The Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston has been ranked as the top Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Texas for the second year in a row, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Colleges publication. Nationally, the school placed 26th, situating it within the top 5% of nursing programs evaluated.
"Students and employers alike recognize the value of a BSN degree from Cizik School of Nursing," stated Erica Yu, PhD, RN, associate professor and department chair of undergraduate studies at the nursing school. She emphasized that graduates are well-prepared for providing quality care and advancing into leadership roles.
Cizik School of Nursing offers various academic supports and clinical experiences for its BSN students. These include tutoring programs and electives focused on rehabilitation nursing. Additionally, top students have opportunities to work with nurse scientists through an Honors Research Program.
"We work closely with our academic practice partners to develop innovative clinical teaching models," Yu added, highlighting dedicated education units and a clinical scholars program that offer strategic clinical opportunities for early career preparation.
Statistics underline the program's success: In 2023, 96% of graduates found employment shortly after graduation, while 94% passed their licensure exams on their first try.
"Nursing never stops changing," said Diane Santa Maria, DrPH, MSN, RN, dean of Cizik School of Nursing. "Our faculty are committed to finding innovative ways to make sure our students enter the workforce with the skills they will need to succeed." The school collaborates with UT Physicians and other UTHealth Houston schools to enhance educational experiences using electronic health records for simulations.
The school's BSN program includes a Pacesetter option for non-registered nurses seeking an accelerated path and an online RN-to-BSN option for those holding an associate degree in nursing.
U.S. News rankings are determined by surveys from leaders at nursing schools across the nation. To be considered, institutions must have awarded at least 40 BSN degrees recently and hold accreditation from relevant bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
