Arizona's growing healthcare demands have made accelerated BSN programs an essential pathway for career changers entering the nursing profession. Designed for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree, these second degree BSN tracks offer an intensive and fast-paced curriculum that leads to licensure in as little as 12 to 18 months. With a focus on clinical readiness and academic rigor, these programs prepare students to transition into professional nursing roles quickly. Whether you’re pivoting into healthcare or seeking a more purpose-driven career, Arizona's accelerated BSN options offer a streamlined path to the RN credential.

2026 Best ABSN Programs in Arizona

At RegisteredNursing.org, we've carefully analyzed and ranked the Best Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Programs in Arizona for aspiring nurses seeking a fast-track path to their nursing career. Our comprehensive evaluation considers critical factors like program curriculum, clinical placement opportunities, faculty expertise, student success rates, and overall academic quality. Arizona offers several exceptional ABSN programs designed for career changers and motivated students looking to enter the healthcare field quickly. These programs provide intensive, rigorous nursing education that can be completed in as little as 12-18 months, helping students transform their professional trajectories and meet the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - gcu.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Grand Canyon University's ABSN program revolutionizes nursing education through a comprehensive 16-month hybrid model designed for career-changing professionals. Students leverage online coursework complemented by immersive in-person clinical experiences, targeting individuals holding 60+ collegiate credits. The program distinguishes itself with a unique servant leadership approach and Christian worldview integration, ensuring graduates are not just technically proficient but holistically prepared. Rigorous admission standards, including a 3.0 GPA requirement, guarantee high-quality cohorts. Offering three annual start dates, the program provides flexible pathways into nursing, with comprehensive preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination. Clinical rotations across Phoenix healthcare networks enable students to develop practical skills in diverse medical environments.

  • 16-month program duration
  • Hybrid online and in-person
  • Requires 60+ college credits
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Focus on Christian worldview
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Hands-on clinical rotations
  • Servant leadership emphasis
  • Three start dates annually
  • Accredited nursing program
#2

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arizona's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program provides a comprehensive pathway for aspiring nurses seeking a high-quality education. Students can choose between two dynamic learning models: a 24-month conventional pathway in Tucson or a streamlined 15-16 month accelerated integrative health pathway in Gilbert. Boasting a remarkable 93% NCLEX pass rate and potential starting salaries around $70,000, the program emphasizes practical simulations and immersive clinical experiences. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the curriculum leverages advanced technology and supportive faculty to develop well-rounded nursing professionals. Prospective students must meet academic prerequisites, with entrance exam requirements detailed on the program's admissions page.

  • 93% NCLEX pass rate
  • $70K starting salary
  • 24-month conventional pathway
  • 15-16 month accelerated pathway
  • Hybrid learning option
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • High-demand nursing skillset
  • Supportive faculty
  • Practical simulations
  • Exceptional clinical experiences
#3

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ - Public 4-Year - nau.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Arizona University's Accelerated BSN offers a dynamic 12-month pathway for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders seeking a rapid nursing career transition. Located in Flagstaff and North Valley, the program demands full-time engagement and comprehensive clinical experiences across Arizona. Prospective students must maintain a 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses and successfully complete the HESI A2 entrance exam. The curriculum prepares students comprehensively for the NCLEX-RN licensure, with unique opportunities for scholarship support contingent on a four-year nursing commitment within Arizona. This militarily-friendly program targets motivated career changers ready to immerse themselves in an intensive, hands-on nursing education model.

  • 12-month intensive program
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Requires non-nursing bachelor's degree
  • 3.0 GPA prerequisite minimum
  • HESI A2 Exam required
  • Full-time commitment needed
  • Clinical experiences statewide
  • Scholarships available
  • Four-year work commitment in Arizona
  • Flagstaff and North Valley campuses
#4

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Prelicensure Clinical Nursing Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Arizona State University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing transforms career changers into skilled healthcare professionals through an intensive campus-based program. Tailored for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree, this prelicensure clinical nursing track emphasizes comprehensive clinical immersion and hands-on learning experiences. Students benefit from rigorous coursework that prepares them for the complex healthcare landscape, with opportunities to develop critical nursing skills in real-world medical settings. The program's accelerated format allows motivated students to complete their nursing degree efficiently, typically within 12-16 months. Military-friendly and offering financial aid options, ASU provides a strategic pathway for those committed to launching a dynamic nursing career with comprehensive professional preparation.

  • Accelerated program
  • Campus-based learning
  • Clinical experience focus
  • For career changers
  • Financial aid available
#5

GateWay Community College

Phoenix, AZ - Public 4-Year - gatewaycc.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing (RN to BSN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

GateWay Community College's RN to BSN program offers a strategic educational pathway for licensed registered nurses seeking professional advancement. Comprehensive coursework spans 120 credits, emphasizing critical domains like leadership, evidence-based practice, and patient safety. The program uniquely prepares nurses to excel in diverse healthcare settings by integrating culturally competent care principles and advanced technological applications. Prospective students must possess an active, unrestricted RN license and meet rigorous health and safety compliance standards. With a strong focus on ethical practices and professional development, graduates gain sophisticated skills that position them for expanded nursing roles and potential advanced educational opportunities.

  • 120 total credits required.
  • Active, unrestricted RN license needed.
  • Focus on leadership and evidence-based practice.
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare environments.
  • Emphasizes culturally competent care.
  • Includes health and safety compliance.
  • Covers ethical practices in nursing.
  • Utilizes healthcare technology and informatics.
  • Pathway to advanced nursing roles.
  • Opportunity for further education.
*Data obtained from: NCES IPEDS 2023 database. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of Arizona Accelerated BSN Programs

If you're looking to fast-track your nursing career in Arizona, accelerated BSN programs offer a quick pathway for career changers and college graduates. These intensive programs transform motivated students into skilled registered nurses in as little as 12-18 months. Below is a comprehensive list of Arizona's top accelerated nursing programs, highlighting key details to help you find the right educational opportunity that matches your professional goals and learning style.
Jump to City:

Flagstaff, AZ

Northern Arizona University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month intensive program
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Requires non-nursing bachelor's degree
    • 3.0 GPA prerequisite minimum
    • HESI A2 Exam required
    • Full-time commitment needed
    • Clinical experiences statewide
    • Scholarships available

Glendale, AZ

Glendale Community College

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-3 semesters to RN
    • For LPNs and prior nursing students
    • 55% salary increase potential
    • DPS Fingerprint Clearance required
    • HESI Admission Assessment needed
    • Personalized nursing advisement
    • High school diploma or GED required
    • Official transcripts needed

Phoenix, AZ

GateWay Community College

  • Bachelor's - Nursing (RN to BSN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • 120 total credits required.
    • Active, unrestricted RN license needed.
    • Focus on leadership and evidence-based practice.
    • Prepares for diverse healthcare environments.
    • Emphasizes culturally competent care.
    • Includes health and safety compliance.
    • Covers ethical practices in nursing.
    • Utilizes healthcare technology and informatics.

Grand Canyon University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program duration
    • Hybrid online and in-person
    • Requires 60+ college credits
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • Focus on Christian worldview
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Hands-on clinical rotations
    • Servant leadership emphasis

Tempe, AZ

Arizona State University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Prelicensure Clinical Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated program
    • Campus-based learning
    • Clinical experience focus
    • For career changers
    • Financial aid available

Tucson, AZ

University of Arizona

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 93% NCLEX pass rate
    • $70K starting salary
    • 24-month conventional pathway
    • 15-16 month accelerated pathway
    • Hybrid learning option
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • High-demand nursing skillset
    • Supportive faculty
*Institutional characteristics data extracted from IPEDS 2023, NCES.

2026 Affordable ABSN Programs in Arizona

Pursuing a nursing degree in Arizona offers students numerous opportunities to enter the healthcare field through accelerated programs. For aspiring nurses across Phoenix, Tucson, and other major regions, finding affordable options is crucial for launching a successful career. These programs provide a streamlined pathway for individuals seeking to transition into nursing, with many schools offering competitive tuition rates. Accessible and cost-effective educational routes help students minimize financial barriers while preparing for high-demand healthcare roles. The following table highlights various accelerated nursing programs available in Arizona, showcasing their unique features, program strengths, and tuition ranges to help prospective students make informed decisions about their educational journey.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Arizona State University
  • Accelerated program
  • Campus-based learning
  • Clinical experience focus
  • For career changers
  • Financial aid available
  • $9,600 - $14,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $25,800 - $38,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Glendale Community College
  • 2-3 semesters to RN
  • For LPNs and prior nursing students
  • 55% salary increase potential
  • DPS Fingerprint Clearance required
  • HESI Admission Assessment needed
  • Personalized nursing advisement
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Official transcripts needed
  • $1,900 - $2,800 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $7,200 - $10,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
GateWay Community College
  • 120 total credits required.
  • Active, unrestricted RN license needed.
  • Focus on leadership and evidence-based practice.
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare environments.
  • Emphasizes culturally competent care.
  • Includes health and safety compliance.
  • Covers ethical practices in nursing.
  • Utilizes healthcare technology and informatics.
  • $1,900 - $2,800 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $7,200 - $10,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Northern Arizona University
  • 12-month intensive program
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Requires non-nursing bachelor's degree
  • 3.0 GPA prerequisite minimum
  • HESI A2 Exam required
  • Full-time commitment needed
  • Clinical experiences statewide
  • Scholarships available
  • $9,800 - $14,700 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,200 - $22,800 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
University of Arizona
  • 93% NCLEX pass rate
  • $70K starting salary
  • 24-month conventional pathway
  • 15-16 month accelerated pathway
  • Hybrid learning option
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • High-demand nursing skillset
  • Supportive faculty
  • $10,600 - $15,900 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $31,000 - $46,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Grand Canyon University
  • 16-month program duration
  • Hybrid online and in-person
  • Requires 60+ college credits
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Focus on Christian worldview
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Hands-on clinical rotations
  • Servant leadership emphasis
  • $13,800 - $20,700 (Undergraduate)
*Data accessed from: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

Suppose you’re considering nursing schools in Arizona. In that case, our comprehensive state guide is your go to resource for navigating the full range of educational pathways from entry-level programs to advanced degrees. Whether you’re new to the field or advancing your career, this guide delivers clear, up-to-date information on program options, licensure requirements, and job prospects to help you make confident, informed decisions.

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