The Top Nursing Schools in Arizona

The Top Nursing Schools in Arizona

Considering nursing school in Arizona? This comprehensive guide outlines the best nursing programs in Arizona, aiding you in selecting the right school to achieve your career goals. The state’s rapid population growth and its appeal as a retirement destination make it an excellent starting point for a nursing career. This guide delves into the top nursing programs in Arizona for aspiring registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs), outlines the process to obtain an Arizona nursing license, and provides insights into the average salaries for nurses in the state.

Continue reading for more information, or jump straight to our compilation of the best nursing schools in Arizona and the best nurse practitioner programs in the state.

Arizona and Nursing School Programs

Accreditation holds significant importance, and this guide exclusively features accredited schools and nursing programs in Arizona.

Our Ranking Method: To facilitate your search for a suitable program, we employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Arizona. Our approach is grounded in metrics crucial to students, such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. The data is drawn from publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), ensuring the information is current as of the publication date of this article. Please note that program-specific details may vary.

1. GateWay Community College-Central City

• GateWay Community College-Central City
• Phoenix, AZ
• Campus

GateWay Community College stands out as one of the premier nursing schools in Arizona, offering various programs to train students as registered nurses, nursing assistants, and licensed practical nurses.

Students undertake a curriculum spanning 62-75 credits to earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) over six terms. The coursework covers diverse subjects such as microbiology, psychology, and nursing theory.

Programs: ADN; fast-track practical nursing certificate; nurse assistant certificate; nursing refresher certificate
Campus: Phoenix
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $85 per credit for in-county learners; $441 per credit for out-of-county learners; $241 for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; passing scores on the practical nursing content exam
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.8% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,000 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
600
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

2. Northern Arizona University

• Flagstaff, AZ
• 4 years
• Online + Campus

Northern Arizona University provides some of the top nursing programs in Arizona, offering traditional and accelerated pathways for earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) in 1-2.5 years.

Learners with a bachelor’s degree in another major can opt for the 79-credit accelerated program. This program emphasizes critical reasoning, leadership, and professionalism. Additionally, NAU features a reservation-based American Indian nursing program with concurrent enrollment.

Programs: BSN; master of science in nursing; doctor of nursing practice
Campus: Flagstaff
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $3,000 for the BSN degree; $2,400 for the accelerated BSN degree
Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; passing scores on the KAPLAN admissions exam and CASPer test
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.9% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,360 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,018
Out-of-state
$16,613
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,305
Out-of-state
$19,522
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
30,733
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

3. Chandler-Gilbert Community College

• Chandler, AZ
• 2 years
• Online + Campus

Chandler-Gilbert Community College offers exceptional nursing programs in Arizona, requiring students to earn a grade “C” or better to obtain their associate degree in nursing (ADN). The program encompasses 62-75 credits, with full-time students completing 12-18 credits per term.

Graduates are equipped with skills to collaborate within healthcare teams, minimize risks in nursing care delivery, and utilize the latest technology in healthcare.

Program: ADN
Campus: Chandler
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $85 per credit for in-county learners; $401 per credit for out-of-county learners; $326 for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; passing scores on the practical nursing content exam
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.5% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,620 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,040
Out-of-state
$7,824
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
15,585
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

4. Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix

• Phoenix, AZ
• 4 years
• Online + Campus

Arizona State University – Downtown Phoenix hosts one of the premier nursing schools in Arizona, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees with various specializations.

The school’s doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program allows students to specialize in areas such as pediatrics and women’s health. The curriculum includes 585 clinical practicum hours and 540 clinical residency hours in the chosen specialty.

Programs: Bachelor of science in nursing; master of science in nursing; DNP
Campus: Phoenix
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $10,710 per year for in-state undergraduates; $28,800 per year for out-of-state undergraduates; $11,720 per year for in-state graduate learners; $23,544 per year for out-of-state graduate learners
Admission Requirements: DNP students need a master’s or bachelor’s degree from an accredited college; minimum 3.0 GPA; Arizona RN license; one year of clinical nursing experience; complete an admissions interview
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:

95.7% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,660 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$28,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,720
Out-of-state
$26,160
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
11,420
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

5. University of Arizona

• Tucson, AZ
• 4 years
• Online + Campus

The University of Arizona stands as a provider of top-ranked nursing programs in Arizona, including a 15-month program tailored for working professionals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

The College of Nursing mandates the completion of 56 credits, covering core topics such as pathophysiology across the lifespan, health assessments, and nursing pharmacology before delving into specialty courses. The program integrates online and in-person classes along with clinical experiences.

Programs: Bachelor of science in nursing; master of science in nursing; doctor of nursing practice; adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner certificate; family nurse practitioner certificate; healthcare informatics certificate
Campus: Tucson
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $865 per credit for in-state learners; $929 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: MSN degree-seekers need a bachelor’s degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA; grade “C” or better for all prerequisites; minimum 75% score for the HESI admissions assessment exam
Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.2% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $64,620 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
44,577
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

6. Paradise Valley Community College

• Phoenix, AZ
• 2 years
• Online + Campus

Paradise Valley Community College offers convenient nursing programs in Arizona, featuring full-time, accelerated, and weekend options. The associate degree in nursing (ADN) program requires 64-74 credits, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Coursework includes subjects like human anatomy and physiology, psychology, and nursing theory and science.

Degree-seekers can concurrently enroll in a bachelor of science in nursing program and transfer to partner institutions, including Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University.

Program: ADN
Campus: Phoenix
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $85 per credit for in-county learners; $441 per credit for out-of-county learners; $326 for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; passing scores on the practical nursing content exam
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.8% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $65,520 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,040
Out-of-state
$7,824
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,900
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Pima Community College

• Tucson, AZ
• 2 years
• Online + Campus

Pima Community College operates one of the finest nursing schools in Arizona. The programs equip students for nursing roles in 5-6 semesters.

The foundational courses guide learners through nursing processes via clinical experience and skills labs. Topics covered include drug calculations, pharmacology, and trends and issues in nursing. The degree program comprises approximately 74 credits, encompassing general education and support courses. Graduation requires maintaining a “C” average or higher in all courses.

Prospective students must attend an information session, and new enrollments commence in the fall or spring.

Program: Associate degree in nursing
Campus: Tucson
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $87 per credit for in-state learners; $218 per credit for out-of-state online learners
Admission Requirements: Complete the National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Examination for RN applicants; HESI A2 Assessment with a minimum 75% score; high school or GED diploma; complete prerequisite courses
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.7% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,610 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,028
Out-of-state
$7,344
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
19,512
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Glendale Community College

• Glendale, AZ
• 2 years
• Campus

Glendale Community College stands out among the premier nursing schools in Arizona. The associate degree in nursing (ADN) program readies students for roles as nurse assistants, certified nursing assistants, and registered nurses.

Licensed practical nurses, paramedics, and nursing transfer students can engage in GCC’s concurrent enrollment program. Learners can pursue a bachelor of science in nursing while completing their ADN. Clinical hours are completed at more than 100 partner sites, and programs offer part-time and accelerated options. Graduation is achievable in 16-18 months.

GCC accepts applications throughout the year, with a placement waitlist averaging 7-8 semesters.

Program: ADN
Campus: Glendale
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $85 per credit for in-county learners; $441 per credit for out-of-county learners; $326 for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; passing scores on the practical nursing content exam; LPN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes

School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.7% first-time pass rate

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,040
Out-of-state
$7,824
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
18,054
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Arizona Western College

• Yuma, AZ
• 2 years
• Online + Campus

Since 1967, Arizona Western College has been a hub for nursing students. Students can earn a practical nurse certificate in three semesters or complete a 67-credit associate degree in nursing (ADN) in two years.

Key courses include human development, microbiology, and anatomy and physiology. Licensed practical nurses and transfer students from other accredited nursing programs in Arizona can receive advanced standing for quicker graduation.

AWC’s nursing curriculum blends online assignments and simulations with in-person labs and classroom sessions. Students can simultaneously pursue an ADN and a bachelor of science in nursing from Arizona State University.

Program: ADN
Campus: Yuma
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $92 per credit for in-state learners; $102 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: Minimum 2.5 GPA; minimum 75% on the HESI admission assessment; a “C” or better for all prerequisites
Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.4% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $64,200 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,064
Out-of-state
$7,656
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,500
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Mesa Community College

• Mesa, AZ
• 2 years
• Online + Campus

Mesa Community College offers top-tier nursing programs in Arizona leading to a certificate or an associate degree in nursing (ADN).

To earn a nurse assisting certificate, students complete 2-4.5 credits in nurse assisting or advanced placement. They can choose in-person classes or a hybrid format with in-person labs and online lectures. The advanced placement course grants two credits to students with one year of full-time direct patient care.

Programs: ADN; nursing refresher certificate; nurse assisting certificate
Campus: Mesa
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $85 per credit for in-county learners; $441 per credit for out-of-county learners; $326 for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; passing scores on the practical nursing content exam
Minimum Time Commitment: 8 weeks
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 74.8% first-time pass rate

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,960 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,040
Out-of-state
$7,824
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
20,351
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
37% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

How to Select a Nursing Program in Arizona

Choosing the right nursing program is crucial and should align with your professional background and career aspirations. Consider essential factors such as tuition, the National Council Licensure Examination-RN (NCLEX-RN) pass rate, and the program’s acceptance rate. It’s equally important that the program’s format caters to your learning style and accommodates your schedule.

Why Pursue a Nursing Career in Arizona

Arizona, a favored destination for retirees, boasts a rapidly growing population. Known for its access to outdoor recreation, national parks, vibrant arts, dining scenes, and a rich culture, the state provides a unique backdrop for a nursing career. Being a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, Arizona allows nurses licensed in another NLC state to apply for licensure by endorsement.

The nursing job market in Arizona is thriving, with a projected 35% growth from 2018-2028, the fastest rate in the country. While there’s a projected surplus of nurses by 2030, attending nursing school in the state offers the advantage of building a professional network and finding employment opportunities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for nurses in Arizona is $79,010, surpassing the national median. Nurse practitioners (NPs) in the state earn a median annual salary of $115,950.

Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in Arizona

Despite Arizona RNs and NPs earning higher salaries compared to counterparts in many states, the state’s cost of living index is 107, slightly above the national index of 100.

With a job growth rate well above the national average of 7%, Arizona may experience a surplus of approximately 1,200 nurses by 2030. However, attending nursing schools in Arizona opens up diverse employment options beyond the state borders due to the opportunity to seek NLC licensure.

Unlike many other states, Arizona RNs in nonmetropolitan areas earn the highest average salaries due to increased demand in these locations. Conversely, RNs in urban areas like Phoenix also earn substantial salaries.

Highest Paying Cities for Nurses in Arizona

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Average Salary for RNs
Yuma, AZ	$82,160
Prescott, AZ	$82,040
Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ	$81,390
Tucson, AZ	$76,660
Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ	$72,530

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Arizona

Arizona’s licensing requirements align with those of many states. Aspiring RNs need either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), while advanced practice RNs (APRNs) require a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. Exceptions are limited.

Those holding an out-of-state multistate license can apply for Arizona licensure without a separate application. Additionally, if licensed in another NLC state, applicants can seek licensure by endorsement.

RN Requirements:

Prospective RNs must complete an ADN or BSN, pass the NCLEX-RN, and submit their official transcripts to the Arizona Board of Nursing for verification. All applicants must undergo a background check with fingerprinting and demonstrate eligibility to work in the United States. The Arizona Board of Nursing website provides a comprehensive list of requirements and fees.

APRN Requirements:

To become an APRN in Arizona, applicants must pass board certification exams. Their transcripts and a confirmation letter of their population area from their MSN advisor or DNP program are required. Background checks are mandatory, and those planning to prescribe controlled substances must obtain a DEA number from the Drug Enforcement Administration. The state board’s website details all requirements, fees, and relevant information for prospective APRNs.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arizona

Prospective NPs can choose from various master’s- and doctoral-level advanced practice nursing programs in the state.

Other Notable Nursing Programs in Arizona
– Best LPN to BSN Programs in Arizona
– Top Arizona RN to MSN Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Arizona

Is Arizona a good state for nurses?

With a job growth rate of 35%, Arizona outpaces other states. The median annual salary for nurses in the state is $79,010, according to BLS data.

How do I become an RN in Arizona?

To become an RN in Arizona, complete a two-year ADN or a four-year BSN, pass the NCLEX-RN, submit fingerprints for a background check, and send transcripts to the state board. Holding a multi-state license allows working as an RN in Arizona.

How much does it cost to become a nurse in Arizona?

Nursing schools in Arizona typically charge $40,000-$150,000 for a BSN and $6,000-$65,000 for an ADN. Financial aid sources, including loans, grants, and scholarships, are available for candidates.

How much money does an RN make in Arizona?

In Arizona, the median annual salary for nurses is $79,010, surpassing the national median of $75,330. Salaries vary based on experience and location, with rural nurses earning more than their urban counterparts.