MSN Degree Programs in Arizona

The southwestern state of Arizona is often referred to as "The Youngest State" as it is currently the most recent state added to the continental US. But beyond its age, Arizona also holds one of the largest student populations per capita in the country with nearly 500,000 students enrolling in the state's colleges and universities every year. Among the college crowd are also a large number of nursing students who flock to The Grand Canyon State to take advantage of the many Master of Nursing Science (MSN) programs available in cities such as Tuscon and Phoenix and even amongst the idyllic, quaint, desert communities statewide. An MSN program is an especially ideal program for students who are thinking about seeking higher-level nursing careers such as nurse practitioner positions, especially because they are typically the most affordable and quickest nursing graduate school degree options. Below is a little more information about MSN programs in Arizona, where you can find them, and how to locate the cheapest and fastest MSN options in the state.

RN to MSN Programs in Arizona

If you have a nursing license already and an associate degree in nursing, there may be an easier, faster, and cheaper way to get your MSN beyond a traditional MSN program. While a traditional MSN program will require you to complete a BSN program before enrolling, an RN to MSN program leverages your current licensure, education, and experience to allow you to skip the BSN requirement and receive your MSN in as little as ya ear and for much less money.

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

• Arizona RN license
• ADN or nursing diploma
• GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
• Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
• Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume

Examples of RN to MSN programs located in Arizona are offered by Arizona State University and the University of Arizona.

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Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Arizona

Chances are, if you’re already working as a registered nurse, going back to school and working full time simply isn’t in the cards due to the cost of tuition on a limited nursing salary and an inconsistent and taxing work schedule. However, you may be surprised to learn that even the busiest nurses can find MSN programs that work within their schedule through the convenience of online learning and summer school. Furthermore, the cost of nursing school in Arizona may not be as expensive as you think — there are plenty of affordable options if you know where to look!

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

If you’ve completed a BSN degree program and you want to move on to an MSN program, you can expect to commit to around 3 – 4 years of full-time study. However, it’s not unheard of for some programs to expedite this process if you have transferable credits or if online options are available. Below are a few of the fastest options for MSN programs in the state.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

It’s no secret that the cost of nursing school tuition seems to only get higher every year. But believe it or not, Arizona has plenty of affordable options for students who are working with a limited budget. The cost of your MSN degree program can be further mitigated by establishing residency in Arizona and taking advantage of lower in-state tuition. Below are a few examples of schools in Arizona that offer cheaper MSN tuitions.

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) 

If you’ve never received any sort of nursing education so far, but have a bachelor’s degree in a different area, this can actually help you receive your MSN in a much shorter amount of time. Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs are accelerated programs that allow you to get your MSN in as little as four years. This is much faster than if you have decided to enter a BSN program and then an MSN program which would have taken you at least six years to accomplish. The full list of requirements to enter a MENP program is as follows:

• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
• GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
• Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
• Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
• Admissions interview

If you think you may qualify for an MENP program and would like to explore this path in Arizona, you can find them offered by the University of Arizona and Arizona State University.

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

MSN programs aren’t just a great option for those who want to save money and time in graduate school, they’re also ideal for students who are interested in specializing in a particular area such as gerontology or midwifery. Beyond the fulfillment that comes with studying and practicing in an area you’re passionate about, specializing is a great way to ensure a higher salary and more job security. Here are a few examples of schools in Arizona that offer specialized MSN programs:

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation guarantees that a Master of Science in Nursing program adheres to the quality standards established by accrediting organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). It validates that the program's curriculum, faculty, and outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Additionally, accredited programs are recognized by employers and eligible for financial aid.

2024 List of MSN Programs in Arizona

The examples above are just a few of the many MSN programs that Arizona has to offer. If you're still looking, check out our list of Arizona MSN schools below:

MSN Programs By City:

• Phoenix MSN Programs
• Tucson MSN Programs
• Mesa MSN Programs

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.