The Best Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Best Texas ACNP Programs and Schools
- Program Overview
- Applying to Texas ACNP Programs
- Program Accreditation
- FAQ
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: kali9 / iStock / Getty Images PlusWith so many Texas acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP) programs to choose from, how do you pick the best one for your needs? This guide outlines the top programs, providing information on coursework, program expectations, and admission requirements. We also cover frequently asked questions students may have.
Explore the top academic options that can lead you to a rewarding career as an ACNP in Texas.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best acute care nurse practitioner programs in Texas, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
At a Glance: The Top Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
- Texas Woman’s University
- University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Learn About the Best Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs and Schools
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio enrolls nurses with a bachelor’s degree in nursing in its BSN-to-DNP program, preparing them for high-level jobs in the industry. One of the school’s advantages is a strong graduate college with 22 master's degrees. A notable option includes the on-campus BSN-to-DNP program.
Qualified professors teach the curriculum and can serve as mentors. They teach both theoretical knowledge and technical skills used in this fast-growing field. Graduates leave the program more competitive in the marketplace because of their advanced training.
Tuition costs about $3,114 per year for Texas students and $11,772 for those who live in other states. Many learners turn to financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, and loans to help fund their education. Enrollees benefit from the college’s investment in support services like tutoring and degree planning.
- In-State$5,875
- Out-of-state$18,306
- In-State$3,114
- Out-of-state$11,772
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,386
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment3%
- AccreditationYes
Texas Woman's University
- Denton, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Texas Woman's University is recognized for its on-campus master of science in nursing program. Learners complete the top-ranked curriculum in Denton. The school heavily invests in graduate education, which includes 44 master's degrees.
Applicants with a bachelor's degree in nursing or a related field may find the program appealing. Other qualified degree-seekers can also apply. Enrollees often pursue this degree to study advanced concepts in their field and get research experience. Graduates can apply for more technical and specialized jobs than bachelor's degree-holders.
The cost of attendance is around $4,973 for in-state graduate students, and $12,569 for those who do not live in Texas. The financial aid department can work with learners to identify funding streams such as grants and scholarships. Prospective students can also explore loans to help cover tuition.
- In-State$5,430
- Out-of-state$15,559
- In-State$4,973
- Out-of-state$12,569
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled15,886
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
- Belton, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor is a good institution for graduates with a bachelor's degree in nursing who want to earn an affordable master's degree. The Belton-based college offers a master of science in nursing that ranks highly for academic and career preparation. Financial aid programs can help make this degree more affordable.
Texas students pay around $16,830 per year. About 95% of degree-seekers use grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to lower the costs. Loans help about 68% of enrollees pay tuition.
Master's degree-holders may enjoy more upward mobility and other perks than graduates with only a bachelor's. Graduates qualify for managerial jobs and research-related positions. Master's degree-holders interested in higher education and research positions may choose to pursue a doctorate.
- In-State$25,620
- Out-of-state$25,620
- In-State$16,830
- Out-of-state$16,830
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled3,846
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment21%
- AccreditationYes
How Do Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs Work?
ACNP programs in Texas (or any other state) comprise a mix of classroom and laboratory work. Students participate in clinical experiences in healthcare settings to apply academic learning. Beginning coursework covers standard nursing core, while advanced classes focus specifically on acute care.
After you graduate, you will apply for board certification and take the board examination. Once licensed, you receive authorization to order tests, diagnose patients, and prescribe treatment. However, Texas does not offer full practice authority for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), so you must practice under a physician’s supervision.
Applying to a Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program
Most Texas acute care nurse practitioner programs require a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree, but if you have an associate degree in nursing, some programs offer a bridge option. Similarly, some schools include an accelerated pathway for students with a bachelor’s degree in a related field, provided that they have taken certain prerequisite courses.
Admission Materials
Transcripts for all college-level work, RN license (for most programs), at least two references, essay or personal statementGPA Requirement
Most programs recommend a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least a 3.0 in an undergraduate statistics class.Other Requirement
If you do not have an RN license, you may need to complete a criminal records check.
Why Is Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program Accreditation Important?
All ACNP programs in Texas included in this ranking are accredited, as are all nursing programs featured on this website. A diploma from an accredited school is vital to your career success. To practice as an ACNP, you must receive board certification, and only graduates of accredited programs are eligible to apply for this.
During accreditation, a group of experts reviews every factor in a program to determine if its graduates have the knowledge and skills to practice nursing at the relevant level.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs
What is the difference between FNP and acute care NP?
A family nurse practitioner (FNP) provides preventive treatment to patients, as well as treating specific illnesses and injuries. FNPs typically see the same patient multiple times for different healthcare needs. Acute care NPs respond to specific illnesses or injuries, and the relationship typically ends when that condition is treated. An FNP may act as a primary care provider, while an ACNP does not.
How much do acute care nurse practitioners make in Texas?
According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual ACNP salary in Texas is $103,270. Half of all ACNP salaries are between $86,540 (25th percentile) and $123,440 (75th percentile). Salaries vary based on experience, local demand, and cost of living.
How long does it take to earn an acute care NP degree in Texas?
Most ACNP programs in Texas take two years to complete for students with a BSN. If you have an ADN or another degree, or plan to attend on a part-time basis, you can expect to take three years or longer to complete the program.
Is it worth it to become an acute care nurse practitioner in Texas?
This is always a personal decision, based on your career, personal, and financial goals. Many Texas ACNPs earn six-figure salaries, and demand for nurse practitioners is high across the country, including Texas, so this can be a financially rewarding career.
