School of Nursing if they meet the designated criteria of GPA and core curriculum prerequisites.

Texas Christian University

  • 2800 S University Dr, Fort Worth, TX - 76129
  • 817-257-7000
Nurse Admin: Suzy Lockwood, PhD, RN, OCN, FAAN
Title: Associate Dean For Nursing & Nurse Anesthesia

Texas Christian University is a private institution  located in Ft. Worth established in 1873 by brothers Addison and Randolph Clark as the Add-Ran Male & Female College. It is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Students seeking an efficient way to earn a nursing degree find the options at Texas Christian University appealing. The BSN leads to a fulfilling nursing career following the program’s solid foundation in critical reason and decision-making. The nursing program provides the skill needed to succeed while fostering compassion and ethical leadership. Students get an idea of nursing practice in the Health Professions Learning Center. TCU Nursing is known for its innovative curriculum designed to prepare for work in a wide variety of agencies, clinics, and other community facilities in addition to hospitals and extended-care facilities.

Accelerated Programs – the 19-month BSN degree entails coursework, honing one’s skills in simulation practice labs, and learning to use state-of-the-art technology. Graduates are well prepared for patient care in a hospital setting. The accelerated track means finishing faster. Students get credit for prior prerequisites. Prior to admission, per-nursing students are required to take a standardized entrance exam, typically in their sophomore year. They enjoy the same coursework and clinical opportunities as the traditional BSN during a five consecutive semester program of study. Candidates must show previous academic success and adherence to the prevailing nursing technical standards. Graduates will earn 59 credit hours of nursing coursework during the program which begins in June with completion the following December.

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

  • 7000 Fannin, Houston, TX - 77030
  • 713-500-4472
Nurse Admin: Diane Santa Maria, DrPH, MSN, RN, PHNA-BC
Title: Dean

Nursing degrees are earned at the University of Texas through the Health Science Center at Houston. It is part of the Jane and Robert Cizik School of Nursing. Graduates are improving health care in the state and across the nation. The mission of the school is to give back to humanity. There are several options for emphasis in the undergraduate and graduate level programs such as nurse anesthesia and nurse education. All degrees are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Baccalaureate education in nursing whether traditional or accelerated is founded on the sciences and humanities/arts to ensure full personal, professional, and educational development. The curriculum allows the student the opportunity to become a competent, self-directed nursing generalist able to critically think and function in a variety of settings.

Accelerated Programs – Students called to nursing learn from the best at the Jane and Robert Cizik School of Nursing in an environment that fosters achievement, caring and collaboration. Earning a BSN here entails full-time program of study with classes at least 2-3 days a week with clinicals possibly at night and on weekends. Students are therefore not encouraged to work. The program relies on clinical preceptors and clinics in the community to help educate students. Of note, it enjoys over 200 Houston clinical affiliations, including all agencies in the Texas Medical Center and many in the broader community. these clinical agencies, including community outpatient clinics and the offices of private practitioners provide students with the required clinical experience. Akin to an accelerated track is the Pacesetter BSN, an entry to practice degree program for students looking to become a registered nurse. The program is fast-paced with students completing the program in 15 months. All theory courses take place in the first three semester after which the student undergoes an intense fourth semester of full-time clinic experience. Students from the start work in simulation labs. Upon successful completion of the program, students are ready for licensure in all 50 US states.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

  • 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX - 79430
  • 806-743-1000
Nurse Admin: Michael L. Evans, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, FACHE
Title: Dean And Professor

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing has 22 programs. Students can select the best path to a fulfilling career in healthcare. The school’s mission is to correct the critical nursing shortage both in the local communities and across the nation. Multiple campuses give each nursing student a high-quality education taught by experienced faculty. It the only nursing school in West Texas to offer degrees in a variety of learning formats. The National League for Nursing has selected the TTUHSC School of Nursing as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education. Students can channel their passion for serving others into a mission-driven career in nursing. The degree programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Accelerated programs -TTUHSC School of Nursing offers a Second Degree BSN accelerated program those with a previous college bachelor’s degree. Students will meet the challenges of a complex and changing healthcare environment in the 21st century. the accelerated 12-month program consists of online classes with clinical instruction guided by assigned clinical coaches and nursing clinical faculty. It takes place in any of the following: Abilene, Amarillo, the Austin-Hill Country area, Dallas, Lubbock and Permian Basin.

The accelerated track for veterans pertains to applicants with prior military medical training. The VBSN track is open to veterans from all branches of the service. The program builds on prior experience with a system of assessment that allows for advanced placement based on demonstration of knowledge and skill. The track  is available in Odessa, Abilene, Amarillo, Austin, Lubbock, San Antonio, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The applicant must be a Texas resident or be willing to sign an affidavit of willingness to relocate to Texas.

List of 1 Accelerated MSN (AMSN) Programs in Texas

Jump to school

The University of Texas at Austin

  • 110 Inner Campus Drive, Austin, TX - 78705
  • 512-471-3434
Nurse Admin: Alexa K. Stuifbergen, PhD, RN, FAAN
Title: Dean
The School of Nursing at the University of Texas Austin has a superior degree program. It is one of the leading nursing schools in the nation, with a history of excellence in academics, research, and service. It enjoys a diverse, engaged students taught by dedicated faculty who produce cutting-edge research focusing on health behaviors and health promotion across the lifespan. The school has collaborative partnerships for training and eventual job placement. The UT Austin School of Nursing aims to prepare students for rewarding careers that enrich the practical world and help further nursing research. Nursing courses were first offered on the University of Texas at Austin campus in 1960 when faculty members were transferred from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston.

Accelerated programs – The accelerated options for a Nursing degree come at the graduate MSN level. The AE-MSN program is designed for those with baccalaureate or graduate degrees in a non-nursing field who are interested in pursuing both their Registered Nurse (RN) license and Master of Science in Nursing degree. After successfully completing the rigorous academic and clinical training, graduates assume entry-level positions and advance rapidly in their nursing careers as they acquire experience in the field. The several areas of concentration are Adult – Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Leadership in Diverse Settings (LeaDS), Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program (PMHNP) and the Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PC-PNP) concentration. The AE program satisfies RN licensure requirements and trains students in advanced practice and specialty nursing roles. The first year of the program is an intensive, full-time series of foundation courses. The MSN degree is typically awarded in the spring of the third year. The Alternate Entry Doctor of Philosophy (AE-PhD) degree is also for those who hold baccalaureate or graduate degrees in disciplines other than nursing.

How Long Does it Take to Complete an Accelerated Nursing Program in Texas?

This all depends on the school of course so take some time to shop around. In general you will be able to earn your BSN through an accelerated nursing program in 18 months or less. Some of these programs will be non-stop year round, while others may factor in a break. You will complete not only course work but also required hands on clinical experiences during this time so that you can master your new nursing skills. 

What Will I Study in My Texas Accelerated Nursing Program?

Curricula will vary a little but they are all designed to prepare you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.  Most schools will have course lists available online of what you will take during your program. In general you can expect to take courses similar to the following curriculum:

  • Transitions into the Nursing Profession
  • Foundations of Health Assessment
  • Pathophysiology
  • Pharmacology 1 and 2
  • Introduction to Perioperative Nursing
  • Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 1: Adult and Aging Acute and Chronic Illness
  • Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 2: Advanced Adult Medical-Surgical
  • Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 3: Psychiatric Mental Health
  • Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 4: Maternity/Women Health
  • Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 5: Children and Families
  • Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 6: Epidemiology and Community Health
  • Patient Safety and Health Care Quality
  • Health Information and Technology
  • Evidence-Based Practice for Health Care Researchers
  • Global Health for Healthcare Professionals
  • Health Policy, Quality, Political

What Are the Clinical Requirements for an ABSN in Texas

The number of supervised clinical hours you will be required to complete will depend on the state you live in. In general however, most states require about 500 clinical hours for you to earn your BSN and sit for the NCLEX RN exam. Clinical hours are experiences where you are paired with an experienced nurse (called your preceptor) and get to practice your clinical skills on real patients. Having someone to supervise you as you master these skills helps you be prepared to be a safe new nurse when you become licensed. 

4 Steps To Register for the NCLEX

Be sure to talk to your school about the requirements for signing up for the NCLEX. They can help you with timing and steps. The process can take some time, so don’t wait until the last minute. Here are some important steps you need to take to register for the big day:

  1. Check out your state’s Board of Nursing (BON) website to sign up so that you are eligible to take the NCLEX. The NCBSN website has information you need on your state’s BON.
  2. Your NCLEX eligibility requirements can be found through your BON.
  3. After this you should register for the test through Pearson VUE. Don’t forget to find your program code when doing this! If you’re not sure where to find it, contact your school.
  4. The last step is to use our NCLEX tips and practice exams to study!

List of Accelerated BSN Nursing Programs in Texas

University Offered asCity/State
Angelo State University Campus, HybridSan Angelo, TX
Baylor University Campus, HybridWaco, TX
Concordia University-Texas Campus, OnlineAustin, TX
University of the Incarnate Word Campus, Hybrid, OnlineSan Antonio, TX
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Campus, HybridSan Antonio, TX
The University of Texas at Arlington Campus, Hybrid, OnlineArlington, TX
The University of Texas at El Paso Campus, OnlineEl Paso, TX
The University of Texas at Tyler Campus, Hybrid, OnlineTyler, TX
Texas Christian University CampusFort Worth, TX
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Campus, Hybrid, OnlineHouston, TX
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Campus, Hybrid, OnlineLubbock, TX

List of Accelerated MSN Nursing Programs in Texas

University Offered asCity/State
The University of Texas at Austin Campus, HybridAustin, TX