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.
Jump to:
- Arizona RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
- Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Getting an RN License in Arizona
For RN bridge programs visit:
Cities in Arizona
2025 Best Nursing Schools in Arizona
Finding the right nursing school in Arizona is crucial for your future career, and one of the best ways to measure a program's quality is by looking at NCLEX-RN pass rates. At registerednursing.org, we've ranked the best nursing schools in Arizona based on these pass rates to help you make an informed decision. NCLEX-RN pass rates are a key factor in our rankings because they show how well a school prepares its students for the licensing exam. Choosing a school with higher pass rates can give you a better chance of passing the NCLEX-RN on your first try, which is a big step toward becoming a registered nurse. Learn more about how we rank schools at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Campus Immersion offers a BSN program tailored for future nurses, combining rigorous academic preparation with the convenience of online learning. Ideal for students managing other responsibilities, this program emphasizes foundational nursing skills, patient care excellence, and understanding healthcare systems. Prospective students need a high school diploma or GED, with certain prerequisites, but no ACT or SAT is required for admission. The program is noted for its affordability and financial aid opportunities, making nursing education accessible. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam, with a strong focus on achieving high pass rates, ensuring readiness for diverse nursing roles in healthcare.
- Online program flexibility.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Competitive cost with aid.
- High school diploma required.
- Covers essential nursing practices.
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - gcu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure program designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful nursing career. This campus-based program integrates evidence-based practices with holistic care, preparing graduates to serve diverse populations effectively. Through a curriculum rich in clinical practice and simulation, students develop critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills essential for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program emphasizes leadership, patient safety, and comprehensive nursing education, requiring specific admission criteria. With a focus on quality care and clinical reasoning, GCU's BSN program stands out for its immersive learning experiences and commitment to nursing excellence.
- 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 State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University Digital Immersion offers an online Nursing, BSN program tailored for individuals aiming to enter the nursing field with the flexibility of distance learning. This program stands out for its accredited curriculum that equips students with both theoretical foundations and practical nursing skills, preparing them for the NCLEX-RN exam. While ACT or SAT scores are part of the admission process, the program's online format is particularly beneficial for students managing other commitments. ASU's commitment to accessible education is evident through available financial aid. The program's focus on preparing competent, compassionate nurses is reflected in its comprehensive coursework and support for students pursuing RN licensure.
- Online BSN program
- Flexible study options
- Accredited nursing education
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Financial aid available
Brookline College-Tempe
Tempe, AZ - Private 4-year - brooklinecollege.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Brookline College-Tempe offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that prepares students for a career as a Registered Nurse in just 36 months. This campus-based program combines general education with specialized nursing courses, including online learning, laboratory activities, and clinical experiences, to provide a comprehensive understanding of nursing care. Accredited by the CCNE, the program emphasizes NCLEX-RN exam preparation, ensuring students are ready for licensure. With no wait-list for enrollment, faculty coaching support, and diverse clinical learning opportunities, students receive a well-rounded education. Financial aid is available for qualifying students, and job placement support is offered post-graduation. Entrance exams such as ACT or SAT are required for admission.
- 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
- Job placement support
- Continuing nursing education
Brookline College-Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - brooklinecollege.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Brookline College-Phoenix stands out with its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, offering an accelerated pathway to nursing in just three years. This program uniquely blends online coursework with essential hands-on training through simulation labs and clinical rotations, focusing on critical areas like health assessment and pharmacology. Prospective students should note that while the program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, it does not explicitly require ACT or SAT scores for admission. The college's commitment to accessibility is evident through its financial aid options for eligible students. Accredited by the CCNE, Brookline ensures a quality education that meets the standards for aspiring nurses.
- Accelerated 3-year program.
- Combines online and hands-on learning.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Financial aid available.
- CCNE accredited.
Pima Medical Institute-East Valley
Mesa, AZ - Private 2-year - pmi.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pima Medical Institute-East Valley in Mesa, AZ, provides an Associate Degree in Nursing, a comprehensive 20-month program designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful nursing career. This program emphasizes practical patient care, anatomy, and pharmacology through a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, a critical step towards becoming a Registered Nurse. With no concentration specified, the curriculum broadly covers essential nursing practices and soft skills, including effective communication. Financial aid is available, making this program accessible to aspiring nurses looking for a direct path into the healthcare field.
- 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.
- Eligible for licensure in Arizona.
- Career opportunities in healthcare.
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
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).
List of Nursing Schools in Arizona
If you're looking to start or advance your nursing career in Arizona, you'll find a variety of schools offering programs to fit your needs. Below is a table listing nursing schools across the state, including their locations, program highlights, and links to more information. Whether you're interested in becoming a registered nurse or pursuing further specialization, these schools provide quality education and training to help you achieve your goals.
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
- Bachelor's - Nursing (RN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 120 total credits required
- Focus on leadership and evidence-based practice
- Current RN license required for admission
- Includes health and safety compliance
- Courses on professional nursing roles
- Health assessment and promotion
- Nursing research and evidence-based practice
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.
University of Phoenix-Arizona
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Degree Online – BS Degree in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- Accredited by CCNE
- Online program
- 14-month completion option
- 90 direct care clinical hours
- Active RN license required
- 11 core courses
- Flexible scheduling
- Transfer credits accepted
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 Digital Immersion
- 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 Campus Immersion
- 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
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- Online delivery method.
- Approximately 1 year completion.
- For working registered nurses.
- Focus on leadership and management.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Requires unencumbered RN license.
- Flexible for balancing work and study.
- Courses on nursing theories.
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.