The Health Science Center School of Nursing was established in 1969.  The School of Nursing was originally part of The University of Texas System School of Nursing with campuses in Galveston, Austin, Houston, San Antonio, El Paso and Tyler.  All five schools followed the same curriculum.  In 1976 the System School of Nursing was dissolved and each School of Nursing has since been independent and governed by the university on the campus where the school is located.

The School of Nursing offers four degree programs, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.), Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.), Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). 

The School of Nursing has a unique role in nursing education related to its placement in the South Texas Region.  The region has large underserved populations with different health care needs.  Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, teen pregnancy, mental illness and other chronic conditions are prevalent.  We have been designated by the United States Department of Education as a Hispanic Serving Institution.