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allnurses (Editorial Team / Admin)
Arizona, located in the southwestern United States, provides a wide array of nursing programs for aspiring nurses at every stage of their careers.
Whether you're starting with entry-level nursing education, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), advancing as a registered nurse (RN) through an RN to BSN program, or pursuing an advanced practice role with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Arizona has programs to support your goals.
Begin your nursing journey or advance your career by exploring Arizona's top nursing schools, and gain insights into studying in the Grand Canyon State, along with expected salaries after graduation.
Best Nursing Schools in Arizona 2025 — Online & On-Campus
The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.
*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.
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#1 University of Arizona
allnurses College Ranking: AUniversity of Arizona is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and on-campus programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, Entry Level Masters, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
- 1200 E University Blvd, Tucson, Arizona 85721, US
- 1-520-626-6154
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- 4 year or higher institution
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 87% Acceptance Rate
- 65% Graduation Rate
- 37,979 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 10,652 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 21 Average Age
- 44% Men
- 56% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 78% White
- 23% Hispanic
- 3% Black
- 3% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Hybrid Program$74,270 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$73,209 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$69,030 In-State Tuition4.7 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$74,200 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$38,440 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
* tuition estimated#2 Arizona State University
allnurses College Ranking: AArizona State University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 411 N Central Ave, Phoenix, Arizona 85004, US
- 1-602-496-2644
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- 4 year or higher institution
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 90% Acceptance Rate
- 68% Graduation Rate
- 64,778 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 14,573 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 24 Average Age
- 51% Men
- 49% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 79% White
- 19% Hispanic
- 3% Black
- 3% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Hybrid Online On-Campus Program$47,208 In-State Tuition4.5 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$47,208 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
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Hybrid Online On-Campus Program$47,208 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
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Hybrid Online On-Campus Program$48,960 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Hybrid Online On-Campus Program$48,384 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Hybrid Online On-Campus Program$48,960 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Hybrid Online On-Campus Program$16,128 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
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Hybrid Online On-Campus Program$12,672 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Hybrid Online On-Campus Program$13,248 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Online Program$22,320 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$98,400 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$41,000 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Online On-Campus Program$12,672 In-State Tuition4.5 Program Score
* tuition estimated#3 Aspen University
allnurses College Ranking: B+Aspen University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
- 4615 E. Elwood St., Suite 100, Phoenix, Arizona 85040, US
- 1-800-373-7814
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- 4 year or higher institution
- Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 52% Graduation Rate
- 4,067 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 3,300 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 34 Average Age
- 13% Men
- 87% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 80% White
- 5% Hispanic
- 14% Black
- 2% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$10,710 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
* tuition estimated#4 Central Arizona College
allnurses College Ranking: B+Central Arizona College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, and MA degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 8470 N Overfield Rd, Coolidge, Arizona 85128, US
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- Less-than-4-year institution
- Associate's Colleges: High Transfer-Mixed Traditional/Nontraditional
- 11% Graduation Rate
- 4,402 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 25 Average Age
- 38% Men
- 62% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 67% White
- 33% Hispanic
- 3% Black
- 1% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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On-Campus Program$2,550 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
* tuition estimated#5 University of Phoenix, Arizona
allnurses College Ranking: BUniversity of Phoenix, Arizona is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 949 Kaokila Blvd, Phoenix, Arizona 96707, US
- 1-866-766-0766
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- 4 year or higher institution
- Doctoral/Professional Universities
- 27% Graduation Rate
- 66,792 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 19,025 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 32 Average Age
- 29% Men
- 71% Women
- 3% Veterans
- 69% White
- 16% Hispanic
- 15% Black
- 4% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$13,134 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$33,504 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$36,296 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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Online Program$18,360 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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Online Program$18,360 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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Online Program$13,134 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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Online Program$18,360 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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Online Program$18,360 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
* tuition estimated#6 Pima Medical Institute, Tucson
allnurses College Ranking: BPima Medical Institute, Tucson is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including MA, CNA, LPN/LVN, ADN/ASN, BSN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
- 2121 N Craycroft Road, Bldg 1, Tucson, Arizona 85712, US
- 1-888-556-7334
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- 4 year or higher institution
- Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 72% Graduation Rate
- 2,477 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 112 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 26 Average Age
- 20% Men
- 80% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 71% White
- 27% Hispanic
- 5% Black
- 5% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$18,500 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$50,750 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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Hybrid On-Campus Program$23,200 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$31,900 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$1,708 In-State Tuition4.5 Program Score
* tuition estimated#7 Grand Canyon University
allnurses College Ranking: BGrand Canyon University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 3300 West Camelback Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85017, US
- 1-855-428-5673
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- 4 year or higher institution
- Doctoral/Professional Universities
- 78% Acceptance Rate
- 46% Graduation Rate
- 65,147 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 35,047 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 31 Average Age
- 30% Men
- 70% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 75% White
- 16% Hispanic
- 10% Black
- 3% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$10,200 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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Online Program$30,340 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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Online Program$30,340 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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Online Program$18,500 In-State Tuition4.1 Program Score
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Online Program$18,500 In-State Tuition4.1 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$65,928 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$53,550 In-State Tuition4.1 Program Score
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Online Program$14,160 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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Online Program$16,520 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
* tuition estimated#8 Brookline College, Phoenix
allnurses College Ranking: BBrookline College, Phoenix is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including MA, LPN/LVN, BSN, and Accelerated BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
- 2445 W. Dunlap Ave., Ste. 100, Phoenix, Arizona 85021, US
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- 4 year or higher institution
- Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 47% Graduation Rate
- 841 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 47 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 29 Average Age
- 11% Men
- 89% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 66% White
- 41% Hispanic
- 4% Black
- 2% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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On-Campus Program$84,960 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$47,436 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$31,968 In-State Tuition3.9 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$15,204 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
* tuition estimated#9 Carrington College, Albuquerque
allnurses College Ranking: BCarrington College, Albuquerque is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN/LVN, ADN/ASN, BSN, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
- 1001 Menaul Blvd. N. E., Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107, US
- 1-505 200-3745
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- Less-than-4-year institution
- Special Focus Two-Year: Health Professions
- 0% Acceptance Rate
- 69% Graduation Rate
- 377 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 26 Average Age
- 14% Men
- 86% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 69% White
- 32% Hispanic
- 3% Black
- 2% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$8,010 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$63,360 In-State Tuition4.1 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$43,387 In-State Tuition4.0 Program Score
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Online On-Campus Program$22,392 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
* tuition estimated#10 Cochise County Community College District
allnurses College Ranking: BCochise County Community College District is a public and non-profit Community College. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, CNA, LPN/LVN, MA, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 901 N Colombo Ave, Sierra Vista, Arizona 85635, US
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- Less-than-4-year institution
- Associate's Colleges: High Career & Technical-High Nontraditional
- 20% Graduation Rate
- 3,032 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 24 Average Age
- 45% Men
- 55% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 74% White
- 38% Hispanic
- 5% Black
- 2% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Hybrid Program$7,315 In-State Tuition4.0 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$3,591 In-State Tuition4.0 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$4,256 In-State Tuition4.0 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$10,507 In-State Tuition4.0 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$798 In-State Tuition4.0 Program Score
* tuition estimated#11 Northern Arizona University
allnurses College Ranking: BNorthern Arizona University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of programs—including degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 1900 S Knoles Dr, Babbitt Administrative Center, Room 200, Flagstaff, Arizona 86011, US
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- 4 year or higher institution
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 60% Graduation Rate
- 23,090 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 4,882 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 24 Average Age
- 37% Men
- 63% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 75% White
- 19% Hispanic
- 2% Black
- 2% Asian
#12 GateWay Community College
allnurses College Ranking: BGateWay Community College is a public and non-profit Community College. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including ADN/ASN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 108 N. 40th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85034, US
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- Less-than-4-year institution
- Associate's Colleges: Mixed Transfer/Career & Technical-High Traditional
- 16% Graduation Rate
- 5,114 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 24 Average Age
- 38% Men
- 62% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 67% White
- 13% Hispanic
- 21% Black
- 3% Asian
#13 Arizona Western College
allnurses College Ranking: BArizona Western College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 2020 S. Avenue 8E, Yuma, Arizona 85365, US
School Overview
- Located in Arizona
- Less-than-4-year institution
- Associate's Colleges: High Transfer-Mixed Traditional/Nontraditional
- 0% Acceptance Rate
- 23% Graduation Rate
- 7,595 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 23 Average Age
- 40% Men
- 60% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 63% White
- 61% Hispanic
- 3% Black
- 1% Asian
Why Become a Nurse in Arizona?
Studying nursing in Arizona offers a unique blend of educational opportunities, a diverse healthcare landscape, and the allure of the Southwestern United States. Here's what to expect:
- Nursing Improvements: Arizona is tackling its nursing shortage through initiatives like the Nurses for a Healthy Arizona grant, which funds expanded clinical placements and preceptor training. This program supports the development of student nurses, new graduates, and specialty nurses, with a goal to boost retention and increase the number of qualified healthcare professionals across the state.
- Academic Excellence: Arizona is home to several reputable universities and colleges with nursing programs that offer high-quality education.
- Clinical Opportunities: Arizona's healthcare system provides a wide range of clinical experiences for nursing students. You can gain practical experience in diverse settings, from urban hospitals in Phoenix to rural clinics near the Mexican border.
- Diverse Patient Populations: Studying in Arizona exposes nursing students to a diverse patient population, including various ethnicities and cultures. This diversity enhances cultural competency, a vital skill for healthcare professionals.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Many nursing schools in Arizona boast modern, state-of-the-art facilities, simulation labs, and cutting-edge technology, offering students a hands-on learning experience.
- Natural Beauty: Arizona's natural beauty is a major draw. The state is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Grand Canyon, Sedona's red rocks, and the Sonoran Desert. Exploring these natural wonders can be a great way to relax and recharge from the demands of nursing studies.
- Growing Healthcare Industry: Arizona's healthcare sector is expanding, providing ample job opportunities for nursing graduates. The state's healthcare facilities are continually seeking well-trained nurses to meet the healthcare needs of the growing population.
- Cultural Diversity: The state's diverse culture extends beyond the healthcare setting. Arizona's vibrant cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff offer a mix of cultural events, festivals, and dining experiences, enriching your life outside of academics.
- Nursing Associations: Arizona has active nursing associations and professional organizations that provide networking opportunities, support, and resources for nursing students and professionals.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Arizona can vary depending on the city or region. Some areas, like Phoenix and Tucson, are more affordable compared to major metropolitan areas in other states.
Arizona offers a balance between academic excellence, diverse clinical experiences, the opportunity to explore natural wonders, and a growing healthcare industry. It's an attractive destination for those aspiring to start or advance their nursing careers.
Steps to Become a Nurse in Arizona
Becoming a nurse in Arizona involves several key steps, each designed to ensure that you are well-prepared to provide high-quality care to patients. Whether you aim to become a Registered Nurse (RN) or advance your career as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), following the right educational and licensure pathways is crucial.
RN Requirements in Arizona
- Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure.
- Apply for RN Licensure: Submit an application for RN licensure to the Arizona Board of Nursing (AZBN). This process typically involves providing your transcripts, proof of passing the NCLEX-RN, and completing a background check. For details specific to Arizona, be sure to check the AZBN website.
- Obtain a Nursing License: Once your application is approved, you will be issued an RN license, allowing you to practice as a Registered Nurse in Arizona.
- Pursue Continuing Education: In Arizona, RNs and LPNs must meet recent practice or education requirements every 4 years for license renewal, such as 960 hours of nursing practice, a nursing degree, a refresher course, or an advanced degree completed within the past 5 years. For full details, visit the AZBN website.
APRN Requirements in Arizona
- Obtain an RN License: Before pursuing APRN certification, you must be a licensed RN in Arizona.
- Earn a Graduate Degree: Complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a specialization in an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role — e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife.
- Gain Clinical Experience: APRN programs require specific clinical hours based on your specialty and degree. All graduate-level nursing programs mandate a minimum of 500 clinical hours post-graduate. The National Task Force Standards for NP Education requires at least 750 clinical hours for NP graduates, while DNP programs require a minimum of 1,000 hours. These hands-on experiences are crucial for developing advanced nursing skills.
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Pass a National Certification Exam: After completing your graduate program, you must pass a national certification exam specific to your APRN role and specialization.
- CNMs via the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
- CNSs via the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
- NPs via the American Association of Nurse Practitioners American Nurses(AANP) or the Credentialing Center (ANCC).
- CRNA's via the National Board of Certification CRNA (NBCRNA).
- Apply for APRN Licensure: Submit an application for APRN licensure to the Arizona Board of Nursing. This may require documentation of your RN license, advanced nursing degree, APRN certification exam results, and clinical experience.
- Maintain Certification and Licensure: In Arizona, APRNs must renew their license separately from their RN license, meeting specific requirements every 4 years. APRNs need 960 hours of practice in the last 5 years, an active RN license (Arizona or compact), and current national certification. APRNs with an active DEA license must also complete a minimum of 3 hours of CE on opioid, substance use, or addiction topics. For full details, visit the AZBN website
Arizona Nurse Salary & Employment Outlook 2025
Salary expectations in 2025 are based on geography, experience level, education, type of nursing specialties, and the types of industry that the nurse works in.
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for an RN is $94,480, with the lowest 10th percentile making $63,720 and the 90th percentile making $132,680 annually. The highest employment levels were nurses in general medicine and surgical hospitals, making an annual $96,830.
Registered Nurses salary in Arizona is just below the national average at a mean annual salary of $91,430 or $43.96 an hour.
The highest salary states for RNs include:
- California: $137,690.00
- Hawaii: $119,710.00
- Massachusetts: $113,440.00
- Oregon: $111,030.00
- Alaska: $109,210.00
While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not distinguish between nursing degree levels in its data, most nurses who pursue advanced degrees, such as an MSN or DNP, aim to become Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) — which includes Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Nurse Anesthetists (DNAP/CRNAs).
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for APRNs is $129,480, with employment in these roles expected to grow by 40% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting strong demand for advanced practice nurses.
In Arizona, APRNs earn the following mean annual salaries:
- Nurse Practitioners: $132,560.00
- Certified Nurse Midwives: $119,190.00
- Nurse Anesthetists: No CRNA Data Available for AZ
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Arizona
Selecting the right nursing program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:
- Cost
- High NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
- Location
- Academic Reputation
- Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Length of Time to Obtain Degree
- Flexibility of Schedule
- Curriculum
- Campus and Surroundings
- Nursing Clinicals Location
- Availability of Online Course
For prospective doctorate and master's degree nursing students, additional considerations include:
- Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
- Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
- Certification Pass Rates: Check program national certification success rates.
- Clinical Training: Diverse, high-quality clinical placements and/or clinical placement support.
- Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
- Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
- Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
- Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
- Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
- State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.
Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional nursing program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated nursing program might be the better choice.
Importance of Picking an Accredited Nursing School in Arizona
Choosing to attend an accredited nursing school in Arizona is important for several reasons:
- Assurance of Educational Quality: Accredited nursing schools undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure their curriculum, faculty, and clinical training meet high standards. This guarantees that students receive a comprehensive and up-to-date education, equipping them with the skills needed for successful nursing careers.
- Licensing Requirements: Graduation from an accredited program is often necessary to meet state licensure requirements. Without attending an accredited school, students may find it challenging or even impossible to obtain the necessary credentials to practice as a registered nurse.
- Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers prioritize hiring graduates from accredited nursing programs because these programs are recognized for maintaining high educational standards. This preference can lead to better job prospects and career advancement opportunities in the nursing field.
- Ease of Credit Transfer: Credits earned at an accredited nursing school are more likely to be recognized and accepted by other institutions. This is particularly important for students who may wish to transfer schools or pursue further education, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing.
- Professional Credibility: Completing a program at an accredited nursing school adds to a nurse's professional credibility. It demonstrates that their education aligns with national standards, which is essential for advancing in the nursing profession.
- Eligibility for Financial Aid: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for accessing federal financial aid, including grants and loans. Attending an accredited school ensures that students can receive the financial support they need to complete their education.
Given these points, it's important prospective students research whether their choice of nursing school is accredited by a recognized body such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).
More Top Nursing Programs & Schools in Arizona
If you're interested in a specific nursing degree or specialty, we've got you covered. Explore our comprehensive guides to nursing programs across Arizona, tailored to various career paths and levels. Find the best program for you, whether you're looking to advance your nursing career or specialize in a specific area. Check out these resources:
Arizona Nursing Schools By City:
Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Arizona
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the entry requirements for nursing programs in Arizona?
Entry requirements vary by program, but generally, you'll need a high school diploma or equivalent for ADN and BSN programs. For BSN programs, many schools require the completion of prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and math. MSN and DNP programs typically require a BSN and an active RN license.
Q: What is the cost of nursing education in Arizona?
Tuition costs vary depending on the type of program and the institution you choose. Public universities and community colleges tend to have lower tuition rates for in-state residents. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities are available to help offset tuition costs.
Q: Are there opportunities for clinical experience in rural areas of Arizona?
Yes, Arizona's healthcare landscape includes rural and underserved areas. Many nursing programs provide clinical placements in these regions to expose students to a diverse patient population and address healthcare disparities.
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