The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston) has announced the launch of the UTHealth Houston Future Nurses Fund, which will provide free in-state tuition and fees to eligible students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Cizik School of Nursing. This initiative aims to address the nursing shortage by offering financial assistance to students.
Starting from the spring semester of 2026, UTHealth Houston will offer grants that supplement other financial aid and scholarships, ensuring a full ride for Texans with an adjusted gross income below $100,000 annually. The grants are available to both current and newly accepted nursing students.
Diane Santa Maria, dean of the nursing school, stated, “The Future Nurses Fund will help address the nursing shortage by providing needed financial assistance so students can attend Cizik School of Nursing, the No. 1 BSN program in the state.” She added that they expect at least a third of undergraduate students to benefit from these grants.
The fund is designed to complement other forms of financial aid such as scholarships and government programs. Grants from this fund will cover all tuition and mandatory fees for qualifying students after other financial aid is applied. These grants are automatically awarded without requiring a separate application and are available for four consecutive semesters for full-time students who maintain academic requirements.
LaTanya J. Love, interim president of UTHealth Houston, commented on their commitment to removing financial barriers: “At UTHealth Houston, we are committed to removing financial barriers for students pursuing their dreams of becoming health professionals.” She emphasized that this fund reflects their dedication to expanding access to education and addressing Texas's critical nursing shortage.
Applications for new students entering the BSN program are being accepted through September 15, 2025, for the spring 2026 semester. The Cizik School of Nursing's BSN program is ranked No. 1 in Texas and among the top 4% nationally according to U.S. News & World Report’s best colleges in 2025.
For further information about the BSN program and Future Nurses Fund details can be obtained by calling 713-500-2145.
