What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Texas?

Nursing educators operating in Texas must have a relevant and accredited nursing undergraduate degree. Both ADNs and BSNs are eligible because what's more important is the RN license. To work as an educator though, you also need a graduate degree – a master's (MSN) with an education major or path, or an education doctorate (PhD, DNP, EdD).

2026 Best Nurse Educator Programs in Texas

Nurse educators play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare, and Texas offers some of the most dynamic and comprehensive nursing education programs in the country. At nurseeducator.com, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the top nurse educator programs across the Lone Star State, considering factors like faculty expertise, clinical training opportunities, research capabilities, and student success rates. Our comprehensive analysis highlights institutions that stand out for their innovative curriculum, cutting-edge simulation labs, and commitment to preparing the next generation of nursing professionals. These programs not only provide exceptional academic training but also equip students with the skills needed to excel in complex healthcare environments. For a detailed breakdown of our ranking methodology, please visit https://www.nurseeducator.com/rankings-methodology/.
#1

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, TX - Private 4-year - tcu.edu

Graduate Certificate - Nurse Education Post-Graduate Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

TCU's Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Education provides a specialized pathway for nurses aspiring to transition into educational roles. Delivered through a flexible hybrid format, this comprehensive program centers on the scholarship of teaching, discovery, and professional integration. Participants gain advanced pedagogical skills essential for effective nursing education across academic and clinical settings. The curriculum is strategically crafted to equip nurses with the competencies needed to educate, mentor, and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals. By emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application, the program prepares graduates to become influential educators who can meaningfully contribute to nursing education's evolving landscape.

  • Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Education
  • Focus on teaching, discovery, application, integration
  • Prepares nurses for educational roles
  • Ideal for shaping future nursing professionals
  • Skills for academic and clinical education

Doctorate - DNP-to-Ph.D. in Nursing

Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's DNP-to-PhD in Nursing Bridge Program is a pioneering educational pathway designed to cultivate exceptional nurse educators. Targeting advanced practice nurses seeking leadership roles, this hybrid program strategically addresses nationwide nursing faculty shortages. With a concentrated focus on the Nurse Educator track, students develop sophisticated skills in curriculum design, healthcare policy influence, and research-driven innovation. The program distinguishes itself by emphasizing cultural competency, evidence-based practice, and preparing professionals to mentor future nursing generations. Graduates emerge as transformative leaders capable of reshaping nursing education and driving meaningful healthcare improvements across academic and clinical environments.

  • DNP-to-PhD bridge program
  • Addresses nursing faculty shortage
  • Develops nursing education leaders
  • Focuses on curriculum development
  • Emphasizes cultural competency
  • Prepares policy change advocates
  • Advances evidence-based practice
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX - Public 4-Year - utexas.edu

Graduate Certificate - Teaching Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Austin's Teaching Nursing Certificate Program offers a transformative pathway for nursing professionals seeking to elevate their academic careers. Strategically designed as a hybrid program, it equips nurses with advanced pedagogical skills essential for effective nursing education. The curriculum emphasizes innovative teaching methodologies, preparing graduates to excel in academic settings and training future healthcare professionals. Ideal for working nurses, the program provides flexibility and comprehensive training in educational strategies specific to nursing instruction. Military-friendly and featuring a campus hospital, the program stands out for its commitment to developing skilled nursing educators who can make significant contributions to healthcare education.

  • Focus on teaching pedagogy.
  • Designed for academic careers.
  • Enhances teaching skills.
  • For nurses seeking advancement.
  • Prepares for nursing education roles.
#3

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX - Public 4-Year - utrgv.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Education

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's hybrid MSN Nursing Education program offers a transformative educational pathway for registered nurses. Targeting professionals with a BSN, the curriculum demands a competitive 3.0 undergraduate GPA and an active nursing license. Students engage in comprehensive coursework focused on advanced teaching methodologies, professional development, and innovative educational strategies. The program uniquely prepares nurses to become effective educators in academic and clinical settings, emphasizing research-driven instruction and mentorship skills. Clinical practitioners will appreciate the program's flexible hybrid format and robust preparation for leadership roles in nursing education.

  • BSN required for admission
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • Requires undergraduate statistics course
  • Criminal background check mandatory
  • Immunization compliance required
  • Short essay part of application
  • Available at Brownsville/Edinburg campuses

Doctorate - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nursing Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

UTRGV's fully online Master of Science in Nursing Education represents a progressive approach to developing nurse educators. Tailored for BSN-prepared registered nurses, this program offers an immersive digital learning experience that cultivates advanced teaching competencies. Students explore sophisticated instructional strategies, learning theories, and assessment techniques designed to prepare next-generation nursing educators. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based educational design and leadership development, enabling graduates to excel in diverse healthcare training environments. With a focus on creating impactful clinical educators, this program provides a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking to transition into educational leadership roles.

  • 100% Online Program
  • Designed for BSN-prepared RNs
  • Leadership in Teaching Focus
  • Diverse Learning Environments
  • Patient and Clinical Educator Preparation
  • Evidence-Based Educational Design
  • Currently Applications on Hold
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX - Public 4-Year - utep.edu

Master's - M.S.N. Nursing Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Texas at El Paso's MSN in Nursing Education is a comprehensive online program designed for professional nurses seeking to become innovative educators. Spanning two years with 33 total credits, the curriculum uniquely blends advanced nursing practices with cutting-edge educational strategies. Students engage in simulation pedagogy, interprofessional communication training, and evidence-based pedagogical approaches. The program prepares nurses for transformative roles in academic and clinical settings, offering mentored clinical experiences and national certification eligibility. With a 3.0 GPA requirement and prerequisite BS in Nursing, the program demands academic rigor while providing maximum flexibility through full online delivery.

  • Online program delivery
  • 33 total required credits
  • Fully online learning format
  • GPA requirement: 3.0
  • RN license required
  • BS in Nursing prerequisite
  • Two-year program completion
  • Simulation pedagogy focus
  • Mentored clinical experiences
  • National certification eligible

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

UTEP's Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education provides specialized training for MSN-prepared nurses aiming to advance their educational capabilities. This 12-credit online program focuses intensively on curriculum development, learning assessment strategies, and effective teaching methodologies. Designed for nurses seeking leadership roles in educational settings, the certificate requires a valid RN license, current resume, and goal statement. Participants must maintain a B or higher grade across four courses, ensuring high-quality skill development. The program equips nurses with advanced competencies for teaching in nursing schools and leading staff development initiatives, emphasizing mentored experiences and professional growth.

  • Online program format
  • 12 credit hours required
  • Focus on teaching competencies
  • Curriculum development emphasis
  • Learning assessment strategies
  • Requires valid RN license
  • MSN degree prerequisite
  • Current resume needed
  • Goal statement required
  • Grade of B or better
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Lubbock Christian University

Lubbock, TX - Private 4-year - lcu.edu

Master's - Nursing Education and Leadership

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Lubbock Christian University's MSN in Nursing Education and Leadership provides a dynamic 35-credit hybrid program targeting working nurses seeking advanced professional development. Students benefit from a flexible curriculum accommodating busy healthcare professionals, with multiple annual start dates and a 1.5-2 year completion timeline. The program uniquely integrates global health experiences and leadership training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for diverse educational and administrative roles. Requiring a BSN, RN licensure, and minimum 3.0 GPA, the program boasts impressive outcomes including 100% employment rates and comprehensive practical skill development.

  • 35 credit hour program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 1.5-2 year completion time
  • Multiple start dates annually
  • 100% employment upon graduation
  • BSN required for admission
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • RN licensure mandatory
  • Global health experiences included
  • Practicum and leadership focus

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice Education and Leadership Track

Concentration: Education and Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

Lubbock Christian University's DNP Education and Leadership Track offers a comprehensive 36-credit online program designed for post-master's nurses seeking advanced educational and leadership roles. Over two years, students develop sophisticated skills in curriculum design, healthcare technology, and evidence-based practice. The program requires 1000 practicum hours and prepares graduates for influential positions like nurse educator and healthcare administrator. With a focus on scholarly research and innovative patient care strategies, participants gain expertise in transforming healthcare education and leadership, supported by competitive tuition at $1,130 per credit hour and potential financial aid opportunities.

  • 36 credit hours
  • 2-year online program
  • $1,130 per credit hour
  • August start date
  • Post-MSN clinical track
  • Education and leadership focus
  • 1000 practicum hours required
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Federal financial aid available
  • Scholarships offered
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

Texas has a small number of Nurse Educator programs, and most are available online, such as the one at the University of Texas at Arlington. Students will learn diagnostics and treatment, procedure, law and ethics, and assessment.

Entry requirements are:

  • Accredited Associate's Degree
  • Unencumbered RN license which is in date
  • Criminal background check
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Non-native English speakers must demonstrate relevant language proficiency

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

There is a range of online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator programs in Texas, including several hybrid options. One great online BSN to MSN program is the one at the University of Texas at Tyler. Students learn a range of clinical skills for teaching, but also administrative work such as assessment and curriculum, and policy and legal issues.

  • A regionally accredited BSN
  • Send transcripts with your application if requested
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on the 4.0 scale
  • Unencumbered RN license (copy)
  • Reference letters may be required – often a minimum of one academic and one employer reference
  • Non-native English speakers must provide English certification

Online Doctorate Nurse Educator Programs: DNP, Ph.D., or Ed.D.

There are three doctorate programs for nursing education to choose from. A Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) for practicing doctors, a Doctorate of Nursing Philosophy (PhD) for doctors of research, and a Doctorate of Education (EdD) for those who wish to teach in the nursing field.

The admission requirements for applying to a doctorate program in nursing education are similar to the requirements for other nursing education programs, except that you will need to possess a master's degree before you begin.

The University of Texas at Arlington has a well-known PhD program in nursing worth looking into, as well as the University of Texas at Tyler's DNP program.

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Texas

Texas-based nursing educators must continue to uphold all required licensure standards even if their role is education and they will not work in practice.

You should also consider applying for the CNE (Certificate of Nursing Educator). Certification is not mandatory; however, you may find employers seek it as a matter of course. You have three types to choose from:

  • CNE is for academic teachers
  • CNEcl is for professional training (clinical teaching other clinical workers)
  • CNEn is for novices of the CNE and CNEcl with under three years of experience in either field

Certification requires holders to maintain the criteria required at the time of initial certification to continue to remain eligible.

RN licensing in Texas costs $100 for license by examination and $200 to enter the exam. License by endorsement is $186. CNE costs the same no matter where you are: this is $400 for NLN members and $500 for non-members.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Texas?

What career paths might you follow once graduated, are licensed, and certified?

  • Academic: Teaching in colleges and universities, educating undergraduates and graduate students in nursing
  • Professional training: Working from medical facilities, you'll provide ongoing training to clinicians (often a requirement of licensure)
  • Private training provider: You may train clinicians, but you're more likely to train support staff who need some clinical knowledge such as admin, help desks, and sales
  • Charity: Educators may train aid workers, but also grant applicants who need an understanding of health issues
  • Public health nurse: Education skills are also required for the general public or special interest groups seeking health advice and care for new diagnoses

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Texas

Ready to find an online or campus-based nurse educator degree program in Texas? Explore our listings to find the perfect program that matches your academic goals and career aspirations.

Abilene, TX

MSN Programs
2149 Hickory St
Abilene, TX 79601
(325) 671-2399

Arlington, TX

701 S Nedderman Dr
Arlington, TX 76019
(817) 272-2011

Beaumont, TX

JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing
4400 S M L King Jr Pkwy
Beaumont, TX 77705
(409) 880-7011

Canyon, TX

MSN Programs
2501 4th Ave
Canyon, TX 79016
(806) 651-0000

College Station, TX

MSN Programs
400 Bizzell St
College Station, TX 77843
(979) 845-3211

Corpus Christi, TX

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
6300 Ocean Drive, Unit 5774
Corpus Christi, TX 78412
(361) 825-2753

Denton, TX

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
304 Administration Dr.
Denton, TX 76204
(940) 898-2000

Edinburg, TX

MSN Programs
1201 W University Dr
Edinburg, TX 78539
(888) 882-4026

El Paso, TX

MSN Programs
500 West University Avenue
El Paso, TX 79968
(915) 747-5000

Fort Worth, TX

2800 S University Dr
Fort Worth, TX 76129
(817) 257-7000

Galveston, TX

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
301 University Blvd
Galveston, TX 77555
(409) 772-1011

Houston, TX

6901 Bertner
Houston, TX 77030
(713) 500-2000

Lubbock, TX

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
3601 4th St.
Lubbock, TX 79430
(806) 743-2730

Prairie View, TX

MSN Programs
P.O. Box 519
Prairie View, TX 77446
(936) 261-3311

San Angelo, TX

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
2601 W. Avenue N
San Angelo, TX 76909
(180) 094-6862 x7

Tyler, TX

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
3900 University Blvd
Tyler, TX 75799
(903) 566-7000

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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