Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

The University of Texas at El Paso's Family Nurse Practitioner program delivers a robust 49-credit hybrid curriculum focused on primary care, preparing advanced nursing professionals for comprehensive patient-centered healthcare. With 775 clinical clock hours and innovative simulation experiences, students develop critical skills in health promotion and chronic illness management. The program supports working professionals through flexible seven-week course formats, enabling graduates to pursue diverse roles in private practices, community health centers, and physician offices with national certification preparedness.

• 49 credit hour online program
• 775 total clinical clock hours
• Two admission cycles annually
• Resident tuition $552 per credit
• Non-resident tuition $782 per credit
• Seven-week didactic course format
• Innovative simulation lab experiences
• Fall 2025 application deadline July 11
• Spring 2025 application deadline Nov 8
• Flexible for working professionals

UTEP's Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive children's healthcare. This hybrid 49-credit program offers flexible learning with seven-semester coursework and 675 clinical hours. Students gain expertise in pediatric health promotion, developmental assessments, and condition management. Graduates become eligible for Pediatric Nursing Certification, positioning themselves for rewarding careers in primary pediatric care settings with advanced clinical skills.

• 49 credit hours online
• 675 clinical clock hours
• Innovative simulation lab
• Two admission cycles yearly
• Flexible for working professionals
• Curriculum meets national standards
• Pediatric nursing certification eligible

UTEP's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program provides comprehensive training for nurses specializing in critical adult patient care. This flexible online master's degree spans 7 semesters, featuring 49 credit hours and 720 clinical hours. With innovative simulation experiences and alignment with top nursing standards, the program requires 2-3 years critical care experience and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Graduates are prepared for national certification and advanced roles in complex medical environments.

• Online hybrid program
• 49 credit hour curriculum
• 720 total clinical hours
• Two annual admission cycles
• Innovative simulation experiences
• Resident tuition $552/credit hour
• Requires 2-3 years critical care experience
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• National certification eligibility
• Seven-week course format

UTEP's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers advanced training for healthcare professionals seeking comprehensive mental health expertise. This hybrid 49-credit program combines online coursework with weekend sessions, providing 675 clinical hours across lifespans. Students develop skills in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions, with focuses on medication prescription and psychotherapy interventions. The program prepares graduates for national certification and leadership roles in mental healthcare.

• Hybrid program format
• 49 credit hours online
• 675 clinical clock hours
• Across lifespan concentration
• Innovative simulation experiences
• Resident tuition $552/credit hour
• Two annual admission cycles
• Medication prescription training
• Psychotherapy intervention focus

UTEP's Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program delivers specialized training for nurses focusing on complex pediatric patient care. This two-year hybrid program includes 49 credits and 765 clinical hours, preparing professionals to manage acute, chronic, and critical health conditions for infants through young adults. With innovative simulation experiences and flexible online coursework, graduates are positioned for national certification and advanced roles in intensive pediatric healthcare settings.

• 49 credit hours online
• Two admission cycles yearly
• 765 clinical clock hours
• Hybrid program format
• Innovative simulation experiences
• Focuses on complex pediatric care
• Flexible for working professionals
• Prepares for national certification exam

• Hybrid program format
• 49 credit hours
• 7 semesters duration
• 775 clinical hours
• Flexible for professionals
• Simulation lab experiences
• Two admission cycles yearly
• Aligns with AACN standards
• Prepares for certification exams
• Resident tuition $552/credit

• Hybrid program format
• 49 credit hours
• 675 clinical hours
• Flexible for professionals
• National certification eligible
• Spring and fall admission
• Resident and non-resident tuition
• Face-to-face weekend sessions
• Innovative simulation labs
• Travel may be required

• Specialized neonatal care focus
• 77 total program credit hours
• 765 clinical training hours
• Advanced practice nursing preparation
• Comprehensive neonatal assessment training
• Evidence-based clinical curriculum
• Interprofessional healthcare skills
• Policy and advocacy training

• Post-masters NP certificate programs
• 6 specialty concentration options
• 28-40 semester credit hours
• 630-775 clinical practicum hours
• Current RN license required
• Master's degree prerequisite
• Unencumbered nursing license
• Professional purpose statement
• Online graduate school application

• 6 NP Certificate Concentrations
• 28-40 Semester Credit Hours
• 630-775 Clinical Practicum Hours
• For Master's Prepared Nurses
• Advanced Practice Specialization
• Unencumbered RN License Required
• Professional Purpose Statement Needed

• 40 total credit hours
• 675 total clinical hours
• Across lifespan mental health focus
• Advanced practice nursing preparation
• Telehealth and rural service delivery
• Evidence-based diagnostic techniques
• Interprofessional team development
• Comprehensive clinical practicum
• Advanced pathophysiology training
• Psychopharmacology specialization

• Online post-masters certificate program
• 28-40 semester credit hours
• 630-775 clinical practicum hours
• Multiple admission pathways
• Advanced practice nursing focus

• Post-Master's Certificate
• Pediatric Acute Care
• For existing MSN holders
• 28-40 credit hours
• 630-775 clinical hours
• APRN applicants need licensure proof
• Non-APRN applicants need RN license
• Statement of Purpose required

The University of Texas at Arlington's online MSN-FNP program equips nurses for advanced family practice. This 46-credit hour program, costing $30,084, covers holistic primary care across the lifespan. A BSN, RN license, and 3.0 GPA are required. Multiple start dates offer flexibility.

• Online MSN-FNP program
• 46 total credit hours
• Total tuition $30,084
• 32-36 months duration
• Multiple start dates
• Requires 3.0 GPA
• Active RN license required
• Clinical experiences included
• CCNE accredited program

UTA's online Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program trains advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare from adolescence through end-of-life. Focus areas include managing acute and chronic conditions, health promotion, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

• Online graduate nursing program
• Prepares for national certification
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• Health promotion specialization
• Comprehensive adult healthcare training

UTA's Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP (AG ACNP) program trains nurses to manage complex health needs in adults. This master's program focuses on health restoration and advanced management of acute and chronic illnesses. Graduates are eligible for national certification and Texas Board of Nursing recognition.

• Online and classroom study options
• Prepares for national certification
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• Manages complex patient health needs
• Recognized by Texas Board of Nursing

UTA's online PMHNP MSN program prepares graduates for advanced psychiatric care across all age groups. The program focuses on evidence-based interventions, preparing students for ANCC board certification and diverse clinical settings, including inpatient, community, and forensic organizations.

• Fully online graduate program
• ANCC board certification eligible
• Lifespan population focus
• Multiple clinical practice settings
• Evidence-based practice training

UTA's online RN to MSN - FNP program accelerates career advancement. This CCNE-accredited program, costing $38,308, takes 42 months to complete and prepares nurses for holistic healthcare delivery. Flexible clinical placements and preparation for national certification exams are included.

• Fully online, accelerated RN to MSN
• CCNE-accredited program
• Total tuition $38,308
• Flexible clinical placement options
• Prepares for FNP certification exams
• 81 total credit hours
• Multiple start dates annually
• Clinical experiences in diverse settings

• CCNE-accredited nursing program
• Online accelerated format
• 42-month program duration
• Total tuition $35,038
• 76 total credit hours
• Pediatric primary care focus
• Prepares for national certification
• Multiple clinical practice settings
• Advanced pathophysiology training
• Evidence-based practice curriculum

• Prepares nurses for NNP certification
• Manages high-risk neonatal care
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• Acute and community settings
• Evidence-based healthcare approach

• 100% Online Certificate Program
• As Few as 5 Courses
• Post-Master's Certification
• Pediatric Primary Care Focus
• $654 Per Credit Hour
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Clinical Preceptorship Included
• Multiple Start Dates
• Personalized Curriculum
• Advanced Pediatric Care Skills

• 100% Online Program
• As Few as 5 Courses
• $654 Per Credit Hour
• Personalized Curriculum
• Board Certification Preparation
• Multiple Clinical Settings
• 3.0 GPA Requirement
• Active RN License Needed
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Comprehensive Clinical Hours

• Campus-based nursing certificates
• Individualized degree plans
• Multiple specialty tracks
• Requires MSN from accredited program
• Unencumbered nursing license required
• Recommended employment: 16-20 hours/week
• Extensive student success resources
• Clinical placement support provided

• Online post-master's certificate program
• As few as 5 courses
• Board certification preparation
• $654 per credit hour
• Comprehensive adult gerontology focus
• Clinical placement assistance
• CCNE accredited program
• Individualized curriculum
• Multiple start dates
• Experienced nursing faculty

• 100% online certificate program
• As few as 5 courses
• MSN-prepared RNs eligible
• $654 per credit hour
• Two years clinical experience required
• CCNE accredited program
• Advanced pediatric acute care focus
• Clinical preceptorship included
• Specialized healthcare settings preparation

Texas Christian University's Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate APRN Certificate offers a transformative pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice expertise. This innovative program equips professionals with comprehensive skills in family health care, emphasizing evidence-based practice and patient-centered approaches. With a hybrid learning format, students develop sophisticated clinical capabilities and leadership competencies. The curriculum strategically prepares graduates for national certification exams, enhancing career opportunities across diverse healthcare environments. Designed for MSN-prepared RNs, this certificate program represents a strategic investment in professional growth and specialized family healthcare delivery.

• Post-Graduate APRN Certificate.
• Focus on family health.
• Requires MSN degree.
• RN licensure needed.
• Prepares for certification exams.
• Blends theory and practice.
• Enhances career opportunities.
• Evidence-based practice focus.
• Leadership skills development.
• Patient-centered care approach.

Texas Christian University's Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate delivers an immersive online learning experience tailored for doctoral-level nurses. This specialized four-semester program enables students to complete clinical practicums near their home locations, offering unprecedented flexibility. Emphasizing advanced interdisciplinary mental health care, the program develops sophisticated clinical skills and leadership capabilities. With 25 hours of comprehensive coursework, graduates become eligible for American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) certification, positioning themselves as critical providers in addressing mental healthcare accessibility.

• 100% online program
• 25 hours coursework
• Four semesters duration
• Starts in fall term
• Clinical practicum near home
• Eligible for ANCC certification
• For nurses with DNP
• Focus on PMHNP specialization
• Enhances leadership skills
• Prepares for interdisciplinary care

Texas Christian University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program represents a cutting-edge approach to advanced nursing education. Utilizing a dynamic hybrid model combining online coursework and intensive on-campus sessions, the program prepares registered nurses for comprehensive primary care leadership. With a projected 40% job growth by 2033, graduates are strategically positioned to address critical healthcare provider shortages. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, health promotion, and innovative disease management strategies, transforming nurses into versatile, solution-focused healthcare professionals.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Online and on-campus hybrid
• Interprofessional collaborative approach
• Solution-focused curriculum
• Preparation for clinical leadership
• Comprehensive primary care focus
• Health promotion expertise
• 40% job growth projection
• Two on-campus intensive sessions
• BSN required for admission

Texas Christian University's Post-Baccalaureate DNP with Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a transformative educational journey for BSN-prepared nurses. This hybrid program meticulously develops advanced clinical expertise in mental health care, equipping professionals to address complex psychological challenges across diverse patient populations. By blending rigorous academic training with practical leadership development, students gain comprehensive skills to make meaningful interventions in mental healthcare settings, positioning themselves as innovative and compassionate practitioners.

• Hybrid program format
• Psychiatric Mental Health focus
• BSN to DNP pathway
• Advanced clinical training
• Leadership development

Texas Christian University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program offers a flexible, comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice credentials. Uniquely designed with no GRE requirement, the program provides three- and four-year tracks encompassing 70 total hours and a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours. Emphasizing practical experience, students can complete practicums near their homes while developing expertise in acute care for young adults, adults, and elders. Graduates become eligible for ANCC or AACN certification, with admission requiring one year of acute care RN experience.

• Hybrid program format
• No GRE required
• Three- or four-year tracks
• 1000 clinical hours minimum
• On-campus intensives
• Spring or fall admission
• 70 hours total
• Clinical practicum near home
• Eligible for ANCC/AACN certification
• One year RN experience required

• Hybrid learning format
• BSN to DNP pathway
• Focus on family care
• Advanced nursing practice
• Leadership and evidence-based care
• Requires BSN and RN license
• Competitive GPA needed
• Private university tuition
• Financial aid available
• Prepares for certification

• Three-year DNP program
• Online interactive learning platform
• Addresses mental health provider shortage
• BSN with one year experience required
• Leadership skill development

Baylor University's Doctor of Nursing Practice - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner track provides an advanced online program for registered nurses specializing in infant healthcare. This comprehensive curriculum prepares nurses to lead critical neonatal care, focusing on diagnosing and managing high-risk newborns up to 24 months. Students complete 1,125 clinical hours, developing sophisticated expertise in infant health management. With no GRE/MAT required, a 3.0 minimum GPA, and one year of NICU experience needed, the program transforms nurses into specialized neonatal healthcare leaders capable of delivering exceptional patient-centered care.

• Online DNP program
• CCNE accredited program
• 3-4 year completion time
• 1,125 clinical hours required
• No GRE/MAT required
• 3.0 minimum GPA
• One year NICU experience needed
• Multiple entry pathways
• Clinical placement support

Baylor University's Online DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care track offers a transformative pathway for advanced nursing professionals. This comprehensive program prepares nurses to deliver exceptional pediatric healthcare from birth through adolescence, focusing on preventive care and holistic patient management. With 75 total credits and 1,125 clinical practicum hours, students develop advanced clinical expertise through 100% online coursework and strategic on-campus immersions. No GRE is required, and the program maintains a 3.0 GPA threshold. Graduates emerge as highly skilled pediatric healthcare providers, equipped to address complex health needs and promote wellness in pediatric populations.

• 100% Online Coursework
• 1,125 Clinical Practicum Hours
• Two Specialized Tracks Available
• No GRE Required
• 3.0 Minimum GPA
• BSN to DNP Pathway
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Clinical Placement Support
• Nationally Recognized Faculty

Baylor University's DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care program provides a cutting-edge online educational experience for registered nurses seeking specialized pediatric healthcare expertise. This flexible program emphasizes comprehensive child and adolescent care, offering a robust curriculum with no GRE requirement and a competitive 3.0 GPA threshold. Students complete 1,125 practicum hours, gaining advanced clinical skills through innovative online learning. The program's BSN to DNP pathway enables working nurses to elevate their professional capabilities, preparing them to deliver high-quality, patient-centered pediatric primary care across diverse healthcare settings.

• 100% Online Coursework
• 1,125 Clinical Practicum Hours
• BSN to DNP Pathway
• No GRE Required
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Clinical Placement Support
• Two Track Options Available
• Primary and Acute Care Focus

Baylor University's DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care concentration delivers an advanced online program designed for experienced nurses seeking specialized pediatric critical care expertise. Spanning 75 credits, the program prepares healthcare professionals to manage complex pediatric patients in intensive and emergency settings. Students complete 1,125 primary care hours plus an additional 600 acute care hours, developing sophisticated clinical judgment and procedural skills. With no GRE required and a 3.0 GPA minimum, the program offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses requiring one year of pediatric experience to transform their acute care practice.

• 100% Online Coursework
• 75 Total Credits
• 1,125 Clinical Hours
• No GRE Required
• BSN to DNP Pathway
• 3.0 GPA Minimum
• One Year Pediatric Experience Required
• CCNE Accredited
• Clinical Placement Support

Baylor University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers a comprehensive online pathway for advanced practice nurses. This innovative curriculum prepares professionals to deliver transformative mental healthcare across diverse patient populations. With 1,125 clinical practicum hours and 77 total credits, students develop advanced diagnostic, treatment, and management skills for complex psychiatric conditions. The program requires no GRE, maintains a 3.0 GPA threshold, and demands one year of nursing experience, positioning graduates as leaders in addressing critical mental health needs through evidence-based practice and sophisticated therapeutic interventions.

• 100% Online Coursework
• CCNE Accredited Program
• 1,125 Total Clinical Hours
• No GRE Required
• 3.0 Minimum GPA
• 15-week Course Terms
• Total 77 Program Credits
• Clinical Placement Support
• One Year Nursing Experience Required

• 100% Online Coursework
• 75 Total Credits
• CCNE Accredited Program
• 1,125 Clinical Practicum Hours
• No GRE Required
• 3.0 Minimum GPA
• 15-week Course Terms
• Clinical Placement Support
• Expert Faculty Guidance
• Multiple Nursing Tracks Available

• CCNE-accredited program
• Online coursework with immersions
• 1,125 practicum hours
• 3 years to completion for BSN holders
• No GRE or MAT required
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement
• 75 total credits
• 15-week courses
• Nationally recognized faculty
• Clinical placement support

• 75-credit online DNP program
• Focuses on underserved populations
• National certification eligibility
• Hybrid learning with virtual immersions
• Comprehensive clinical experiences

• 100% Online Coursework
• CCNE Accredited Program
• 1,125 Clinical Practicum Hours
• 15-week Courses
• No GRE Required
• 3.0 Minimum GPA
• 77 Total Program Credits
• Clinical Placement Support
• Expert Nationally Recognized Faculty

UTHealth Houston's Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner track offers a comprehensive program tailored for experienced registered nurses. Emphasizing clinical expertise and holistic patient management, the hybrid program requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, an unencumbered Texas nursing license, and minimum one-year clinical experience. Applicants navigate a competitive selection process through the NCAS system, including professional references and mandatory interviews. The curriculum prepares advanced healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings.

• MSN Family Nurse Practitioner track
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• One year RN experience needed
• Application via NCAS system
• $80 application fee
• Texas residency required
• Three professional references
• Interview part of selection
• Clinical placement mandatory
• Background check required

The Family Nurse Practitioner Track at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston equips graduates to deliver comprehensive primary care across the lifespan. Focused on health promotion, disease prevention, and illness management, this hybrid program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. Students gain interdisciplinary skills in outpatient settings, preparing them for leadership in family healthcare. The curriculum covers advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and physical examination techniques. With a completion time limit of 5 years, the program requires 41 semester credit hours. Admission requires a BSN and RN licensure, offering a pathway to advanced practice nursing with a focus on family care.

• Hybrid program format.
• 41 semester credit hours.
• 5-year completion limit.
• Focus on primary care.
• Interdisciplinary clinical experiences.
• Advanced pharmacology included.
• Pathophysiology coursework.
• Physical examination training.
• Health promotion emphasis.
• Disease prevention focus.

The Emergency Nurse Practitioner concentration at UTHealth Houston prepares advanced nursing professionals to excel in high-intensity emergency and trauma care settings. Students learn comprehensive patient assessment, critical intervention strategies, and gain expertise in acute care environments. The program offers flexible online learning with occasional on-campus sessions, preparing graduates to take the Emergency Nurse Practitioner certification examination.

• Unique Texas-based ENP specialty track
• 10 credit hour program
• Mostly online education
• Post-graduate program
• $10,000 student stipends available
• Two enrollment pathways
• 2-3 semester completion
• Practice in emergency departments
• Interprofessional training opportunities

This post-graduate Family Nurse Practitioner program at UTHealth Houston provides an intensive pathway for nurses seeking primary care specialization. Spanning 33-39 credit hours with a three-year completion window, the hybrid program focuses on health promotion, risk reduction, and disease prevention. An optional emergency concentration allows students to expand their clinical versatility. Designed for nurses with existing degrees, the curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary training and comprehensive patient care across the lifespan, preparing graduates for dynamic outpatient healthcare environments.

• 33-39 credit hours
• Completion in 3 years
• Focus on primary care
• Optional emergency concentration
• Interdisciplinary clinical experience
• Health promotion emphasis
• Risk reduction strategies
• Disease prevention focus
• Outpatient settings training
• Nursing degree required

UTHealth Houston's Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers advanced training in mental healthcare across patient lifespans. This hybrid track combines rigorous psychotherapeutic techniques with psychopharmacotherapy, preparing students for diverse clinical settings. Completing 33-39 semester credit hours within three years, students engage in interprofessional clinical experiences and develop comprehensive psychiatric care skills. The program includes 240 clinical hours and a 360-hour preceptorship, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address complex mental health challenges.

• 33-39 semester credit hours.
• Completion in 3 years.
• Strong psychotherapeutic focus.
• Interprofessional clinical experiences.
• Cares for all age groups.
• Emphasis on psychopharmacotherapy.
• Prepares for diverse settings.
• Includes 240 clinical hours.
• Offers specialty care courses.
• 360-hour preceptorship included.

• Nondegree post-graduate completion
• 20-40 total credit hours
• Hybrid program format
• 780 total clinical hours
• Advanced practice nursing focus

• Two program tracks: MSN and DNP
• Online and on-campus courses
• 1,140 clinical training hours
• Low tuition rates in Texas
• 97% first-time board exam pass rate
• Full-time and part-time options
• Academic success coaching
• Emergency nursing certificate available

• Hybrid online/on-campus program
• 29-30 credit hours
• 100% first-time exam pass rate
• Multiple clinical placement options
• Affordable tuition rates
• Prepare for ANCC certification
• Works with full/part-time nurses

• Hybrid online/campus learning
• 10 semester program duration
• 29-30 credit hours post-graduate
• National certification preparation
• Lowest tuition in Texas
• CCNE accredited program
• Lifespan adult care focus

• Hybrid online/on-campus program
• Lowest tuition in Texas
• Clinical experiences at TMC
• 10 semester completion time
• 29-30 credit hours postgraduate
• National certification preparation
• Flexible enrollment options

• Hybrid program format
• Focus on primary care
• High first-time pass rate
• 79 credit hours required
• 1,140 clinical hours
• 10 semesters completion
• Lowest tuition in Texas
• Scholarships available
• BSN degree required
• Spring and Fall admission

• Hybrid learning model
• 10 semesters average completion
• 100% first-time pass rate
• Affordable tuition
• Financial aid available
• Focus on psychotherapeutic techniques
• Clinical rotations in Texas Medical Center
• Prepares for PMHNP certification
• Flexible for working nurses
• Scholarships and HRSA traineeships