Pursuing a career in nursing is a rewarding path that can truly make a difference in people’s lives. However, balancing work, family responsibilities, and coursework during a traditional daytime nursing program can seem nearly impossible for many motivated students. Fortunately, Texas is home to several accredited nursing schools that offer flexible evening and weekend classes, providing an alternative for those who need a more schedule-friendly option to earn their degree. This comprehensive guide examines four of the top nursing programs in the state that cater to working professionals and busy adults through part-time evening and weekend classes.
Chamberlain University College of Nursing
Chamberlain University is a private, non-profit university with campuses across the U.S., including locations in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, Texas. Their accelerated BSN programs are designed to be completed in just 15 months or less through a combination of online, evening, and weekend classes.
ADN to BSN Program
This online program is designed for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) with an active nursing license who want to earn a BSN. The curriculum builds on previous nursing education and experience to help working nurses advance their careers. Classes are online and self-paced.
Accelerated BSN Program
The accelerated BSN program admits students with a prior bachelor’s degree. Classes meet one evening per week, on Saturdays, and include both online and in-person components. Students complete clinical externships during the day on weekends. The accelerated format allows students to earn a BSN in just 15 months.
Admission Requirements
- Prior bachelor’s degree (any field) with a minimum GPA of 2.7
- Official transcripts
- TEAS entrance exam with a minimum Adjusted Individual Total Score of 60%
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement on motivation for nursing
- Resume highlighting healthcare experience
- Successful interview (may be required)
Chamberlain is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Tuition for the accelerated BSN program is approximately $39,000, with financial aid options available.
Texas Woman’s University
A public research university, Texas Woman’s University (TWU) is known for its distinguished nursing programs. Their College of Nursing offers evening/weekend options in Dallas and Houston for working students seeking an ADN or BSN.
Associate Degree in Nursing Program
The ADN program at TWU’s Dallas and Houston campuses consists of day, evening, and weekend classes that can be completed full or part-time in 5 semesters. Clinical training occurs on Saturdays and Sundays.
RN to BSN Program
This fully online program allows licensed RNs with an ADN or diploma to complete a BSN. Self-paced study is combined with interactive online classes. The flexible format fits easily into working nurses’ schedules.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED with minimum 2.5 GPA
- Official college transcripts (if applicable)
- TEAS entrance exam with Adjusted Individual Total Score over 60%
- Criminal background check
- Health records including immunizations
- Application fee
TWU nursing programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Tuition for in-state residents is around $10,500 per year for the ADN program.
Lone Star College
As one of the largest community college systems in Texas, Lone Star College offers ADN programs at multiple campuses across the Houston area. Classes are scheduled in the evenings, on weekends, and online for working students.
Associate Degree in Nursing Program
The ADN curriculum can be completed in 5 semesters through a blend of online coursework and on-campus labs, lectures, and clinical experiences on Friday afternoons/evenings and Saturdays.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum 2.5 GPA in prerequisite biology, chemistry, etc. courses
- TEAS entrance exam with Adjusted Individual Total Score over 60%
- Application and immunization records
- Criminal background check
Graduates earn an ADN and are eligible to apply for RN licensure. Tuition is very affordable at around $3,000 per year for in-district residents. Lone Star’s nursing programs have full approval from the Texas Board of Nursing.
Texas Health School
Located in Fort Worth, Texas Health School focuses exclusively on allied health education. Their 16-month Accelerated BSN program can be completed entirely in the evenings and on Saturdays for a flexible nursing career option.
Accelerated BSN Program
Classes meet two evenings per week from 5-10pm and eight hours on Saturdays. Clinical externship experiences are arranged on the weekends. This accelerated format allows completion of a BSN in just 16 months.
Admission Requirements
- Prior bachelor’s degree in any field
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Official transcripts
- TEAS entrance exam with Adjusted Individual Total Score over 60%
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume and personal statement
- Criminal background check
The fast-track BSN program provides a streamlined path for degree holders in other majors to enter nursing. Small class sizes ensure personalized support. Accreditation is through ACEN. Tuition is $31,500 for Texas residents.
Making the Right Choice
As this overview illustrates, Texas offers exceptional options for working adults, parents, and others who need flexible scheduling to pursue a career in nursing. Quality accredited programs from Chamberlain, TWU, Lone Star College, and Texas Health School provide not only innovative evening and weekend formats but also affordability and top-tier nursing education.
Factors to consider in choosing the best program include location, degree level, total cost, minimum admission requirements, and whether face-to-face or online instruction is preferred. Starting with the resources provided here, do your research, compare programs side by side, and contact schools directly with any other questions.
With determination and the right supports, you can earn an ADN or BSN and become a registered nurse, even while holding down other daytime responsibilities. Texas makes accelerated nursing education both convenient and accessible for working students through a diversity of cutting-edge evening and weekend programs. Don’t delay – pursue your dreams of a fulfilling career in healthcare today. The future is yours!
