Nursing Schools in Austin, TX
Austin's booming population and expanding healthcare sector have made nursing one of the most in-demand careers in Central Texas. Major hospital systems including St. David's HealthCare, Ascension Seton, and Baylor Scott and White Health actively recruit nurses across the Austin metro area.
Top Nursing Schools in Austin
The University of Texas at Austin
UT Austin's School of Nursing offers BSN, MSN, PhD, and DNP programs. The school is CCNE-accredited and consistently ranked among the top nursing programs in Texas. The BSN program includes extensive clinical training at Austin-area hospitals.
Austin Community College
ACC offers an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that provides an affordable, fast pathway to RN licensure. The program is highly competitive and maintains strong NCLEX-RN pass rates.
Texas State University
Located in nearby San Marcos, Texas State's Nursing Department offers BSN and MSN programs. The program draws students from across the Austin-San Marcos corridor and has excellent clinical partnerships in the region.
Concordia University Texas
Concordia offers an accelerated BSN program designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree, as well as a traditional BSN pathway for new students.
Types of Nursing Programs in Austin
- ADN: 2-year RN pathway, available at ACC and other community colleges
- BSN: 4-year degree preferred by major health systems
- RN-to-BSN: Online and hybrid options for working RNs
- MSN: Nurse practitioner, CNS, and nursing leadership tracks
- DNP: Terminal degree for advanced practice nurses
Nursing Salaries in Austin
RNs in the Austin area earn an average of $75,000 to $95,000 annually. Nurse practitioners and advanced practice nurses can earn significantly more. Austin's strong economy and lower cost of living (relative to other major metros) make it an attractive destination for nursing professionals.
How to Choose a Nursing School in Austin
- Check ACEN or CCNE accreditation status
- Review NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates
- Compare program costs and financial aid options
- Evaluate clinical training sites and hospital affiliations
Begin Your Nursing Journey in Austin
Austin's robust healthcare market, excellent nursing schools, and high quality of life make it one of Texas's best cities for aspiring nurses. Start by researching accredited programs, attending information sessions, and applying to programs that align with your career goals.







