Top Nursing Schools & BSN Programs in Phoenix, AZ for 2026

An associate degree gets you licensed, but a BSN now determines where you can work in Phoenix. The metro’s largest health systems (Banner, HonorHealth, Dignity Health) strongly prefer or require the bachelor’s for new hires, following the national push toward Magnet status. Median pay for RNs here reached $82,270 in 2025, and that figure conceals a wider BSN advantage in hiring and advancement.

Phoenix offers a dense selection of pathways: high-value public programs at Arizona State University and Maricopa community colleges, private BSNs at Grand Canyon University, and accelerated tracks for career switchers. The practical question isn’t just which school to pick, but whether the upfront cost of a BSN pays off in a market where the bachelor’s credential is hardening into a de facto floor.

Top BSN Programs in Phoenix, Ranked

The Phoenix metro area offers a range of nursing programs from accelerated BSNs to affordable community college paths. Our ranking considers net price, graduation rates, and early-career earnings to spotlight schools that deliver strong value for Arizona nursing students.

Rank	School	Location	Net price	Best for
#1	University of Arizona	Tucson, AZ	~$17,000/yr (est.)	Public research university with East Valley campus
The University of Arizona offers a revered BSN through its College of Nursing, with a conventional 24-month pathway and an accelerated 15-16 month integrative health track, both available at the Tucson and Gilbert campuses. The Gilbert location places top-tier UA education within reach of Phoenix East Valley students. Graduates benefit from a 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate and strong starting salaries, and the school also provides a direct-entry MSN for career changers seeking an accelerated nursing path. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate 24-month conventional program at Tucson or Gilbert campus High starting salary for graduates Blends technology, simulation, and clinical experiences Accredited by the CCNE Supportive faculty with focus on diverse nursing roles Option for 15-16 month accelerated integrative health pathway Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Integrative Health) — On-Campus Visit Website 15-16 month accelerated program for those with a prior degree Hybrid online and in-person learning format Focus on holistic patient care and integrative health High NCLEX pass rate Strong starting salaries Prepares for diverse healthcare settings Meets academic prerequisites for admission Master of Science for Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MS-MEPN) — On-Campus Visit Website 15-16 month accelerated entry to nursing for career changers On-campus learning in Tucson or Gilbert Over 120 simulation hours and 550+ direct clinical hours 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate High starting salary around $87,000 Requires a bachelor's degree in any field Full-time, in-person format with small class sizes CCNE accredited with expert faculty mentorship
#2	Grand Canyon University	Phoenix, AZ	~$22,000/yr (est.)	Private Christian university with hospital ties
Grand Canyon University's Phoenix campus anchors one of the largest nursing programs in the region, with deep clinical partnerships across local health systems like Banner and HonorHealth. The pre-licensure BSN emphasizes evidence-based, holistic care and prepares students thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN through immersive simulations and hands-on clinical practice. GCU's location in the heart of Phoenix offers strong networking and hiring pipelines into the metro's nursing workforce. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Campus-based pre-licensure program in Phoenix Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam Hands-on clinical practice with immersive simulations Focus on evidence-based, holistic nursing practices Emphasizes critical thinking and ethical nursing Leadership development and patient safety training Comprehensive curriculum with diverse community care
#3	Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe	Tempe, AZ	$32,000/yr (net price)	Accelerated BSN for adult learners
Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe offers a focused 3-year BSN program designed for career changers and adult learners in the Phoenix metro. The CCNE-accredited curriculum includes year-round scheduling, night classes for general education, and extensive clinical rotations in local facilities. With advanced simulation labs and personalized attention, this accelerated path is built to get students into nursing practice quickly. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website 3-year BSN program with year-round scheduling CCNE-accredited curriculum Night classes available for general education Advanced simulation facilities on campus Clinical rotations provide real-world experience Financial aid and scholarships available Personalized attention and state-of-the-art labs
#4	Estrella Mountain Community College	Avondale, AZ	$2,000 – $9,000/yr
Estrella Mountain Community College in Avondale delivers a cost-effective AAS in Nursing through the Maricopa Nursing consortium, sharing a unified curriculum with other Phoenix-area community colleges. A major highlight is the Concurrent Enrollment Program, allowing students to earn their AAS and BSN simultaneously at a fraction of typical university costs. The program, designed for local workforce needs, includes clinical rotations and prepares graduates for RN licensure. Associate in Applied Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website 4-semester program leading to RN eligibility Part of the Maricopa Nursing consortium for shared curriculum Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) for AAS-to-BSN fast track In-state tuition under $20,000 for university portion of CEP Health documentation, CPR, background check required Prepares students for NCLEX-RN exam Cost-effective path to nursing with clinical rotations
#5	Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix	Phoenix, AZ	~$37,000/yr (est.)
Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix is a dedicated BSN campus catering to Phoenix residents seeking an efficient, hands-on nursing education. Like its Tempe counterpart, the 3-year program features year-round courses, evening options for gen eds, and clinical placements in Phoenix-area hospitals. Students benefit from small class sizes, simulation technology, and financial aid availability. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website 3-year BSN program with hands-on clinicals CCNE-accredited and designed for working adults Night classes available for general education Advanced simulation facilities on campus Personalized attention with small class sizes Financial aid and scholarships available Prepares students for RN licensure
#6	Pima Medical Institute-Mesa	Mesa, AZ	$21,000/yr (net price)
Pima Medical Institute-Mesa offers a 20-month Nursing Associate Degree program that feeds directly into East Valley healthcare employers. The curriculum covers essential sciences and patient care, culminating in eligibility for the NCLEX-RN. An online RN-to-BSN completion track provides a flexible next step for working nurses. Strong local placement rates and focused training make it a practical choice for those starting their nursing career in the Phoenix area. Associate Degree in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website 20-month on-campus program Prepares for NCLEX-RN with clinical externships Covers anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology Focus on hands-on patient care skills Financial aid options available Strong record of placing graduates in local facilities Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) — Online Visit Website Online flexible learning platform for working RNs Approximately 1-year completion time Leadership and management focus in curriculum 42 nursing credits transferred from ADN Experienced field expert instructors Advanced career opportunities with evidence-based research training
#7	Northern Arizona University	Flagstaff, AZ	$14,000/yr
Northern Arizona University's BSN program in Flagstaff is a respected state school option with hybrid format flexibility that attracts students from across Arizona, including the Phoenix region. The traditional four-and-a-half-year track and an intensive 12-month accelerated BSN both emphasize holistic care, leadership, and clinical experience. Admission is competitive, and the program is CCNE-accredited. While not located in the Phoenix metro, its reputation and hybrid delivery keep it in consideration for many nursing applicants. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — Hybrid Visit Website Four-and-a-half year hybrid BSN program Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam Focus on holistic patient-centered care Hands-on clinical experiences included CCNE accredited with leadership and safety emphasis Competitive admission requiring pre-professional courses Multiple format options: traditional, compressed, global Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing — Hybrid Visit Website 12-month intensive accelerated program Hybrid online and on-campus delivery Requires a bachelor's degree and 3.0 GPA Prepares for NCLEX-RN with clinical practice Focus on leadership and global health Scholarships available for qualified students CCNE accredited, Flagstaff campus location
#8	Aspen University	Phoenix, AZ	$7,000/yr
Aspen University, based in Phoenix, provides online MSN programs with concentrations in Administration, Forensic Nursing, and Informatics for RNs with a BSN. The low tuition and flexible 8-week terms are geared toward working nurses, and local practicums can be arranged in Phoenix-area facilities. While graduate earnings data is not yet available for these programs, the affordable prices and CCNE accreditation make Aspen a budget-friendly choice for career advancement. Master of Science in Nursing - Administration and Management — Online Visit Website Online MSN for RNs with BSN 36 credit hours, 12 courses Tuition $17,100, total cost around $21,150 8-week terms, complete in about 2 years Focus on healthcare finance and strategic management Includes practicum and capstone project CCNE accredited, no application fee Current RN license and one year experience required Master of Science in Nursing - Forensic Nursing — Online Visit Website Online MSN with Forensic Nursing concentration 36 credits, 2-year completion Focus on evidence collection and legal coursework 120-hour practicum course included Requires BSN, RN license, and one year experience CCNE accredited, no app fee Monthly payment plan available Master of Science in Nursing - Informatics — Online Visit Website Online MSN with Informatics specialization 36 credits, $20,875 total cost Focus on health informatics and data analysis Includes information security and legal/ethical issues 120-hour practicum, local preceptor required 2-year program, CCNE accredited Designed for RNs with BSN and experience
#9	Carrington College-Tucson	Tucson, AZ	$34,000/yr
Carrington College-Tucson offers a campus-based ADN that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN with hands-on clinical experience. An online RN-to-BSN completion program is also available for working nurses across Arizona. Though located in Tucson, Carrington appears on statewide lists for those seeking a direct nursing entry point, but it lacks Phoenix-specific cohorts or partnerships. The ADN can be a shorter, more affordable path to licensure for students willing to commute or relocate. Associate Degree in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Campus-based associate degree program Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam Hands-on clinical experience included Requires high school diploma or GED Financial aid available for eligible students Curriculum covers patient care and procedures Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) — Online Visit Website Online post-licensure program for RNs Complete in 15 months Advanced nursing skills development CCNE accredited Designed for working registered nurses Leadership and community health perspectives
#10	Mohave Community College	Kingman, AZ	~$6,000/yr (est.)
Mohave Community College in Kingman is a budget-friendly option for an AAS in Nursing, with the lowest net price in this ranking. The program includes clinical training, some of which occurs in Las Vegas, and leads to RN licensure eligibility. While not in the Phoenix area, its extreme affordability and accredited curriculum may appeal to students in northwest Arizona or those willing to relocate for their education. Associate in Applied Science in Nursing — On-Campus Prepares for RN licensure Requires 2.85 GPA and prerequisites in biology/chemistry Hands-on clinical training, some in Las Vegas National League for Nursing accredited Computer and internet skills essential Background check, fingerprint clearance required

How We Ranked Phoenix Nursing Schools

Nursing school rankings abound, but few are built on verifiable, third-party data that directly measures student outcomes. Our Phoenix list uses the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the same dataset behind the White House’s College Scorecard tool, so every figure is independently auditable.

Metrics That Drive the Ranking

We weight four institution-wide metrics from the 2023, 2024 Scorecard release:

• Net Price: What students actually pay after grants, for full-time undergraduates.
• Graduation Rate: The share of first-time, full-time students who complete within 150% of normal time.
• Median Earnings: Three years post-graduation, among federal aid recipients.
• Debt-to-Earnings ROI: A ratio comparing typical monthly federal loan payments to median earnings, giving a real-world affordability signal.

Because Scorecard fields are reported at the school level, net price and graduation rate reflect the entire campus, not just nursing majors. Earnings and debt data are also limited to aid recipients, but they remain the most robust cross-school comparison available.

NCLEX Pass Rates: Context, Not a Ranking Factor

The Arizona State Board of Nursing publishes NCLEX results for each program. We reference these pass rates alongside every school entry in our list of nursing schools in Arizona because they tell you how well a program prepares students for licensure. They are not a scoring input in our ranking; instead, they serve as a transparent quality check on top of the structural outcome data.

Phoenix BSN Cost, Earnings & Debt at a Glance

Here's how in-state and out-of-state tuition stacks up against long-term earnings for the top-ranked nursing programs accessible from Phoenix.

NCLEX Pass Rates for Phoenix BSN Programs

NCLEX pass rates are one of the most reliable signals of program quality, reflecting how well a nursing school prepares students for the licensing exam. For prospective BSN students in Phoenix, the latest data shows that local programs consistently outperform national benchmarks.¹

2024 NCLEX-RN Pass Rates for Major Phoenix BSN Programs

• Arizona State University (ASU): 96% (304 of 317 first-time test-takers passed)
• Grand Canyon University: 97% (275 of 283 passed)
• Arizona College of Nursing: 85% (149 of 176 passed)
• Chamberlain University (Phoenix campus): 91% (198 of 217 passed)
• Brookline College (Phoenix): 95% (79 of 83 passed)

ASU’s BSN NCLEX pass rate of 96% is especially notable given the program’s large cohort size, exceeding both the national average and the Arizona statewide average for all RN programs (94.14%)¹. Across these five schools, the combined pass rate was 91.94% for first-time test-takers in 2024.

How Phoenix BSN Programs Compare

These results place Phoenix BSN graduates on strong footing. Nationally, first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates range from 82, 86%¹, and the 2025 average rose to 87.5%². All the listed programs except one met or exceeded the Arizona state average, and four out of five were above 90%. Strong NCLEX performance not only means a smoother path to licensure but also reflects a program’s ability to produce practice-ready nurses.

BSN vs ADN in Phoenix: Salary & Career Differences

The median annual salary for registered nurses in the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metro area is $82,270, with earners in the 10th percentile making about $71,200 and those in the 90th percentile exceeding $124,000.¹ However, that overall figure masks a meaningful split between graduates of associate (ADN) and bachelor’s (BSN) programs. In Arizona, RNs who hold a BSN typically earn $6,000 to $10,000 more per year than their ADN colleagues, with an average premium around $8,000.²

How Much More Can a BSN Earn?

Nationally, the BLS reports that the broader category of RNs includes both ADN- and BSN-prepared nurses, but local employer surveys and state-level data point to a clear BSN wage advantage. For a nurse working a full-time Phoenix schedule, an additional $8,000 per year translates to roughly $3.85 more per hour.² Over a 30-year career, that difference compounds significantly, especially when raises and promotional opportunities are factored in.

Employer Preferences and Magnet Status

Many of the Phoenix region’s largest health systems, including Banner Health, HonorHealth, and Mayo Clinic Arizona, have adopted hiring preferences or outright requirements for BSN preparation, in line with Magnet Recognition Program standards. Magnet-designated facilities, which are committed to nursing excellence, often expect 80% or more of their nursing staff to hold at least a BSN. Newly licensed ADN nurses may still find roles in community hospitals or long-term care, but advancement into leadership, case management, or specialized units usually requires returning for a BSN, such as through RN to BSN programs in Arizona, or higher degree.

Weighing Time and Cost

An ADN program takes about two years and is significantly cheaper in tuition, which can be appealing if you need to enter the workforce quickly. However, a BSN typically takes four years (or less through an accelerated program) and opens doors that remain closed to many ADN holders, including higher starting salaries, broader job options, and a smoother path to graduate study. In the Phoenix market, where competition for hospital positions is strong, the long-term return on a BSN generally outweighs the upfront time and cost.

How to Become a Nurse in Phoenix

Frequently Asked Questions About Phoenix Nursing Schools

Finding the right nursing program in Phoenix can bring up practical questions about timelines, admissions, and where to get reliable data. These answers point you toward the most accurate sources for your decision.

How long does it take to get a BSN in Phoenix?

Traditional BSN programs typically require four years of full-time study. Many schools offer an upper-division nursing major that students enter after completing prerequisites, often finishing the nursing portion in about two years. Always check each school's official nursing program page for its current duration and any flexible or accelerated tracks.

What are the TEAS score requirements for Phoenix nursing programs?

TEAS score requirements vary widely among programs and can change annually. For the most accurate and current details on minimum scores, average competitive scores, and how they factor into admission decisions, contact each program's admissions office directly.

Can I use BLS data to compare Phoenix nursing schools?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides national and regional employment trends for registered nurses, but it does not report outcomes for individual schools. Use BLS data for overall career outlook, salary ranges, and job growth, and look to each program's published outcomes for school-specific graduate employment and licensure exam pass rates.

How do I find out about program competitiveness and accreditation?

Start by visiting professional organizations such as the Arizona Nurses Association, which offers guidance on program quality and workforce trends. Also verify each program's accreditation status through bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to ensure it meets national standards.

More Nursing Schools in the Phoenix Metro Area

Beyond our top-ranked list, the Phoenix metro area and across Arizona offer many more nursing programs. Use this directory to find the right fit, and visit our Arizona nursing schools page for a complete list.

Phoenix Metro Area

Central Arizona

Eastern Arizona

Northern Arizona

Southern Arizona

Tucson Area