Top 30 Nursing Schools in Arizona (2025)

Arizona is home to a diverse range of nursing programs, from large public universities to specialized private institutions and community colleges. These schools offer pathways for aspiring nurses at every stage, whether pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, an accelerated track, or an RN-to-BSN completion program. Known for strong NCLEX pass rates, experienced faculty, and modern simulation facilities, Arizona’s nursing schools prepare graduates to meet the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in the state and beyond.

Top 30 Nursing Schools in Arizona

1. University of Arizona – College of Nursing

Ranked the best nursing school in Arizona by RNCareers.org, the University of Arizona excels in NCLEX pass rates, diverse degree offerings, and faculty quality. The BSN-Integrative Health program in Gilbert is unique, and graduates enjoy strong employment outcomes. The College was evaluated among over 50 Arizona prelicensure programs and emerged top due to its academic rigor and outcomes.

2. Arizona State University – Edson College of Nursing & Health Innovation

ASU’s Edson College is nationally recognized and repeatedly ranked among the top nursing programs by U.S. News & World Report. Its Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) gerontology program is ranked #6 in 2025, with the overall DNP program at #26. Emphasizing simulation, research, and innovation, the college boasts a 95% first-time NCLEX pass rate and significant research funding.

3. Northern Arizona University – School of Nursing

NAU’s nursing program offers traditional and accelerated BSN tracks, including the only reservation-based baccalaureate nursing program in the U.S., designed for Native American learners. Students benefit from simulation labs and extensive clinical rotations across Northern Arizona communities. It’s consistently ranked among Arizona’s top accredited BSN programs.

4. Grand Canyon University – College of Nursing

GCU’s BSN pre-licensure program offers immersive clinical training and simulation to prepare students for NCLEX. Despite past censure, its NCLEX first-time pass rate rose dramatically to over 95%, with a year-to-date rate of 92.86%, outpacing the state average. GCU is ranked number one for nursing in Arizona by Niche users in 2025.

5. Arizona College of Nursing (Tempe & Phoenix)

A private institution offering CCNE-accredited, three-year BSN programs in both Phoenix and Tempe. These campus-based programs feature advanced simulation facilities, night classes, and prioritize NCLEX preparation. Financial aid and scholarships are available, and Tempe offers a 36-month program option.

6. Pima Medical Institute (Mesa & Tucson)

PMI provides a 20-month Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program available in Mesa and Tucson. Known for its hands-on training, lab exercises, and clinical orientation, the curriculum prepares graduates for entry-level RN roles. Accredited by ABHES, PMI emphasizes practical skills and readiness for NCLEX success.

7. GateWay Community College (Phoenix)

A top nursing school in Arizona offering ADN, practical nursing, nurse assistant, and RN-to-BSN pathways. Accredited by ACEN, GateWay’s programs are affordable and comprehensive. The ADN requires 62–75 credits over six terms, combining theory, clinical skills, and foundational science. It’s highly regarded for quality and cost-effectiveness.

8. Paradise Valley Community College

Ranked number four in Arizona by Nursing Explorer’s 2024 list of top RN programs, PVCC earned recognition based on NCLEX-RN pass rates over a three-year span up to 2023. This ranking reflects the program’s consistent student success and quality education.

9. Cochise College

This public community college offers a highly regarded AAS in Nursing (ADN) with very affordable tuition—approximately \$91 per credit in-state and \$250 out-of-state. Accredited by ACEN, Cochise emphasizes NCLEX readiness and enjoys strong local employer trust.

10. Glendale Community College

Offering an ADN program (62–75 credits), Glendale combines online work with in-person labs and classroom instruction. Accredited by ACEN, it supports students through clinical experiences and allows concurrent enrollment in an ADN and ASU’s BSN program. The school emphasizes evidence-based practice and preparing students for RN licensure.

11. Phoenix College

Phoenix College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing accredited by ACEN. The program combines classroom learning with laboratory practice and clinical rotations at local hospitals. Students can enter directly into nursing practice after passing the NCLEX or transfer to a BSN program. The school also participates in concurrent enrollment programs with universities, allowing students to pursue a BSN while completing their ADN. Affordable tuition and flexible scheduling make it a popular choice for working students.

12. Yavapai College

Yavapai College’s Nursing Department offers an ACEN-accredited ADN program designed to prepare graduates for RN licensure. Students receive training in simulation labs and through clinical experiences in regional healthcare facilities. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, critical thinking, and professional ethics. Yavapai also has a concurrent enrollment option with Northern Arizona University for those seeking a BSN. Affordable tuition and strong NCLEX pass rates make it one of the best community college nursing programs in northern Arizona.

13. Estrella Mountain Community College

Estrella Mountain Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing that combines theory, lab practice, and clinical rotations. Accredited by ACEN, the program can be completed in as little as two years. Students have the option to concurrently enroll in a BSN program through partnerships with Arizona State University and other institutions. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and teamwork. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX and have high job placement rates in Arizona.

14. Eastern Arizona College

Eastern Arizona College provides an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing accredited by ACEN. The program includes hands-on clinical training in local hospitals and healthcare facilities. Students gain skills in medical-surgical, pediatric, and geriatric nursing. With affordable tuition and small class sizes, the college offers personalized attention from faculty. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX and many continue to BSN programs through articulation agreements with universities. The program has a strong reputation for preparing competent entry-level nurses.

15. Central Arizona College

Central Arizona College offers an ADN program accredited by ACEN, designed to train students for RN licensure. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, simulation lab work, and clinical rotations across Pinal County healthcare facilities. Students can complete the program in two years and have the option of concurrent BSN enrollment. The school is known for supportive faculty, strong community ties, and affordable tuition. Graduates consistently achieve high NCLEX pass rates and secure positions in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings.

16. Pima Community College

Pima Community College offers an ACEN-accredited Associate Degree in Nursing with multiple start dates throughout the year. The program blends lecture-based learning with extensive clinical practice in Tucson-area healthcare facilities. Pima emphasizes patient safety, critical thinking, and leadership skills. The college also offers pathways for LPNs to transition into RN roles. Affordable tuition, flexible scheduling, and high NCLEX pass rates make it a top choice for aspiring nurses in southern Arizona.

17. Scottsdale Community College

Scottsdale Community College provides an ACEN-accredited ADN program that combines rigorous academics with practical training. Students engage in clinical experiences at top hospitals in the Phoenix area, gaining exposure to a variety of healthcare settings. The program is designed for completion in two years, with an option for concurrent BSN enrollment. Known for its strong faculty support and small class sizes, Scottsdale’s nursing program has an excellent track record for NCLEX success and graduate employment.

18. Chandler-Gilbert Community College

Chandler-Gilbert Community College offers a respected ADN program accredited by ACEN. Students benefit from a combination of lecture, simulation labs, and hands-on clinical rotations in Maricopa County healthcare facilities. The program can be completed in two years and offers concurrent enrollment with BSN programs at partnering universities. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX and employment in diverse nursing roles. Affordable tuition and a supportive learning environment make it a top choice for students in the East Valley.

19. Mesa Community College

Mesa Community College’s ADN program is ACEN-accredited and offers both traditional and accelerated tracks. Students gain experience through simulation labs and clinical placements in local hospitals and clinics. The program focuses on evidence-based practice, communication, and teamwork. Mesa offers concurrent enrollment options for BSN degrees, allowing students to advance their education efficiently. High NCLEX pass rates, experienced faculty, and a variety of learning resources make MCC a leader in nursing education in the Phoenix area.

20. South Mountain Community College

South Mountain Community College offers an ADN program accredited by ACEN, providing students with foundational nursing skills and extensive clinical experience. The curriculum includes courses in anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care, supported by simulation-based learning. Students can take advantage of concurrent enrollment with partnering BSN programs. With affordable tuition and strong community healthcare connections, graduates enjoy excellent NCLEX pass rates and employment opportunities. The program prepares nurses to deliver compassionate, culturally competent care in a variety of settings.

21. Mohave Community College

Mohave Community College offers an ACEN-accredited Associate of Applied Science in Nursing that prepares students for RN licensure. The program provides classroom learning, simulation lab practice, and clinical rotations in regional healthcare facilities. Students develop skills in various nursing specialties, including pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health. Affordable tuition and flexible scheduling options make MCC accessible to a wide range of students. Graduates achieve strong NCLEX pass rates and often continue their studies through partnerships with universities offering BSN programs.

22. Northland Pioneer College

Northland Pioneer College provides an ACEN-accredited ADN program designed to prepare students for nursing careers in rural and urban settings. The curriculum blends classroom instruction, skills lab practice, and clinical experience in local hospitals. The program emphasizes patient safety, communication, and evidence-based care. Affordable tuition and small class sizes ensure personalized attention. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX and have the option to pursue BSN degrees through articulation agreements with Arizona universities, expanding their career opportunities.

23. Brookline College – Phoenix Campus

Brookline College offers an accelerated BSN program designed for students with prior college credits or degrees. The program focuses on intensive classroom learning, simulation training, and clinical rotations to prepare students for the NCLEX. Brookline is known for small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and a supportive learning environment. Although tuition is higher than at public institutions, the accelerated format allows students to enter the workforce quickly. Graduates often secure employment in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings in Arizona.

24. Brookline College – Tucson Campus

Brookline College’s Tucson campus offers the same accelerated BSN program as its Phoenix counterpart, tailored for students seeking a fast track into nursing. The curriculum combines classroom study, skills labs, and real-world clinical experiences. The program is designed to be completed in as little as 16 months, making it ideal for career changers. Faculty support, NCLEX preparation, and job placement assistance are strong features. Graduates often find employment in southern Arizona’s hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics.

25. Carrington College – Mesa Campus

Carrington College in Mesa offers an Associate Degree in Nursing designed to prepare students for RN licensure. The program blends classroom learning with lab training and clinical experiences in local healthcare settings. Carrington emphasizes hands-on skills, patient communication, and professional ethics. While tuition is higher than community colleges, students benefit from accelerated program options and career services support. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX and often continue their education to earn BSN degrees, expanding their professional opportunities.

26. Carrington College – Phoenix Campus

Carrington College’s Phoenix campus offers an ADN program with the same high standards as its Mesa location. Students complete coursework in anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care, alongside simulation training and clinical rotations. The program is designed for efficiency, enabling students to graduate in a shorter time than traditional paths. Support services include tutoring, NCLEX preparation, and job placement assistance. Graduates are well-prepared for entry-level nursing positions in a variety of healthcare environments, from hospitals to rehabilitation centers.

27. Carrington College – Tucson Campus

The Tucson campus of Carrington College provides an ADN program focused on preparing competent, compassionate nurses for the workforce. The curriculum includes classroom lectures, hands-on lab work, and clinical practice in southern Arizona healthcare facilities. Students receive guidance from experienced faculty and benefit from small class sizes. Career services assist graduates with job placement after completing the program. NCLEX preparation is built into the curriculum, ensuring strong pass rates and smooth transitions into registered nursing roles.

28. Western Governors University – Arizona

Western Governors University offers a fully online RN-to-BSN program for licensed RNs in Arizona. The competency-based format allows students to progress at their own pace, making it ideal for working nurses. The curriculum focuses on leadership, evidence-based practice, and community health. Students complete clinical projects in their local communities, applying learned skills to real-world scenarios. Affordable tuition and flexible scheduling make WGU a popular choice for nurses seeking to advance their education without pausing their careers.

29. Chamberlain University – Phoenix Campus

Chamberlain University’s Phoenix campus offers a three-year BSN program designed to prepare students for RN licensure. The program integrates classroom instruction with simulation lab training and clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. Chamberlain emphasizes leadership development, patient-centered care, and evidence-based practice. With no waitlist and multiple start dates each year, students can begin their nursing education promptly. The school provides NCLEX preparation resources and career services, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon completion of the program.

30. Aspen University – Phoenix

Aspen University offers a hybrid pre-licensure BSN program that combines online coursework with on-campus lab intensives and in-person clinical rotations. Designed for flexibility, the program accommodates working students and those with family obligations. The curriculum covers core nursing competencies, communication skills, and clinical judgment. Aspen emphasizes affordable tuition and offers payment plans to reduce financial barriers. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX and have opportunities to advance into leadership or specialized nursing roles through further education.

Requirements for Nursing Schools in Arizona

While each school may have unique prerequisites, most Arizona nursing programs (BSN, ADN, or accelerated tracks) share these general requirements:

For BSN (Traditional or Accelerated):

• High school diploma or GED (official transcripts required)
• Minimum GPA (usually 2.75–3.0 for competitive programs)
• Prerequisite coursework completed with a C or higher (Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Microbiology, Chemistry, English Composition, Statistics, Nutrition, Psychology)
• TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2 entrance exam scores meeting program minimums
• CPR certification (American Heart Association – BLS for Healthcare Providers)
• Background check and drug screening clearance
• Immunization records (Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, Tdap, Influenza, COVID-19 depending on school/clinical site policy)
• English proficiency for non-native speakers (TOEFL/IELTS)

For ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing):

• High school diploma or GED
• GPA minimum (often 2.5–2.75)
• Completion of prerequisite science and math courses
• TEAS/HESI entrance exam
• Background check and drug screening
• CPR certification and immunizations

For RN-to-BSN Programs (Online/Hybrid):

• Unencumbered RN license in Arizona (or compact state license)
• ADN or nursing diploma from an accredited program
• Minimum GPA (often 2.5 or higher)
• Official transcripts

Cost of These Top Nursing Schools in Arizona

Costs vary depending on whether you attend a public university, community college, or private institution.

Below is the general range for tuition (excluding books, uniforms, supplies, and exam fees):

Public universities (BSN – in-state tuition)

• University of Arizona, Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University:
• \$10,500 – \$12,500 per year (in-state)
• \$27,000 – \$31,000 per year (out-of-state)
• BSN total: \$42,000 – \$50,000 (in-state)

Community colleges (ADN)

• GateWay, Mesa, Pima, Glendale, and others:
• \$91 – \$150 per credit (in-state)
• ADN total: \$6,500 – \$9,000 (in-state)
• Out-of-state: \$250 – \$350 per credit

Private universities and colleges (BSN/ADN)

Grand Canyon University, Arizona College of Nursing, Brookline, Chamberlain, Carrington, Aspen:

• \$18,000 – \$25,000 per year for BSN
• Total: \$55,000 – \$75,000
• ADN at private institutions: \$25,000 – \$45,000 total

Online RN-to-BSN programs

Western Governors University, Aspen University:

• \$3,500 – \$6,500 per term/year
• Total: \$9,000 – \$18,000 depending on pace

Additional costs (all programs)

• Books and supplies: \$1,500 – \$3,000
• Uniforms and equipment: \$200 – \$400
• Background check and drug screening: \$100 – \$200
• NCLEX exam fee: \$200
• State RN licensing fee: about \$300

Application Process for Nursing Schools in Arizona

While each school has its own steps, here is the general application process for most top programs:

Step 1 – Research and select programs

• Decide between ADN, BSN, accelerated BSN, or RN-to-BSN based on your current education and career goals
• Review each school’s admission requirements and deadlines (public universities often have earlier application dates than community colleges)

Step 2 – Complete prerequisites

• Enroll in prerequisite courses at a community college or university if you have not already
• Maintain the minimum required GPA and complete all science courses within the school’s allowed time frame (often within the past 5–7 years)

Step 3 – Prepare for entrance exams

• Register for the TEAS or HESI exam (required for most ADN and BSN programs)
• Study using official prep materials to meet or exceed the school’s cut-off score

Step 4 – Submit the application

• Apply to the college or university first (general admission)
• Submit a separate application to the nursing program, including:
•  Official transcripts
•   TEAS or HESI scores
•   Personal statement or essay if required
•   Letters of recommendation if requested
•   Proof of CPR certification and immunizations

Step 5 – Interview if required

• Some competitive programs invite applicants for an in-person or virtual interview

Step 6 – Background check and drug screening

• Complete all compliance requirements before clinical placement

Step 7 – Acceptance and enrollment

• Once accepted, attend orientation, register for classes, and purchase required supplies and uniforms

Conclusion

Arizona offers a wide array of high-quality nursing programs designed to meet the needs of students at different stages of their careers. Whether attending a public university, a private college, or a community college, students can access strong clinical training, supportive faculty, and pathways to licensure and advanced degrees. Graduates from these programs are well-prepared to enter the workforce as competent, compassionate nurses, contributing to the state’s healthcare system and helping meet the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals.