15 Best Associate in Nursing Programs in Arizona in 2024

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Arizona involves exploring several educational pathways. Among them,  the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing or the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) are among the fastest and most popular options.

Considering this, we've provided everything you need to know to apply for an AAS RN or ADN program in Arizona, along with salary expectations after graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.

Best Associate in Nursing Programs in Arizona

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rate of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Central Arizona College

Central Arizona College's ACEN-accredited Associate in Nursing program (AAS), located in Coolidge, offers an affordable pathway to aspiring nurses. With an annual tuition cost of $5,491 and an impressive 92% NCLEX pass rate, graduates are well-prepared for a successful nursing career. 

2. Estrella Mountain Community College – Maricopa Nursing

At Estrella Mountain Community College, located in Avondale, Arizona, the Associate in Nursing (AAS) program stands out with a stellar 97% NCLEX pass rate and accreditation by the ACEN. With an affordable cost of $9,708 and a small class size of 44 students in 2022, aspiring nurses can receive a high-quality education and prepare for a successful career in healthcare.

3. Pima Community College – West Campus 

Pima Community College's West Campus in Tucson, Arizona, offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at an affordable tuition cost of $3,409. With a respectable 89% NCLEX pass rate and ACEN accreditation, students receive a solid education to pursue a rewarding nursing career at below-average costs. 

What Is an Associate in Nursing?

An AAS (associate in applied science) in nursing or an ADN (associate degree in nursing) is an entry-level degree that provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become RNs. Upon completion of an ADN or AAS program, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed.

Associate in Nursing Coursework

The robust curriculum, including a blend of classwork and hands-on coursework, means students will be well prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin in a clinical nurse role upon graduation. Since ADN and AAS nursing students work towards an associate of applied science, coursework in general education and nursing is required. Standard classes include:

• Fundamentals of Nursing
• Nursing care of adults
• Community Health Nursing
• Behavioral Health
• Microbiology
• Humanities
• Psychology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Chemistry

Can an Associate in Nursing Be Taken Entirely Online?

Acquiring nursing skills requires hands-on learning and real-life practice, which can't be fully replicated in an entirely online environment for an initial nursing degree. Because of this, associate programs aren't entirely online, as in-person skills training and direct patient care experiences in healthcare facilities are needed. However, plenty of associate in nursing programs offer online coursework options, providing a hybrid environment for working students or those who require more flexible schedules.

Where Do Associate-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with an associate in nursing have many career options and opportunities and can practice in most care settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Home Care Agencies
• Physician Office
• Educational Services
• Government Agencies
• Schools
• Community Centers
• Hospices
• Dialysis Centers
• Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings

Associate in Nursing Prerequisites and Requirements

Acceptance to an ADN or AAS program comes with several prerequisites and requirements, including:

• Proof of Prior Education: Verification of high school diploma or GED.
• Prerequisite studies: Research your program for the exact courses needed.
• Pre-Entrance Exam: Tests like the TEAS or HESI.
• CPR Certification: Varying depending on the program.
• Criminal Background Check: To ensure patient safety.

Associate in Nursing Program Costs

The costs associated with pursuing an ADN or an AAS in Nursing in Arizona can differ based on several factors. Here's a breakdown of the various expenses to consider:

• Tuition: Tuition rates can vary significantly between public and private institutions, as well as between in-state and out-of-state students. Typically, private colleges and out-of-state enrollments are more expensive.
• Supplies: This category includes expenses for textbooks, medical supplies, and other essential educational materials. These costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
• Technology Fees: For students in hybrid or online nursing programs, there may be additional fees for the use of technology, software, or other online resources.
• Lab & Clinical Fees: Some courses might involve fees for utilizing specific materials or equipment necessary for hands-on learning experiences.
• Miscellaneous Fees: These may include application fees, graduation fees, and other administrative expenses that are often overlooked when budgeting for nursing education.
• Living Expenses: Consider the costs of daily living, such as food, housing, utilities, and personal expenses. These are particularly important for students who plan to study full-time without working or those who need to relocate to attend the program.

Assessing the total cost of the ADN or AAS program in Arizona is essential, as it allows you to effectively manage your finances and focus on your studies with less financial stress.

Associate in Nursing Salary Expectations in Arizona

In the dynamic landscape of nursing salaries, the distinction between ADN and BSN prepared registered nurses is pivotal. BSN RNs are likely to earn more, yet the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not differentiate between the two.

RNs nationally earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

According to the BLS, Arizona's RN Salaries are just below the national estimates for 2023, and state boasts 63,150 employed RNs, positioning it in the 50-75% bracket nationally for RN employment.

 RNs in Arizona earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $43.96
• Mean Annual Wage: $91,430

The highest paying states for RN's are:

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

While the BLS does not provide data to compare ADN/AAS RN to BSN RN salary, ZipRecrutier's reports identify a difference in salary. 

ADN RNs in Arizona earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $36
• Annual Wage: $74,116

BSN RNs in Arizona earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $41
• Annual Wage: $584,847

Are Associate in Nursing Programs Worth It?

Definitely! An ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) offers a quick, cost-effective route into the nursing field, suited to the continuous high demand for healthcare professionals. Whether to choose an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) depends on your career goals, with some specialized roles requiring or preferring a BSN. Understanding the requirements of potential roles, as highlighted by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), where 28% of positions require a bachelor's degree and 72% prefer it, can inform your decision.

Pros of Associate in Nursing Programs

1. Rapid Entry into the Field: Completing an ADN program generally takes two years, allowing graduates to join the workforce quicker than those who pursue a four-year BSN.
2. Cost Efficiency: ADN programs tend to be more affordable than BSN programs, often available at community colleges which feature lower tuition costs.
3. Broad Accessibility: ADN programs are extensively available at community colleges and technical schools, accessible to a diverse array of students across various locations.
4. NCLEX-RN Preparation: These programs ready students for the NCLEX-RN exam, necessary for obtaining RN licensure.
5. Flexible Scheduling: Many ADN programs provide flexible class schedules, including evening and weekend options, ideal for students who might need to balance studies with work or family commitments.

Cons of Associate in Nursing Programs

1. Career Growth Limits: Certain employers, particularly in specialized or advanced roles, might require or prefer a BSN, potentially restricting career advancement for ADN holders until they further their education.
2. Need for Continued Education: While an ADN qualifies graduates to become RNs, pursuing specialized fields or administrative roles often necessitates additional education, like a BSN or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
3. Competitive Disadvantages: In a job market where many nurses have BSN degrees, ADN graduates may face disadvantages, especially in areas or hospitals with higher educational expectations.
4. Future Educational Requirements: As the nursing profession evolves, the trend towards requiring a BSN for RNs grows, meaning ADN graduates may need to consider BSN bridge programs in the future to stay competitive and meet employer requirements.
5. Limited Opportunities in Certain Areas: Some nursing roles, particularly in research, public health, or management, might be less accessible to ADN graduates than those with a BSN or higher education.

Associate in Nurse Program Accreditation Importance

The significance of accreditation in Associate in Nursing programs in Arizona is paramount for those considering their future career paths and educational advancement. Here's why accreditation is essential:

• Educational Quality: Accredited programs maintain stringent standards in curriculum design, faculty qualifications, resource availability, and clinical training, which guarantees a high-quality education that aligns with national benchmarks.
• NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: Enrollment in an accredited program significantly enhances your preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam, boosting your chances of passing it on the first attempt.
• Licensing Flexibility: While a state-approved program may allow you to practice within Arizona, lacking accreditation could limit your ability to obtain licensure in other states without undergoing additional accredited training.
• Employment Prospects: Employers often prefer graduates from accredited programs because their education meets established national standards, which can facilitate job opportunities and ease interstate career moves where accreditation is required.
• Credit Transferability: Credits earned from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized by other educational institutions, an important factor for those pursuing further education in fields like a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
• Professional Reputation: Graduating from an accredited program enhances your professional standing, aligning your education with recognized standards and fostering the progression of nursing practices.
• Access to Financial Aid: Accreditation is a prerequisite for eligibility for federal financial aid, essential for many nursing students.

Prospective nurses in Arizona should seek programs accredited by reputable bodies such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the National League for Nursing's Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). While the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is also esteemed, it does not offer accreditation for ADN or diploma nursing programs.

How to Choose a Nursing School

Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.

Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: How do I transfer my nursing license to Arizona?

Arizona is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other NLC states without additional steps. You do not have to transfer your license if moving from an NLC state.

Q: Are there specialization programs for nurses in Arizona?

Many schools in Arizona offer advanced nursing degrees, allowing RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

Q: Is it better to have an associate in nursing or a BSN?

While obtaining an RN license after completing an associate in nursing program is possible, the opportunities after graduation and beyond are more significant with a BSN degree. BSNs focus more on research, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, whereas an associate degree in nursing primarily focuses on clinical skills.

Additionally, many healthcare institutions now require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and to achieve the prestige of Magnet status.

Edited May 11 by Erin Lee
3-4 sentences on top 3 programs