Best Nursing Schools in Arizona

Best RN Programs in Arizona

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:

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:

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).

Continued List of All RN Programs in Arizona

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