Texas is one of the largest employers of nurse practitioners in the country, and Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) play a central role in meeting primary care demand across urban, suburban, rural, and border communities. From major medical hubs in Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, and San Antonio to fast-growing regions like Central Texas and the Rio Grande Valley, FNPs are essential in clinics, hospitals, and community health settings. As a result, Texas offers a wide range of FNP programs, including MSN, DNP, and post-master's certificate pathways designed to prepare nurses for primary care practice across the lifespan.

This article will cover:

  • The main FNP degree pathways available in Texas
  • How online, hybrid, and campus programs differ in practice
  • Where Texas FNP students commonly complete clinical rotations
  • What to look for when choosing an FNP program in the state

2026 Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas

Looking for the best family nurse practitioner programs in Texas? RegisteredNursing.org has done the research for you. We rank top programs across the state to help you find one that fits your needs. Our rankings consider important factors like program quality, student support, and career outcomes. Whether you want to study in a big city or a smaller town, our list shows options that prepare nurses for advanced practice roles. These programs give you the skills to provide comprehensive family care. Check out our detailed rankings to compare schools and make an informed choice. https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

Galveston, TX - Public 4-Year - utmb.edu

BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston's Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program is a 7-semester hybrid pathway for working nurses, blending online coursework with campus visits each semester. This part-time program emphasizes holistic primary care across pediatric to geriatric populations, utilizing state-of-the-art simulation labs and interdisciplinary training. Graduates are prepared for national certification and diverse clinical settings. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, one year of nursing experience, and professional references. The program is CCNE accredited and includes clinical placement support.

  • Part-time online program
  • 7 semester curriculum
  • 14 total courses
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • One year RN experience
  • National certification preparation
  • State-of-art simulation labs
  • Interdisciplinary team training
  • Clinical placement support
  • Campus visits each semester

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UTMB's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a 12-semester hybrid program designed for working nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This rigorous curriculum requires 1,020 clinical hours and focuses on transforming healthcare to improve access for diverse populations. With nationally recognized faculty and small class sizes, the program balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and one year of nursing experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral-level program.

  • 12 semester comprehensive program
  • Flexible online curriculum
  • Nationally recognized faculty
  • 1020 total clinical hours
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • One year nursing experience needed
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Transformational healthcare focus
  • High-quality affordable education
  • Student-centered learning approach

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Dual Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UTMB offers Texas' first and only Doctor of Nursing Practice dual certification track combining Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner specialties. This 13-semester hybrid program requires 1,380 clinical hours and prepares nurses to provide comprehensive care across family and acute care settings. The curriculum emphasizes healthcare transformation with nationally recognized faculty and flexible online components. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited institution, 3.0 GPA, and one year of nursing experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral-level program.

  • First dual FNP-AGACNP track in Texas
  • 13 semesters hybrid program
  • 1,380 total clinical hours
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Online flexible curriculum
  • Nationally recognized faculty
  • Affordable doctoral program
  • BSN from accredited program
  • One year nursing experience
  • Student-centered education

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Visit Website

UTMB's fully online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner is a 12-semester program designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with 1,020 clinical hours and culminates in a scholarly practice project. Students develop advanced diagnostic, assessment, and leadership skills in a flexible, interactive learning environment with small class sizes. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and one year of nursing experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral-level program.

  • Fully online 12-semester program
  • 1,020 total clinical hours
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • One year nursing experience needed
  • Nationally recognized faculty
  • Flexible curriculum for working nurses
  • Small, interactive class sizes
  • Scholarly practice project focus
  • Prepares for national certification

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Dual FNP-AGACNP - Online Learning - Visit Website

UTMB's online Doctor of Nursing Practice with Dual FNP-AGACNP concentration is an innovative 13-semester pathway for working nurses seeking certification in both family and acute care specialties. The program requires 1,380 clinical hours and emphasizes advanced skills in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and healthcare transformation. With affordable tuition and nationally recognized faculty, this flexible online curriculum prepares nurses to impact healthcare equity across diverse settings. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and one year of nursing experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral-level program.

  • Dual Family and Acute Care Certification
  • Fully online, flexible curriculum
  • 12-13 semester program length
  • 1,380 total clinical hours
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • One year nursing experience needed
  • Nationally recognized faculty
  • Small, interactive online classes
  • Affordable doctoral-level education
  • Scholarly practice project focus
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#2

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, TX - Private 4-year - tcu.edu

Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Post-Graduate APRN Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate APRN Certificate is designed for nurses with MSN degrees seeking advanced practice certification. This hybrid program focuses on comprehensive family healthcare across the lifespan, emphasizing evidence-based practice and patient-centered care. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with clinical experience to prepare graduates for FNP certification exams. Admission requires an MSN degree and current RN licensure. The program develops leadership skills and enhances career opportunities in diverse healthcare settings, with a Christian Church affiliation and military-friendly policies.

  • 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.

MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares registered nurses for advanced clinical leadership roles through a hybrid format combining online coursework with intensive on-campus sessions. This solution-focused program addresses primary care provider shortages by developing expertise in comprehensive care across patient lifespans, health promotion, and disease management. The interprofessional collaborative approach positions graduates in a field projected to grow 40% by 2033. Admission requires a BSN degree, and the program prepares healthcare professionals for certification without requiring entrance exams.

  • 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

BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a direct pathway from bachelor's to doctoral-level education through a hybrid learning format. Designed for BSN holders with RN licensure, this program focuses on advanced family care across lifespans while developing leadership skills and evidence-based practice expertise. Admission requires a competitive GPA and does not require entrance exams. The curriculum prepares graduates for FNP certification and leadership roles in healthcare settings, with private university tuition and financial aid options available.

  • 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
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX - Public 4-Year - uta.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Arlington's online MSN-FNP program delivers comprehensive primary care training for working nurses. This CCNE-accredited 46-credit curriculum spans 32-36 months with total tuition of $30,084. Students develop advanced diagnostic and clinical skills through evidence-based coursework and clinical experiences. Admission requires a BSN, active RN license, and 3.0 GPA. The program prepares graduates for board certification with flexible multiple start dates, though no entrance exam is specified.

  • 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

RN to MSN - RN to MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

UT Arlington's accelerated RN to MSN-FNP program enables experienced nurses to transition directly to advanced practice. This CCNE-accredited online pathway spans approximately 42 months with total tuition of $38,308. The 81-credit curriculum develops holistic primary care skills across patient lifespans through hands-on clinical experiences in diverse settings. Designed for working professionals with multiple start dates, it prepares graduates for national certification exams, though no entrance exam requirement is specified.

  • 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

Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

UT Arlington's Post-Master's FNP Certificate offers experienced MSN-prepared nurses an efficient path to advanced practice. This 100% online program can be completed in as few as five courses with personalized curriculum based on academic background. Priced at $654 per credit hour, it provides comprehensive clinical training across diverse settings and prepares graduates for ANCC or AANP board certification. A 3.0 GPA and active RN license are required, with no entrance exam mentioned.

  • 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
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Lubbock, TX - Public 4-Year - ttuhsc.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner Track

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner Track prepares nurses for primary care roles, particularly in rural and underserved communities. This 48-credit hour hybrid program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, one year of RN experience, and professional references. CCNE-accredited, it includes a computer literacy test and offers Fall/Spring admissions. Graduates are eligible for certification exams, with no entrance exam required for this master's level program.

  • 48 semester credit hours
  • Primary care provider preparation
  • Rural and underserved settings focus
  • Certification exam eligibility
  • One year RN experience required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Professional reference letters
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Fall/Spring admission terms
  • Computer literacy test needed

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Post-Graduate Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center focuses on comprehensive primary care training for advanced practice nurses. This 48-credit hybrid program emphasizes rural healthcare and requires a BSN from an accredited institution, 3.0 GPA, valid RN license, and one year of nursing experience. CCNE-accredited with financial aid available, it prepares graduates for national certification without requiring an entrance exam.

  • 48 semester credit hours
  • Primary care provider preparation
  • Rural healthcare focus
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • One year RN experience needed
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Professional certification eligible
  • Financial aid available

MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a professional doctorate through hybrid learning combining online coursework with face-to-face experiences. Designed for working nurses with at least 2 years of RN experience, it emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and leadership development. The program prepares graduates for national certification and requires a valid RN license and preferred 3.0 undergraduate GPA, with no entrance exam needed.

  • Professional doctorate program
  • Online and face-to-face courses
  • National certification preparation
  • Minimum 2 years RN experience
  • Requires valid RN license
  • Preferred 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Clinical component essential
  • Interprofessional team focus
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • Leadership skill development
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

University of Houston

Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uh.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Houston's hybrid MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program builds upon BSN foundations to prepare advanced practice nurses for comprehensive family care. This concentration develops clinical expertise through evidence-based approaches, leadership training, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates emerge as skilled clinicians and educators capable of translating research into practice across diverse healthcare settings. The program emphasizes flexible career pathways while maintaining rigorous academic standards.

  • MSN degree builds on BSN
  • Advanced practice preparation
  • Leadership role development
  • Interdisciplinary healthcare focus
  • Research and scholarly activities
  • Evidence-based healthcare approach
  • Educator and clinician training
  • Multiple career pathway options

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Houston's post-master's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers experienced nurses a hybrid pathway to healthcare leadership. This 37-42 credit program requires approximately 585 additional clinical hours beyond master's training, focusing on systems leadership and advanced evidence-based practice. The flexible hybrid format combines online learning with face-to-face components, featuring individualized practicum experiences and part-time study options for working professionals. CCNE accreditation ensures quality preparation for elevated clinical impact.

  • Hybrid online/face-to-face format
  • Post-master's DNP program
  • 37-42 credit hours total
  • 585 additional clinical hours
  • CCNE fully accredited program
  • Part-time study option
  • Individualized practicum experiences
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX - Public 4-Year - tamu.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas A&M University-College Station's MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner program delivers comprehensive primary care training through a hybrid format, blending online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. This 48-credit program offers flexible full-time (6 semesters) or part-time (8 semesters) tracks, requiring Texas residency and 1,500 BSN practice hours. It emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and illness management skills, preparing graduates for national certification and leadership roles. An entrance exam is required for this master's-level program, with a January 1st application deadline and a recommended 3.0 GPA.

  • Online primary delivery method
  • 48 total credit hours
  • 6 semester full-time track
  • 8 semester part-time track
  • Requires Texas residency
  • 1,500 BSN practice hours required
  • Clinical hours across curriculum
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Application deadline January 1st
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
#7

The University of Texas at Tyler

Tyler, TX - Public 4-Year - uttyler.edu

BSN to MSN - MSN Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Tyler's MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program delivers a hybrid learning experience that combines online coursework with limited on-campus sessions. This CCNE-accredited curriculum spans 47 credit hours and emphasizes comprehensive primary care skills, including diagnosis and holistic treatment approaches. As a top-ranked nursing program, it features competitive tuition, clinical placements near students' locations, and strong preparation for national certification exams. The program requires a BSN degree, an unencumbered RN license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. No entrance exam is specified for this master's-level program.

  • 47 total credit hours
  • Hybrid flexible learning format
  • CCNE-accredited curriculum
  • Top 25 nursing program
  • Competitive tuition rates
  • Clinical hours near home
  • National certification preparation
  • One-two campus days per semester
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • BSN degree prerequisite

Graduate Certificate - Post-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed for experienced nurses seeking career advancement, the University of Texas at Tyler's Post-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program offers a hybrid format with 29 semester credit hours. This program focuses on clinical application and family practice, preparing graduates for national certification with a reported 100% first-time pass rate. Students benefit from flexible web-enhanced courses, small class sizes, and minimal campus visits. The curriculum also provides a pathway to doctoral studies. No entrance exam is mentioned for this post-master's certificate program.

  • Hybrid format: online and on-campus.
  • 29 semester credit hours.
  • 100% first-time pass rate on boards.
  • Flexible, web-enhanced courses.
  • Small class sizes.
  • Prepares for national certification.
  • Strong clinical application focus.
  • Opportunity for doctoral studies.
  • 1-2 days per semester on campus.
  • Designed for career advancement.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#8

University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX - Private 4-year - uiw.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Nursing Certification

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of the Incarnate Word's Post-Graduate Nursing Certification program offers a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration for nurses with an MSN degree. This hybrid program combines online coursework with on-campus sessions, focusing on advanced clinical practice, leadership development, and inter-professional collaboration to improve health outcomes. Clinical practicums are arranged near students' residences for convenience. The program requires meeting MSN admission criteria and completing prerequisite courses, preparing nurses for certification without requiring additional entrance exams. Ideal for experienced nurses seeking specialized expertise in family healthcare.

  • Blended learning format
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Clinical practicums near residences
  • Inter-professional team collaboration
  • Leadership and advanced clinical focus
  • Improves health outcomes
  • Requires MSN admission criteria
  • Prerequisite courses needed
  • Prepares for complex healthcare systems

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing (BSN-DNP)

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The BSN-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program at the University of the Incarnate Word is a comprehensive three-year doctoral track designed for ambitious nursing professionals. This hybrid program blends online and face-to-face instruction to develop advanced clinical skills with a strong emphasis on cultural competence and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students receive close faculty mentorship while preparing for NP certification exams. The program does not require entrance exams for admission, making it accessible for BSN-prepared nurses seeking to advance to doctoral-level practice in family healthcare settings.

  • Three-year full-time program
  • Blended learning format
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Certification exam preparation
  • Cultural competence focused
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Face-to-face and online instruction
  • Close faculty relationship

BSN to DNP - BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of the Incarnate Word's BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice program offers a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration through a flexible three-year hybrid format. The curriculum integrates the university's core values of faith, service, and innovation while emphasizing cultural competence and inter-professional collaboration. Students develop advanced clinical skills through blended online and on-campus learning, preparing for NP certification with faculty support. This program does not require entrance exams, providing working nurses with a rigorous yet accessible path to doctoral-level family nurse practitioner practice.

  • Three-year full-time program.
  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner.
  • Prepares for NP certification.
  • Cultural competence emphasis.
  • Inter-professional collaboration focus.
  • Close faculty relationships.
  • UIW core values integrated.
  • Blended online and on-campus.
  • Flexible for working nurses.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#9

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uth.edu

BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston's MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program is a rigorous hybrid track for experienced RNs. It requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, one year of clinical experience, an unencumbered Texas license, and completion of a statistics course. The competitive admission process includes an interview, three professional references, and application via NCAS with an $80 fee. This master's-level program emphasizes clinical expertise, critical thinking, and holistic patient management, preparing graduates for advanced healthcare roles. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.

  • 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

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Completion Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This Post-Graduate Completion Family Nurse Practitioner program at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston focuses on primary care across the lifespan, with an emphasis on health promotion, risk reduction, and disease prevention. Spanning 33-39 credit hours over three years, it offers interdisciplinary clinical experience in outpatient settings and includes an optional emergency concentration for specialized training. Admission requires a nursing degree and relevant experience. As a post-graduate program, no entrance exam is specified as required.

  • 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

MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Family Nurse Practitioner track at Cizik School of Nursing offers flexible online coursework with hands-on clinical training through MSN and DNP pathways. It prepares nurses for comprehensive primary care across patient lifespans, featuring a 97% first-time board certification pass rate and 1,140 clinical training hours. With competitive tuition rates and options for full-time or part-time study, graduates are well-positioned for high-demand nurse practitioner roles. This master's/doctorate-level program does not mention an entrance exam requirement.

  • 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

BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration at Cizik School of Nursing is a hybrid format designed for working nurses. It requires 79 credit hours and 1,140 clinical hours over 10 semesters, focusing on primary care in outpatient settings. With a 94-100% first-time certification pass rate and among the lowest tuition in Texas, it offers scholarships and financial aid. Admission requires a BSN degree with Spring and Fall starts. This doctorate-level program does not specify an entrance exam requirement.

  • 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
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#10

Texas Wesleyan University

Fort Worth, TX - Private 4-year - txwes.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Texas Wesleyan University's Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive two-year online curriculum for registered nurses seeking advanced clinical training. This 45-credit hour program requires 765 clinical hours and emphasizes holistic, relationship-centered care in primary care settings. Students develop skills in health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and practice management to prepare for FNP certification. The program has priority and final application deadlines in May and June respectively. As a master's level program, it requires an entrance exam.

  • Online MSN-FNP program
  • Two-year completion timeline
  • 45 credit hours total
  • 765 clinical hours required
  • Priority application deadline: May 15
  • Final application deadline: June 15
  • Holistic care approach
  • Prepares for certification exam
  • Advanced nursing practice courses
  • Practice management training

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice-Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Texas Wesleyan University's Doctor of Nursing Practice-Family Nurse Practitioner program offers experienced nurses an online pathway to become holistic primary care leaders. This CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates for FNP certification while developing expertise in relationship-centered care, business literacy, and nurse coaching. Students gain advanced skills in diagnosing, prescribing, and treating diverse populations with a unique focus on self-care and professional development. As a doctorate level program, it requires an entrance exam.

  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Online DNP-FNP program
  • Holistic patient care approach
  • Nurse coaching skills
  • Prepares for FNP certification
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*NCES, IPEDS 2024 survey, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Understanding FNP Education Pathways in Texas

Family Nurse Practitioner education in Texas is offered through three primary academic routes. Each pathway serves a different type of student.

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Programs

Master’s-level MSN degree FNP programs are designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice preparation in family and primary care. These programs focus heavily on clinical assessment, diagnosis, and management of common health conditions across the lifespan and are often the fastest route to FNP certification.

DNP Family Nurse Practitioner Programs

DNP FNP programs combine advanced clinical training with coursework in leadership, healthcare systems, and evidence-based practice. In Texas, many DNP programs are structured to accommodate working nurses but typically require additional credits and a practice-focused doctoral project.

Post-Master's FNP Certificate Programs

Post-master's certificates are intended for advanced-practice nurses who already hold a graduate nursing degree and want to add family practice preparation. These programs emphasize specialty coursework and clinical hours without requiring completion of a second full degree.

Explore nurse practitioner schools in Texas.

FNP Program Delivery Models: What Texas Students Should Expect

Texas FNP programs are offered in a variety of formats. Understanding how these models work can help avoid surprises later.

Online Programs

  • Coursework delivered fully online (often asynchronous)
  • Clinical rotations completed in approved Texas healthcare settings
  • Best for students needing maximum schedule flexibility

Hybrid Programs

  • Combination of online coursework and required on-campus intensives
  • Intensives often focus on skills labs, simulations, or evaluations
  • Clinical rotations completed in person

Campus-Based Programs

  • Traditional classroom instruction
  • Regular in-person lab and simulation experiences
  • Often preferred by students who value face-to-face learning

Tip: Even "fully online" FNP programs require in-person clinical hours. Always confirm how clinical placement support works in your area of Texas.

What the FNP Curriculum Typically Covers

While course titles and sequencing vary by program, Family Nurse Practitioner curricula in Texas are designed to prepare students for primary care practice across the lifespan. Coursework blends advanced nursing theory with hands-on clinical application.

Common FNP Coursework Areas:

  • Advanced health assessment and diagnostic reasoning
  • Advanced pathophysiology and pharmacology
  • Primary care management of acute and chronic conditions
  • Health promotion and disease prevention
  • Pediatric, adult, and geriatric primary care
  • Women's health and reproductive care
  • Evidence-based practice and clinical decision-making

At the doctoral level, DNP FNP programs typically include additional coursework in:

  • Healthcare systems and leadership
  • Quality improvement and population health
  • Translating research into clinical practice
  • A scholarly or practice-focused doctoral project

Tip: When comparing programs, look closely at how pediatric, women's health, and chronic disease management content is distributed across the curriculum. These areas are central to FNP board exams and everyday practice in Texas primary care settings.

Common Clinical Rotation Settings for Texas FNP Students

Clinical training is a defining part of FNP education. Texas offers one of the broadest clinical landscapes in the country.

Typical FNP Clinical Settings in Texas

  • Family medicine and internal medicine clinics
  • Pediatric and women's health practices
  • Urgent care and retail health clinics
  • Community health centers and FQHCs
  • Rural and underserved primary care clinics

Examples of Texas-Based Clinical Environments

Major Employers of FNPs in Texas

Graduates of Texas FNP programs often find employment in the same settings where they complete clinical rotations.

Common Texas FNP Employers

Employment AreaExample Texas Employers
Hospital & Health SystemsBaylor Scott & White Health • Houston Methodist • UT Health System
Community & Public HealthHarris Health System • CommUnityCare • Parkland Health
Primary & Specialty ClinicsTexas Health Resources clinics • Privia Medical Group • Village Medical
Urgent Care & Retail HealthCareNow Urgent Care • NextCare • CVS Health clinics

Comparing FNP Program Options at a Glance

PathwayTypical FocusBest For
MSN-FNPDirect clinical practiceRNs seeking faster entry into primary care
DNP-FNPClinical care + leadershipNurses aiming for advanced leadership or system roles
Post-Master's CertificateSpecialty expansionAPRNs adding family practice credentials

Licensing and Certification Considerations in Texas

After completing an FNP program, graduates must meet state and national requirements to practice.

General Steps Include:

  • Holding an active RN license
  • Completing a graduate-level FNP program
  • Obtaining national FNP certification
  • Applying for Texas APRN licensure

Texas is considered a restricted practice state, meaning FNPs must work under physician supervision or delegation agreements. Prospective students should understand how this may influence job opportunities and practice settings after graduation.

Selecting the Right Texas FNP Program

When evaluating programs, consider how well each option fits your location, career goals, and schedule.

Questions to Ask Admissions Teams:

  • Does the program help secure clinical placements in my region?
  • How often are campus visits required?
  • Are clinical experiences primarily primary care–focused?
  • What certification pass rates or outcomes are reported?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I Complete an FNP Program in Texas While Working Full Time?

A: Many Texas FNP programs are designed for working nurses, particularly online and hybrid options. However, clinical rotations can be time-intensive and may require schedule adjustments.

Q: What Is the Average Salary for Family Nurse Practitioners in Texas?

A: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) salaries in Texas are generally competitive with national figures, though they vary based on experience, location, and practice setting. On average, FNPs in Texas earn approximately $107,750 to $121,130 per year at the mid-range pay scale, with many sources reporting typical salaries around $113,000–$125,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the range, while experienced FNPs or those in high-demand metro areas can earn up toward $150,000 or more. Salary variations reflect factors like employer type, years of experience, and whether the role includes additional responsibilities or incentives.

Q: Are There Rural and Underserved Practice Opportunities for FNPs in Texas?

A: Yes. Rural Texas, border communities, and underserved urban areas consistently need primary care providers. FNPs often work in FQHCs, rural clinics, and public health systems serving these populations.

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