When you consider the consistent shortage of nurses nationwide and combine that fact with the strain Covid-19 has placed on the U.S. healthcare system, the need for nursing professionals is more pressing than ever. Texas is home to 10 percent of all community hospitals in the nation, which adds up to over 500 facilities caring for patients throughout the state. As you can imagine, the need for licensed nursing professionals in Texas is especially high.
As the need for nurses continues to grow, access to affordable, fast, and effective education is critical to bring new nursing professionals into the fold. Community and junior colleges in Texas are helping to meet this need by training students to be RNs in only about two years through associate nursing degree (ADN) programs. From Houston to El Paso, Texas is home to dozens of ADN programs. And some even offer online classwork in addition to in-person clinical training.
Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of online ADN programs in Texas, explore top-rated schools, and find a list of programs approved by the Texas Board of Nursing.
Best Online ADN Programs in Texas for 2022
Below, we’ve identified two of the best ADN programs in Texas that offer some of their coursework online. These colleges score high marks in affordability, flexibility, accreditation, and student support. Both programs highlighted below also hold approval from the Texas Board of Nursing and maintain high NCLEX-RN pass rates.
Designed to prepare students to work as registered nurses, Blinn College District’s (BCD) two-year ADN program offers the academic rigor, hands-on training, and clinical experience needed to excel as a registered nurse. BCD’s program holds approval from the Texas Board of Nursing and is accredited by the ACEN. Blinn College maintains a 98% pass rate for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
From general education courses in humanities and the arts to advanced nursing courses focused on leadership and management, Blinn’s ADN program is 60 credits in length and typically takes two years to complete. While the majority of coursework is completed in person, some general education and nursing theory classes are available as hybrid or online options. Starting in the program’s second semester, some weekend clinicals are available to help accommodate student schedules.
This is a competitive, sought after program, and priority admission is given to students who have completed the necessary prerequisite courses by the time of application. Most admitted students have a GPA of at least 3.0 and pass the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment.
South Texas College’s ADN program is dedicated to preparing students with the essential skills needed to become a safe and competent healthcare worker. After completing the program, students have an 88% NCLEX-RN pass rate and the program boasts a 95% job placement rate. In addition to the traditional ADN track, South Texas College offers an LVN-to-RN transition option as well as an EMT/paramedic-to-RN track.
After finishing 13 credits of required prerequisite work, you can expect to complete this program in two years as a full-time student. The degree requires completion of 60 credits, with coursework covering topics spanning from the foundations of nursing practice to advanced topics in adult health. Clinical work plays an important role in any nursing program, and STC is no exception. South Texas College students must also dedicate a semester to mental health and complex medical surgery skills development.
As a selective program, STC uses a points system to determine eligibility for pre-admission. GPA in prerequisite courses and Health Education Systems, Inc (HESI) test scores weigh heavily in program acceptance, and students must pass a math/dosage proficiency test with a 100% score prior to enrolling in the program.
ADN Programs Approved by the Texas Board of Nursing
In the following table, you’ll find a complete list of ADN programs, including partially-online options, that have been approved by the Texas Board of Nursing. We’ve also included NCLEX-RN pass rates for each school. The higher the pass rate, the more you can be confident your ADN program will do a good job preparing you for licensure.
School Name
City
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2019)
Alvin Community College
Alvin, TX
94%
Amarillo College
Amarillo, TX
96%
Angelina College
Lufkin, TX
88%
Austin Community College
Austin, TX
93%
Baptist Health System School of Health Professions
While most ADN programs in Texas are campus-based, some offer general education courses that can be completed online. As colleges confront the ongoing challenges posed by Covid-19, hybrid and online coursework options for healthcare degrees will continue to expand. This increase in online education has the potential to become a more permanent option as health and safety concerns persist.
ADN coursework covers a wide range of topics from the prerequisite general education courses to specialized nursing classes and clinical work. In many programs, at least some foundational classes can be completed online, but in-person classes and hands-on clinical hours are required and essential to your nursing education. Supervised clinical hours take place at medical sites approved by your school and are often located nearby campus. Learn more about the intricacies of online and hybrid nursing degrees on EduMed’s main page covering online ADN programs.
6 Reasons to Choose Online ADN Programs in Texas
Earning an ADN degree can provide a quick and practical degree option for those interested in a nursing career. There are several compelling reasons why an ADN degree could be a good fit for you.
1
Fast way to become a licensed RN in Texas
While earning a BSN degree can help pave the way for access to managerial positions and eventual pursuit of a master’s degree, it takes twice as long to earn as the ADN. Earning a traditional BSN degree typically takes a student at least four years of full-time study to complete, while completing an ADN degree can take as little as two years. As is commonly the case for associate RN programs, North Central Texas College’s ADN program consists of 60 credits as opposed to the minimum 120 credits typically required for a bachelor’s degree. The ADN is for those who want to earn an RN license and enter the workforce quickly. ADN graduates have the option to return to school later to obtain their bachelor’s RN degree.
2
Affordability
Tuition costs can play an important role when choosing your academic path toward professional nursing. An ADN degree costs considerably less than a bachelor’s degree because it’s a shorter program and associate degree programs are often offered by two-year schools where the cost per credit is often cheaper than a four-year institution. For example, Amarillo College’s ADN tuition is roughly half that of Texas A&M’s four-year nursing program. After factoring in two additional years of study, additional fees, and other costs associated with being in college, the price difference can be staggering. An ADN program in Texas can offer an effective way of keeping costs low while getting to work quickly.
The option to take some classes online enables flexibility when managing your schedule. This is especially important for working students. For certified nursing aides, licensed vocational nurses, and other healthcare professionals pursuing an ADN in Texas, online coursework can make a world of difference when attempting to balance work, school, and personal obligations. Asynchronous options are often available, which enable the student to interact with course content on their own schedule.
4
Higher earning potential and more professional responsibility for RNs vs. other entry-level nursing careers in Texas
ADN programs offer graduates higher earning potential, an expanded level of professional responsibility, and more career opportunities. Wage differences between RNs, licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), and certified nursing aides (CNAs) are notable. An associate degree and accompanying RN licensure can enhance your earning potential based on your increased academic training.
In addition to the economic benefits, RNs acquire the knowledge and skill set they need to work as hands-on and confident contributors in a variety of medical settings, making decisions and working alongside other healthcare professionals while delivering excellent patient care. LVNs and CNAs also play a vital role in healthcare settings, but the added education and training completed by registered nurses leads to higher pay and more responsibility.
Opportunity to advance your nursing education in the future
Even if your main reason for completing an ADN is to start working as a registered nurse as soon as possible, the degree also opens up additional academic opportunities. Just as an LVN program can lead to an ADN degree with additional education, the RN associate degree offers a clear path to a bachelor’s degree down the road. Many colleges and universities offer ADN-to-BSN programs specifically tailored for the working RN. Additionally, some institutions also offer ADN-to-MSN programs, allowing for an accelerated path to a master’s degree in nursing.
6
Continued demand for registered nurses in Texas
The demand for nurses in Texas continues to rise as the supply of working professionals in nursing remains relatively static. Texas is far from alone in this shortage. The state has implemented initiatives to broaden access to nursing programs, incentivize Doctor of Nursing (DNP) programs, and encourage diversity to more closely reflect the state’s demographics, but room for growth still exists. The Texas Department of State Health Services predicts a supply deficit in excess of 57,000 nurses by 2032. You can rest assured that Texas needs nurses.
Check out our main guide to online Texas nursing programs for even more RN salary and job outlook information.
3 Criteria for Choosing a Quality Online ADN Program in Texas
Selecting the right online Texas ADN program to fit your aspirations and goals is critical and can play a huge role in influencing your career as an RN. Considering program specifics like location, cost, and teacher-to-student ratio can play a significant part in your decision making. While program-specific details can help you make your choice, the following three criteria help ensure you find a quality program.
1
Approved by the Texas Board of Nurses
The Texas Board of Nursing strongly suggests that prospective students pay close attention to the credentials of a program before enrolling. Make sure any school you’re looking at holds approval from the Texas Board of Nursing. While the vast majority of ADN programs in Texas are board approved, if your program isn’t, you won’t be able to secure the necessary licensure to become a practicing RN in Texas. You can find a list of approved Texas ADN schools further down on this page.
2
Accredited by the ACEN or CCNE
Enroll in an ADN program that holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. These nationally recognized accrediting bodies validate the quality and integrity of nursing programs in Texas and other states. These organizations set standards and evaluate nursing programs, making sure your education stays current with the field’s ever-evolving standards.
3
High NCLEX-RN Exam Pass Rates
Considering a potential ADN program’s NCLEX-RN exam pass rates provides a quick and easy way to assess the quality of education it provides. The NCLEX-RN exam is your last step to securing an RN license and getting to work. If a program has a high pass rate, there’s a good chance the program helps provide students the tools needed to succeed. See the table at the bottom of the page for exam pass rates of Texas ADN programs.
ADN programs focused on preparing future RNs are not the only paths to a nursing career. Online certified nursing aide (CNA) and licensed vocational nurse (LVN) programs can provide an even quicker, less expensive way to start your nursing career.
Online CNA Classes in Texas Vital to almost any healthcare facility, CNAs tackle responsibilities that span from critical administrative tasks to the day-to-day work of caring for patients. As these programs exist online, students have the flexibility needed to successfully balance personal, professional, and academic responsibilities.
Online LVN Programs in Texas Effective patient care serves as the cornerstone of the medical field and LVNs are vital to its success. Similar to ADN programs, the curriculum includes both traditional coursework and mandatory clinical hours. LVN programs typically take 18 months from start to finish, culminating with the NCLEX-PN national licensure exam.
The easiest role you can have as a nurse is that of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN). LPNs and LVNs work under registered nurses (RNs), providing basic nursing care.
A CNA program is a fast-paced program that only takes a couple of months to fully complete. After graduation, students can enter the field right away, assisting nurses with patient work in a wide variety of settings.
A registered nurse degree apprenticeship (RNDA) offers a flexible route to becoming a nurse that doesn't require full-time study at university. You will need to secure a position as an RNDA and your employer will release you to study at university part time.
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Nursing requires more dedication than many other careers. However, it's one of the most rewarding jobs you can have. Nursing school is notoriously difficult—and it's not for everyone. Graduate school is challenging as well.
To attain a degree in nursing, it will take four years and three years for a national diploma. Those that cannot do degree programme or diploma, they can enrol for 6-months of nursing courses to become an enrolled auxiliary caregiver.
What is the fastest LPN to RN program? LPN-RN bridge programs that lead to an ADN let LPNs become RNs in as little as one year. ADN-holders qualify to take the NCLEX-RN and apply for state RN licensure. Graduates who decide to pursue a BSN later can complete an RN-to-BSN bridge program.
The short answer: yes, you can earn an associate, bachelor's, and even your master's degree in nursing online. The long answer: while you can earn your degree and complete your coursework online, you'll still have to complete in-person clinical hours at a physical location.
To answer your question about students nurses being paid while training to be a nurse. You will only be able to either get financing from the student loan associations or students loan ok , or self fund the course yourself. Unfortunately no students nurses get paid for there training.
While nursing is a practical, hands-on profession, it also requires special technical competencies and clinical analysis skills that will potentially save people's lives. As such, you cannot become a Nurse without a degree in nursing.
Am I too old to train? There is no upper age limit to start nurse training but you should discuss any concerns that you might have about your suitability for training with the universities offering courses.
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A simple change could be switching to a hospital that has a better reputation for supporting its nursing staff. Look for organizations who are known for being progressive with their policies. Another idea would be to consider travel nursing. You take a contract for a few weeks, then you are on to the next one.
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Health assessment will likely be one of the initial courses you'll take in nursing school, and it involves delving into the various body systems and learning how to assess patients from head to toe.
You can earn an associate degree and become a licensed RN in about 2 years. You can gain essential work experience in the field sooner than others. You can also start building connections in nursing, and with patients, sooner. You can save money by earning an associate, rather than a four-year degree.
I am very pleased to confirm there is no upper age limit to start nurse training so your age is not a hurdle. However you do need to consider a number of issues before committing to a long and challenging journey. To help you here are four tips I believe will help you make your decision: 1.
Students can generally expect to complete their training and be ready to take their state certification exam to become a licensed or certified nurse assistant (CNA) within 4 to 8 weeks of beginning their training.
The role of an auxiliary nurse is to assist qualified nursing practitioners in administering care to patients. Auxiliary nurses are often referred to as health assistants. Auxiliary nurses require no academic qualifications, and the role can serve as a pathway into a career as a registered nurse.
There is no state in the US that will allow people to "challenge" the NCLEX- RN . You must complete an approved (registered) nursing education program to be eligible. If an individual is an LVN/LPN with the desire to earn the RN licensure, (s)he must complete an RN bridge program and pass the NCLEX- RN .
In order to make the transition from LPN to RN, LPNs generally complete an accredited registered nurse program and take the national exam for RN licensure known as the NCLEX-RN. In some cases, however, LPNs are able to waive a portion of the RN program because of their experience.
Delta's Practical Nurse Advanced Certificate program features a fast-track program that is typically completed in one year not counting prerequisite coursework.
Based on a survey conducted by CNN, 83 percent of hiring executives believe online nursing degrees are credible and can be used to meet the hiring criteria just like a traditional degree would.
You're headed for a great career, one that's rewarding, challenging, and always exciting. But nursing school is notoriously difficult. Most nursing programs require high GPAs and impressive scores in math, chemistry, biology, psychology, and other demanding subjects. It's also extremely fulfilling.
Entrance exam requirements, often referred to by acronyms, include the “HESI”, the “TEAS” or “PAX”. These are some of the most common exams, designed to help determine your readiness for a nursing program and aptitude in several different knowledge areas such as comprehension and math.
It is possible to do a part time job while you're a student nurse, and some people do choose to work in care homes or on the NHS bank as a healthcare assistant, but as you progress from your first year to your second and then third year as a student nurse, the demands on your time increase and trying to hold down a ...
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) is a Level 3 qualification which prepares people without traditional qualifications for study at university.
It's never too late. At any stage of your life, nursing is a great choice because good nurses are always in demand, it's challenging, and you'll use your experience and creativity to change lives every day. A bridge program lets you use your previous experience to become a nurse faster.
Nursing is a 4-year full time course. During your studies you'll gain an integrated learning and work experience at hospitals and various clinical facilities.
RNs, on average, retired at 58.1 years and AHPs at 59.4 years. More than two thirds retired before age 65. Among RNs, caregiving demands predict early retirement – policies supporting employed RN caregivers may reduce early workforce exits among publicly employed RNs.
However, don't take it for granted that nursing school will be much easier than medical school, especially in an accelerated format. Both offer a unique set of challenges and demand the utmost in student commitment and work rate. When comparing the different benefits offered through nursing school vs.
Under California wage and hour law, every employee is due a 30-minute meal break after five hours of work. While other professionals are exempted from these requirements, nurses are not. California nurses and other employees are also entitled to a 10-minute rest break for every four hours they work.
The job of an occupational health nurse can be one of the happiest nursing jobs as this type of work is typically low-stress. The OHN nurse works with employees who are interested in their health and typically appreciate the nurse's input and help.
Florence Nightingale certainly holds the honor of being the most famous nurse on our list. She became a nurse in 1851 and traveled to Turkey to aid British soldiers during the Crimean War.
California tops the list of 15 highest-paying states for nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for RNs in California is $124,000 per year, or $59.62 per hour, compared to the national average salary of $82,750.
As the name suggests, CNAs assist nurses with patient admittance and vitals. It is the lowest-level credential related to the nursing field and the quickest point of entry.
A BSN degree is a bachelor's degree, typically a four-year program, that is a step higher than an ADN degree. Registered nurses with this degree not only go to school longer, but they also gain a more in-depth education compared to those with an ADN degree.
To attain a degree in nursing, it will take four years and three years for a national diploma. Those that cannot do degree programme or diploma, they can enrol for 6-months of nursing courses to become an enrolled auxiliary caregiver.
Alison's free online nursing courses are designed to support your professional development so you can progress in your career in this vital healthcare field.
Is an ADN the same as an RN? An ADN is a two-year nursing degree that leads to becoming an RN. The RN credential is more than holding the degree. It includes earning an RN diploma, ADN, or BSN degree, passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), and completing state licensing requirements.
Schools offer associate nursing degrees in multiple formats, including the associate degree in nursing (ADN), associate of science in nursing (ASN), and associate of applied science in nursing (AAS/AASN).
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Candidates can take the NCLEX-PN exam without an undergraduate degree in nursing or a healthcare-related degree. For instance, if an individual holds a degree in Economics, they can still apply for the NCLEX-PN, provided they first complete a related diploma or certificate course required to sit for the exam.
You can earn an associate degree and become a licensed RN in about 2 years. You can gain essential work experience in the field sooner than others. You can also start building connections in nursing, and with patients, sooner. You can save money by earning an associate, rather than a four-year degree.
Who may inject Botox? Physicians may inject Botox, or they may direct registered nurses or physician assistants to perform the injection under their supervision. No unlicensed persons, such as medical assistants, may inject Botox.
After earning their degree, BSN graduates are required to pass the same NCLEX-RN test taken by ADN candidates. As a result of the additional education, BSN-RNs are otherwise better positioned for certain nursing specialties, career advancement opportunities, and better pay.
Introduction: My name is Lidia Grady, I am a thankful, fine, glamorous, lucky, lively, pleasant, shiny person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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