Best Nursing Schools in El Paso, TX 2025 – Accredited Nursing Degree Programs Online

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The nursing shortage is a pressing issue that needs to be faced head-on with sustainable and flexible solutions. Texas is no exception to this shortage. In fact, the TX Department of State Health Services (n.d.-a) predicts that there will be a 12.5% demand for RNs by 2025. By 2032, this will reach 16.3%.

As educators and experts across the state do their part, nursing schools in El Paso TX also play a crucial role. They provide various degrees and programs that accelerate and build up learning experiences and equip students with the abilities they need to become excellent caregivers.

In this guide, our team collates three separate lists of El Paso nursing programs, encompassing different degree levels, to help you select the best nursing education. We also discuss the state of nursing in El Paso and in Texas to give you an overview of the profession’s stability in the near future.

Best Online Nursing Schools in El Paso, TX Table of Contents

1. The State of Nursing in El Paso for 2025
2. Why become a nurse in El Paso?
3. Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Schools in El Paso TX
4. List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in El Paso
5. Best Advanced Nursing Programs in El Paso
6. How successful are El Paso nursing graduates in licensure and certification?
7. What are the best online BSN to FNP programs for nursing students in El Paso, TX?
8. Exploring Specialized Pathways for Advanced Nursing Careers
9. How can accelerated BSN programs online fast-track your nursing career?
10. What distinguishes WHNP online programs from other advanced nursing tracks?
11. Where can I find affordable online MSN programs?
12. How does obtaining an MSN degree impact your nursing career?
13. What benefits do ADN to MSN bridge programs offer for advanced practice?
14. What advantages do post-master's FNP certificate programs offer for experienced nurses?
15. How can online RN to BSN programs streamline your career transition?

The State of Nursing in El Paso for 2025

Before completing the most common nursing degree prerequisites, you must first understand the condition of the nursing education and workforce in Texas. By being informed, you can decide on your future in the city and proceed to the next steps leading to El Paso nursing jobs.

• Nursing shortages. Most Texan regions, as well as the Gulf Coast and Rio Grande Valley, project a shortage of around 50,000 RN FTEs by 2030 (TX Department of State Health Services, n.d.-b). Meanwhile, Panhandle is expected to have a surplus of around 878 RNs. Because of the gravity of this demand, accessible and cheap online nursing programs are crucial in filling the gaps in the nursing workforce.
• High nursing pass rates. Texas received a generally high NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2022 since the quality of nursing schools in El Paso TX and the entire state is outstanding. It garnered an overall rate of 84.28%, performing better than the national average (TX Board of Nursing, 2023). This proves the state’s endless commitment to providing excellent nursing education.
• Increasing nurse vacancies. The most recent data show that the vacancy rate has tripled since 2019, and there are now 14,910 vacant RN positions in the state (TX Center for Nursing Workforce Studies, 2022). While a total of 30,980 students enrolled in various nursing degrees, including online RN programs, in 2022 (TCNWS, 2023), more professionals may be needed to complete the workforce.

Why become a nurse in El Paso?

The salary of RNs in Texas is less than the national average, and the RN salary in El Paso TX is even lower, recording an annual pay of only $75,630 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023a). However, there is more to the profession than just wages.

The following factors could determine your stay in the city as a nurse. Moreover, whether you aim to enroll in an on-campus BSN or an online DNP, researching other indicators could help shed some light on your decision-making process.

• Lifelong connections. Choosing any of the best nursing schools in El Paso TX can introduce you to members of the Texas Nurses Association who can support you throughout your journey. Becoming part of the organization can also provide exclusive access to the TNA’s Mentorship Program, scholarships, and student resources, like a list of hospitals that pay for nursing school in Texas, which you might not get elsewhere.
• Thriving employment. One of the top benefits of nursing degrees and careers is the availability of opportunities. Texas is the second state with the highest nursing employment, recording 231,060 RNs in May 2022 (BLS, 2023b). Nursing jobs in El Paso Texas also represent one of the most abundantly hired occupations, employing 6,050 RNs, 2,030 nursing assistants, 1,750 LVNs, 460 NPs, and 180 nursing faculty in the same period (BLS, 2023a).
• Reinforced state policies. The state has bolstered ways not only to attract new nurses but also to retain them. For instance, SB 25 is a recently signed law that fortifies the state’s support of nursing education through scholarships, loan repayments, and grants. Laws regarding workplace violence and harassment have also been strengthened to protect both nurses and patients, making the healthcare environment safer and more conducive to quality care.

What Resources Are Available for Aspiring Nurses in El Paso?

Aspiring nurses in El Paso have access to various resources that can enhance their educational journey and support their professional development. These resources help students navigate their studies and connect with the nursing community, ultimately contributing to their success in the field.

• Scholarships and Financial Aid: Numerous scholarships are available for nursing students in El Paso, including those offered by local healthcare organizations, nursing associations, and educational institutions. These financial resources can help alleviate the burden of tuition costs.
• Mentorship Programs: Programs like the Texas Nurses Association's Mentorship Program provide aspiring nurses with access to experienced professionals. Mentors can offer guidance, support, and networking opportunities that are invaluable during education and early career stages.
• Continuing Education Opportunities: Many institutions and professional organizations offer workshops, seminars, and online courses that allow nurses to continue their education and stay updated on the latest practices and technologies in healthcare.
• Job Placement Services: Several nursing schools in El Paso provide career services that assist graduates in finding job placements, preparing resumes, and interviewing for positions in the healthcare sector.
• Professional Associations: Joining local or state nursing organizations can provide networking opportunities, access to resources, and information about industry trends, enhancing career prospects.

Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Schools in El Paso TX

Our team has organized this list to help you get rolling on the search for the best school for entry-level nursing programs. We rounded up nursing institutions in El Paso and surrounding areas and looked into their accreditation, ranking, affordability, and other important criteria to form this roster.

1. El Paso Community College

El Paso Community College’s AAS in Nursing provides a comprehensive curriculum that prepares aspiring nurses to take the vocational nurse exam and enter the profession. Students will learn about the foundations of nursing practice, pharmacology, and physiology, and they will develop skills in teamwork, communication, and personal responsibility. As one of the most reliable nursing schools in El Paso TX, the college also offers LVN and LVN-to-RN programs recognized by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON).

• Modality: On-campus
• Total Credits: 60
• Estimated Cost: $136/credit (resident), $221/credit (non-resident)
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

2. Cultural Technical Institute, LLC

Cultural Technical Institute, LLC offers a quick yet rigorous pathway to becoming a nurse aide in Texas. Students who undergo training learn the basics of nursing assistant practice, such as taking vital signs, attending to patient calls, or feeding patients. The program can be completed in five weeks, including around 60 hours of lectures and 40 hours of clinical experience in hospitals, residential facilities, schools, and other healthcare clinics.

• Modality: On-campus
• Total Credits: 100
• Estimated Cost: $500
• Accreditation: TX BON

3. North Central Texas College

Through its flexible mode of instruction, North Central Texas College delivers one of the LVN programs om El Paso that aids students in taking the NCLEX-PN. Pediatrics, medication administration, and health and illness are some of the program’s core courses. The program can be completed in 12 months and includes a combination of synchronous and asynchronous online instruction and visits to the Gainesville campus or clinical sites.

• Modality: Hybrid
• Total Credits: 42
• Estimated Cost: $1,680-$3,120/semester (resident), $4,800/semester (non-resident)
• Accreditation: TX BON

4. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

With its unique nursing degrees, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi enables students to complete a BSN remotely. The university gained an NCLEX-RN pass rate of 69.96% in 2022, and its pre-licensure track is specifically designed to integrate online coursework with on-site clinical activities at a partner clinic. After finishing nursing topics like health assessment, care of the community, and health alterations, as well as general education courses, students become eligible to take the RN exam.

• Modality: Hybrid
• Total Credits: 120-135
• Estimated Cost: $857.09/credit (resident), $1,331.81/credit (non-resident)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

5. Concordia University Texas

Concordia University Texas is one of the nursing schools in El Paso TX that enables non-nursing students to enter the profession. With its Accelerated BSN, learners earn their degree in as fast as 16 months while undergoing various learning experiences, including online coursework, simulations, and clinical rotations in the Austin or Dallas campus. The university gained an NCLEX-RN pass rate of 76.33% in 2022 and continues to deliver extensive courses in nursing, from adult health to academic research.

• Modality: Hybrid
• Total Credits: 62
• Estimated Cost: $17,300/semester
• Accreditation: CCNE

List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in El Paso

Bridge programs help practicing nurses push their careers to the next level by equipping them with a broader scope of knowledge and skills. Our team of review experts at Research.com aims to help you find the best bridge nursing schools in El Paso TX by collating information on the following institutions’ curricula, program costs, availability, and other vital metrics.

1. Southwest University at El Paso

Southwest University at El Paso introduces a compelling RN-to-BSN program that gives students a competitive edge, enriching their knowledge and skill sets. Through this program, students delve into advanced coursework, such as geriatric assessment, quality management, health and community nursing, and risk analysis. The university’s favorable transfer credit policies enable learners to finish the program in as little as 12 months or 48 weeks.

• Modality: Online
• Estimated Cost: $14,273
• Other Programs Offered: AAS
• Accreditation: CCNE

2. West Coast University

Vocational nurses looking for registered nurse programs in Texas can end their search with West Coast University’s LVN-to-BSN degree. The program features hands-on learning through laboratory simulation activities and clinical placements within the state. To further guide students into becoming RNs, the university provides cost-free tutoring and one-on-one assistance for the licensure exam.

• Modality: On-campus
• Estimated Cost: $1,425/credit
• Other Programs Offered: BSN
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. South Texas College

Through its RN-to-BSN program, South Texas College assists nurses to achieve higher credentials and become more capable healthcare givers. The college’s curriculum consists of a balanced set of upper and lower-division courses, with topics in nursing informatics, public and global health policy, and health population. Full-time students can accomplish all coursework within a year, while part-time nurses can complete it in 18 to 24 months.

• Modality: Online
• Estimated Cost: $1,265-$2,627/semester
• Other Programs Offered: LVN, ADN
• Accreditation: ACEN

4. University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington is among the nursing schools in El Paso TX that offer the cheapest RN to BSN online program that caters to working nurses. Students can choose between a nurse educator or administrator pathway and take core courses, including nursing research, evidence-based practice, financial management, and evaluation strategies. The coursework can be taken online, except for the practicum, with most students finishing the degree in 36 months.

• Modality: Online
• Estimated Cost: $19,500-$38,308
• Other Programs Offered: BSN, RN-to-BSN, RN-to-MSN FNP, MSN, DNP, Certificate Programs
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

UT Health at San Antonio’s BSN-to-DNP program empowers RNs to become NPs in just three years through tracks in family, acute adult-gerontology, psychiatric mental health, and pediatric primary care. Its evidence-focused curricula include clinical rotations in rural clinics, long-term care facilities, ambulatory clinics, or schools. Learners attend on-site classes once or thrice a week and can complete the degree in three years.

• Modality: Hybrid
• Estimated Cost: Summer semester $2,343.15/credit (resident), $2,916.18/credit (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: Traditional/Accelerated BSN, PhD, Post-MSN to DNP, Post-BSN to DNP-NA, Certificate Programs
• Accreditation: CCNE

Best Advanced Nursing Programs in El Paso

For nurses passionate about providing the best possible patient care, enrolling in advanced nursing schools in El Paso TX is the best channel to pursue. To assist you in this endeavor, our team has developed a short lineup of institutions in the city and adjacent areas where you can advance your studies. We looked into their specializations, program distinctiveness, tuition, and other vital components to create this list.

1. University of Texas at El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso’s online masters nursing program provides several options for RNs to prepare for the next step of their career. Students can major in nurse practitioner, education, or administration and management, each preparing them to take the certification for advanced practice nurses. Classes vary per major, but most are held online and complemented with lab simulations and hands-on clinical hours.

• Modality: Hybrid
• Estimated Cost: $523.75/credit (resident), $1,049/credit (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: BSN, RN-to-BSN, DNP, Certificate Programs
• Accreditation: CCNE

2. Texas Wesleyan University

One of the online nursing programs in El Paso is Texas Wesleyan University’s DNP program, which provides options in family and anesthesia nurse practice. Students will learn about the core advanced nurse practice courses like advanced pharmacotherapeutics, health assessment and diagnostic reasoning, and pathophysiology. Aside from online coursework and lectures, students must complete clinical practicum hours.

• Modality: Online
• Estimated Cost: $659-$1,172/credit (tuition only)
• Other Programs Offered: MSN, Certificate Programs
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University introduces one of the most specialized graduate programs with their MSN Forensic Nursing. Aside from advanced common nursing courses, students will dive into victimology, forensic injury investigation, and the impact of violence across lifespans to help shed light on evidence relating to criminal acts. Students will accomplish a balance of online coursework and in-person clinical experience to master their abilities and skills.

• Modality: Hybrid
• Estimated Cost: Fall semester $6,464 (resident), $12,818 (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN FNP, Nurse Educator, DNP
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. Baylor University

One of the top online nursing schools in El Paso TX, Baylor University offers several DNP pathways for nurse practitioners to elevate their skills. Its six academic tracks cover the most sought-after specialties in nursing, including family NP, adult-gerontology NP, and nurse midwives. Aside from the standard support services of online education, the university assists students in their clinical placement for a seamless learning transition.

• Modality: Online
• Estimated Cost: $1,150/credit
• Other Programs Offered: BSN, DNP Executive Nurse Leadership
• Accreditation: CCNE, Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

5. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center supports RNs and APRNs to pursue higher goals through its post-graduate certificate programs. Various tracks are available to learners, including nursing education, informatics, FNP, and PMHNP. Almost all lectures and coursework are taken online, while hands-on experiences under the supervision of preceptors are done in the student’s community.

• Modality: Hybrid
• Estimated Cost: $265/credit (resident), $685/credit (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: BSN, ABSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP
• Accreditation: CCNE

How successful are El Paso nursing graduates in licensure and certification?

Nursing graduates from El Paso consistently excel in licensure and certification exams, reflecting the region's strong educational standards. Many programs boast NCLEX-RN pass rates above 85%, outperforming national averages and underscoring their commitment to academic and clinical excellence. Institutions like the University of Texas at El Paso and Southwest University provide robust preparation through state-of-the-art simulation labs, hands-on clinical training, and comprehensive review courses, ensuring students are well-equipped to meet licensing requirements.

Advanced certifications for roles such as Nurse Practitioners also see high success rates among graduates. These outcomes can be attributed to the focused mentorship and specialized tracks offered by programs like those at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Graduates entering these advanced roles often benefit from rigorous curricula tailored to certification standards, enabling them to secure credentials that expand career opportunities.

For those seeking accessible pathways into nursing, exploring programs from the easiest nursing schools to get into is a good idea, provided that the program or institution is accredited by a reputable organization.

What are the best online BSN to FNP programs for nursing students in El Paso, TX?

For registered nurses (RNs) in El Paso, TX, who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and are looking to advance their careers, enrolling in an online BSN to Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program can be a strategic move. As demand for primary care providers grows, especially in underserved areas like El Paso, becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner offers an opportunity to provide high-quality, patient-centered care across the lifespan.

Online BSN to FNP programs are ideal for working nurses, as they offer flexible learning schedules that can be tailored to fit your personal and professional commitments. These programs combine academic coursework with hands-on clinical experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the certification and licensure exams required to become a Family Nurse Practitioner.

When choosing the best online BSN to FNP program in El Paso, consider the following factors:

1. Accreditation – Ensure that the program is accredited by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This guarantees that the program meets high educational standards and that your degree will be recognized nationwide.
2. Clinical Placement Opportunities – While the program is online, look for schools that provide clinical placement assistance, particularly in El Paso or the surrounding region, so that you can complete your required hands-on training in familiar healthcare settings.
3. Program Duration and Flexibility – Online BSN to FNP programs often cater to working professionals, offering part-time or full-time study options. Depending on the program’s structure, you can expect to complete your studies in 2-3 years.
4. Cost and Financial Aid – Financial considerations are essential when choosing a program. Look for BSN to FNP online programs that are affordable, and explore scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options that can help reduce tuition costs.

Exploring Specialized Pathways for Advanced Nursing Careers

For nurses aiming to elevate their qualifications and specialize in advanced practices, one of the most efficient routes is pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Texas boasts a range of exceptional programs to support this career progression, many of which cater to diverse professional goals. Whether you're considering becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, or a clinical leader, choosing a streamlined academic pathway can significantly impact your career trajectory.

One of the most efficient options for those seeking to advance quickly is selecting the shortest MSN to DNP program, which allows you to achieve the highest level of practical nursing education in a shortened timeframe. By pursuing such programs, RNs can maintain professional commitments while steadily advancing their credentials. This approach is particularly advantageous for nurses in El Paso, as it balances work-life responsibilities with academic growth, making high-level leadership roles more accessible.

Additionally, students in advanced nursing programs benefit from specialized training designed to meet the complex demands of the healthcare industry. From evidence-based practice to healthcare policy and informatics, these programs prepare clinicians to impact patient outcomes positively while addressing systemic challenges in nursing care. The emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic thinking ensures you're well-equipped to handle emerging trends in healthcare. By exploring flexible and accelerated pathways, nurses can empower themselves to bring about transformative change in both patient care and the broader medical field.

Excel in Healthcare Settings with the Help of Nursing Schools in El Paso TX

In this guide, the Research.com team listed several nursing schools in El Paso TX and nearby Texan areas to help you search for the premier learning experience that meets your needs. We also explored the condition of the nursing workforce and education in the state to help you plan out your goals for your professional development.

As you continue to review our suggestions, keep in mind that the best program is the one that combines a perfect blend of theoretical and practical approaches. In an engaging field such as nursing, you must strive to grasp every aspect of learning and educational experience to excel in any healthcare setting.

How can accelerated BSN programs online fast-track your nursing career?

Accelerated BSN programs online offer an intensive curriculum that compresses traditional study timelines, enabling professionals to transition quickly into advanced practice roles. These programs strategically combine comprehensive clinical training with flexible remote coursework, ensuring that students develop critical skills without compromising work commitments. Evaluating key factors such as clinical simulation quality, curriculum rigor, and support services is essential when choosing a program. For detailed program comparisons and additional insights, consider exploring our guide on BS to BSN programs online.

What distinguishes WHNP online programs from other advanced nursing tracks?

Advanced practice options vary according to patient demographics and specialized care requirements. While BSN to FNP programs emphasize primary care across all age groups and family settings, programs targeting women’s health focus on reproductive care, preventive screenings, and managing gender-specific conditions. This distinction is critical for practitioners evaluating their long-term career objectives. Prospective students are encouraged to examine curriculum depth, clinical simulation opportunities, and licensure preparation when choosing their pathway. For a focused exploration in women’s health, review the WHNP online programs that are tailored to streamline certification requirements and meet evolving industry standards.

Where can I find affordable online MSN programs?

Affordable online MSN programs offer rigorous curricula without compromising quality or clinical practice requirements. Evaluating program accreditation, curriculum depth, and clinical training opportunities is key when aligning your advanced education with career goals. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling further enhance the feasibility of these programs, allowing nurses to balance work and study effectively. For a comprehensive review of budget-friendly options, consider exploring cheap online masters programs nursing education.

How does obtaining an MSN degree impact your nursing career?

Earning an MSN degree broadens the scope of practice by offering advanced clinical training, leadership development, and specialized knowledge in areas such as nurse education and administration. This degree empowers practitioners to take on higher-responsibility roles, improve patient outcomes, and gain access to career opportunities in management and policy-making. Additionally, specialized MSN programs are designed to meet the rigorous standards of today’s evolving healthcare environment while complementing hands-on experience with evidence-based strategies. For a comprehensive overview of advanced nursing pathways, explore what is an MSN.

What benefits do ADN to MSN bridge programs offer for advanced practice?

Nursing professionals pursuing ADN to MSN bridge programs benefit from a streamlined educational pathway that integrates advanced clinical training with focused theoretical instruction. These programs are designed to rapidly elevate practical competencies and leadership skills while reducing the time typically required to achieve advanced practice status. Compared to conventional routes, such bridges offer tailored curricula that align with current industry demands and diverse patient care scenarios. For curricular models that promote efficient career advancement, consider the MSN to FNP bridge.

What advantages do post-master's FNP certificate programs offer for experienced nurses?

Post-master's FNP certificate programs are designed to refine advanced clinical skills and address niche practice updates efficiently. They offer concentrated coursework that bridges recent advancements in evidence-based care with regulatory updates, allowing practitioners to enhance their expertise without committing to a full degree program. Moreover, these programs provide flexible, accelerated pathways that align with evolving healthcare demands, enabling experienced nurses to maintain clinical excellence while rapidly adapting to new practice models. For a detailed comparison of streamlined options, explore the shortest post masters FNP online programs.

How can online RN to BSN programs streamline your career transition?

RN to BSN programs, especially those offered online, enable practicing nurses to expand their academic qualifications while maintaining work-life balance. These programs offer a focused curriculum that integrates advanced clinical practice, management skills, and technological proficiency, paving the way for leadership roles and specialized care. By optimizing course delivery and flexible scheduling, nurses can seamlessly transition to higher responsibilities without disrupting their current employment. For further insights on accessible pathways, explore our guide What is the easiest RN to BSN online program?

Key Insights

• Nursing Shortage in Texas: The state of Texas is facing a significant nursing shortage, with a projected demand for RNs increasing by 12.5% by 2025 and 16.3% by 2032. This shortage highlights the urgent need for more nursing professionals to fill the gap in the healthcare system.
• High NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: Texas nursing schools, including those in El Paso, maintain high NCLEX-RN pass rates, with an overall state rate of 84.28% in 2022, surpassing the national average. This reflects the quality of nursing education in the state.
• Increasing Nurse Vacancies: Texas has seen a substantial increase in RN vacancies, with 14,910 positions currently unfilled. Despite 30,980 students enrolling in nursing programs in 2022, there is still a significant need for more qualified nurses.
• Supportive State Policies: Texas has implemented supportive policies such as SB 25, which enhances nursing education through scholarships, loan repayments, and grants. This legislative support aims to attract and retain more nursing professionals in the state.
• Competitive Employment Opportunities: Texas is the second-highest state in nursing employment, with 231,060 RNs employed as of May 2022. El Paso alone employs a substantial number of nursing professionals across various roles, including RNs, nursing assistants, LVNs, NPs, and nursing faculty.
• Lower RN Salaries: While RN salaries in El Paso ($75,630 annually) are lower than the national average, the profession offers other benefits, including job security, professional growth opportunities, and strong community support.

FAQ

What is the current state of the nursing workforce in Texas?

Texas is experiencing a significant nursing shortage, with an increasing demand for RNs projected to grow by 12.5% by 2025 and 16.3% by 2032. This shortage is accompanied by a high number of RN vacancies, currently at 14,910 positions.

How do nursing schools in Texas perform in terms of NCLEX-RN pass rates?

Nursing schools in Texas, including those in El Paso, perform well on the NCLEX-RN exam, with an overall pass rate of 84.28% in 2022. This rate is higher than the national average, indicating the quality of nursing education in the state.

What are the benefits of becoming a nurse in El Paso, Texas?

Despite lower salaries compared to the national average, nursing in El Paso offers several benefits, including strong job security due to the high demand for nurses, opportunities for professional growth, and supportive state policies such as scholarships and loan repayment programs.

What are some top-ranked entry-level nursing programs in El Paso?

Some top-ranked entry-level nursing programs in El Paso include the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at El Paso Community College, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at CNI College, and the Accelerated BSN at Concordia University Texas.

What bridge programs are available for nurses in El Paso?

El Paso offers several bridge programs, including the RN-to-BSN program at Southwest University at El Paso, the LVN-to-BSN program at West Coast University, and the RN-to-BSN program at South Texas College. These programs help practicing nurses advance their careers.

What advanced nursing programs can be found in El Paso?

Advanced nursing programs in El Paso include the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at the University of Texas at El Paso, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Texas Wesleyan University, and specialized graduate programs such as the MSN Forensic Nursing at Texas A&M University.

How does the state support nursing education and retention?

Texas supports nursing education and retention through policies such as SB 25, which provides scholarships, loan repayments, and grants for nursing students. Additionally, laws have been strengthened to protect nurses from workplace violence and harassment, creating a safer work environment.

What is the employment outlook for nurses in Texas?

The employment outlook for nurses in Texas is strong, with the state being the second-highest in nursing employment. There are numerous job opportunities across various nursing roles, making it a promising career choice for aspiring nurses.

What factors should I consider when choosing a nursing school in El Paso?

When choosing a nursing school in El Paso, consider factors such as accreditation, program length, costs, availability of online or hybrid options, and the school’s NCLEX-RN pass rates. It’s also important to consider the support services offered by the institution.

Are there financial aid options available for nursing students in Texas?

Yes, there are various financial aid options available for nursing students in Texas, including scholarships, grants, and loan repayment programs supported by state policies. Additionally, some hospitals and healthcare institutions offer financial assistance to nursing students.

References:

• Texas Center for Nursing Workforce Studies. (2022, November). 2022 hospital nurse staffing study. Employer Nurse Staffing Studies. https://www.dshs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/chs/cnws/HNSS/2022/2022_HNSS_HighlightsRecommendations_accessible.pdf
• Texas Center for Nursing Workforce Studies. (2023, March). 2022 admission, enrollment, and graduation trends in professional nursing programs. Nursing Education Program Information Survey. https://www.dshs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/chs/cnws/NEPIS/2022/RN/2022%20RN%20AEG_Accessible.pdf
• Texas Department of State Health Services. (n.d.-a). Workforce supply & demand projections Nurse supply and demand chart Supply of and demand for RN FTEs over time, Texas. Retrieved September 1, 2023, from https://healthdata.dshs.texas.gov/dashboard/health-care-workforce/hprc/workforce-supply-and-demand
• Texas Department of State Health Services. (n.d.-b). Workforce supply & demand projections Nurse supply and demand map Unmet demand for RN FTEs in Texas, 2030. Retrieved September 1, 2023, from https://healthdata.dshs.texas.gov/dashboard/health-care-workforce/hprc/workforce-supply-and-demand
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023a, April 25). May 2022 metropolitan and nonmetropolitan area occupational employment and wage estimates El Paso, TX. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_21340.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023b, April 25). May 2022 state occupational employment and wage estimates Texas. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_tx.htm