Admissions

Admission Criteria

In order to more clearly reflect UTHealth Houston Cizik School of Nursing’s educational environment, the School’s admission policy makes explicit the multiplicity of factors taken into consideration in the admissions process. These admission factors are not assigned a specific weight or point value. Cizik School of Nursing considers the totality of each application and gives consideration to several factors.

Deferred Admission

Deferment is not available for any Cizik School of Nursing programs. If a student wants to defer admission, that student will need to reapply for a future term.

Admissions Criteria Undergraduate (Essential Skills)

  1. Intellectual capacity, based on consideration of undergraduate prerequisite GPA and the prerequisite science GPA; academic awards and honors, scholarly accomplishments; degree of difficulty of undergraduate academic program; pre- professional evaluations (THEA); previous college courses and/or degree(s); personal interview or request to complete a questionnaire; and any other relevant data submitted;
  2. Interpersonal and communication skills, based on evidence of being well-written and well- spoken, exemplified by written essay, the application, and the personal interview or questionnaire; and any other relevant consideration that the student or his or her pre- professional advisors may present;
  3. Breadth and depth of pre-nursing educational experiences, based on consideration of factors in the record reflecting a combination of a strong scientific background and also an ability to understand the complex non-scientific problems facing healthcare workers and patients, e.g., ethical, cultural, or socioeconomic problems; consideration of community or charitable service, e.g., volunteering to help the less fortunate; extracurricular activities and organizations; leadership positions; employment history; recognition for humanitarian service; and awareness and direct knowledge of cultural elements as they may impact on healthcare;
  4. Potential for service to Texas, with consideration given to Texas residency; applicant’s goals for the future; multilingual proficiency; culture/socio-economic status, potential for future provision of health services to underserved areas or needed specialties; and linguistic skills appropriate to the Health Professions Shortage Area the applicant wishes to serve;
  5. Motivation, with consideration given to success in overcoming adverse economic or educational conditions; employment history occurring simultaneously with undergraduate academic preparation; participation in activities requiring time management skills; constantly improving undergraduate record; veteran status, and experience in health-related activities;
  6. Integrity, with consideration given to any academic integrity violation; conduct or disciplinary problems in college;
  7. Technical standards, related to observation, communication, timeliness in performance of psychomotor skills, intellectual and cognitive abilities, behavioral and social attributes; and
  8. Ethical standards, related to personal demeanor and behavior.

I. Policy and General Statement

A. Applicants are considered for admission into the upper-division nursing (BSN) program according to specified criteria.

  1. Completion of all prerequisite courses (sixty semester hours)
  2. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all prerequisite courses.
  3. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for prerequisite science courses.
  4. A grade of "C" or better in each prerequisite taken at accredited higher education institutions,
  5. Completion of the Test of English as a Foreign Language Exam (TOEFL), if applicable.
  • ​A minimum score of 550 on the paper exam, OR
  • A minimum score of 213 on the computer-based exam, OR
  • A minimum score of 86 on the internet-based exam

       6. A standardized entrance test is required for admission consideration (for Pacesetter BSN only).

B. RN to BSN Admission

  1. Provisional admission
    1. May be granted to RN-BSN applicants who have not completed all the requirements for full admission.
    2. Each student will be reviewed on an individual basis.
    3. Provisional admission may be granted at the discretion of the Baccalaureate Council only for RN-BSN applicants who have a deficiency of one (1) or two (2) prerequisite courses, excluding:

1) Chemistry
2) Anatomy and physiology
3) Microbiology
4) Statistics

d. All other courses MUST be completed prior to admission.

e. In order to be removed from provisional status:

1) The student must complete all outstanding prerequisites with a minimum grade of "C" by the end of the second term.

2) Students who fail to complete AND submit the evidence of completion of all requirements for full or provisional admission during the specified time-period are not allowed to continue in the program.

    2. Prerequisites

a. Students must complete at least 40 prerequisite hours, including 8 hours from the science prerequisites (Human Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology and Chemistry), to be considered for admission.

C. RN to BSN Full Admission

  1. An associate degree in nursing or diploma in nursing from an accredited nursing program.
  2. Active, unencumbered Texas RN license or ability to secure a license in the first semester of enrollment.

D. RN to BSN Early Decision

a. Students currently enrolled in an accredited associate degree in nursing program may apply as an early decision candidate
b. Eligibility criteria:

1). The student has completed at least one (1) semester in an accredited ADN program and earned a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
2). The student has not yet earned the forty (40) prerequisite hours required to apply and/or
3). If the term for which admission is sought is not available.

D. Non-Degree Admission

  1. The non-degree category is for students who wish to take courses without seeking a degree.
  2. Permission must be obtained for enrollment in Undergraduate Courses from the Baccalaureate Council.
  3. The student may apply for admission at any point during enrollment but must complete the admission process and meet all criteria.
  4. After full admission, the student may petition the Baccalaureate Council for a maximum of nine (9) semesters hours of coursework with a grade of "C" or better to count toward their degree program.

E. Transient Students

  1. The transient student category is designated for students who are enrolled and in good academic standing in another nursing program and who wish to enroll in selected courses at Cizik School of Nursing.
  2. Permission must be obtained from the Baccalaureate Council for enrollment as a transient student.
  3. Transient student status may be obtained by providing:
    a. Written consent from the Dean at the parent institution.
    b. Written consent from the instructor of the course at the Cizik School of Nursing.
    c. Prerequisite equivalent: Lower division course equivalency credit may be granted at the discretion of the Baccalaureate Council.
    d. Any applicant who has attended another nursing program and is NOT in good standing and/or is NOT eligible to continue/return to that program will NOT be eligible for admission into the Cizik School of Nursing.

II. Definitions

A. Full admission: a student who has met all the requirements for admission as a full­ time student to Baccalaureate Program
B. Conditional admission: students who are accepted into the Baccalaureate Program, who have met the conditions of admission, but have not completed the requirements at the time of acceptance such as:

  1. Coursework in progress or pending at the time of acceptance.
  2. Criminal background check

C. Provisional admission: A student who has not completed all the requirements for full admission to the RN-BSN Program
D. Non-degree admission: A student who wishes to be admitted without seeking a degree.
E. Transient students: Students who are enrolled and in good academic standing in another nursing program and who wish to enroll in selected courses at Cizik School of Nursing.
F. Parent Institution: The institution (not UTHealth Houston CSON) where the student is currently enrolled.

III. Procedure

A. The student, regardless of type of admission sought, will complete the application online.
B. The student will agree to complete a Criminal Background Check.
C. If approval is required, the student will apply to the Baccalaureate Council.

Admission – BSN Program

Applicants should submit the following materials to the UTHealth Houston Office of the Registrar:

  1. Students submit online applications for admission through (Nursing CAS). A non-refundable application service fee will be charged at the time of submission.
  2. Evidence of a minimum GPA of 3.0 or better in the required 60 hours of nursing prerequisites, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 or better in the required science prerequisites.
  3. One official transcript of all course work from every college or university previously attended directly to the Registrar's Office. Electronic submission is preferred. If previous college coursework from a country other than the USA is submitted, the coursework must be evaluated by a credentialing service before submission (see "Foreign Transcript" below). This information will be used to determine what courses can be counted to satisfy the prerequisites. An official copy of the credentialing service evaluation must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office.
  4. Evidence of completion of at least 48 hours of the required 60 hours of prerequisite work by the program application deadline. Sixteen of those 48 hours must be from the science prerequisites (Human Anatomy and Physiology (I and II), Microbiology, and Chemistry). If admitted into the program, an applicant must complete all 60 hours of prerequisites by the start of the program (except for provisional acceptance into the RN-BSN program, see below).
  5. Evidence of completion of the HESI A2 Entrance Exam or Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Registration can be accessed by contacting Elsevier. HESI or TEAS scores resulting from more than two attempts will not be accepted. Registration instructions can be found here. The HESI or TEAS scores cannot be older than two years. ( The HESI A2 Entrance Exam or TEAS are not required for the RN-BSN program).
  6. An active Texas RN License or the ability to secure a Texas RN license in the first semester of enrollment and Associate degree from an accredited nursing program are required. (RN-BSN applicants only)

Additional Requirements for Admission into all BSN Programs

Admission and enrollment are expressly contingent upon successful completion of outstanding prerequisites (if any), immunization screening, immigration status clearance, and Health Care Provider Basic Life Support CPR certification. Conditional admission may be granted to RN-BSN applicants who have no more than two (2) outstanding prerequisite courses, which excludes science courses. All science courses (chemistry; anatomy and physiology I and II; microbiology, and statistics) must be completed prior to admission.

All students must successfully clear the mandatory drug and criminal background screenings prior to enrollment. All applicants should review the appropriate UTHealth Houston policies in advance, see HOOP 160 Criminal Background Checks.

Full Admission

This category applies to applicants who meet all admission requirements:

  1. Completion of all prerequisite courses (60 semester hours or 90-quarter hours with a minimum grade of “C” in each course);
  2. A minimum prerequisite grade point average of 3.00 on a 4.0 scale;
  3. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in prerequisite science courses and
  4. Completion of the HESI A2 Exam or TEAS Exam (not required for RN-BSN Applicants).

Provisional Admission

Provisional admission may be granted to RN-BSN applicants who have not completed all the requirements for full admission. Each student is reviewed on an individual basis. Provisional admission may be granted at the discretion of the Baccalaureate Council only for RN-BSN applicants who have a deficiency of one to two prerequisite courses – excluding chemistry, anatomy and physiology I-II, microbiology and statistics.

The student must complete all outstanding prerequisites with a minimum grade of “C” by the end of the first semester and provide proof of RN licensure. Students who fail to complete and submit evidence of completion of all requirements for full or conditional admission during the specified time period will not be allowed to continue in the program until the student submits evidence of completion. The RN-BSN student would be placed on inactive status until terms are satisfied. The student would be required to petition the Council for reinstatement.

Applicant Selection

The Baccalaureate Council makes the final selection. Applicants will be evaluated on overall academic performance, performance in prerequisites and sciences courses. Notifications are updated and available first within the MyUTH application portal and then followed by email and a mailed hard-copy letter. If the applicant does not enroll in that semester, they may request to be considered for a subsequent semester.

Deadlines for Application

To be considered for admission into the Undergraduate Program, completed applications must be received in the Registrar’s Office by the dates listed below. If the applicant does not enroll in the semester for which they apply, the applicant must reapply for future consideration. Applications and/or fees are not transferable.

BSN Application Deadline and Anticipated Notification Dates

Term Application Deadline1 Anticipated Notification Date
Summer January 15 April 15
Fall March 15 June 15
Spring Sept 1 Nov 15
1

For an application to be forwarded for faculty review and decision, all application materials must be received by the deadline date. The School is unable to process applications with missing or incomplete documents. Application and fees cannot be deferred.

Pacesetter Program Documentation Deadline: All courses must be completed before students may begin School of Nursing classes.

RN-BSN Program Documentation Deadline: All prerequisite courses must be completed by the end of the first semester and before students begin the second semester of Cizik School of Nursing classes.

Please send application material to:
Office of the Registrar
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
PO Box 20036
Houston, Texas 77225-0036
Student-Admissions@uth.tmc.edu

Pre-enrollment Requirements

If accepted, enrollment to the Cizik School of Nursing is contingent upon successful completion of outstanding prerequisites (if any), immunization screening, immigration status clearance, Health Care Basic Life Support CPR certification clearance of the mandatory drug screening test and mandatory criminal background check. All applicants are encouraged to review the pre-enrollment policies in advance and review new student guide found here. 

Admissions Criteria Graduate (Essential Skills)

  1. Intellectual capacity, based on consideration of overall collegiate GPA; standardized test scores (GRE, TOEFL); academic awards and honors, scholarly accomplishments; degree of difficulty of undergraduate academic program; pre- professional evaluations (THEA); previous college courses and/or degree(s); personal interview or request to complete a questionnaire; and any other relevant data submitted;
  2. Interpersonal and communication skills, based on evidence of being well-written and well- spoken, exemplified by standardized test scores in verbal abilities, and any other relevant consideration that the student may present;
  3. Breadth and depth of nursing educational experiences, based on consideration of factors in the record reflecting a combination of a strong scientific background and also an ability to understand the complex non-scientific problems facing healthcare workers and patients, e.g., ethical, cultural, or socioeconomic problems; consideration of community or charitable service, e.g., volunteering to help the less fortunate; extracurricular activities and organizations; leadership positions; employment history; recognition for humanitarian service; and awareness and direct knowledge of cultural elements as they may impact on healthcare;
  4. Potential for service to Texas, with consideration given to Texas residency; applicant’s goals for the future; multilingual proficiency; culture/socio-economic status, potential for future provision of health services to underserved areas or needed specialties; and linguistic skills appropriate to the Health Professions Shortage Area the applicant wishes to serve;
  5. Motivation, with consideration given to success in overcoming adverse economic or educational conditions; employment history occurring simultaneously with undergraduate academic preparation; participation in activities requiring time management skills; constantly improving undergraduate record; veteran status, and experience in health-related activities;
  6. Integrity, with consideration given to any academic integrity violation; conduct or disciplinary problems in college and/or the workplace.
  7. Technical standards, related to observation, communication, timeliness in performance of psychomotor skills, intellectual and cognitive abilities, behavioral and social attributes; and
  8. Ethical standards, related to personal demeanor and behavior.
  9. At least one year of full-time employment as a RN in a care setting as specified by the specific track. [Apply to MSN & DNP only]

Admission – MSN Program and Post-Graduate Completion Program

The admission policy makes explicit the multiplicity of factors taken into consideration in a holistic admissions process. These admission factors are not assigned a specific weight or point value. Cizik School of Nursing considers the totality of each application and gives importance to the factors as listed in Admission Criteria Graduate section.

Transfer of Credit

A student may submit MSN course credits earned at other universities for application toward the MSN Degree. The following restrictions apply:

  • The course must clearly relate to the student’s approved program of study.
  • Nine semester hours may be transferred from accredited institutions outside The University of Texas System.
  • An unlimited number of semester hours may be transferred from institutions within The University of Texas System, but the student must complete a minimum of 26 semester hours in residency at the CSON. Students may not transfer credit hours for clinical courses, preceptorship courses, or synthesis courses.
  • Equivalency credit for a required course in the master’s program must be approved by the faculty member. The course must have been taken within the five-year time limit to complete Master’s Program degree requirements.
  • The transcript must show a grade of “A”, “B”, or “P” in the course.
  • The course may not be transferred if it was used to apply to another completed degree.
  • All courses to be transferred must be at the graduate level.

Courses Taken in Other University of Texas System Institutions

All students who have been admitted to the MSN Program and who plan to take courses applicable to a nursing degree in a University of Texas component other than UTHealth Houston must obtain approval in advance from the advisor prior to taking such courses. A transcript must be sent to the UTHealth Houston Office of the Registrar immediately upon the completion of the course(s).

Interview

MSN and Post-Graduate applicants may be interviewed during the admission process. Applicants are evaluated on additional elements, which include public or community service, humanitarian service, extracurricular activities, communication skills, and experiences. In the categories of public or community service and humanitarian service, consideration is given to an interest in service to underserved areas and populations.

Full Admission

This category applies to students who have completed all of the requirements for admission. (see MSN Application procedure.)

Conditional Admission

Conditional admission may be granted after evaluation of the applicant’s record. This category applies to a student who does not meet the full admission requirements. Successful completion of the first nine semester hours with a grade of “B” or better is required or the student must withdraw or be dismissed from the program. The student may appeal the dismissal through the Master’s Council.

Provisional Admission

Provisional admission may be granted if the applicant does not have an unencumbered, current Texas RN license or enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (Enlc) License without stipulations to practice as a registered nurse (RN).

If a student fails to submit evidence of an unencumbered, current Texas RN license during the first term of enrollment, the student may not enroll in a clinical course without the required current licensure.

MSN and Post-Graduate Completion Application Procedure

Applicants submit the following to the Office of the Registrar:

  1. Students submit online applications for admission through (Nursing CAS). A non-refundable application service fee will be charged at the time of submission.
  2. One official copy of a transcript from each institution attended. If student has attended any UTHealth Houston school, an official transcript is not necessary. Electronic submission is preferred. Transcript(s) should show:
    • A Baccalaureate degree in nursing earned from an accredited program.
    • Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 hours of the BSN program.
    • A Master’s degree in nursing from an accredited school if Post-Graduate applicant.
    • A completed basic statistics course with a grade of ‘C’ or higher.
  3. Three satisfactory academic/professional references. (individual references should be provided with an applicant letter of reference form ).
  4. One official copy of TOEFL score if international applicant. TOEFL scores can be no more than two years old. A minimum score of 213 on the computer-based exam, or a minimum score of 86 on the internet-based exam.
  5. A course-by-course evaluation of international credentials by Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) for individuals with degrees/courses from outside the US.
  6. A professional curriculum vitae or resume.
  7. Documentation on application of minimum work experience for chosen clinical track/concentration:

Clinical Track                                                                    Years Experience as Registered Nurse (RN)                                                               

  • Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (NP):   One year experience in ICU
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (NP):                               One year clinical experience
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health (NP):                              One year clinical experience in a psychiatric setting

Admissions Procedures

Once admitted and prior to enrollment, the student must submit:

  1. Eligibility for or evidence of unencumbered, current Texas nursing licensure without stipulations or enhanced nurse licensure compact (ENLC) multistate licensure
  2. Documentation of current BCLS; students in the Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track must submit documentation of both BCLS and ACLS
  3. Evidence of required immunizations
  4. Completed criminal background check
  5. Completed drug screen

International applicants and students should contact the UTHealth Houston Office of International Affairs for further information here.

Applicant Selection

The Admissions Committee of the Master’s Council will make selections from the pool of the applicants. Evaluation of the total information available to the admissions committee results in a final decision for acceptance of the applicants into the program.

All applicants will be notified in writing whether or not they have been accepted into the program. Acceptance into the program is applicable only to the semester for which the applicant applied.

As soon as the entering student receives the registration materials in the mail, the student should make an appointment with the assigned advisor to develop a degree plan.

Deadlines for Application

To be considered for admission into the MSN program or Post-Graduate Completion program, completed applications must be received in the Registrar’s Office by the dates shown in following table. If the applicant does not enroll in that semester, the applicant must reapply for future consideration. Applications and/or fees are not transferable.

Program Application Term Application & Documentation Deadline
MSN Programs
MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner Summer 2025 March 15
Fall 2025 June 1
Spring 2026 September 30
MSN in Leadership and Administration Summer 2025 March 15
Fall 2025 June 1
Spring 2026 September 30
Post-Graduate Completion Programs
(Non-Nurse Practitioner)
Nursing Education Fall 2025 June 1
Nursing Leadership & Administration Spring 2026 September 30
Emergency/Trauma Concentration Summer 2025 March 15

Admission – BSN-Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) Program

BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia Application Procedure

Applicants should submit the following to the Office of the Registrar:

  1. Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston uses UTHeath Houston's online application.
  2. Official scores for the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) taken within the last five (5) years. For the revised GRE, a minimum score of 151 Verbal; 144 Quantitative; with a minimum score on the written section of 3.5 is preferred.
  3. One official copy of a transcript from each institution attended. If student has attended any UTHealth Houston school, an official transcript is not necessary. Electronic submission is preferred. Transcript(s) should show:
    • A Baccalaureate degree in nursing earned from an accredited program.
    • Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
    • A completed basic statistics course.
    • A completed Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry course within the last 5 years with a grade of B or better
  4. Three letters of reference attesting to the applicant’s academic and clinical ability and potential for doctoral study.
  5. One official copy of TOEFL score if international applicant. TOEFL scores can be no more than two years old. A minimum score of 550 is required on the paper exam, a minimum score of 213 on the computer-based exam, or a minimum score of 86 on the internet-based exam.
  6. A course-by-course evaluation of international credentials by Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) for individuals with degrees from outside the US.
  7. Eligibility for or evidence of unencumbered, current Texas licensure without stipulations to practice as a Registered Nurse in Texas.
  8. Documentation of BLS, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification. CCRN is highly encouraged.
  9. A professional curriculum vitae or resume.
  10. Documentation on application of minimum critical care nursing work experience. A minimum of one year of current, full-time, acute critical care nursing work effort prior to matriculation must be documented.

Applicant Selection

The BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program will make selections from the pool of the applicants. Evaluation of the total information available to the selection committee results in a final decision for acceptance of the applicants into the program.

All applicants will be notified in writing whether or not they have been accepted into the program. Acceptance into the program is applicable only to the year for which the applicant applied.

As soon as the entering student receives the registration materials in the mail, they should make an appointment with the nurse anesthesia program director to review his or her degree plan.

Deadline for Application

To be considered for admission into the BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program, applications must be received in the Registrar’s Office by July 1. If the applicant does not enroll in that semester, the applicant must reapply for future consideration. Applications and/or fees are not transferable. Completed applications must be received in the Registrar’s Office by the dates shown below.

BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia (Admits Summer terms)

Summer Application Deadline: July 1, 2025 (for Summer 2026) 

Admission – BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program

The admission policy makes explicit the multiplicity of factors taken into consideration in a holistic admissions process. These admission factors will not be assigned a specific weight or point value.

Interview

During the interview, BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia applicants are evaluated on the graduate admission criteria elements and additional elements, which include public or community service, humanitarian service, extracurricular activities, communication skills, and clinical experiences. In the categories of public or community service and humanitarian service, consideration is given to an interest in service to underserved areas and populations.

Full Admission

This category applies to students who have completed all the requirements for admission and have met all admission criteria.

Conditional Admission

The DNP Council may grant conditional admission after evaluation of the applicant’s record. This category applies to a student who does not meet the full admission requirements. A 3.0 cumulative grade point average for the first nine semester hours is required or the student must withdraw or be dismissed from the Program. The student may appeal the dismissal through the DNP Council.

Provisional Admission

This category applies to students who have not completed all the requirements for admission. These students are required to complete and submit evidence of completion of all requirements for full or conditional admission prior to matriculation in order to continue in the Program. If a student fails to complete and submit evidence of completion of all requirements for full or conditional admission prior to matriculation, the student will be dismissed.

Doctorate Program Criteria

Admission – BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner Program

Admission – BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner Program Application Deadline

To be considered for admission into the BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner Program for fall, complete applications must be received in the Nursing CAS system by May 15th and for spring, complete applications must be received by September 30th. Starting spring 2024 semester, the spring application deadline will be Sept 15th. If the applicant does not enroll in that semester, the applicant must reapply for future consideration. Applications and/or fees are not transferable. Completed applications must be received in the Registrar’s Office by the dates shown below.

BSN to DNP (Admits Fall and Spring terms)

  • Fall Application Deadline: May 15
  • Spring Application Deadline: September 30

Admission Requirements

The DNP Council of the Cizik School of Nursing establishes minimum admission requirements for the BSN-DNP program. Each applicant is reviewed on an individual basis according to admissions criteria. Per the regulations defining the amount of allowable online course credits, Cizik School of Nursing is unable to sponsor DNP students requiring a F-1 Visa. Additionally, students admitted to the BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner Program must reside in the state of Texas before the first day of class.

Application Selection

The Doctor of Nursing Practice Council (DNP Council) will make the selection of applicants who will be offered admission into the program. Evaluation of all available information is considered in the final decision for acceptance into the program. All applicants will be notified in writing regarding acceptance into the DNP program. Admission into the program is applicable only to the semester for which the applicant applied. If the student does not enroll in that semester, the student must reapply for future consideration.

Established criteria aid in evaluating each applicant to predict potential success at the graduate level. Categories of admission are determined by how an applicant meets criteria for: Full Admission.

Application Procedure

  1. Students submit online applications for admission through (Nursing CAS). A non-refundable application service fee will be charged at the time of submission.
  2. Official transcript from each institution attended entered into the Nursing CAS system. If the student has attended UTHealth Houston previously it is not necessary to request a transcript. Electronic submission of transcripts is preferred. All transcripts must be printed within six months of receipt. Transcript(s) should show:
    • A Baccalaureate degree in nursing earned from an accredited program. Applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
    • A completed basic statistics course with a 2.0 or greater final grade.
  3. Three (3) letters of reference attesting to the applicant’s academic ability and potential for doctoral study. Include one reference from a professional colleague and one from a faculty member.
  4. A course-by-course evaluation of international credentials Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) for individuals with degrees/courses from outside the US.
  5. One official copy of TOEFL score if international applicant. TOEFL scores can be no more than two (2) years old and a minimum score of 550 is required on the paper exam, a minimum score of 213 on the computer- based exam, or a minimum score of 86 on the internet-based exam.
  6. A professional curriculum vitae or resume. Submitted through Nursing CAS.
  7. Documentation (via resume or vitae) of minimum work as a registered nurse experience for chosen track:
    • Adult Gerontology/ Acute Care: One-year clinical experience in ICU
    • Family Nurse Practitioner: One-year clinical experience as a registered nurse
    • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: One year of clinical experience as a registered nurse in a setting caring for psychiatric patients.
  8. An active unrestricted registered nurse (RN) licensure to practice in Texas.
    • A 300-word typed statement of area of practice interest, career goals, and reason for desiring doctoral study.
    • Interview, if applicable.
  9. Students must reside and work (if applicable) in Texas.
  10. BLS Certification – Current BLS Certification

Admission Procedure

Once admitted and prior to enrollment, the student must submit:

  1. Evidence of unencumbered, current Texas license or eNLC license without stipulations to practice as an RN or of application for Texas RN license.
  2. Documentation of current BCLS.
  3. Documentations of current ACLS for AGACNP students.
  4. Evidence of required immunizations.
  5. Completed criminal background check.
  6. Complete drug screen.
  7. Eligible international applicants and students should contact the Office of International Affairs for further information.

Admission – DNP Nurse Practitioner Program (post-Masters Entry)

Admission Requirements

Cizik School of Nursing considers the totality of each application and gives importance to the following requirements:

Per the regulations defining the amount of allowable online course credits, Cizik School of Nursing is unable to sponsor DNP students requiring a F-1 Visa. Additionally, students admitted to the Post-Master's DNP must personally reside in the state of Texas before the first day of class.

  • Baccalaureate degree in nursing earned from a nationally accredited program.
  • Master’s degree or post-master’s earned from a nationally accredited program with a 3.0 GPA or above as an:
    • Advanced practice registered nurse (clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist), master's degree in nursing (MSN),
    • Nurse leader, nurse informaticist, or
    • Business administration (MBA), health care administration (MHA), public health (MPH) or (MN) in Nursing Education prepared registered nurse with leadership experience (nurse executive and nurse informatics option).
  • Graduate level nursing or equivalent research course with a grade of B or higher.1
  • For advanced practice nurses:
    • Eligibility or approval to practice as an advanced practice nurse by the Texas Board of Nursing.
    • Proof of current certification by a nationally recognized credentialing organization.
  • Minimum of one (1) year work experience in the advanced practice role. 
  • For Advanced Practice Nurse Track:
    • A master's degree in nursing or post-master's certificate as an advanced practice nurse from a nationally accredited program with a GPA of 3.0 or above.
    • Proof of current certification by a nationally recognized credentialing organization.
    • Eligibility or approval to practice as an advanced practice nurse by the Texas Board of Nursing.
    • Minimum of one (1) year work experience in the advanced practice role. 
  • For Nursing Executive Leadership Track:
    • Master's degree in nursing (MSN), business administration (MBA), health care  administration (MHA), public health (MPH), MSN or MN in Nursing Education with nursing leadership experience, or master's degree in an equivalent nationally accredited healthcare leadership program with a GPA of 3.0 or above.
    • Minimum of one (1) year work experience in the nursing leadership practice role. 
  • For Nursing Informatics Track:
    • Master's degree in nursing (MSN), business administration (MBA), health care  administration (MHA), public health (MPH), MSN or MN in Nursing Education with a systems/nursing informatics practice experience, or master's degree in an equivalent nationally accredited informatics program with a GPA of 3.0 or above.
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The course is not required to apply. If admitted without the prerequisite course, there will be an opportunity to enroll in the course at Cizik School of Nursing, or at another institution; however, the course must be successfully completed prior to the first day of class.

DNP Nurse Practitioner (post-Masters Entry) Application Process

Applicants should submit the following information through the Nursing CAS system.

  • Students submit online applications for admission through (Nursing CAS). A non-refundable application service fee will be charged at the time of submission.
  • Official transcript from each post-secondary institution attended. Transcripts with print dates over six months will not be accepted as "official".
  • One (1) academic/professional letters of reference. Applicants are strongly encouraged to select at least one doctorally prepared nurse who can attest to the applicant’s academic ability and potential for doctoral study. The letter of reference should accompany the applicant letter of reference form.
  • A 500-word statement describing practice interest, career goals, and reasons for desiring doctoral study submitted through the Nursing CAS system.
  • A curriculum vitae or resume that documents practice experience, professional activities, and presentations/publications submitted through the Nursing CAS system.
  • If your degree was earned outside the U.S., a course-by-course evaluation of international credentials is required by Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE).
  • Qualified applicants will be interviewed by the Cizik School of Nursing DNP faculty to assess whether the program interfaces with the applicant’s educational needs and career goals.
  • Application materials should be submitted through the Nursing CAS system.

Applicant Selection

The Graduate Council will make the selection of applicants who will be offered admission into the program. Evaluation of all available information is considered in the final decision for acceptance into the program. All applicants will be notified in writing regarding acceptance into the DNP program. Admission into the program is applicable only to the semester for which the applicant applied. If the student does not enroll in that semester, the applicant must reapply for future consideration.

Admission

The DNP Council may grant full admission to an applicant who meets all admission requirements.

Application Deadline

Students are admitted to the DNP NP program in the Fall and Spring semesters only. To be considered for admission to the DNP NP Program (post-Masters Entry) for Spring, completed applications must be received by September 15th. For Fall the deadline is May 15th. However, applications are accepted throughout the year for admission to the next entering class.

Doctor of Nursing Practice DNP (Admits Fall and Spring terms)

Fall Application Deadline: May 15
Spring Application Deadline: September 15

Admission - PhD Degree Program

Application Process

Applicants must provide all of the following:

  • Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston uses UTHeath Houston's online application.
  • Evidence of a bachelor’s degree in nursing and/or a master’s degree from an accredited nursing program. One official copy of transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended is required. If the applicant attended any school within UTHealth Houston, it is not necessary to request a transcript. All transcripts must be printed within six months of receipt. Electronic submission is preferred.
  • For those applying to the BSN to PhD program, applicants must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing earned from a CCNE-accredited program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • For those applying to the PhD program with a master’s degree applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • A master’s degree, preferably in nursing, from a CCNE-accredited program for those applying to the PhD program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • All applicants must have an unencumbered registered nursing license to practice in Texas. Evidence of national certification in a nursing specialty is preferred, but not required for admission.
  • If international applicant, an official copy of the TOEFL scores if required. A minimum score of 550 (on the paper exam), a minimum score of 213 (on the computer-based test) is accepted, or a minimum score of 86 (on the internet-based exam). Send score to the UTHealth Houston Registrar’s Office. TOEFL scores can be no more than two years old.
  • If applicant is an international student or attended school outside the United States, a course-by-course evaluation of international credentials by Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE).
  • Eligibility for licensure as a Registered Nurse in Texas (International students may petition for admission under related policy).
  • Eligible international applicants and students should contact the Office of International Affairs for further information.
  • One letter of reference from an individual with a doctoral degree who can address the applicant’s ability to conduct independent research and potential for success in the PhD program. The person providing a letter of reference should complete the Doctorate reference letter form, as well as provide a written statement describing how you are well-suited for a PhD program.
  • A curriculum vitae and a portfolio that documents practice expertise, scholarly activities, and publications.
  • A written statement of area of research interest, career goals and reasons for desiring doctoral study.
  • An identified potential faculty match in your area of research interest.

The Interview

Qualified PhD applicants will be interviewed by faculty members to provide an opportunity to assess the compatibility of the program to an applicant’s educational needs and career goals. The match of the applicant’s interests and goals with faculty members’ areas of research, scholarship, teaching, and practice expertise is assessed. Consideration will be given to applicants who reflect a commitment to clinical practice, teaching, and research, and interest in service to underserved areas and populations.

Applicant Selection

The PhD Council will make the selection of applicants. Evaluation of the total information available to the selection committee leads to the final decision for acceptance of the applicants into the program. All applicants will be notified in writing whether they have been accepted into the PhD Program.

Deadlines for Application

Acceptance into the program is applicable only to the semester for which the applicant applied. If the applicant does not enroll in that semester, the applicant must reapply for future consideration. Applications and/or fees are not transferable. Completed applications must be received in the Registrar’s Office by the dates shown below.

Doctor of Philosophy PhD and (BSN-PhD Admits Fall term)

Fall Application Deadline: March 1

Admission

The PhD Council may grant full admission after evaluation of the applicant’s record. This category applies to an applicant that meets all admission requirements.