Best BSN to DNP Programs in Texas

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio offers a BSN-to-DNP Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) track via a hybrid format. The curriculum deepens understanding of disease processes and management of complex acute, critical, and chronic conditions in adult patients. Students engage in online coursework supplemented by on-campus intensives, preparing for high-acuity settings like ICUs and emergency departments. Graduates gain expertise in diagnosing, treating, and collaborating within interprofessional teams to improve outcomes for critically ill populations. Designed for RNs seeking advanced practice roles, the program emphasizes patient-centered care and a DNP capstone project. No graduate entrance exam is required for admission.

• Improve health outcomes
• Understand in-depth disease processes
• Work in a high-acuity environment

UT Health San Antonio’s BSN-to-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner track prepares RNs to deliver comprehensive primary care across the lifespan. Accredited by the CCNE, the hybrid program combines advanced didactic instruction with clinical practice. Applicants must hold a BSN, active Texas RN licensure, 3.0 GPA, three references, and at least one year of RN experience; applications are submitted via NursingCAS, with an embedded online interview and a $45 fee. The curriculum covers wellness, prevention, and management of acute and chronic conditions, alongside leadership and evidence-based practice. Graduates are equipped to provide patient-centered care in diverse settings. This program does not require the GRE.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 4 concentration options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• $45 application fee
• Embedded online interview required
• Applications via NursingCAS
• CCNE accredited
• RN licensure in Texas or compact state

The BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at UT Health San Antonio prepares nurses to specialize in mental health care across the lifespan. The 76-credit-hour curriculum integrates core DNP courses in leadership, health policy, informatics, and evidence-based practice with intensive PMHNP training in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy. Students complete 1,080 clinical hours and a capstone project focused on quality improvement. Offered in full-time (9 semesters) and part-time (15 semesters) tracks, the program starts in the fall. Admission requires a BSN, Texas RN licensure, one year of clinical experience, a 3.0 GPA, and three letters of recommendation; an interview and criminal background check are also required. The GRE is not required.

• 5 concentration options
• 9-Semester program
• 76 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1080 clinical hours
• Work experience required

The BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) track at UTHealth Houston’s Cizik School of Nursing equips registered nurses for advanced practice in acute and tertiary care. This hybrid program blends online coursework with on-campus labs and simulation, accommodating working professionals. Completing 79 credit hours over ten semesters, students may choose full- or part-time pacing. Clinical placements occur at Houston’s Texas Medical Center or other statewide hospitals, offering exposure to complex, critically ill patients. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and multidisciplinary teamwork. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AACN certification and Texas APRN licensure. CCNE accreditation, manageable tuition, and spring/fall start dates enhance accessibility. With two annual admission cycles, this track is a practical pathway to a highly marketable advanced nursing role.

• CCNE accredited
• 10-Semester program
• Complete in Ten semesters
• 79 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts spring/fall
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Online with on-campus requirements

UTHealth Houston’s Cizik School of Nursing offers a BSN-to-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner track focusing on primary care across the lifespan. The hybrid design combines online didactics with in-person simulations and clinical labs. Students complete 79 credit hours and 1,140 clinical hours over ten semesters, with flexible full- or part-time enrollment. The curriculum covers health promotion, disease prevention, and chronic illness management, preparing graduates for ANCC or AANPCB certification. The program reports a 96% first-time pass rate, CCNE accreditation, and a #12 national ranking. An academic success coach supports students throughout, and an optional Emergency Nurse Practitioner certificate is available. Clinical rotations take place in the Texas Medical Center or statewide sites, with projected 46% job growth for FNPs.

• CCNE accredited
• 10-Semester program
• 79 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts spring/fall
• 96% licensure pass rate
• 1140 clinical hours
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track in UTHealth Houston’s BSN-to-DNP program prepares RNs for advanced mental health practice. Emphasizing psychotherapeutic interventions and psychopharmacology, the hybrid curriculum blends online courses with on-campus experiences. Students engage in clinical rotations at the Texas Medical Center and community facilities, addressing diverse psychiatric populations. The 79-credit-hour plan typically spans ten semesters, offering both full- and part-time schedules. Graduates qualify for ANCC or AANPCB certification and may pursue careers in psychiatric hospitals, clinics, or private practice. The 2024 first-time pass rate stands at 100%. Faculty mentors provide individualized guidance, with HRSA traineeships and scholarships available to support students. CCNE accreditation and competitive tuition make this a top choice for aspiring psychiatric nurse practitioners.

• CCNE accredited
• 3 concentration options
• 10-Semester program
• Complete in Ten semesters
• 79 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts spring/fall
• 100% licensure pass rate
• Prepares for ANCC

TCU's BSN to DNP in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner equips nurses to manage complex, acute conditions in adults and elders. This hybrid program blends online coursework with on-campus intensives for hands-on skills, requiring 1,000 clinical hours in settings like ICUs and emergency departments. Students choose three- or four-year tracks and engage with state-of-the-art simulation labs and 20 research areas. No GRE is required. Graduates qualify for ANCC or AACN certification and benefit from a projected 45% job growth, making this a strong pathway for RNs targeting high-acuity advanced practice roles.

• No entrance exam required
• Complete in Three- or four-year tracks available
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts spring/fall
• 1000 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• 100% Online delivery
• On-campus intensives for skill development
• Clinical practicum experiences close to home
• 45% job growth projection

Texas Christian University's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares RNs for comprehensive primary care across the lifespan. The online curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacotherapeutics, and management of acute and chronic conditions, with emphasis on health promotion, prevention, and interprofessional collaboration. Students complete 70 credit hours—56 didactic and 14 clinical—and a DNP Scholarly Project, building evidence-based practice and leadership skills. The program also addresses business and legal aspects of practice, ensuring graduates are practice-ready. Completion options include three- or four-year tracks, and graduates are eligible for ANCC and AANPCB certification, opening careers in diverse primary care settings.

• Complete in in three years (36 months) or four years (48 months)
• 70 total credit hours
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prepares for ANCC and AANPCB certification
• Emphasis on health promotion and prevention
• Interprofessional collaboration integrated throughout
• 56 hours didactic, 14 hours clinical
• Program includes DNP Scholarly Project
• Three-year or four-year completion option

The BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at TCU addresses the national mental health crisis. This hybrid program combines interactive online coursework with clinical practice, and can be completed in three years by BSN-prepared nurses with at least one year of experience. Curriculum covers advanced psychopharmacology, neurobiology, and healthcare innovation, while faculty mentors and community partnerships foster leadership skills. Graduates enter a high-demand field; PMHNP is the #3 highest-paying nursing degree with an average salary of $155,182. The program also connects students to a distinguished alumni network, preparing them to serve underserved populations and make a meaningful impact.

• 3-Year program
• Complete in just three years
• average PMHNP salary is $155,182 annually as of 2025
• Work experience required
• Online interactive learning platform
• Leadership skills through partnerships
• Distinguished TCU alumni network
• 3rd highest-paying nursing degree

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston offers a BSN to DNP Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) track in a hybrid format, combining online coursework with campus visits once per semester. This part-time program is designed for working registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles in acute and critical care settings. The curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and management of episodic and complex critical conditions. Students complete a systems-based scholarly practice project as a capstone and accumulate clinical hours across intensive care units, emergency departments, and acute care clinics. Graduates are eligible for AACN or ANCC certification. Nationally recognized faculty, small class sizes, and flexible pacing support professional growth while emphasizing quality care and healthcare transformation.

• Campus visits once per semester
• Nationally recognized faculty
• Small class sizes online
• Prepares for AACN or ANCC certification
• Scholarly practice capstone project
• Part-time pacing for working nurses

The BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner track at UTMB prepares registered nurses for primary care roles across the lifespan. This online program, with on-campus seminars each semester, spans 12 semesters and 75 credit hours. Coursework covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and diagnostic reasoning, followed by clinical rotations in adult, pediatric, and chronic care settings. The curriculum integrates a scholarly practice project designed to drive healthcare improvement. With 1,020 clinical hours, graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANP certification and work in community clinics, private practices, and health systems. CCNE accredited, the program offers small class sizes, faculty advisors for scholarly projects, and a holistic application review. Part-time enrollment is available, with one start date per year in the fall.

• CCNE accredited
• 3 concentration options
• 12-Semester program
• 75 total credit hours
• 24 total courses
• Part-time available
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)

The University of Texas Medical Branch's BSN to DNP program features a unique Dual Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track—the first of its kind in Texas. This 13-semester, 87-credit hour online program includes on-campus seminars, allowing working nurses to pursue advanced education. The curriculum emphasizes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, systems thinking, population health, and quality improvement. With 1,380 clinical hours split between primary and acute care, students gain tailored clinical experiences. Graduates are prepared for dual national certification and practice in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and critical care units. The program culminates in a scholarly practice project focused on transforming healthcare delivery. CCNE accredited, it features small class sizes, dedicated faculty advisors, and holistic admission review.

• CCNE accredited
• 3 concentration options
• 13-Semester program
• 87 total credit hours
• 26 total courses
• Part-time available
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)

Baylor University's online BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track prepares nurses for high-acuity settings such as ICUs, ERs, and trauma units. The 75-credit curriculum covers advanced pharmacology, diagnostic reasoning, and chronic disease management while emphasizing evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. Students complete 1,125 clinical hours, with a dedicated placement coordinator securing clinical sites and preceptors. This CCNE-accredited program features a cohort model, 15-week courses, and three start dates per year. No entrance exam is required. Graduates are equipped for roles as acute care NPs, quality improvement leaders, and educators. Financial aid and military-friendly benefits are available.

• CCNE accredited
• No entrance exam required
• 75 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-28
• 3 start dates per year
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1125 clinical hours
• Work experience required

Baylor's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner track is an online program that prepares RNs for advanced primary care practice across the lifespan. The 75-credit curriculum emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and management of acute and chronic illnesses, with a focus on underserved populations. Students participate in on-campus and virtual immersions, plus diverse clinical experiences, including an international option. The program aligns with AACN and NONPF guidelines and prepares graduates for ANCC and AANP certification. While entrance exam requirements are not specified, the program offers a flexible yet rigorous path to DNP leadership. Coursework covers women's health, pediatrics, and family practice, culminating in a residency component.

• 75 total credit hours
• Online program with immersions
• Focus on underserved populations
• Emphasis on health promotion
• Prepares for ANCC and AANP certification
• Variety of clinical experiences
• Conforms to AACN and NONPF guidelines
• Includes advanced skills training
• International clinical option available

Baylor University's online BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track is designed for nurses seeking to lead in mental health care. The 77-credit curriculum covers advanced pharmacology, psychiatric assessment, and psychotherapy models across the lifespan, with a focus on evidence-based treatment and patient-centered care. Students complete 1,125 clinical hours and benefit from online coursework with on-campus immersions. This CCNE-accredited program is cohort-based, requires no entrance exam, and can be completed in three years and four months. Ranked #2 online PMHNP by Nurse.org, it prepares graduates for roles in psychiatric facilities, clinics, and private practice, and opens doors to policy influence and high-level leadership.

• CCNE accredited
• No entrance exam required
• Complete in three (3) years and four (4) months
• 77 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-28
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1125 clinical hours
• Work experience required

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso presents a BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner track, offering a direct route to doctoral-level practice. This hybrid program merges online coursework with in-person sessions and supervised clinical experiences. The curriculum, based on AACN Essentials and NONPF criteria, focuses on translating scientific knowledge, designing person-centered care, leading interprofessional teams, and enhancing population health. Graduates are ready for national FNP certification and advanced primary care across the lifespan. Entry requires a valid Texas RN license, a BSN from an accredited institution, two years of RN experience, letters of reference, a critical analysis essay, and an interview. No GRE or other entrance exam is specified; TOEFL is needed for non-native speakers. The program begins each summer and requires a 3.0 GPA.

• Starts summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Combination of online and face-to-face courses
• Prepares for national FNP certification
• Requires valid Texas RN license
• Critical analysis essay required
• Interview with DNP faculty required

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso's BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in mental health. The hybrid curriculum pairs online coursework with once-per-semester on-campus intensives, allowing working professionals to participate. Coursework explores neuroscience, telehealth, and trauma-focused CBT, fostering evidence-based diagnosis and management across the lifespan. Students complete over 1,080 local clinical hours in community, acute care, and telehealth settings. Graduates are eligible for national PMHNP certification and become leaders in improving mental health care, especially in rural and underserved communities. This CCNE-accredited program offers supportive faculty, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities. No entrance exam is specified; application deadline is January 15, 2027, and a 3.0 GPA is necessary.

• CCNE accredited
• 4-Year program
• 75 total credit hours
• Apply by 2027-01-15
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1080 clinical hours
• Military benefits accepted
• Financial aid available

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers a hybrid BSN to DNP pathway for aspiring Family Nurse Practitioners, blending online coursework with face-to-face sessions and supervised clinical experiences. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, quality improvement, informatics, and systems leadership, preparing nurses to translate evidence-based practice into person-centered care. Admission requires a BSN, an unencumbered Texas RN license, three letters of reference, and at least two years of RN experience. The program starts in the summer only and includes an interview with DNP faculty. Graduates are eligible to sit for national FNP certification and are equipped to lead healthcare transformation in diverse settings. This rigorous doctorate builds advanced clinical and leadership skills for comprehensive primary care practice.

• Starts summer
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Summer start only
• Interview with DNP faculty
• Prepares for FNP national certification
• Supervised clinical experiences
• Combination online and on-campus

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track is a CCNE-accredited, four-year hybrid program requiring 75 total credit hours and 1,080 clinical hours. Designed for working nurses, it combines online coursework with brief on-campus sessions, covering advanced psychopharmacology, neuroscience, telehealth, and trauma-focused CBT. Students benefit from engaged faculty with a virtual open-door policy, top-tier clinical placement opportunities, and an expansive alumni network. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, interprofessional collaboration, and rural mental health, preparing graduates for national PMHNP certification and roles in community, acute care, and telemental health settings. Financial aid and scholarships are available, with military benefits accepted. Apply by January 15, 2027, for summer start; a minimum 3.0 GPA is required.

• CCNE accredited
• 4-Year program
• 75 total credit hours
• Apply by 2027-01-15
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1080 clinical hours
• Military benefits accepted
• Financial aid available

The BSN to DNP program at the University of the Incarnate Word, with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, is a three-year, full-time hybrid endeavor. On-campus classes occur one day during the first and third weeks of each month, while asynchronous and synchronous online sessions provide flexibility. Coursework covers advanced practice nursing, pharmacology, and health assessment, with a focus on cultural competence and inter-professional collaboration. The FNP track readies graduates for the NP certification exam and careers in primary care and community settings. The program integrates UIW's Roman Catholic values—faith, service, and innovation—and offers close faculty guidance. Entrance exam requirements are not disclosed. The school is recognized as military-friendly.

• 2 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Blended online and on-campus format
• Prepares for NP certification exam
• Cultural competence and collaboration
• UIW core values integrated
• Close faculty-student relationships
• Class one day every first and third week

For registered nurses aiming to specialize in mental health, the University of the Incarnate Word's BSN to DNP program with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a three-year, full-time curriculum in a hybrid format. Combining online learning with on-ground sessions, the program emphasizes cultural competence, inter-professional collaboration, and the university's core values of faith, service, innovation, truth, and education. Graduates are equipped to take the NP certification exam and assume leadership positions in psychiatric care. With close faculty mentorship and a military-friendly environment, UIW fosters holistic, doctoral-level nursing practice. No entrance exam is mentioned in the program's requirements.

• 2 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Prepares for NP certification exam
• Blended learning format with on-ground and online
• Two concentrations: FNP and PMHNP
• Close working relationship with faculty
• Core values: faith, service, innovation, truth, education

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing offers a hybrid BSN to DNP program with an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. This pathway prepares nurses for advanced practice focusing on adults and older adults, addressing chronic and acute conditions in primary care settings. The flexible hybrid format combines online coursework with clinical experiences, allowing working professionals to balance education and career. Core curricula stress evidence-based practice, leadership, and quality improvement. Admission requirements include a BSN degree, active RN licensure, and meeting certain GPA and prerequisite criteria. Graduates are eligible for the AGPCNP certification exam and can pursue diverse careers in clinics, hospitals, and community health. The program is military-friendly.

• Hybrid program format
• Focus on adult-gerontology care
• Prepares for AGPCNP certification
• Flexible for working nurses
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Leadership and quality improvement focus
• Requires BSN and RN licensure
• Clinical experiences included
• Diverse healthcare career opportunities

At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing, the BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program emphasizes comprehensive care across the lifespan. Delivered in a hybrid format, it combines online coursework with campus-based sessions for flexible learning. The curriculum covers advanced nursing practice, patient care, and healthcare policy while developing leadership skills. Applicants must hold a BSN, current RN license, and satisfy GPA requirements. Financial aid is offered to eligible students. Graduates are prepared for advanced practice roles in family primary care, with abilities to manage patient populations, influence health policy, and drive system improvements. This pathway is suited for nurses aspiring to take on greater clinical responsibilities and leadership positions.

• Hybrid learning format
• BSN to DNP pathway
• Focus on family practice
• Advanced nursing curriculum
• RN license required
• GPA criteria for admission
• Financial aid available
• Leadership in healthcare focus
• Flexible for working professionals
• Prepares for advanced practice roles

Concordia University Texas offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a concentration in nursing leadership. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking to advance their practice and leadership skills, this doctoral program prepares graduates for high-level roles in healthcare administration and clinical leadership. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, organizational systems, and policy advocacy. As a Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod affiliated institution, Concordia integrates ethical and faith-based perspectives into its nursing education. The program is also recognized as military-friendly, offering support for active-duty service members and veterans. With its flexible online format, students can balance professional responsibilities while earning their terminal nursing degree.