Nursing Schools in Texas

Nurses provide care for patients in doctor's offices, long term care-giving facilities, hospitals, and medical clinics. Some nurses choose to work in Texas, also known as the Lone Star State, because of the training and medical facilities that are available there. Top hospitals in the state, according to the Houston Business Journal, include the University of Texas at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Texas Children's Hospital, and St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital's Texas Heart Institute.

Employment Prospects for LPNs in Houston

Many nurses work in urban areas though the demand for qualified graduates of nursing schools in Texas is statewide. The Texas economy has thrived even in the midst of a national economic downturn so the job prospects for registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) are excellent

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2009 there were an estimated 168,020 RNs employed in Texas earning mean wages of $64,670. There were also more than 65,000 LPNs and LVNs working in the state and earning mean wages of $40,710.

Nursing Schools in Texas

Campus-based and online nursing schools are options for those seeking nursing training. Many Texas nursing schools are accessible to students that live within the state's metropolitan areas, but some classes can also be taken online.

RNs graduate from Texas nursing schools with an associate's degree in nursing (ADN), a bachelor's of science degree in nursing (BSN), or a diploma. After graduating from an approved program in nursing, nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). RNs with advanced responsibilities need to possess a master's degree. A diploma program administered by a hospital takes about three years to complete.

LPN and LVN training programs in technical and vocational schools and community colleges typically require about a year to finish. The licensure examination for certification is the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. If you want to make the Lone Star state your place to study, then say saddle up for an education from one of the nursing schools in Texas today.