Best Nursing Schools in San Antonio, TX 2025 – Accredited Nursing Degree Programs Online

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San Antonio, Texas is home to a range of community and career colleges, state and private universities that offer nursing programs such as LVN to RN, ADN, BSN, and MSN. The demand for nurses in San Antonio and across the country is high, making it an opportune time to pursue a career in nursing. The employment of registered nurses is projected to grow six percent from 2021 to 2031 (BLS, 2022).

If you are considering a nursing career in San Antonio, it is important to choose a reputable nursing school that offers accredited programs. This guide will provide an overview of the best nursing schools in San Antonio, Texas by focusing on accredited nursing degree programs available both online and on-campus. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a working professional looking to advance your career such as pursuing programs in healthcare administration, this guide will assist you in finding the best nursing colleges and universities in San Antonio that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Best Nursing Schools in San Antonio, TX 2025 Table of Contents

The State of Nursing in San Antonio
Why become a nurse in San Antonio?
Military Connections in Nursing in San Antonio
2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in San Antonio
2025 List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in San Antonio
2025 Best Advanced Nursing Programs in San Antonio
How can nurses in San Antonio advance into specialized roles like family nurse practitioners?
Are RN to NP combined programs the right pathway for career advancement?
What career support services are available for nursing graduates in San Antonio?
What advantages do DNP accelerated programs offer for nursing career advancement?
How can nurses in San Antonio engage in continuing education and professional development opportunities?
What are the job placement rates and career outcomes for nursing graduates in San Antonio?
What flexible learning options are available for nursing students in San Antonio?
Online Nursing Programs and Admission Tips for San Antonio Students
What are the tuition costs and financial aid options for nursing programs in San Antonio?
What specialized nursing tracks can further advance my career in San Antonio?

The State of Nursing in San Antonio

By 2032, Texas is to experience nursing shortage. The availability of licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), registered nurses (RNs), and certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) is projected to fall below the demand (Texas Health and Human Services, 2020). Meanwhile, nurse practitioners (NPs) and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are anticipated to consistently surpass demand in the coming years, according to current trends. The projected supply of NPs in Texas is expected to grow by 117.3% or 45,462 in 2032 (Texas Health and Human Services, 2020).

The demand for nurses in San Antonio and across the country is high, making it an opportune time to pursue a career in nursing. San Antonio, Texas is a hub for nursing education, with a range of community and healthcare career colleges, state and private universities offering nursing programs such as LVN to RN, ADN, BSN, and MSN. In 2022, 38 active professional nursing education programs in Texas had a pass rate of 90% or higher on the NCLEX-RN examination (Texas Board of Nursing, 2022).

Why become a nurse in San Antonio?

San Antonio has a growing healthcare industry, with many hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities in need of nurses. The average registered nurse salary in San Antonio, TX as of August 2023 is $100,071 (Salary.com, 2023). The San Antonio, Texas region is home to a range of community and career colleges as well as state and private universities that offer entry-level nursing programs. Students can also opt to obtain an online nursing degree or a traditional degree. Becoming a nurse in San Antonio can provide benefits, including a stable healthcare profession, a range of work opportunities, and the ability to help patients through difficult treatments and therapies.

Military Connections in Nursing in San Antonio

San Antonio, known as “Military City, USA,” is home to several military bases, including Lackland Air Force Base, Randolph Air Force Base, and Fort Sam Houston. These facilities play a significant role in providing healthcare services to active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families, making the city a prime location for nurses interested in serving military communities.

Military healthcare systems in San Antonio offer specialized roles for nurses, including psychiatric care, trauma management, and rehabilitation for service-related conditions such as PTSD. Aspiring advanced practice nurses can benefit from online RN to MSN psychiatric nurse practitioner programs, which offer a flexible pathway to gaining expertise in mental health care while serving military populations. These programs are particularly advantageous for working professionals or military spouses balancing education with personal commitments.

Local institutions like the Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) are key players in mentoring nurses for military-focused healthcare roles. Furthermore, nurses in San Antonio can explore career opportunities that emphasize mental health services, addressing the unique challenges faced by veterans and active-duty personnel.

2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in San Antonio

San Antonio nursing schools offer opportunities that can help you start your nursing career. These programs, including BSN and a shortest RN to MSN online program, offer quality education, student support services, and high pass rates on the NCLEX-RN examination. Some programs have a high success rate, with a 97.25% to 98.27% pass rate for the NCLEX-RN exam in recent years (San Antonio College, 2023).

San Antonio College

The nursing program at San Antonio College is designed to prepare students to become registered nurses and earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing. The program is two years long and consists of a variety of learning venues, including the classroom, a fully equipped simulation hospital on campus, and direct patient care in the hospital or other clinical settings.

Program Length: 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: Associate of Applied Science
Cost per Credit: $336
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

Chamberlain College of Nursing

Chamberlain University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that can be completed online or on-campus. The BSN program is designed to provide individualized instruction and faculty support to help students succeed in their nursing education. As a Chamberlain College of Nursing BSN student, there are opportunities to experience practice settings that include large and small hospitals, community and public-health agencies, military services, and home health environments.

Program Length: 3 years
Tracks/concentrations: Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Cost per Credit: $675
Required Credits to Graduate: 122
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Galen College of Nursing

Galen College of Nursing is one of the largest educators of nurses in the country, graduating over 30,000 students since 1989. The college has a single focus on quality nursing education and provides a good student experience, combining academic rigor, state-of-the-art hands-on learning, and caring, supportive faculty and staff. Galen provides comprehensive advanced coursework, prioritizing practical learning experiences that equip aspiring nurses for success in taking the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

Program Length: 3 years
Tracks/concentrations: Bachelor’s degree in nursing
Cost per Credit: $475
Required Credits to Graduate: 160
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

ECPI University

ECPI University offers an associate degree in nursing (ADN) program that is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and skills to successfully become a Registered Nurse (RN). The program explores legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks, diagnoses, and treatment. The university provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the nursing profession and offers a variety of support services to help students achieve their goals.

Program Length: 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: Associate Degree in Nursing
Cost per Credit: $660
Required Credits to Graduate: 71
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

St. Philip’s College

St. Philip’s College offers a Career Mobility LVN to RN program that allows licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and military medics to earn an associate in applied science (AAS) degree in Nursing. This LVN program in San Antonio provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the nursing profession. The program also focuses on patient safety for graduates to be able to provide safe, compassionate, and focused nursing care to assigned patients with predictable healthcare needs.

Program Length: 1 year
Tracks/concentrations: Vocational Nursing
Cost per Credit: $109
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

2025 List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in San Antonio

Chamberlain College of Nursing

The RN to BSN program at Chamberlain University covers a range of nursing topics and prepares students to take on leadership roles in healthcare settings. The RN to BSN program at Chamberlain University provides a supportive learning environment and offers resources to help students succeed. This includes experienced faculty and student support services.

Program Length: 1 year
Required Credits to Graduate: 45

El Paso Community College

The LVN to RN program at El Paso Community College (EPCC) covers a range of nursing topics and prepares students to take on leadership or management roles in healthcare. The program focuses on professional nursing care, patient teaching, effective communication, and management of patient care.

Program Length: 1 year
Tracks/concentrations: Associate of Applied Science
Cost per Credit: $136
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

Hill College

The Paramedic to RN program at Hill College provides a pathway for paramedics to transition into the nursing profession and earn an associate of applied science (AAS) degree in Nursing. The program is designed to build upon the extensive medical training and experience of paramedics. The program curriculum includes nursing theory courses that cover nursing history, the nursing process, patient care planning, and other relevant topics.

Program Length: 1 year
Tracks/concentrations: Paramedic to RN
Cost per Credit: $133
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Lone Star College

The Paramedic to RN at Lone Star College bridge program includes nursing courses that expand upon the paramedic’s medical training and cover nursing theory, patient care planning, and other relevant topics. The program also includes clinical training experience to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare settings.

Program Length: 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: Paramedic to RN
Cost per Credit: $133
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

San Jacinto College

The LVN/Paramedic to ADN transition program at San Jacinto College covers a range of nursing topics and prepares students to take on leadership roles in healthcare settings. The program is designed to be flexible, technology-driven, and accelerated. This program will equip you to tackle the challenges that come with next-level critical thinking skills, fostering confidence in student learning outcomes.

Program Length: 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: Paramedic to RN
Cost per Credit: $78
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

2025 Best Advanced Nursing Programs in San Antonio

University of Texas

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing maintains a dedicated commitment to furnishing students with the essential knowledge and competencies required to excel in the nursing domain. This UTSA nursing program is designed with flexibility, technology integration, and acceleration in mind. The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is structured to offer in-depth exploration in specific nursing science areas, professional foundations, related sciences, and modes of practice.

Program Length: 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: Masters of Science in Nursing
Cost per Credit: $1,418
Required Credits to Graduate: 48
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Chamberlain College of Nursing

The RN to BSN program at Chamberlain University College of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is available in both traditional and accelerated routes to meet the varying needs of students. The MSN program has several specialty tracks, including Nurse Educator and Healthcare Policy. The college provides a supportive learning environment for its students.

Program Length: 3 years

Note that the cheapest RN to BSN program may not always provide the same level of quality of education or support as some of the more expensive options. Hence, always research and compare tuition and fees and check the quality of the programs to ensure you are making a wise educational investment.

ECPI University

ECPI University offers an associate degree in nursing (ADN) program that is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and skills to successfully become a registered nurse (RN). The university provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the nursing profession and offers a variety of support services to help students achieve their goals.

Program Length: 2 years
Cost per Credit: $660
Required Credits to Graduate: 71

University of the Incarnate Word

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at the University of the Incarnate Word is a comprehensive and advanced nursing education program designed to prepare registered nurses for leadership roles and specialized practice within the healthcare industry.

The online master in nursing program offers a range of specialization tracks that provide students with a focused curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience, allowing them to develop proficiency in their chosen field.

Program Length: 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: Masters of Science in Nursing
Cost per Credit: $450
Required Credits to Graduate: 32
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

How can nurses in San Antonio advance into specialized roles like family nurse practitioners?

Nurses in San Antonio can elevate their careers by pursuing specialized certification programs focused on advanced practice, with a particular emphasis on the family nurse practitioner (FNP) role. Academic pathways offer rigorous coursework combined with hands-on clinical training designed to build expertise in patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration. Accredited programs integrate state-of-the-art simulation, real-world clinical partnerships, and flexible class schedules that accommodate working professionals. Graduates are well-prepared to meet state licensure and national certification standards, ultimately enhancing career growth opportunities. For an accessible and affordable educational route, explore online FNP programs.

Are RN to NP combined programs the right pathway for career advancement?

For registered nurses seeking rapid progression into advanced practice, combined bridge programs offer an integrated curriculum that focuses on clinical excellence, leadership in patient care, and the application of evidence-based methodologies. These programs consolidate core nursing principles with advanced specialized training, enabling a smooth transition from RN roles into nurse practitioner responsibilities. By optimizing both academic rigor and hands-on clinical experience, such pathways can effectively prepare candidates for emerging healthcare challenges and complex patient scenarios. For further information on structured bridge curricula, please review RN to NP combined programs.

What career support services are available for nursing graduates in San Antonio?

Accredited nursing programs in San Antonio often extend comprehensive career support services to facilitate a seamless transition from academic study to professional practice. These services include resume and interview workshops, personalized career counseling, and structured job placement programs in collaboration with local hospitals, clinics, and specialized healthcare centers. Networking events, career fairs, and mentorship initiatives further enhance graduates’ opportunities in the competitive healthcare industry. Additionally, some institutions offer guidance on cost-effective options for advanced certification, such as exploring the cheapest nurse practitioner program to boost eligibility for specialized roles.

What advantages do DNP accelerated programs offer for nursing career advancement?

DNP accelerated programs provide a condensed yet comprehensive pathway for experienced nurses aiming for leadership and advanced clinical roles. These programs integrate rigorous coursework, enhanced clinical simulations, and focused research practice into an expedited curriculum while ensuring adherence to accreditation standards. By streamlining the educational process, candidates can quickly transition into roles that demand higher clinical decision-making skills and advanced practice competencies. For detailed program insights and curriculum comparisons, refer to DNP accelerated programs.

How can nurses in San Antonio engage in continuing education and professional development opportunities?

Nurses in San Antonio have access to numerous continuing education and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest advancements in healthcare. Continuing education is essential for career growth, improving patient outcomes, and meeting licensure requirements.

Workshops and Seminars: Nurses can attend workshops and seminars offered by local hospitals and healthcare organizations, such as Methodist Healthcare or University Health System. These events provide insights into specialized areas like geriatric care, mental health, and critical care nursing.
Online Courses: Various online platforms, including nursing organizations and universities, offer accredited continuing education units (CEUs) that nurses can complete remotely. Programs like RN-to-BSN and MSN often include advanced nursing theory and leadership training, available through institutions like the University of Texas Health Science Center.
Certification Programs: San Antonio nurses can pursue specialty certifications in areas like pediatric care, critical care nursing, and oncology through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Certifications provide recognition of expertise and can lead to career advancement.
Networking and Professional Associations: Nurses in San Antonio can join professional organizations like the Texas Nurses Association (TNA) or the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). These associations offer networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to exclusive educational resources.
Conferences: Attending regional and national nursing conferences allows nurses to learn about the latest research, best practices, and innovations in healthcare. Local conferences often focus on issues relevant to Texas healthcare, such as rural nursing and multicultural patient care.

What are the job placement rates and career outcomes for nursing graduates in San Antonio?

Job placement rates and career outcomes in the region are a key indicator of program quality. Many programs forge strong partnerships with local healthcare facilities, ensuring that graduates gain valuable clinical experiences and have access to targeted career support services. These collaborations often translate into competitive starting salaries and accelerated advancement opportunities within San Antonio’s diverse healthcare environment. Prospective students can review institutional success metrics and alumni employment data to gauge how effectively a program transitions its graduates into the workforce, including options like RN to BSN in 6 months online for rapid career progression.

What flexible learning options are available for nursing students in San Antonio?

For students balancing multiple responsibilities, flexible learning options make it easier to pursue a nursing degree. In San Antonio, many nursing programs offer part-time schedules, evening classes, and hybrid learning formats, allowing students to tailor their education to their personal lives.

Here are some options:

Part-Time and Evening Classes: Ideal for students working full-time or with family obligations.

Hybrid Learning Formats: A mix of online and on-campus classes for increased convenience.

Career-Changer Programs: Online RN programs for non nurses offer accessible pathways for those entering nursing from other fields.

Online Nursing Programs and Admission Tips for San Antonio Students

Online nursing programs offer a convenient pathway for San Antonio students striving to balance education with professional or personal commitments. Accredited online nursing programs, ranging from BSN to MSN degrees, are available from recognized institutions across Texas and beyond. These programs are designed to provide quality education that mirrors traditional classroom settings while offering the flexibility of remote learning.

When selecting an online nursing program, prospective students should prioritize accreditation through entities like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This not only ensures academic quality but also facilitates eligibility for state licensure. Additionally, aspiring nurses seeking Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs can explore various options with differing levels of competitiveness. For students concerned about admissions challenges, research the easiest MSN programs to get into for streamlined pathways to advancing their nursing credentials.

Lastly, some online programs incorporate clinical practice requirements conducted at local healthcare facilities in San Antonio. This allows students to gain hands-on experience while benefiting from the flexibility of online coursework. Students are encouraged to thoroughly review program prerequisites, tuition costs, and required clinical hours to make informed decisions that align with their career aspirations.

What are the tuition costs and financial aid options for nursing programs in San Antonio?

Prospective students must assess the varying tuition fees and additional expenses associated with each program. Institutions in San Antonio offer structured financial aid packages including federal and state grants, scholarships, and flexible loan options to alleviate the burden of educational costs. Applicants should explore resources available from each school’s financial aid office to determine eligibility, application deadlines, and tailored tuition reduction plans. In addition, certain institutions provide accelerated pathways that combine rigorous coursework with cost-effective measures; for instance, some candidates opt for online accelerated BSN programs to fast-track their careers while managing expenses. Conducting a detailed cost-benefit analysis can empower students to make informed decisions and strategically plan their academic investments.

What specialized nursing tracks can further advance my career in San Antonio?

San Antonio’s dynamic healthcare environment offers specialized nursing tracks that address evolving patient needs and emerging industry trends. Advanced clinical pathways, such as psychiatric mental health nursing, empower professionals to engage in targeted training areas like trauma management and crisis intervention. These programs integrate rigorous clinical experiences with innovative research, preparing graduates to excel in settings that demand expertise in mental health care. For those interested in focused opportunities, consider reviewing cheapest PMHNP programs online to enhance qualifications and meet specialized workforce demands.

Best Nursing Schools in San Antonio, TX

San Antonio, Texas stands as a thriving hub for nursing education and professional growth. The diverse range of nursing programs in San Antonio provide aspiring nurses with ample opportunities to pursue their education and embark on a rewarding career path. There are LVN programs in San Antonio that are available, including BSN to DNP programs. As the demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to rise, the nursing field in San Antonio remains a dynamic and essential component of the healthcare landscape.

Amid the looming shortage of nurses in Texas, the unwavering dedication and expertise of healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of individuals and communities. By choosing to embark on a nursing career in San Antonio, individuals are not only investing in their own future but also making a meaningful contribution to the health and wellness of society as a whole.

Key Insights

High Demand for Nurses: The demand for nurses in San Antonio and across Texas is high due to an aging population and an increase in chronic illnesses. By 2032, Texas is expected to experience a nursing shortage, making it an opportune time to pursue a nursing career.
Competitive Salaries: Registered nurses in San Antonio earn competitive salaries, with an average salary of $100,071 as of August 2023. This makes nursing a financially rewarding profession in the region.
Diverse Educational Opportunities: San Antonio offers a variety of nursing programs, including LVN to RN, ADN, BSN, and MSN, through community colleges, state universities, and private institutions. These programs are available in both online and on-campus formats, providing flexibility for students.
Strong Support for Advanced Practice Nurses: The projected supply of nurse practitioners (NPs) and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) is expected to surpass demand by 2032, indicating robust support and opportunities for advanced practice nurses in Texas.
High NCLEX Pass Rates: Many nursing programs in San Antonio have high NCLEX-RN pass rates, indicating strong educational quality and student support.
Affordable Cost of Living: The cost of living in San Antonio is just 2% higher than the national average, allowing nurses to live comfortably while earning competitive wages.
Comprehensive Healthcare Facilities: San Antonio is home to numerous hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, providing a wide range of employment opportunities for nursing graduates.

FAQ

What types of nursing programs are available in San Antonio, Texas? San Antonio offers a variety of nursing programs, including Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to Registered Nurse (RN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). These programs are available through community colleges, state universities, and private institutions.
What is the average salary for registered nurses in San Antonio? As of August 2023, the average salary for registered nurses in San Antonio is $100,071. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and specific roles within the nursing field.
Are there online nursing programs available in San Antonio? Yes, many nursing schools in San Antonio offer online or hybrid programs. These include online RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, providing flexibility for students who may be working while completing their education.
Why should I consider becoming a nurse in San Antonio? San Antonio offers a high demand for nurses, competitive salaries, a low cost of living, and numerous educational opportunities. The city's strong healthcare infrastructure and diverse employment opportunities make it an attractive place to pursue a nursing career.
What are the benefits of pursuing an advanced nursing degree in San Antonio? Advanced nursing degrees, such as MSN and DNP, provide opportunities for career advancement, higher salaries, and specialized roles in healthcare. San Antonio offers several advanced nursing programs with various specializations, allowing nurses to focus on their areas of interest and expertise.
What is the NCLEX pass rate for nursing programs in San Antonio? Many nursing programs in San Antonio have high NCLEX-RN pass rates. For instance, some programs have pass rates ranging from 97.25% to 98.27%, indicating strong educational quality and student support.
What bridge programs are available for nurses in San Antonio? San Antonio offers several bridge programs, including RN-to-BSN, LVN-to-RN, and Paramedic-to-RN programs. These programs provide pathways for nurses to advance their education and careers more quickly than traditional routes.
What is the cost of living in San Antonio for nurses? The cost of living in San Antonio is slightly above the national average by about 2%. This affordability, combined with competitive nursing salaries, allows nurses to live comfortably in the city.
What are the employment opportunities for nurses in San Antonio? San Antonio has a robust healthcare industry with numerous hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and specialty centers. This provides a wide range of employment opportunities for nursing graduates at various levels of education and specialization.
How does the nursing shortage in Texas affect job opportunities in San Antonio? The projected nursing shortage in Texas, expected by 2032, increases job security and opportunities for nurses in San Antonio. The high demand for nursing professionals ensures that graduates from nursing programs in the city have numerous job openings to choose from.