[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With more than 250,000 nurses, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Texas is ranked second in the nation in total nurse employment.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At the same time, like much of the rest of the country, Texas is experiencing a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/the-us-nursing-shortage-state-by-state-breakdown/”]serious statewide nurse shortage[/hen-ui-link]. In fact, Texas has the fifth-worst ratio of nurse employment compared to the national average, BLS data shows.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This is a sobering reality for healthcare providers in the Lone Star State, but it might also translate to plentiful opportunities for nurses in all stages of their careers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you are interested in learning [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/how-to-become-a-rn/”]how to become a registered nurse (RN)[/hen-ui-link] in Texas, follow this step-by-step resource for everything you need to know, including how to prepare for and select the best education program for you, apply for your nursing license, and pursue your dream career.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-center”]Degree RequiredADN or BSN[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-center”]License RequiredRN[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-center”]Average Annual Salary[hen-ui-link href=”https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/home” target=”_blank”]$90,210[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Become a Nurse in Texas[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Becoming a nurse in Texas begins with choosing an educational path. For example, future nursing professionals may decide to become [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/lpn-lvn/”]licensed practical nurses (LPNs)[/hen-ui-link] for a faster and more affordable route into nursing when compared with RNs. LPN programs can take just 15-18 months to complete.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]LPNs can later apply for bridge programs, such as [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/best-online-lpn-to-rn-programs/”]LPN-to-RN programs,[/hen-ui-link] designed to smooth their transition to RN status.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/”]associate degree in nursing (ADN)[/hen-ui-link] or a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-link] from an accredited nursing school is another avenue toward a fulfilling nursing career, as either degree leads to RN licensure if successfully completed. Getting licensed as a nurse also requires [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/things-to-know-about-the-nclex-exam/”]passing nursing board exams[/hen-ui-link], background checks, and staying on top of continuing education requirements.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Apply to an ADN or a BSN Degree Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]ADN and BSN nursing programs typically require a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0, particularly in science and math courses, and standardized test scores. An essay, letters of recommendation, an interview, and a background check are also common requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An ADN degree takes approximately two years, while a BSN program takes about four years.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam to Receive RN Licensure[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After graduation, nursing students take the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/guide/”]National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN)[/hen-ui-link] to obtain licensure as a nurse. Students must apply to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bon.texas.gov/” target=”_blank”]Texas Board of Nursing [/hen-ui-link](BON) for authorization to take the exam.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Once the BON confirms your degree, you must ensure you’ve fulfilled all other requirements and then pay all applicable fees. Once passing the board exam, you will receive your nursing license.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Apply for Jobs at Local Hospitals[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to a [hen-ui-link href=”https://comptroller.texas.gov/economy/fiscal-notes/archive/2022/apr/nursing.php” target=”_blank”]2022 Texas economy review[/hen-ui-link], 41.1% of nurses work in hospitals. New graduate nurses can choose hospital positions based on the facility itself and the kind of position, benefits, and job requirements they offer.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most hospitals use online portals for applicants. Expect to submit your resume, a cover letter, license information, and references online.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Advance Your Career With a Graduate Degree or Certification[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As you gain experience, increase your career options by seeking advanced degrees and certifications. A [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing (MSN)[/hen-ui-link] or [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/”]doctor of nursing practice (DNP)[/hen-ui-link] prepares you to become an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]advanced practice registered nurse (APRN)[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With either an MSN or APRN degree, nurses can become a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/”]nurse practitioner (NP)[/hen-ui-link]. According to ZipRecruiter, Texas NPs reported an average annual salary of $118,198, while the national average for NPs, according to BLS, is $128,490.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The APRN degree can lead to even more specialized and lucrative careers, such as [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-midwife/”]nurse-midwife[/hen-ui-link] or [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-anesthetist/”]certified registered nurse anesthetist[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]NPs in Texas have [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/np-practice-authority-by-state/”]restricted practice authority[/hen-ui-link], which essentially means that NPs must work in collaboration or under the supervision of a medical doctor. Check with the BON for more details or updates.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Maintain and Renew Licensure and Certifications.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Texas nurses renew their licenses every two years. Renewal requires 20 [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nurses-continuing-education-guide/”]nurse continuing education (CE) [/hen-ui-link]hours.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Texas Board of Nursing[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The Texas BON is committed to ensuring that licensed nurses in Texas are competent and prepared to provide safe, high-quality care. The board is responsible for licensing nurses at all levels; approving nurse education programs and nursing schools in Texas; and enforcing rules, regulations, and standards of practice related to nursing and nursing education.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Get Your Nursing License in Texas[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]All nurses seeking to work in Texas must pass the BON [hen-ui-link href=”https://bhec.texas.gov/texas-state-board-of-examiners-of-psychologists/jurisprudence-examination/” target=”_blank”]jurisprudence exam[/hen-ui-link]. New nurses must pass this exam before taking the national NCLEX-RN exam. Texas also maintains strict eligibility requirements; all nurses must submit fingerprints and pass background checks.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Licensure for New Nurses [/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Texas defines a new nurse as anyone who has not previously held an RN license. Individuals who have recently completed a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/types-of-nursing-degrees/”]nursing degree[/hen-ui-link] and have not yet taken the NCLEX-RN exam fall into this category. Getting a license to practice involves completing the Texas Board of Nursing requirements, which are detailed below.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]RN Licensure Eligibility Requirements[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To be licensed as an RN in Texas, you must earn an ADN, or BSN. LVN-to-BSN bridge programs in Texas are accepted.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Steps to Apply for an RN License[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The Texas RN licensing process begins while you are still in nursing school and is done online. The only exception is if you answer “yes” to any of the questions related to your criminal background that could affect license eligibility. In that case, you might need to submit a paper application.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”number”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At least 30 days before graduation, submit an [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bon.texas.gov/texasnurseportal/” target=”_blank”]online examination application[/hen-ui-link] in the Texas Nurse Portal for authorization to take the NCLEX-RN.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Submit the application for fingerprinting and a background check and an application to take the Texas nursing jurisprudence exam.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Register [hen-ui-link href=”https://portal.ncsbn.org/” target=”_blank”]with Pearson Vue[/hen-ui-link] to take the NCLEX-RN exam. You cannot take the exam until the BON grants authorization to test (ATT). ATT is granted once your nursing school submits a graduation affidavit and you pass the nursing jurisprudence exam. You may take the jurisprudence exam 15 days after you register.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Take the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/guide/”]NCLEX-RN exam[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Upon passing the exam, you will be granted a certificate and may complete an online verification to receive proof of licensure.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]All fees are paid when you submit your online applications. License processing time currently takes 15-20 days once all paperwork and exams are complete.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Licensure for Nurses From a Different State[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses who have a license from a different state can practice in Texas once they meet the BON requirements. Provided that you have an active license and have passed your nursing exams, you can practice nursing in your new home within a few weeks. Follow the steps below to get your Texas RN license.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Steps to Apply for an RN License[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you have an RN license from another state, you can practice in Texas without having to obtain an additional license. Texas is a member of the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nursing-compact-states/”]Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC)[/hen-ui-link], meaning that if you have a license from another eNLC state, you can practice in Texas with compact privilege. However, eNLC nurses must still overview the Texas Nursing Practice Act to uphold current safety laws in Texas.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Those without a multistate license can still practice in Texas by earning [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bon.texas.gov/licensure_endorsement.asp.html” target=”_blank”]licensure through endorsement[/hen-ui-link]. Out-of-state nurses who have a degree from an approved nursing program, passed the NCLEX-RN, and worked in nursing within the previous four years are eligible.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”number”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Complete the nurse endorsement online application found on the Texas Nurse Portal on the BON website. This includes an authorization for fingerprinting and a background check.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Take and pass the nursing jurisprudence exam.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Submit licensure verification for all other states where you hold or have ever held a nursing license. Some states use Nursys. If your state does not use Nursys, you may request verification from your state licensing board using the BON verification licensure form.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bon.texas.gov/licensure_renewal.asp.html” target=”_blank”]Texas nurses renew their licensure [/hen-ui-link]every two years and must complete 20 contact hours of CE.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in Texas[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to ZipRecruiter, the annual mean wage for nurses in Texas is $83,839, while the national average, according to BLS, is $80,010.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job opportunities for nurses in Texas are expected to increase. [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.dshs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/chs/cnws/WorkforceReports/SupplyDemand.pdf” target=”_blank”]Nurse supply and demand projections between 2015 and 2030[/hen-ui-link] show an increase of 57%.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The highest-paying metro areas for Texas nurses are listed in the chart below. Perhaps not coincidentally, many of the state’s best hospitals are also located in these areas.[/hen-ui-text]

[hen-ui-table][hen-ui-table-caption]Texas’s Top 5 Paying Metropolitan Areas[/hen-ui-table-caption][hen-ui-table-header][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Rank[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Metropolitan Area[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Mean Annual Salary [/hen-ui-table-head][/hen-ui-table-row][/hen-ui-table-header][hen-ui-table-body][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Rank”]1[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Metropolitan Area”]Austin-Round Rock, TX[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Mean Annual Salary”]$95,150[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Rank”]2[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Metropolitan Area”]Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Mean Annual Salary”]$94,390[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Rank”]3[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Metropolitan Area”]Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Mean Annual Salary”]$94,240[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Rank”]4[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Metropolitan Area”]San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Mean Annual Salary”]$88,880[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Rank”]5[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Metropolitan Area”]Midland, TX[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Mean Annual Salary”]$86,400[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][/hen-ui-table-body][/hen-ui-table]

[hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ class=”not-prose pt-12 border-b-2 border-tertiary-100 pb-6″]Best Hospitals to Work at in Texas[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Every year, [hen-ui-link href=”https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/tx” target=”_blank”]U.S. News & World Report [/hen-ui-link]ranks hospitals nationwide based on their delivery of high-quality general and specialty healthcare. Factors that go into ranking include patient outcomes and experiences, the number of patients treated, nursing staff, and transparency.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We pulled the top five best Texas hospitals to determine the best places for nurses to work in Texas. All of these hospitals offer exceptional opportunities for nurses in terms of work environment and opportunities for growth.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]1. Houston Methodist Hospital[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Houston Methodist Hospital is one of the nation’s best in terms of patient safety and is nationally ranked in more than 11 specialties, including cancer care and cardiology. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) awarded the facility with Magnet accreditation as a testament to its quality of nursing care.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]2. [hen-ui-link href=”https://utsouthwestern.edu/” target=”_blank”]UT Southwestern Medical Center[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]UT Southwestern is nationally recognized in 17 specialty areas such as cardiology and neurology. With more than 3,400 nurses on staff, the hospital has achieved ANCC Magnet status in recognition of its excellent care and exceptional work environment.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]3. Baylor University Medical Center[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nationally ranked for gastroenterology and gynecology, this Dallas hospital is an ANCC Magnet hospital. Nurses here report high job satisfaction and autonomy in their practice.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]4. [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.stlukeshealth.org/” target=”_blank”]Baylor St. Lukes Medical Center[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]One of the nations top hospitals for cancer and cardiac care, Baylor St. Lukes is also an ANCC Magnet hospital for its first-rate nursing care. Nurses are encouraged to grow their careers here with nurse leadership opportunities, while recent graduates can apply to the nurse residency program.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]5. [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.memorialhermann.org/” target=”_blank”]Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The teaching hospital for the University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Memorial Hermann is a level 1 trauma center and recognized for excellence in several practice areas. It is also an ANCC Magnet hospital. Nurses receive quality support and benefit from opportunities for professional growth and development.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Resources for Nurses in Texas[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.texasnurses.org/” target=”_blank”]Texas Nurses Association[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The largest and oldest nursing association in Texas, the TNA advocates for the advancement of the nursing profession. As part of the American Nurses Association, it is not a union or regulatory agency but rather a voice for nurses in Texas. Membership is open to licensed RNs. Benefits include opportunities to serve on committees, CNE courses, discounts, and a job board.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bon.texas.gov/catalog/” target=”_blank”]Texas Board of Nursing CNE Course Catalog[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The BON offers a selection of workshops, all approved for CNE credit toward license renewal. Many of the workshops are self-paced, although some are delivered via online webinars. The BON also offers a prep course for the required nursing jurisprudence exam. This course does not award CNE or apply toward license renewal.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.texasnurses.org/mpage/TPAPN” target=”_blank”]Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This program supports nurses with mental health or substance misuse disorders, allowing nurses to get the help they might need. Through the peer assistance program, nurses can continue practicing safely through early identification, support, accountability, and advocacy. The program helps develop a treatment plan, which includes peer support from a volunteer advocate.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.texasnp.org/” target=”_blank”]Texas Nurse Practitioners[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]TNP is devoted to advancing, supporting, and promoting NP roles and high-quality healthcare throughout the state of Texas. Membership is open to NPs and offers access to advocacy opportunities, continuing education resources, career services, practice resources, discounts, and networking opportunities.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Become a Nurse in Texas: Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How much is an RN paid in Texas?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to federal statistics, RNs in Texas make an average annual salary of [hen-ui-link href=”https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/home” target=”_blank”]$90,210[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does it take to become an RN in Texas?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The path to a Texas nursing license depends on the degree a student seeks. Future nurses can earn an ASN degree in two years or a BSN in four years. Both programs incorporate clinical work experience. Students can take the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/things-to-know-about-the-nclex-exam/”]NCLEX exam[/hen-ui-link] in the last two months of their nursing program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the fastest way to become an RN in Texas?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/”]associate degree in nursing (ADN)[/hen-ui-link], a two-year program that prepares students for a career in nursing is the fastest way to become an RN in Texas.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is Texas a good place for nurses?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas ranks second in overall employment of nurses and has a relatively [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nursing-salaries-by-state/”]low cost of living[/hen-ui-link]. The national demand for nurses is projected to increase by 6% by 2033—faster than the national average for all occupations.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]