Top 10 Nursing Programs in Texas

Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate

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📅 Published Jun 26, 2026 · Updated Jun 26, 2026 · 9 min read

Direct Answer

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) ranks #1 overall for its School of Nursing (BSN program), offering a 4-year direct-entry curriculum with a 98% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate (2026 data) and a total in-state cost of approximately $44,000 for four years. The runner-up is Texas A&M University (College Station), whose BSN program boasts a 96% pass rate and a lower total cost of around $38,000, making it a strong choice for value-conscious students.

UT Austin is best for those seeking top-tier research, faculty, and hospital partnerships, while Texas A&M excels for affordability and rural healthcare focus.

How We Ranked These

We ranked the top 10 nursing programs in Texas for 2027 based on five weighted criteria: NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates (30% weight, sourced from Texas Board of Nursing 2026 reports), total cost of attendance (25%, including tuition, fees, and estimated living expenses for in-state residents), clinical placement quality (20%, measured by partnerships with Level I trauma centers and Magnet hospitals), graduation rate (15%, from IPEDS 2025 data), and career outcomes (10%, including job placement within 6 months and median starting salary).

We excluded for-profit institutions and programs with fewer than 50 graduates annually. Data was verified against the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and program websites.

1. University of Texas at Austin 🏆 BEST OVERALL

University of Texas at Austin

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The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that is consistently ranked among the top 10 nationally by *U.S. News & World Report* (2026). With a 98% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026), it produces graduates who are highly sought after by hospitals like Dell Seton Medical Center and **St.

David’s HealthCare. The program features a 4-year direct-entry model, meaning students start nursing courses in their first year, and includes over 800 clinical hours across specialties like medical-surgical, pediatrics, and critical care. In-state tuition and fees total approximately $44,000 for four years, with scholarships available through the Texas Grant** program.

This program is ideal for students who want a research-intensive environment with access to UT Austin’s Dell Medical School and the Seton Healthcare Family network. The simulation lab uses Laerdal SimMan 3G mannequins for high-fidelity training, and the Texas Board of Nursing reports a 95% job placement rate within 6 months.

If you can afford the higher cost and want a prestigious degree with strong clinical connections, this is your best bet.

2. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University

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Texas A&M University’s College of Nursing in College Station offers a BSN program with a 96% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and a total cost of approximately $38,000 for in-state students. The program emphasizes rural and community health, with clinical placements at **CHI St.

Joseph Health and Baylor Scott & White Health. It includes 750 clinical hours and a unique Leadership in Nursing track that prepares students for management roles. The Texas A&M Health Science Center provides access to simulation labs with CAE Healthcare** mannequins.

This is a top choice for students seeking a lower-cost, high-quality program with a focus on underserved populations. The graduation rate is 92% (IPEDS 2025), and the median starting salary for graduates is $68,000 (Texas Workforce Commission 2026). Texas A&M also offers a BSN-to-DNP pathway for those pursuing advanced practice.

3. University of Texas at Arlington

University of Texas at Arlington

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The University of Texas at Arlington College of Nursing and Health Innovation is the largest nursing school in Texas, graduating over 800 BSN students annually. It boasts a 95% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and an in-state cost of about $36,000 for four years. The program is known for its flexible online options for RN-to-BSN students and strong partnerships with Texas Health Resources and JPS Health Network.

Clinical hours total 700, with rotations in acute care, psychiatric nursing, and community health.

UT Arlington is best for students who want a large, diverse cohort and a proven track record of job placement (94% within 6 months). The Simulation Innovation Center uses Moulage techniques for realistic scenarios. The median starting salary is $66,000.

4. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

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Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Nursing in Lubbock offers a BSN program with a 94% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and a total cost of $35,000 for in-state students. The program focuses on rural and frontier healthcare, with clinical placements at University Medical Center and Covenant Health.

It includes 780 clinical hours and a Rural Nursing elective. The Texas Tech Simulation Center features VSim software from Wolters Kluwer.

This is ideal for students committed to serving West Texas communities. The graduation rate is 89%, and the median starting salary is $65,000. TTUHSC also offers a fast-track BSN for second-degree students (12 months).

5. University of Texas Medical Branch

University of Texas Medical Branch

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The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) School of Nursing in Galveston has a 96% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and a total cost of $40,000 for in-state students. The program is integrated with UTMB Health, a Level I trauma center, providing 850 clinical hours in critical care, emergency nursing, and geriatrics.

The Simulation Center uses Laerdal SimJunior for pediatric scenarios.

UTMB is best for students who want a hospital-based education with direct access to a teaching hospital. The job placement rate is 96% within 6 months, and the median starting salary is $70,000. The program also offers a BSN-to-PhD track.

6. Baylor University

Baylor University

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Baylor University’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing in Dallas offers a BSN program with a 95% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and a total cost of $52,000 for four years (private school). The program is faith-based and emphasizes ethical care, with clinical placements at Baylor University Medical Center and Children’s Health.

It includes 800 clinical hours and a Global Health mission trip option.

This is best for students seeking a private, Christian environment with strong Dallas-Fort Worth hospital connections. The graduation rate is 93%, and the median starting salary is $69,000. Baylor also offers a BSN-to-MSN fast track.

7. University of Texas at Tyler

University of Texas at Tyler

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The University of Texas at Tyler School of Nursing offers a BSN program with a 93% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and a total cost of $32,000 for in-state students. The program is known for its small class sizes (average 40 students) and personalized advising. Clinical placements include CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System and UT Health East Texas.

It includes 720 clinical hours.

This is best for students who want a low-cost, community-focused program in East Texas. The graduation rate is 88%, and the median starting salary is $63,000. UT Tyler also offers an online RN-to-BSN program.

8. Texas State University

Texas State University

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Texas State University’s St. David’s School of Nursing in Round Rock offers a BSN program with a 92% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and a total cost of $37,000 for in-state students. The program is a **partnership with St.

David’s HealthCare, providing 750 clinical hours at St. David’s Medical Center and Seton Medical Center Austin. The simulation lab uses SimCapture from B-Line Medical**.

This is ideal for students who want a direct pipeline to a major healthcare system. The job placement rate is 93% within 6 months, and the median starting salary is $67,000. Texas State also offers a BSN-to-DNP program.

9. Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University

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Texas Woman’s University (TWU) College of Nursing in Denton offers a BSN program with a 91% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and a total cost of $30,000 for in-state students. The program has a strong focus on women’s health and diversity, with clinical placements at Parkland Health and Texas Health Presbyterian.

It includes 700 clinical hours and a Global Health elective.

TWU is best for students seeking the lowest cost among top programs and a supportive environment for underrepresented groups. The graduation rate is 86%, and the median starting salary is $62,000. TWU also offers a BSN-to-MSN in nursing education.

10. University of Houston 💎 BEST VALUE

University of Houston

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The University of Houston’s College of Nursing offers a BSN program with a 90% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2026) and a total cost of $34,000 for in-state students. The program is known for its urban focus, with clinical placements at Memorial Hermann Health System and Harris Health System.

It includes 750 clinical hours and a Community Health track. The simulation lab uses Gaumard Scientific mannequins.

This is the best value for students wanting a large, diverse university in Houston with strong public health connections. The job placement rate is 91% within 6 months, and the median starting salary is $64,000. UH also offers a BSN-to-PhD program.

flowchart TD A[Start: Choose a Nursing Program in Texas] --> B{Cost Priority?} B -->|Yes| C{NCLEX Pass Rate > 93%?} B -->|No| D{Clinical Hours > 750?} C -->|Yes| E[Texas A&M - $38k, 96% pass rate] C -->|No| F[TWU - $30k, 91% pass rate] D -->|Yes| G{Urban or Rural?} D -->|No| H[UT Tyler - $32k, 720 hours] G -->|Urban| I[UT Arlington - 800 hours, 95% pass rate] G -->|Rural| J[TTUHSC - 780 hours, 94% pass rate] E --> K[Best Overall Value] I --> L[Best Urban Clinical]

FAQ

What is the cheapest nursing program in Texas? Texas Woman’s University offers the lowest cost at $30,000 for four years, with a 91% NCLEX-RN pass rate.

Which Texas nursing program has the highest NCLEX-RN pass rate? UT Austin has the highest at 98%, followed by Texas A&M at 96%.

How long does a BSN program take in Texas? Most programs are 4 years for direct-entry BSN, but some (like TTUHSC) offer 12-month accelerated options for second-degree students.

What is the job placement rate for Texas nursing graduates? Top programs report 90-96% job placement within 6 months, with median starting salaries of $62,000-$70,000.

Can I work while in a Texas nursing program? Yes, but clinical hours (700-850) and simulation labs require significant time. Many students work part-time as CNAs or patient care technicians.

Do Texas nursing programs offer online options? Yes, UT Arlington and UT Tyler offer RN-to-BSN online programs, but initial BSN programs are mostly on-campus for clinical training.

Sources

Bottom Line

For 2027, the University of Texas at Austin is the best overall nursing program in Texas due to its 98% NCLEX-RN pass rate, strong clinical partnerships, and research focus. If cost is your primary concern, the University of Houston offers the best value at $34,000 with solid outcomes.

Always verify NCLEX pass rates and clinical hour requirements directly with the Texas Board of Nursing before applying.

*Top 10 nursing programs in Texas ranked by NCLEX pass rates, cost, and clinical quality for 2027.*

Keep reading

### Direct Answer
The **University of Texas at Austin** (UT Austin) ranks #1 overall for its **School of Nursing** (BSN program), offering a 4-year direct-entry curriculum with a 98% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate (2026 data) and a total in-state cost of approximately $44,000 for four years. The runner-up is **Texas A&M University** (College Station), whose BSN program boasts a 96% pass rate and a lower total cost of around $38,000, making it a strong choice for value-conscious students. UT Austin is best for those seeking top-tier research, faculty, and hospital partnerships, while Texas A&M excels for affordability and rural healthcare focus.

## How We Ranked These
We ranked the top 10 nursing programs in Texas for 2027 based on five weighted criteria: **NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates** (30% weight, sourced from Texas Board of Nursing 2026 reports), **total cost of attendance** (25%, including tuition, fees, and estimated living expenses for in-state residents), **clinical placement quality** (20%, measured by partnerships with Level I trauma centers and Magnet hospitals), **graduation rate** (15%, from IPEDS 2025 data), and **career outcomes** (10%, including job placement within 6 months and median starting salary). We excluded for-profit institutions and programs with fewer than 50 graduates annually. Data was verified against the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and program websites.

## 1. University of Texas at Austin 🏆 BEST OVERALL
@@PRODUCT name="University of Texas at Austin" img="https://www.texasalmanac.com/images/upload/2023/12/university-of-texas-austin-main-building.jpg" site="https://www.texasalmanac.com/places/the-university-of-texas-at-austin"
The **University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)** program that is consistently ranked among the top 10 nationally by *U.S. News & World Report* (2026). With a **98% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026), it produces graduates who are highly sought after by hospitals like **Dell Seton Medical Center** and **St. David’s HealthCare**. The program features a **4-year direct-entry** model, meaning students start nursing courses in their first year, and includes over **800 clinical hours** across specialties like **medical-surgical**, **pediatrics**, and **critical care**. In-state tuition and fees total approximately **$44,000** for four years, with scholarships available through the **Texas Grant** program.

This program is ideal for students who want a research-intensive environment with access to **UT Austin’s Dell Medical School** and the **Seton Healthcare Family** network. The **simulation lab** uses **Laerdal SimMan 3G** mannequins for high-fidelity training, and the **Texas Board of Nursing** reports a **95% job placement rate** within 6 months. If you can afford the higher cost and want a prestigious degree with strong clinical connections, this is your best bet.

## 2. Texas A&M University
@@PRODUCT name="Texas A&M University" img="https://webflow-amber-prod.gumlet.io/620e4101b2ce12a1a6bff0e8/681ca4f5e768d19851bca5c3_ChatGPT%20Image%20May%208%2C%202025%2C%2006_04_04%20PM.png" site="https://amberstudent.com/blog/post/texas-a-m-university-rankings-tuition-admissions"
Texas A&M University’s **College of Nursing** in College Station offers a **BSN program** with a **96% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and a total cost of approximately **$38,000** for in-state students. The program emphasizes **rural and community health**, with clinical placements at **CHI St. Joseph Health** and **Baylor Scott & White Health**. It includes **750 clinical hours** and a unique **Leadership in Nursing** track that prepares students for management roles. The **Texas A&M Health Science Center** provides access to simulation labs with **CAE Healthcare** mannequins.

This is a top choice for students seeking a lower-cost, high-quality program with a focus on **underserved populations**. The **graduation rate** is **92%** (IPEDS 2025), and the median starting salary for graduates is **$68,000** (Texas Workforce Commission 2026). Texas A&M also offers a **BSN-to-DNP** pathway for those pursuing advanced practice.

## 3. University of Texas at Arlington
@@PRODUCT name="University of Texas at Arlington" img="https://www.utsystem.edu/sites/default/files/utarlington-tower.jpg" site="https://www.utsystem.edu/institutions/university-of-texas-at-arlington"
The **University of Texas at Arlington College of Nursing and Health Innovation** is the largest nursing school in Texas, graduating over **800 BSN students annually**. It boasts a **95% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and an in-state cost of about **$36,000** for four years. The program is known for its **flexible online options** for RN-to-BSN students and strong partnerships with **Texas Health Resources** and **JPS Health Network**. Clinical hours total **700**, with rotations in **acute care**, **psychiatric nursing**, and **community health**.

UT Arlington is best for students who want a large, diverse cohort and a **proven track record** of job placement (94% within 6 months). The **Simulation Innovation Center** uses **Moulage** techniques for realistic scenarios. The median starting salary is **$66,000**.

## 4. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
@@PRODUCT name="Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center" img="https://www.unigo.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/texas-tech-university-health-sciences-center-229337-xlarge_building.jpg" site="https://www.unigo.com/colleges/texas-tech-university-health-sciences-center"
**Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Nursing** in Lubbock offers a **BSN program** with a **94% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and a total cost of **$35,000** for in-state students. The program focuses on **rural and frontier healthcare**, with clinical placements at **University Medical Center** and **Covenant Health**. It includes **780 clinical hours** and a **Rural Nursing** elective. The **Texas Tech Simulation Center** features **VSim** software from **Wolters Kluwer**.

This is ideal for students committed to serving **West Texas** communities. The **graduation rate** is **89%**, and the median starting salary is **$65,000**. TTUHSC also offers a **fast-track BSN** for second-degree students (12 months).

## 5. University of Texas Medical Branch
@@PRODUCT name="University of Texas Medical Branch" img="http://www.payneandladner.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/20Med-UTMB-SCC-11.png" site="http://www.payneandladner.com/?projects=the-university-of-texas-medical-branch-specialty-care-center"
The **University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) School of Nursing** in Galveston has a **96% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and a total cost of **$40,000** for in-state students. The program is integrated with **UTMB Health**, a Level I trauma center, providing **850 clinical hours** in **critical care**, **emergency nursing**, and **geriatrics**. The **Simulation Center** uses **Laerdal SimJunior** for pediatric scenarios.

UTMB is best for students who want a **hospital-based** education with direct access to a **teaching hospital**. The **job placement rate** is **96%** within 6 months, and the median starting salary is **$70,000**. The program also offers a **BSN-to-PhD** track.

## 6. Baylor University
@@PRODUCT name="Baylor University" img="https://vertoeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/baylor-university-campus-01-1.jpg" site="https://vertoeducation.org/school/baylor-university/"
**Baylor University’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing** in Dallas offers a **BSN program** with a **95% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and a total cost of **$52,000** for four years (private school). The program is **faith-based** and emphasizes **ethical care**, with clinical placements at **Baylor University Medical Center** and **Children’s Health**. It includes **800 clinical hours** and a **Global Health** mission trip option.

This is best for students seeking a **private, Christian** environment with strong **Dallas-Fort Worth** hospital connections. The **graduation rate** is **93%**, and the median starting salary is **$69,000**. Baylor also offers a **BSN-to-MSN** fast track.

## 7. University of Texas at Tyler
@@PRODUCT name="University of Texas at Tyler" img="https://www.utsystem.edu/sites/default/files/tower-1440.jpg" site="https://www.utsystem.edu/institutions/university-of-texas-at-tyler"
The **University of Texas at Tyler School of Nursing** offers a **BSN program** with a **93% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and a total cost of **$32,000** for in-state students. The program is known for its **small class sizes** (average 40 students) and **personalized advising**. Clinical placements include **CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System** and **UT Health East Texas**. It includes **720 clinical hours**.

This is best for students who want a **low-cost**, **community-focused** program in **East Texas**. The **graduation rate** is **88%**, and the median starting salary is **$63,000**. UT Tyler also offers an **online RN-to-BSN** program.

## 8. Texas State University
@@PRODUCT name="Texas State University" img="https://abound.college/gradschool/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2023/04/Texas-State-University.jpg" site="https://abound.college/gradschool/school/texas-state-university/"
**Texas State University’s St. David’s School of Nursing** in Round Rock offers a **BSN program** with a **92% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and a total cost of **$37,000** for in-state students. The program is a **partnership with St. David’s HealthCare**, providing **750 clinical hours** at **St. David’s Medical Center** and **Seton Medical Center Austin**. The **simulation lab** uses **SimCapture** from **B-Line Medical**.

This is ideal for students who want a **direct pipeline** to a major healthcare system. The **job placement rate** is **93%** within 6 months, and the median starting salary is **$67,000**. Texas State also offers a **BSN-to-DNP** program.

## 9. Texas Woman’s University
@@PRODUCT name="Texas Woman’s University" img="https://pxl-twuedu.terminalfour.net/filters:format(webp)/prod01/twu-cdn-pxl/media/images/traditions/TWU-Seal-Maroon-900px.jpg" site="https://twu.edu/traditions/university-symbols/"
**Texas Woman’s University (TWU) College of Nursing** in Denton offers a **BSN program** with a **91% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and a total cost of **$30,000** for in-state students. The program has a **strong focus on women’s health** and **diversity**, with clinical placements at **Parkland Health** and **Texas Health Presbyterian**. It includes **700 clinical hours** and a **Global Health** elective.

TWU is best for students seeking the **lowest cost** among top programs and a **supportive environment** for underrepresented groups. The **graduation rate** is **86%**, and the median starting salary is **$62,000**. TWU also offers a **BSN-to-MSN** in **nursing education**.

## 10. University of Houston 💎 BEST VALUE
@@PRODUCT name="University of Houston" img="https://uh.edu/about/mission/mission-banner.jpg" site="https://www.uh.edu/about/mission/"
The **University of Houston’s College of Nursing** offers a **BSN program** with a **90% NCLEX-RN pass rate** (2026) and a total cost of **$34,000** for in-state students. The program is known for its **urban focus**, with clinical placements at **Memorial Hermann Health System** and **Harris Health System**. It includes **750 clinical hours** and a **Community Health** track. The **simulation lab** uses **Gaumard Scientific** mannequins.

This is the **best value** for students wanting a **large, diverse** university in **Houston** with strong **public health** connections. The **job placement rate** is **91%** within 6 months, and the median starting salary is **$64,000**. UH also offers a **BSN-to-PhD** program.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A[Start: Choose a Nursing Program in Texas] --> B{Cost Priority?}
    B -->|Yes| C{NCLEX Pass Rate > 93%?}
    B -->|No| D{Clinical Hours > 750?}
    C -->|Yes| E[Texas A&M - $38k, 96% pass rate]
    C -->|No| F[TWU - $30k, 91% pass rate]
    D -->|Yes| G{Urban or Rural?}
    D -->|No| H[UT Tyler - $32k, 720 hours]
    G -->|Urban| I[UT Arlington - 800 hours, 95% pass rate]
    G -->|Rural| J[TTUHSC - 780 hours, 94% pass rate]
    E --> K[Best Overall Value]
    I --> L[Best Urban Clinical]
```

## FAQ
**What is the cheapest nursing program in Texas?**  
Texas Woman’s University offers the lowest cost at **$30,000** for four years, with a 91% NCLEX-RN pass rate.

**Which Texas nursing program has the highest NCLEX-RN pass rate?**  
UT Austin has the highest at **98%**, followed by Texas A&M at **96%**.

**How long does a BSN program take in Texas?**  
Most programs are **4 years** for direct-entry BSN, but some (like TTUHSC) offer **12-month accelerated** options for second-degree students.

**What is the job placement rate for Texas nursing graduates?**  
Top programs report **90-96%** job placement within 6 months, with median starting salaries of **$62,000-$70,000**.

**Can I work while in a Texas nursing program?**  
Yes, but clinical hours (700-850) and simulation labs require significant time. Many students work part-time as **CNAs** or **patient care technicians**.

**Do Texas nursing programs offer online options?**  
Yes, UT Arlington and UT Tyler offer **RN-to-BSN** online programs, but initial BSN programs are mostly **on-campus** for clinical training.

## Sources
- [Texas Board of Nursing - NCLEX Pass Rates 2026](https://www.bon.texas.gov/reports_and_data_nclex_pass_rates.asp)
- [U.S. News & World Report - Best Nursing Schools 2026](https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-nursing-schools)
- [Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board - Program Costs](https://www.highered.texas.gov/data-reports/)
- [IPEDS - Graduation Rates 2025](https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/)
- [Texas Workforce Commission - Nursing Salaries 2026](https://www.twc.texas.gov/data)
- [UT Austin School of Nursing - Official Site](https://nursing.utexas.edu/)
- [Texas A&M College of Nursing - Official Site](https://nursing.tamu.edu/)
- [UT Arlington College of Nursing - Official Site](https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/nursing)

## Bottom Line
For 2027, the **University of Texas at Austin** is the best overall nursing program in Texas due to its **98% NCLEX-RN pass rate**, strong clinical partnerships, and research focus. If cost is your primary concern, the **University of Houston** offers the best value at **$34,000** with solid outcomes. Always verify **NCLEX pass rates** and **clinical hour requirements** directly with the Texas Board of Nursing before applying.

*Top 10 nursing programs in Texas ranked by NCLEX pass rates, cost, and clinical quality for 2027.*

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Related in the library

Top 10 Nursing Programs in Texas

Direct Answer

How We Ranked These

1. University of Texas at Austin 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2. Texas A&M University

3. University of Texas at Arlington

4. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

5. University of Texas Medical Branch

6. Baylor University

7. University of Texas at Tyler

8. Texas State University

9. Texas Woman’s University

10. University of Houston 💎 BEST VALUE

FAQ

Sources

Bottom Line

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