2027 Best Nursing Schools in El Paso

Rankings help prospective nursing students evaluate program quality efficiently. In creating the Best Nursing Schools in El Paso, Registerednursing.org uses NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criterion, ensuring objective comparisons. This metric highlights how well programs prepare graduates for licensure. Our methodology is available at https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
#1

El Paso Community College

El Paso, TX - Public 2-Year - epcc.edu

Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

El Paso Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for entry-level nursing practice. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills, patient care, and clinical decision-making, with a focus on acute care, transitional, and community settings. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. The program features highly qualified faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and affordable tuition. EPCC's nursing division has a long history of excellence, with first-time NCLEX pass rates consistently above national averages. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Students benefit from a supportive learning environment, with options to transition from vocational nursing through the LVN-to-RN pathway.

  • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
  • 2 start dates per year
  • Starts spring/fall
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • First-time NCLEX pass rates above national averages
  • Affordable tuition and fees
  • State-of-the-art facilities
  • Highly qualified faculty
  • Outstanding student services
  • Graduates work in multiple acute care settings

Associate - LVN-to-RN Transition Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

The El Paso Community College nursing program has been preparing nurses since 1972. Students can choose from the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing or the LVN-to-RN Transition program. Both programs are accredited by ACEN and boast first-time NCLEX pass rates consistently above national averages. The curriculum blends theory with hands-on clinical experience in state-of-the-art facilities. Graduates work in acute care, transitional, and community settings across El Paso and beyond. Many go on to become advanced practice nurses, administrators, educators, or expert clinicians. The program is known for its highly qualified faculty, outstanding student services, and affordable tuition. With a focus on community health and innovative nursing education, EPCC provides a strong foundation for a rewarding nursing career. The admission process includes a competitive ranking or seamless transition pathway for qualified vocational nursing graduates.

  • Highly qualified faculty
  • State-of-the-art facilities
  • NCLEX pass rates above average
  • Affordable tuition and fees
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#2

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX - Public 4-Year - utep.edu

Bachelor's - Traditional BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Traditional BSN at UTEP offers a rigorous four-semester curriculum that builds on foundational sciences to develop comprehensive nursing skills across the lifespan. Students engage in innovative, conceptual learning with a focus on critical thinking and decision-making for complex patient care. The program features state-of-the-art simulation labs and hospital-based experiences, preparing graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure and careers in diverse healthcare settings. With a flexible completion timeline of 15 to 24 months, a high NCLEX pass rate of 89.22%, and a commitment to diversity, this program is ideal for students seeking a supportive, hands-on nursing education in a multicultural environment.

  • 4-Semester program
  • Complete in completed in 15 to 24 months
  • 89% licensure pass rate
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Hospital Days Simulated Experiences
  • Diverse faculty and student population
  • 50 years of nursing excellence
  • High student retention rate
#3

Southwest University at El Paso

El Paso, TX - Private 4-year - southwestuniversity.edu

Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at Southwest University at El Paso is a 24-month, 16-term program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient care technologies, and interdisciplinary care coordination. Students learn clinical reasoning, health promotion, disease prevention, and management across diverse healthcare settings. Core roles include provider of patient-centered care, member of the health care team, and patient safety advocate. Graduates are equipped for entry-level nursing positions in hospitals, clinics, and community health. The program also offers direct admission to the RN to BSN bridge, supporting career advancement. With a focus on leadership, delegation, and ethical practice, this program builds confident, competent nurses ready to meet modern healthcare demands.

  • 24-Month program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • 16-term program of study
  • Direct admission to RN to BSN bridge
  • Evidence-based practice outcomes
  • Clinical reasoning and knowledge base
  • Adhere to standards of practice
  • Patient-centered care focus
  • Member of health care team
  • Safety advocacy for patients
#4

Western Technical College

El Paso, TX - Private 4-year - westerntech.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Technical College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a full-time, face-to-face degree that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills, ethics, body science, and fundamentals, complemented by clinical rotations in local hospitals for real-world experience. Students benefit from small class sizes, a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and dedicated labs equipped with high and low fidelity manikins. Graduates are prepared for diverse nursing careers, from emergency room to home health care. The program is a candidate for accreditation by the ACEN and can be completed in 32 months at the Diana Campus in El Paso, Texas.

  • ACEN accredited
  • 32-Month program
  • Complete in just under 3 years
  • Full-time enrollment
  • Starts fall
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • Clinical rotations in local hospitals
  • Instructors with extensive backgrounds
  • Full-time, face-to-face format
*U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2025.

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in El Paso, TX

If you would like to have a job that makes an impact on the health and wellbeing of others every day, consider training to become an entry-level nurse. Colleges in El Paso, Texas offer several minimum-barrier LVN to RN, Associate’s Degree in Nursing and Bachelor's of Science in Nursing programs for individuals with or without a healthcare background.

LVN to RN Programs

Licensed Vocational Nurses know what it’s like to work in busy hospitals caring for patients. LVNs who want to play a greater role in carrying out patient treatment plans should consider getting their RN via an accelerated LVN to RN pathway at an El Paso, Texas-area school. Affordable and practical, El Paso Community College has an LVN to RN transition program that leverages the LVN’s real-world experience and education. It readies them to sit for the NCLEX-RN upon completion.

ADN Programs

Earning a good living while caring for others is the heart - and head - of the nursing profession. If you like working in a fast-paced team environment and helping others, nursing may be the career for you. Offered at community and junior colleges in El Paso, TX, entry-level Associate's Degree in Nursing programs have reduced enrollment barriers for applicants without a healthcare background. Southwest University offers a streamlined ADN curriculum that focuses on health and wellness promotion as well as illness prevention.

Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

Beginning your job as a registered nurse with a BSN is a wise choice. Many experts in healthcare believe such four-year degrees will be required of all RNs in the future. The University of Texas at El Paso, which has a large Hispanic student and faculty population, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing that can be completed in three years. The curriculum makes use of simulated lab experiences as well as real-world clinical settings.

Find out more about Texas Accelerated BSN Programs.

RN to BSN Programs in El Paso, TX

Registered nurses may shelf plans to earn bachelor or master’s degrees because of busy schedules and enrollment hassles. Educational institutions in El Paso, Texas have RN to BSN tracks with evening and weekend courses and streamlined application processes so working nurses can advance their careers more quickly.

RN to BSN Programs

Headache-inducing enrollment procedures can make any applicant procrastinate. Due to the demand for nurses, universities are offering streamlined RN to BSN bridge programs. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso offers an RN to BSN program which accommodates busy working nurses through online instruction. With part-time and full-time options available, nurses can tailor the program to their needs.

Find out more about Texas RN to BSN Programs.

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

We've compiled a list of RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs to help find the right fit. The table below shows each school's city and state, key program highlights, and a direct link to its program page. Browse the options to compare offerings and take the next step in nursing education. If a program stands out, click through for more details.

El Paso, TX

Southwest University at El Paso

  • RN to BSN - Bachelors of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN Bridge)

    Online Learning - Website

    • 12-month program
    • Online theory courses
    • Local clinical practicum
    • Transfer credits accepted
    • CCNE-accredited program
    • For working registered nurses
    • Leadership skill development
    • Care coordination focus

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso

  • RN to BSN - R.N. to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Builds on existing RN experience
    • Advance nursing career opportunities

The University of Texas at El Paso

  • RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Complete in as little as 2.5 semesters
    • All nursing courses online
    • Individual academic advisement
    • Builds on associate degree experience
    • RN-specific coursework
*Data reference: NCES IPEDS 2025 Final Release.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in El Paso, TX

Can you see yourself providing health services to patients in an unsupervised medical clinic? If so, you may be seeking to advance your nursing career with a master’s degree, post-graduate certification, or even a doctorate. Such advanced education platforms in El Paso, TX prepare you to become Adult or Family Nurse Practitioners, Nursing Administrators or Nursing Educators.

MSN Programs

Opportunities for growth abound when you earn your Master of Science in Nursing and become an Advanced Practice Nurse. Designed to address the nursing shortage particularly among underserved populations, Texas Tech University, El Paso offers an MSN format that can be completed in seven sequential semesters on a part-time schedule. The curriculum covers nursing administration and leadership, health policy fundamentals, informatics, and assessment.

Find out more about Texas Nurse Practitioner Programs.

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

RNs can advance their careers in less time with a certificate. The University of Texas, El Paso, offers post-graduate certificates in Nursing Education, Adult-Gerontology/Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Upon passing independent certification exams, graduates can serve as primary healthcare providers as well as prepare and execute health treatment plans.

Find out more about Texas Post-Master's Certificate Programs.

DNP Programs

Advanced Practice Nurses impact patient care every day. If you’d like to impact far-reaching healthcare policy, though, a doctorate degree in nursing may be for you. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of Texas at El Paso is designed for the working APRN, with special considerations given to NPs who plan to teach, work, or reside in medically underserved areas.

Find out more about Texas DNP Programs.

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in El Paso

Looking for advanced practice registered nurse programs in El Paso? This table lays out the top APRN options, including MSN, DNP, and NP tracks. Each row shows the school’s city and state, key program highlights, and a direct link to their program page. Compare choices side by side to find the right fit for nursing career goals. These programs prepare nurses for advanced clinical roles and leadership.

El Paso, TX

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso

  • BSN to MSN - Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • 51 semester credit hours.
    • Requires BSN and RN license.
    • Two years pediatric experience needed.
    • PALS certification required.
    • Eligible for CPNP exam.
    • Tuition information online.
    • Financial aid available.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 48 semester credit hours.
    • Hybrid online program.
    • Occasional campus visits required.
    • BSN degree required.
    • Valid RN license needed.
    • One year ICU/ER experience.
    • 3.0 minimum GPA.
    • Three professional references.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN Nurse Midwifery

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid distance education program.
    • 51 semester credit hours required.
    • Online or web-enhanced courses.
    • Occasional travel to Lubbock campus.
    • Average cost $300-$400 per hour.
    • Graduates qualify for AMCB exam.
    • Requires valid unencumbered RN license.
    • BSN from accredited institution needed.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 49 credit hours required.
    • Online delivery format.
    • Full-time or part-time options.
    • BSN and RN license required.
    • 3.0 minimum GPA needed.
    • Three professional references.
    • Focus on rural health.
    • Telemental health training.
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 49 total credit hours
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
  • MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts summer
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Combines online and on-campus classes
    • Meets AACN and NONPF standards
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 2 concentration options
    • BSN to DNP pathways available
    • Family Nurse Practitioner track
    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track
    • Prepares for NP roles in underserved areas
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • CCNE, ACEN accredited
    • 2 concentration options
    • No entrance exam required
    • Apply by 2026-01-15
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts summer
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Produces well-prepared leaders
    • Scientific knowledge and practice expertise
    • Advance quality outcomes and access
    • Prepares for rural to urban settings

The University of Texas at El Paso

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • 49 credit hours required.
    • 720 clinical clock hours.
    • Seven-semester completion time.
    • Online didactic courses.
    • Campus visits up to three times.
    • Flexible for working professionals.
    • Two admission cycles yearly.
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner with Primary Care Focus

    Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 49 credit hour program
    • Seven semester duration
    • Hybrid online and campus format
    • Two admission cycles per year
    • Fall and spring start terms
    • Seven-week course format
    • 775 clinical clock hours required
    • $552 per credit hour tuition
  • BSN to MSN - M.S.N. Nursing Education

    Online Learning - Website

    • American Association of Colleges of Nursing accredited
    • 6-Year program
    • 33 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Starts fall/spring/summer
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • Capstone required
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • 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
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing Administration and Management

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery.
    • 33 credit hours total.
    • Two-year completion time.
    • 90-hour mentored residency.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Bachelor's in nursing required.
    • U.S. RN license required.
    • Focus on leadership roles.
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Pediatric Acute Care concentration
    • Hybrid program format
    • 49 credit hours
    • Two-year completion time
    • 765 clinical clock hours
    • Flexible seven-week courses
    • For working professionals
    • Two admission cycles yearly
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 7-Semester program
    • 49 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2026-07-10
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 675 clinical hours
    • Prepares for PCNB
    • Flexibility for working professionals
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Across the Lifespan - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
    • Across the lifespan focus.
    • Hybrid program format.
    • 49 credit hours.
    • Seven semesters length.
    • 675 clinical clock hours.
    • Online courses available.
    • Face-to-face sessions on weekends.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 2-Year program
    • 45 total credit hours
    • Starts fall
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • 540 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • Post-master's level admission
*Data derived from the 2025 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near El Paso, TX

We've created a comprehensive list of nursing schools near El Paso, TX. The table below organizes each school by city and state, highlights their programs, and provides direct links to the program pages. This makes it easy to compare options and find the best fit. Whether just starting out or looking to advance, these local schools offer a range of pathways to a nursing degree.

El Paso, TX

El Paso Community College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts spring/fall
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • First-time NCLEX pass rates above national averages
    • Affordable tuition and fees
    • State-of-the-art facilities
    • Highly qualified faculty
  • Associate - LVN-to-RN Transition Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Highly qualified faculty
    • State-of-the-art facilities
    • NCLEX pass rates above average
    • Affordable tuition and fees

Southwest University at El Paso

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 24-Month program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • 16-term program of study
    • Direct admission to RN to BSN bridge
    • Evidence-based practice outcomes
    • Clinical reasoning and knowledge base
    • Adhere to standards of practice
    • Patient-centered care focus

The University of Texas at El Paso

  • Bachelor's - Traditional BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-Semester program
    • Complete in completed in 15 to 24 months
    • 89% licensure pass rate
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Hospital Days Simulated Experiences
    • Diverse faculty and student population
    • 50 years of nursing excellence
    • High student retention rate

Western Technical College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • 32-Month program
    • Complete in just under 3 years
    • Full-time enrollment
    • Starts fall
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
    • Clinical rotations in local hospitals
*IPEDS 2025 survey data, provided by NCES, U.S. Department of Education.