Best Nursing Schools in Arizona
Arizona is known as the “Sunniest Place on Earth” with over 300 sunny days per year. But beyond its consistency in weather, it’s also a reliable state for nurses to find consistent work and decent paychecks. According to the latest statistics, Arizona is expecting a massive 39% increase in nursing positions by 2030 — one of the largest increases in the US. Nurses at every level can expect to take advantage of this level of job growth, but nurses with higher-level degrees such as a Master of Nursing (MSN) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can expect even more growth in their fields.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Arizona
Consistently High-Performing Schools
Arizona boasts several nursing programs with exceptional and consistent NCLEX pass rates. These schools demonstrate remarkable academic excellence and student preparation across multiple years.
- Eastern Arizona College leads with an impressive 98.92% average pass rate across three years.
- Estrella Mountain Community College follows closely with a 97.03% average pass rate.
- Northland Pioneer College, Scottsdale Community College, and Mesa Community College all maintain average pass rates above 96%.
Biggest NCLEX Pass Rate Improvements
Some Arizona nursing programs have demonstrated significant improvements in student success rates, highlighting their commitment to educational quality and student support.
- Pima Medical Institute-Mesa showed the most dramatic improvement, increasing its pass rate by 31.38 percentage points from 64.45% to 95.83%.
- Brookline College-Phoenix also experienced a substantial improvement of 31.29 percentage points, rising from 63.89% to 95.18%.
- Cochise County Community College District improved its pass rate by 24.52 percentage points, moving from 69.23% to 93.75%.
Program Type Pass Rate Comparison
Different nursing program types in Arizona show varying levels of student success across NCLEX examinations.
- ADN programs demonstrate the highest average pass rate at 95.56%.
- MSN programs follow with a 91.89% average pass rate.
- Traditional BSN programs achieve an average pass rate of 90.83%.
- Accelerated BSN programs show a slightly lower average pass rate of 89.16%.
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Arizona's nursing education landscape has shown notable progression in NCLEX pass rates over recent years.
- 2022 saw an average pass rate of 84.78%.
- 2023 demonstrated significant improvement, rising to 91.31%.
- 2024 continues the positive trend with an average pass rate of 93.86%.
Eastern Arizona College
Thatcher, AZ - Public 2-Year - eac.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Arizona College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing is a comprehensive two-year program preparing students for registered nursing careers. With an exceptional NCLEX pass rate consistently reaching 96-100% in recent years, the program offers robust clinical training across diverse healthcare environments. Students must complete the ATI TEAS Nursing Entrance Exam for admission, demonstrating the program's commitment to academic excellence. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the curriculum emphasizes practical experience and provides concurrent enrollment opportunities with universities like Arizona State University. The program's limited enrollment ensures personalized instruction and high-quality education, positioning graduates for immediate workforce entry or further academic advancement in nursing.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Concurrent enrollment options.
- Separate admission process.
- ATI TEAS exam required.
- Focus on practical experience.
- Limited program space.
- Campus-based program.
- Equips for diverse healthcare settings.
- Pathway to BSN programs.
Estrella Mountain Community College
Avondale, AZ - Public 2-Year - estrellamountain.edu
Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Estrella Mountain Community College provides a robust Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing program with an exceptional track record. Their NCLEX pass rates have consistently improved, reaching an impressive 98.57% in 2024, demonstrating strong student preparation. The 4-semester program offers a comprehensive pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse, featuring a unique Concurrent Enrollment Program that allows students to simultaneously pursue AAS and BSN degrees. Prospective students must complete prerequisite coursework, obtain CPR certification, pass a background check, and secure a DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card. With in-state tuition under $20,000 for the university portion, this program presents a flexible, cost-effective educational opportunity for aspiring nurses seeking a structured and affordable route to professional nursing licensure.
- 4-semester program
- Eligibility for RN licensure
- Concurrent Enrollment Program available
- In-state tuition under $20,000
- Health & Safety requirements
- CPR certification needed
- Background check required
- DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Maricopa Nursing program participation
- Fast-track education option
Northland Pioneer College
Holbrook, AZ - Public 2-Year - npc.edu
Associate - Registered Nursing (AAS)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northland Pioneer College's Associate of Applied Science in Registered Nursing program stands out with exceptional NCLEX pass rates, achieving a perfect 100% pass rate in 2024. Located in rural Arizona, this two-year program offers comprehensive nursing education with strategic advantages for aspiring registered nurses. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized learning environments, and extensive hands-on clinical experiences across Show Low and Winslow campuses. The program's affordable tuition and targeted curriculum prepare students effectively for the Arizona RN examination. With prerequisite requirements including biology, chemistry, and mathematics, and a recommended 3.0 GPA, the program ensures high-quality nursing education. Graduates consistently demonstrate strong employment prospects, with nearly 100% job placement rates in healthcare settings.
- Two-year program duration.
- Nearly 100% employment success rate.
- Small class sizes for personalized attention.
- Hands-on labs and clinical experience.
- Affordable compared to other Arizona programs.
- Accredited by ACEN and Arizona State Board.
- Pathways for LPNs and paramedics to RN.
- Prerequisite courses required before admission.
- Recommended GPA of 3.0 for admission.
- Program available at Show Low and Winslow campuses.
Mesa Community College
Mesa, AZ - Public 2-Year - mesacc.edu
Associate - Associate in Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mesa Community College's Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing program offers an exceptional pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse with remarkable consistency in NCLEX performance. Their recent NCLEX pass rates demonstrate excellence, climbing from 92.82% in 2022 to an impressive 100% in 2024. This comprehensive 62-75 credit program provides robust clinical training across diverse healthcare environments, emphasizing patient care, legal standards, and healthcare systems. Students must meet specific admission requirements, including a 2.0 GPA in prerequisite courses and passing a nursing program admission test. The curriculum prepares graduates for diverse nursing career opportunities, with accreditation from ACEN and approval by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Clinical experiences are strategically designed to develop practical skills and professional competencies essential for successful nursing practice.
- Campus-based program
- 62-75 credits required
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- High school diploma or GED needed
- Prerequisite courses required
- 2.0 GPA for prerequisites
- Admission test score required
- Covers patient care basics
- Focus on legal and ethical standards
Scottsdale Community College
Scottsdale, AZ - Public 2-Year - scottsdalecc.edu
Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Scottsdale Community College's Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing provides an exceptional pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse. With an impressive NCLEX pass rate consistently at or near 100% (reaching 100% in 2024), students receive comprehensive training in patient care, healthcare ethics, and professional practices. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences across diverse healthcare environments, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for real-world nursing challenges. Accredited by the ACEN, the curriculum requires a 2.0 GPA for prerequisite courses and a high school diploma or GED. Students develop critical skills in safety protocols, evidence-based practice, and collaborative healthcare teamwork. The campus-based program offers 62-75 total credits, strategically designed to equip students with the knowledge and competencies needed for successful RN licensure.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Requires 2.0 GPA for prerequisites.
- Focus on safety and quality care.
- Covers legal and ethical practices.
- Teamwork in healthcare emphasized.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- 62-75 total credits required.
- Campus-based program.
GateWay Community College
Phoenix, AZ - Public 4-Year - gatewaycc.edu
Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
GateWay Community College's Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing program provides a robust pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse in Phoenix, Arizona. With an impressive and consistently improving NCLEX pass rate rising from 88.99% in 2022 to 98.17% in 2024, the program demonstrates exceptional student preparation. Students benefit from comprehensive clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings, ensuring practical skill development. The program requires a high school diploma or GED, maintaining a 2.0 GPA in prerequisite courses, and successfully passing a nursing admission test. Accredited by ACEN, the curriculum emphasizes safe, quality patient care and fully aligns with Arizona State Board of Nursing standards. Graduates are well-positioned to take the national RN licensure examination and launch successful nursing careers.
- Campus-based program
- Clinical experiences included
- Eligible for RN licensure exam
- High school diploma or GED required
- 2.0 GPA in prerequisites needed
- Admission test score required
- Focuses on safe, quality care
- Meets Arizona Board requirements
- 62-75 total credits required
- Accredited by ACEN
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - gcu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Grand Canyon University's BSN program boasts exceptional NCLEX pass rates, consistently achieving rates between 88% and 100% from 2022-2024, demonstrating strong student preparation. Located in Phoenix, the campus-based Pre-Licensure program provides comprehensive nursing education with robust clinical training. Students benefit from immersive simulation experiences and hands-on practice, focusing on evidence-based, holistic nursing practices. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, leadership development, and patient safety across diverse community settings. As a military-friendly institution, the program prepares students for dynamic healthcare environments. Admission requires meeting specific criteria, with the program strategically designed to equip graduates with comprehensive skills necessary for successful registered nursing careers and NCLEX-RN exam readiness.
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Hands-on clinical practice
- Immersive simulation experiences
- Focus on critical thinking
- Ethical nursing practices
- Leadership development
- Patient safety emphasis
- Holistic nursing practices
- Diverse community care
Arizona Western College
Yuma, AZ - Public 2-Year - azwestern.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona Western College's Associate Degree in Nursing program provides comprehensive healthcare education with exceptional outcomes. Boasting impressive NCLEX pass rates ranging from 86.57% to 98.16% between 2022-2024, the program offers robust clinical training focused on rural healthcare needs. Students must complete 66 credits and pass the HESI A2 entrance exam, with a competitive faculty-to-student ratio of 1:10. The curriculum balances classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences, preparing graduates for RN or LPN licensure. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Arizona State Board, the program offers an affordable pathway into nursing, with total estimated costs around $11,574. The program uniquely provides an exit option at the Practical Nurse level and welcomes transfer students.
- 66 credits required.
- Resident tuition $6,402.
- Course fees $3,272.
- Textbooks estimated $1,500.
- Uniform & equipment $60.
- Health & safety $325.
- Graduation fee $15.
- Total estimated cost $11,574.
- RN licensing fees $550.
- NCLEX review $225-$618.
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ - Public 4-Year - nau.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Arizona University's comprehensive BSN program offers a robust nursing education with a remarkable NCLEX pass rate consistently above 93%. Spanning four and a half years, this hybrid program provides flexible learning options including traditional, compressed, and global formats. Students undergo rigorous training in natural sciences, humanities, and nursing arts, with strong emphases on leadership, patient safety, and holistic care. The program requires completion of pre-professional courses and maintains competitive admission standards. Clinical experiences are integrated throughout the curriculum, preparing students for diverse healthcare environments. Accredited by CCNE, graduates are well-positioned to enter the nursing profession with comprehensive skills and knowledge.
- Hybrid format available.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Leadership and safety emphasized.
- Multiple format options.
- Competitive admission process.
- Pre-professional courses required.
- Four and a half year program.
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
NAU's Accelerated BSN program is strategically designed for bachelor's degree holders seeking a rapid nursing career transition. This intensive 12-month hybrid program delivers a comprehensive nursing education with a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA and prerequisite course completion, the program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam through immersive clinical practice and leadership development. Located in Flagstaff, the program emphasizes global health perspectives and holistic patient care. With scholarship opportunities and a military-friendly approach, this program offers an efficient pathway for career-changing professionals to enter the nursing field with advanced preparation and comprehensive training.
- 12-month intensive program
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Requires bachelor's degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
- Clinical practice included
- Leadership skills development
- Global health focus
- Scholarships available
- Full-time commitment required
Glendale Community College
Glendale, AZ - Public 4-Year - gccaz.edu
Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Glendale Community College's Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing program provides a comprehensive pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse. With impressive NCLEX pass rates climbing from 86.81% in 2022 to an outstanding 98.92% in 2024, the program demonstrates exceptional student preparation. Designed for aspiring nurses, the curriculum integrates rigorous theoretical instruction with hands-on clinical experiences across diverse healthcare environments. Students develop critical skills in patient care, legal and ethical standards, and evidence-based practice. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED and successfully passing a nursing program entrance exam. The program's ACEN accreditation ensures high-quality education, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality care, and collaborative healthcare approaches. Clinical rotations and comprehensive coursework prepare graduates for the dynamic nursing profession.
- Campus-based program
- 62-75 total credits required
- Prepares for RN licensure exam
- Clinical experiences included
- High school diploma or GED required
- Admission test score needed
- Focus on safety and quality care
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Legal and ethical standards covered
- Teamwork in healthcare taught
Arizona Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
If you’re just starting out in the nursing field, you’ll want to start with an entry-level degree. The three typical routes for entry-level nurses are and Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Here are the differences:
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to start out in the nursing field, you’ll want to consider nursing diploma or ADN degree programs. These options take about a year or two to complete and will equip you with all the necessary training needed to start your new career. If you’re already working as an LPN, you may want to consider an LPN to RN bridge program. These types of programs work with your existing training to allow you to graduate with either an ADN or BSN in a much shorter amount of time than if you were to enter with no training at all and allow you to become licensed as an RN.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Arizona include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Arizona.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
If you’re looking for more training than an associate degree or nursing diploma can offer, your safest bet is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Like the previously mentioned options, a BSN can be achieve in a number of different routes. If you have no previous schooling and no previous nursing experience, you’ll need to enroll as a 4-year student. However, if you have previous nursing experience and an ADN, you may be eligible to finish your degree in under three years through an RN to BSN program. No nursing experience? No problem! An Accelerated BSN (ABSN) can be a great option for students who have a bachelor’s degree majoring in a field other than nursing.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Arizona typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
An Arizona RN to BSN is the perfect option for nurses that are already licensed as RNs and have a few years of experience under their belt. Completing this bridge program allows you to receive your BSN in around half the time that it would take you as a traditional BSN student. To enroll, you’ll need an associate’s degree in nursing and an RN license.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Even students who have no nursing experience at all can find a shorter route to a BSN; if you have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing, you can complete an Arizona ABSN program in as little as a year!
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Whether you’re already working as a nurse and looking to expand your horizons, or you’re a student with no experience at all aiming higher than entry-level nursing, graduate-level nursing education such as Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, or the highest-level degree you can receive as a nurse, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), there are plenty of options located in Arizona. To get started you’ll need either a BSN or MSN, and hold an active and unencumbered RN license.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Arizona:
- Arizona Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Arizona MSN Program
- Arizona Accelerated MSN Program
- Arizona RN to MSN Programs
- Arizona Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Arizona DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Arizona
Following graduation, the next step you’ll need to take before working as a nurse is to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and get licensed as an RN. The process following the exam is an application and fee submitted to the Arizona State Board of Nursing and keeping to date with any continuing education required of you by the state to maintain your license.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Arizona
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Arizona State Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
The answer is simple — you won’t be able to get licensed. When a nursing school is accredited, it means that the state board has approved it and it’s curriculum. As licensure is handled by the board, seeking accredited schools is essential. As you begin your search, make sure that all nursing programs you apply to are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Cities With Nursing Programs in Arizona
List of Nursing Schools in Arizona
,
Arizona
Avondale, AZ
Estrella Mountain Community College
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-semester program
- Eligibility for RN licensure
- Concurrent Enrollment Program available
- In-state tuition under $20,000
- Health & Safety requirements
- CPR certification needed
- Background check required
- DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
Coolidge, AZ
Central Arizona College
- Associate - Nursing (AAS)
Campus Based - Website
- Limited class sizes.
- Competitive entry process.
- Starts Fall and Spring.
- 2.75 GPA requirement.
- HESI exam required.
- Focus on NCLEX RN prep.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
- Community outreach included.
Flagstaff, AZ
Coconino Community College
- Associate - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Hands-on clinical experience
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- LNA license required
- NLN NEX exam needed
- Tuition $244/credit
- Uniform and supplies costs
Northern Arizona University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month intensive program
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Requires bachelor's degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
- Clinical practice included
- Leadership skills development
- Global health focus
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid format available.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Leadership and safety emphasized.
- Multiple format options.
- Competitive admission process.
Glendale, AZ
Glendale Community College
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 62-75 total credits required
- Prepares for RN licensure exam
- Clinical experiences included
- High school diploma or GED required
- Admission test score needed
- Focus on safety and quality care
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Holbrook, AZ
Northland Pioneer College
- Associate - Registered Nursing (AAS)
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program duration.
- Nearly 100% employment success rate.
- Small class sizes for personalized attention.
- Hands-on labs and clinical experience.
- Affordable compared to other Arizona programs.
- Accredited by ACEN and Arizona State Board.
- Pathways for LPNs and paramedics to RN.
- Prerequisite courses required before admission.
Kingman, AZ
Mohave Community College
- Associate - Nursing - Registered Nursing - RN - A.A.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited nursing program.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Requires 2.85 GPA.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Computer and internet essential.
- Some training in Las Vegas.
- Biology and chemistry prerequisites.
- National League for Nursing accredited.
Mesa, AZ
Carrington College-Mesa
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Associate Degree in Nursing.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for healthcare careers.
- Focuses on practical skills.
- Quick workforce entry.
Mesa Community College
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 62-75 credits required
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- High school diploma or GED needed
- Prerequisite courses required
- 2.0 GPA for prerequisites
- Admission test score required
Pima Medical Institute-East Valley
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 20-month program length.
- On-campus delivery method.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Hands-on training included.
- Financial aid available.
- Covers anatomy and pharmacology.
- Teaches patient care skills.
- Focuses on communication skills.
Pima Medical Institute-Mesa
- Associate - Nursing Associate Degree Program
Campus Based - Website
- 20-month program duration.
- On-campus delivery method.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Includes clinical externships.
- Covers anatomy and physiology.
- Teaches pharmacology basics.
- Focuses on patient care.
- Financial aid available.
Phoenix, AZ
Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix
- Bachelor's - 3-Year BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Year BSN program.
- CCNE-accredited.
- Night classes available.
- Advanced simulation facilities.
- Personalized attention.
- Clinical rotations included.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships offered.
Brookline College-Phoenix
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accelerated 3-year program.
- Combines online and hands-on learning.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Financial aid available.
- CCNE accredited.
GateWay Community College
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Clinical experiences included
- Eligible for RN licensure exam
- High school diploma or GED required
- 2.0 GPA in prerequisites needed
- Admission test score required
- Focuses on safe, quality care
- Meets Arizona Board requirements
Grand Canyon University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Hands-on clinical practice
- Immersive simulation experiences
- Focus on critical thinking
- Ethical nursing practices
- Leadership development
- Patient safety emphasis
Phoenix College
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for RN, LPN roles.
- Covers general to advanced nursing.
- Focus on practical healthcare skills.
- Admissions advisor meetings required.
Prescott, AZ
Yavapai College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4 semesters to complete.
- 44.5 credits required.
- Campus-based program.
- Located in Prescott, AZ.
- Minimum GPA 2.0 for admission.
- Pre-admission testing required.
- Hands-on experience included.
- Financial aid available.
Scottsdale, AZ
Arizona State University Online
- Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online BSN program
- Flexible study options
- Accredited nursing education
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Financial aid available
Scottsdale Community College
- Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Requires 2.0 GPA for prerequisites.
- Focus on safety and quality care.
- Covers legal and ethical practices.
- Teamwork in healthcare emphasized.
- High school diploma or GED required.
Tempe, AZ
Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe
- Bachelor's - BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Year BSN program.
- CCNE-accredited.
- Night classes available.
- Advanced simulation facilities.
- Clinical rotations included.
- Financial aid options.
- Scholarships available.
- Personalized attention.
Arizona State University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Competitive cost with aid.
- High school diploma required.
- Covers essential nursing practices.
Brookline College-Tempe
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 36-month program length
- Campus-based learning
- CCNE accredited
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Financial aid available
- No wait-list for enrollment
- Faculty coaching support
- Diverse clinical learning opportunities
Thatcher, AZ
Eastern Arizona College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Concurrent enrollment options.
- Separate admission process.
- ATI TEAS exam required.
- Focus on practical experience.
- Limited program space.
- Campus-based program.
Tucson, AZ
Arizona College of Nursing-Tucson
- Bachelor's - Baccalaureate Degree Program in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Year BSN program
- No prerequisite coursework
- CCNE-accredited
- Evening classes available
- Hands-on labs and clinical rotations
- Scholarships up to $5,000
- NCLEX-RN exam prep
- Flexible start dates
Carrington College-Tucson
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Hands-on clinical experience
- High school diploma required
- Financial aid available
Pima Medical Institute-Tucson
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 20-month program length
- On-campus delivery method
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Hands-on training included
- Financial aid available
- Comprehensive nursing education
- Eligible for RN licensure
- Covers anatomy and physiology
University of Arizona
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 93% NCLEX pass rate.
- High starting salary.
- 24-month conventional pathway.
- 15-16 month accelerated pathway.
- Blend of technology and clinical experiences.
- Options in Tucson or Gilbert.
- Supportive faculty.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Integrative Health - Campus Based - Website
- Integrative Health concentration
- 15-16 month accelerated program
- Hybrid online and in-person learning
- High NCLEX pass rate
- Strong starting salaries
- Located in Tucson, AZ
- Focus on holistic patient care
- Comprehensive nursing education
Yuma, AZ
Arizona Western College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 66 credits required.
- Resident tuition $6,402.
- Course fees $3,272.
- Textbooks estimated $1,500.
- Uniform & equipment $60.
- Health & safety $325.
- Graduation fee $15.
- Total estimated cost $11,574.
Latest Articles & Guides
One of the keys to success as a registered nurse is embracing lifelong learning. Our articles and guides address hot topics and current events in nursing, from education to career mobility and beyond. No matter where you are on your nursing journey, there’s an article to help you build your knowledge base.
Browse our latest articles, curated specifically for modern nurses.
