Dallas doesn't do anything small: the Metroplex hosts one of the nation's busiest airports, a Fortune-500 corridor that outpaces Silicon Valley in corporate relocations, and 26 major hospitals within a 45-mile loop of downtown. All that growth fuels a constant hunt for advanced-practice nurses who can manage population health, lead magnet-unit quality projects, and fill primary-care gaps in booming suburbs like Frisco and McKinney. Yet many Texas RNs hesitate to pursue a master's because tuition can hit six figures. The good news? North Texas is also home to several budget-friendly, CCNE-accredited online MSN options that keep costs low while letting you complete clinicals close to home. Whether you're a Parkland night-shift RN looking to move into management or a travel nurse who wants an FNP credential without crushing debt, these programs deliver value without sacrificing rigor.

Cost is only half the equation: Dallas-Fort Worth RN salaries averaged $46.04 per hour in 2025, indeed.com, while nurse practitioners earned a mean of $129,180 annually, plenty of earning power to pay back a sensibly priced degree. Let's dive into the most affordable pathways.

2025 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs Near Dallas, Texas

#1

The University of Texas at Arlington

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

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Arlington's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program is tailored for nurses aiming to enhance their primary care skills. This 46-credit hour, CCNE-accredited program spans 32-36 months, offering flexibility with multiple start dates. With a total tuition of $30,084, it's an affordable option for advancing your nursing career. The program requires a BSN from an accredited program, an active RN license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. It emphasizes holistic care across patient lifespans, preparing graduates for national certification without the need for an entrance exam.

  • 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

Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Designed for nurses focusing on adult and geriatric care, the Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN at The University of Texas at Arlington is an online program that prepares students for national certification. It emphasizes health promotion and illness prevention, equipping graduates to manage acute and chronic conditions in adults and older adults. The program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for working professionals. Its focus on comprehensive healthcare training and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams makes it a standout choice for those specializing in adult gerontology.

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

Master's - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG ACNP) program at The University of Texas at Arlington is an online master's degree focusing on the acute care needs of adults and the elderly. It prepares students for national certification and recognition by the Texas Board of Nursing, with no entrance exam required. The program is ideal for those looking to specialize in managing complex health needs in acute care settings, offering both online and classroom study options. Its focus on health restoration and advanced patient care makes it a valuable program for aspiring acute care nurse practitioners.

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

Master's - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Addressing the critical need for mental health professionals, the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) MSN at The University of Texas at Arlington is a fully online program. It prepares graduates for ANCC board certification, enabling them to provide advanced psychiatric care across all age groups. The program, which does not require an entrance exam, focuses on evidence-based psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions. With its lifespan population focus and multiple clinical practice settings, it's an excellent choice for nurses aiming to specialize in mental health.

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

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Administration

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Administration at The University of Texas at Arlington is designed for nurses aspiring to leadership roles. This CCNE-accredited program can be completed in 19-22 months, with a total tuition of $17,800, offering an affordable pathway to career advancement. It requires no entrance exam and prepares graduates for roles like Chief Nursing Officer and Nurse Administrator. The program's focus on organizational leadership, financial management, and evidence-based practices makes it ideal for those looking to transform healthcare through leadership.

  • Online flexible format
  • 19-22 months program length
  • Total tuition $17,800
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Leadership career preparation
  • Advanced healthcare management theory
  • Practicum experience included
  • Multiple start dates annually
  • Unconditional admission for 3.0+ GPA

Master's - MSN in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The MSN in Health Informatics at The University of Texas at Arlington is a cutting-edge online program for nurses interested in leading technological innovation in healthcare. It prepares students for Informatics Nursing Certification and potential doctoral studies, with no entrance exam required. The program focuses on data analytics, electronic health records, and clinical decision support systems, offering career paths in clinical informatics. Its emphasis on translating healthcare data into actionable insights makes it a premier choice for nurses looking to impact patient care through technology.

  • Online graduate nursing program
  • Leadership in health informatics
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • National certification preparation
  • Technology-focused curriculum
  • Data analytics skill development
  • Career paths in clinical informatics
  • EHR documentation expertise
  • Doctoral program progression
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Texas Woman's University's Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program is tailored for nurses aiming to enhance their clinical expertise in family care. Offered online or hybrid, it focuses on health promotion and primary care across all life stages. The program requires a 3.0 GPA, a current RN license, and a basic statistics course. It's nationally accredited, offering provisional admission and flexible deadlines. This program stands out for its comprehensive patient care approach, preparing graduates for diverse clinical settings. Its online format and provisional admission options make it accessible and affordable for working professionals.

  • Online and hybrid program options
  • Two delivery method formats
  • Spans patient lifespan care
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Fall deadline: February 15
  • Spring deadline: September 15
  • Current RN license needed
  • Requires basic statistics course
  • Nationally-accredited nursing program
  • Provisional admission possible

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care)

Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Master's program at Texas Woman's University is a hybrid program designed for nurses specializing in pediatric care. It emphasizes managing acute and chronic conditions in children and adolescents, integrating physiological and behavioral health theories. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and an unencumbered RN license, with a preference for pediatric experience. Limited to Texas residents, it combines remote learning with clinical placements in the state. This program is ideal for those seeking to advance in pediatric primary care, offering a focused curriculum that enhances clinical skills in a high-demand area.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Texas residents only
  • Pediatric primary care focus
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • One year pediatric experience preferred
  • Remote and clinical learning
  • Advanced pediatric health management

Master's - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Woman's University offers an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program in a hybrid format, focusing on adult and elderly populations. It requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and an unencumbered nursing license. The program covers assessment, diagnosis, and management of health conditions, with coursework on evidence-based patient care. Available to Texas residents, it offers full-time summer or part-time fall/spring admissions. This program is designed for nurses aiming to specialize in adult-gerontology care, providing the skills needed to address complex healthcare needs in this growing population segment.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Texas residents only
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Unencumbered RN license
  • Summer full-time admission
  • Fall/Spring part-time option
  • Requires basic statistics course
  • Clinical practice in Texas

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Texas Woman's University is a 100% online master's program addressing the critical shortage of mental health professionals. It prepares RNs for ANCC certification, focusing on medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. The curriculum includes 45 credit hours, with 780 clinical practicum hours. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and preferably one year of behavioral health experience. Limited to Texas residents, this program offers evening synchronized classes, making it accessible for working nurses seeking to specialize in psychiatric-mental health care.

  • 100% online program
  • 45 total credit hours
  • 780 clinical practicum hours
  • 12 months psychiatric nursing experience required
  • ANCC certification exam eligibility
  • Currently limited to Texas residents
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Evening synchronized classes
  • Mental health professional shortage focus

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (Women's Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Woman's University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program is a hybrid master's program focusing on healthcare for women across their lifespan. It combines online coursework with on-campus intensives, requiring 780 clinical hours. Admission is competitive, requiring a 3.0 GPA and a Texas nursing license. Accredited by CCNE, the program prepares graduates for diverse women's healthcare settings. Its hybrid format and focus on evidence-based practice make it a comprehensive and flexible option for nurses specializing in women's health, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

  • Hybrid online/on-campus program
  • 780 clinical practice hours
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Two-year full-time format
  • Requires Texas nursing license
  • Competitive admission process
  • Synchronous and asynchronous courses
  • Two-day campus skills intensive
  • Evidence-based practice project
  • Limited to Texas residents
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#3

University of North Texas Health Science Center

Fort Worth, TX - Public 4-Year - unthsc.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of North Texas Health Science Center's Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program stands out for its hybrid learning format, blending online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. This 47-credit hour program is designed to tackle the pressing need for mental health professionals in Texas, offering a curriculum rich in psychopharmacology and evidence-based therapeutic methods. With options for full-time study over six semesters, students benefit from training in diverse clinical settings and a holistic admissions approach. The program's affordability is enhanced by available scholarships and financial support, making it an accessible option for aspiring nurse practitioners. Entrance exams are required for admission, aligning with the program's rigorous standards.

  • 47 total credit hours
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Six semesters full-time option
  • Diverse clinical settings training
  • Scholarships and financial support
  • Focus on special populations
  • Evidence-based practice curriculum
  • Holistic admissions approach
#4

Texas Wesleyan University

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

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Texas Wesleyan University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program is tailored for RNs aiming to advance their careers in primary care. This 45-credit, two-year program blends online learning with 765 clinical hours, focusing on holistic, patient-centered care. It prepares graduates for the FNP certification exam without requiring the GRE for admission. The program's affordability is enhanced by its military-friendly status and United Methodist affiliation, offering potential financial aid opportunities. Key highlights include a comprehensive curriculum covering health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and practice management, with application deadlines in May and June.

  • 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
*Data retrieved from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023.

The Dallas Value Proposition: Why Choose a Budget-Friendly Online MSN?

  • Stretch your paycheck: Even at $105 K median RN pay, graduate tuition above $800/credit can eat a salary fast. Programs in this guide stay well below the national average of $730/credit.
  • Keep local clinical roots: Public universities partner with Baylor Scott & White, Methodist Health, and Texas Health Resources for practicum slots—no pricey hotel rotations in another state.
  • Speed to leadership: Many tracks finish in five semesters, fast-tracking promotions at magnet hospitals that prefer master's-prepared charge RNs.
  • Built-in certification prep: Affordable doesn't mean bare-bones—curricula align with ANCC and AANP blueprints so you walk into boards confident.

For nurses curious about bridge formats, see RN to MSN Programs for alternate pathways.

Cost & Program Snapshot

Below are typical in-state tuition rates and popular concentrations for the most wallet-friendly choices within roughly 300 miles of Dallas. Always confirm the latest figures.

UniversityBase Tuition (In-State)CreditsEstimated TotalCommon TracksAccreditation
University of Texas at Arlington Online MSN$495/credit36≈ $17,800Nursing Administration, Education, FNPCCNE
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center MSN$367/credit46≈ $16,900FNP, PMHNP, Nursing InformaticsCCNE
University of Texas at Tyler MSN$345/credit37≈ $12,800Nursing Education, AdministrationCCNE
Lamar University MSN$363/credit37≈ $13,400Nursing Education, FNPCCNE
West Texas A&M University MSN (online)$387/credit39≈ $15,100Comprehensive MSN, Family Nurse PractitionerCCNE

All totals exclude application and proctoring fees and reflect Texas-resident pricing (June 2025).

Coursework Highlights & Clinical Logistics

Affordable doesn't equal easy—expect a rigorous sequence:

  • Core 12–15 credits in Advanced Pathophysiology, Pharmacotherapeutics, and Diagnostics
  • Role-specific courses like Population Health Informatics (MSN Informatics) or Curriculum Design (MSN Education)
  • Preceptor hours: 500–700, typically split among Baylor Scott & White sites, VA North Texas, or community clinics in Collin and Denton counties
  • Virtual simulation labs via platforms such as iHuman to hone advanced assessment skills before direct-patient experiences

If your focus is the FNP route, consult Nurse Practitioner Programs in Texas for statewide board-exam pass rates.

Eligibility & Admission Checklist

Each school tweaks requirements, but common essentials include:

  • Active, unencumbered Texas RN license
  • BSN with 3.0 GPA or higher (lower GPAs may require GRE)
  • Undergraduate statistics course (grade C or better)
  • Two professional references (one supervisor, one MSN-prepared RN)
  • Résumé detailing one year of recent clinical experience
  • Statement of professional goals (500 words)
  • Background check & immunizations per Texas Board of Nursing standards

Double-check each program's status in Nursing School Accreditation before committing.

Roles & Credentials You Can Earn

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C or FNP-BC) serving Dallas-area urgent-care chains like CareNow
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health NP supporting tele-psychiatry startups in Plano
  • Clinical Nurse Leader overseeing quality metrics at Parkland Health
  • Nurse Educator teaching LVN-to-RN students at Dallas College
  • Nursing Informatics Specialist integrating Epic upgrades across Texas Health hospitals

For broader career planning, review MSN Programs to compare track options nationwide.

Earnings & Job Demand Across North Texas

Competitive wages make an affordable degree even sweeter.

RoleDallas-Fort Worth Avg. Salary (2025)Texas Avg.U.S. Avg.
Registered Nurse$95,550$74,540$93,590
Nurse Practitioner$129,180$125,040$132,840

RN figure extrapolated from Indeed and BLS data; NP mean from Texas Workforce salary survey

Making Graduate School Pay Off

  • Work-Study Agreements: Baylor Scott & White pays $5,000 per semester for employees pursuing a master's in exchange for a two-year commitment.
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Dallas-based nonprofit hospitals qualify—combine with low tuition to wipe out balances faster.
  • HRSA Nurse Corps Repayment: Up to 85 % of loans forgiven for working in shortage facilities across rural North Texas.
  • Scholarships & Grants: Use Scholarships & Grants Available to Nursing Students and filter "graduate" + "Texas."
  • Military & VA Benefits: UT Arlington discounts tuition for veterans stationed at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth.

Time-Management Hacks for Busy DFW Nurses

  1. Leverage four-day workweeks: Many Metroplex hospitals offer 3 × 12s—block the fourth day strictly for coursework.
  2. Commute School: Turn I-30 traffic into podcast lecture time via Blackboard mobile.
  3. Study Teams: Use Microsoft Teams groups inside UT Tyler's Canvas to divvy up research briefs.
  4. Hotel-to-Home Clinicals: Texas Tech's distance model lets you precept at a clinic in your own county, cutting travel costs.

Accreditation & Quality Safeguards

CCNE or ACEN approval ensures:

  • Faculty hold terminal degrees
  • Simulation meets BON clinical-hour ratios
  • Graduates are board-eligible nationwide

Never enroll before verifying accreditation on official lists referenced in Nursing School Accreditation.

Professional Networking in the Metroplex

  • Dallas Advanced Practice Nurse Association (DAPNA) meets monthly in Uptown—students welcome.
  • Texas Nurses Association District 4 offers leadership workshops and CE credits.
  • Health Wildcatters Accelerator invites nurse-innovators to pitch health-tech prototypes each fall.
  • Texas Organization for Nursing Leadership (TONL) hosts an annual summit in Irving—discounts for student members.

Five-Step Decision Checklist

  1. Under $400/credit? Confirm your exact tuition after any university fees.
  2. Clinical Convenience: Will the school approve preceptors at a facility within 45 minutes of your home?
  3. Board Pass Rates: Target > 92 % first-time success for your specialty.
  4. Technology Fit: Asynchronous vs. synchronous—decide what matches your learning style.
  5. Career ROI: Calculate tuition vs. projected salary bump using the table above.

Advance Your Career—Not Your Debt

Yesterday, dallas-area employers need master's-prepared nurses, but you don't have to mortgage your future to answer the call. By choosing a fast, low-cost, online MSN, you'll gain the advanced clinical, leadership, or educational skills North Texas hospitals crave, while keeping monthly loan payments manageable. Compare the ranked schools, attend a virtual open house, and map your prerequisite timeline today. In less than two years, you could be sitting for boards, negotiating a six-figure salary, and leading change across the Metroplex—without crippling debt.

Sources

  • Indeed. Registered Nurse Salary in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, June 2025.
  • NursePractitionerLicense.com. Texas Nurse Practitioner Salary Guide, 2025.
  • Nurse.org. Cheap, Fast, Online MSN Programs, 2025.
  • U.S. News & World Report. Most Affordable Online Graduate Nursing Programs, 2025.
  • Baylor Scott & White Health. Employee Tuition Assistance Program, 2025.