Top Nursing Schools & Programs in Arizona

Top Nursing Schools in Arizona
Hannah Pierce, BSN

Hannah Pierce, BSN

June 26, 2025

Arizona’s dynamic healthcare landscape offers a range of educational tracks for both new and experienced nurses. Whether you’re beginning as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with hands‑on skill development, advancing your career through an RN‑to‑BSN bridge program, earning your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) credential, or pursuing an advanced practice degree as a Nurse Practitioner (NP), Arizona’s institutions deliver robust coursework paired with real‑world clinical experiences. From urban teaching hospitals in Phoenix to rural health clinics on tribal lands, these programs are structured to meet the state’s diverse care needs, equipping graduates with the expertise to thrive in settings across the Copper State.

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2026 Top Nursing Programs in Arizona

At TopNursing.org, we've carefully evaluated the nursing programs across Arizona to help aspiring healthcare professionals find their perfect educational path. Our comprehensive analysis considers factors like academic reputation, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, and student success rates. Arizona offers an impressive range of nursing programs that prepare students for diverse healthcare roles, from registered nurses to advanced practice specialists. These top-tier institutions provide cutting-edge curriculum, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and strong connections with leading medical facilities in the region. Whether you're seeking an associate's, bachelor's, or graduate nursing degree, Arizona's programs stand out for their commitment to excellence and innovation in nursing education. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ - Public 4-Year - nau.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Arizona University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in a hybrid format, focusing on holistic patient-centered care over four and a half years. The program includes hands-on clinical experiences, natural and human sciences, and emphasizes leadership and patient safety. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission is competitive and requires completion of pre-professional courses; entrance exams like ACT or SAT may be required but are not specified. Accredited by CCNE, it provides options for traditional, compressed, and global formats to suit diverse schedules.

  • Hybrid format available.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Hands-on clinical experiences.
  • Focus on holistic care.
  • Leadership and safety emphasized.
  • Multiple format options.
  • Competitive admission process.
  • Pre-professional courses required.
  • Four and a half year program.

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Arizona University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a 12-month hybrid program for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, combining online and on-campus learning in Flagstaff. It prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam with a curriculum in clinical practice, leadership, and global health, emphasizing a caring philosophy and holistic care. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, prerequisite courses with a C or higher, and a minimum 3.0 GPA; entrance exams are not mentioned as required. Scholarships may be available for students committed to working in Arizona.

  • 12-month intensive program
  • Hybrid online and on-campus
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • Requires bachelor's degree
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
  • Clinical practice included
  • Leadership skills development
  • Global health focus
  • Scholarships available
  • Full-time commitment required
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#2

Pima Medical Institute-Mesa

Mesa, AZ - Private 2-year - pmi.edu

Associate - Nursing Associate Degree Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Nursing Associate Degree Program at Pima Medical Institute-Mesa is a 20-month on-campus program preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. It includes comprehensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient care, with hands-on training and clinical externships. Financial aid is available for eligible students. Entrance exams such as ACT or SAT may be required for admission, though this is not explicitly stated.

  • 20-month program duration.
  • On-campus delivery method.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Includes clinical externships.
  • Covers anatomy and physiology.
  • Teaches pharmacology basics.
  • Focuses on patient care.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Hands-on training included.
  • Comprehensive coursework.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program at Pima Medical Institute-Mesa is designed for working RNs, offering flexibility with an approximate one-year duration. It focuses on leadership, evidence-based research, and healthcare management, with no additional licensing required. Entrance exams are not mentioned as required, and the program emphasizes career advancement for registered nurses.

  • Online flexible learning platform
  • Approximately 1-year program length
  • Designed for working RNs
  • Leadership and management focus
  • No additional licensing required
  • 42 Nursing credits transferred
  • Experienced field expert instructors
  • Advanced career opportunities
  • Evidence-based research training
  • Community health perspectives
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#3

Carrington College-Tucson

Tucson, AZ - Private 2-year - carrington.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Carrington College-Tucson's Associate Degree in Nursing is a campus-based program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam through a blend of theoretical instruction and hands-on clinical experiences. It covers essential topics like patient care, medical procedures, and healthcare ethics, requiring a high school diploma or GED for admission. An entrance exam is needed, and financial aid is available. This program is ideal for those starting their nursing careers, emphasizing practical skills to meet professional demands.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • High school diploma required
  • Financial aid available

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online RN to BSN program at Carrington College-Tucson is designed for licensed registered nurses, offering an accelerated path to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing that can be completed in as few as 15 months. It focuses on developing advanced skills in leadership, evidence-based practice, and clinical decision-making. No entrance exam is required for this post-licensure program, which is CCNE accredited and provides financial aid options, making it accessible for working professionals seeking career advancement.

  • Online post-licensure program
  • Complete in 15 months
  • Advanced nursing skills development
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Designed for working RNs
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#4

Carrington College-Mesa

Mesa, AZ - Private 2-year - carrington.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Carrington College-Mesa offers an Associate Degree in Nursing on campus, ideal for those seeking a quick entry into nursing. This program focuses on practical skills and hands-on training, preparing students for healthcare roles without requiring an ACT or SAT exam. It is military-friendly and designed for students at various life stages, emphasizing workforce readiness. Check the college's website for specific admission and cost details.

  • Associate Degree in Nursing.
  • Campus-based program.
  • Prepares for healthcare careers.
  • Focuses on practical skills.
  • Quick workforce entry.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Carrington College-Mesa provides an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program, tailored for registered nurses looking to advance their careers. This flexible, 15-month program enhances leadership, clinical skills, and evidence-based practice, with no entrance exam required. It is military-friendly and offers financial aid, focusing on preparing nurses for advanced roles in healthcare.

  • Online post-licensure program
  • Completed in 15 months
  • Builds on existing RN experience
  • Focuses on leadership skills
  • Prepares for advanced nursing roles
  • Financial aid available
  • Conferred by Sacramento campus
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#5

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arizona offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with a 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate and high starting salaries for graduates. Available in Tucson or Gilbert, it includes a 24-month conventional pathway and a 15-16 month accelerated integrative health option, blending technology, simulations, and clinical experiences. Accredited by CCNE, it prepares students for diverse nursing roles without requiring an ACT or SAT entrance exam, focusing on academic prerequisites.

  • 93% NCLEX pass rate.
  • High starting salary.
  • 24-month conventional pathway.
  • 15-16 month accelerated pathway.
  • Blend of technology and clinical experiences.
  • Options in Tucson or Gilbert.
  • Supportive faculty.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Focus on integrative health.
  • Diverse nursing roles preparation.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Integrative Health - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arizona's Bachelor of Science in Nursing with an Integrative Health concentration is an accelerated 15-16 month hybrid program in Tucson, combining online and in-person learning. It emphasizes holistic patient care and boasts a high NCLEX pass rate and strong starting salaries. No ACT or SAT entrance exam is required; admissions are based on meeting academic prerequisites, preparing graduates for varied healthcare settings.

  • Integrative Health concentration
  • 15-16 month accelerated program
  • Hybrid online and in-person learning
  • High NCLEX pass rate
  • Strong starting salaries
  • Located in Tucson, AZ
  • Focus on holistic patient care
  • Comprehensive nursing education
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare settings
  • Meets academic prerequisites for admission
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Data reference: IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education, NCES.

Arizona LPN Program Overview

Arizona’s LPN programs develop students’ foundational nursing knowledge and practical skills through focused coursework and supervised clinical training. Typically spanning 12 to 18 months at community colleges and technical schools, these programs prepare learners to deliver essential care in hospitals, long‑term care facilities, and rural health centers. Graduates emerge ready to assist RNs and physicians by administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and supporting patient recovery. By bolstering the nursing workforce across both metropolitan areas and remote communities, LPN programs help ensure that all Arizonans have access to quality healthcare.

Arizona CNA Program Overview

Arizona’s CNA programs, typically 6–12 weeks, combine classroom instruction in infection control, vital‑sign monitoring, and assistance with daily living activities with hands‑on practicums in Phoenix‑area hospitals, nursing homes, and rural desert clinics. Graduates support patients by providing bathing, dressing, feeding, mobility assistance, and routine vital checks, reporting any changes to nursing staff. By handling essential care tasks and comfort measures, CNAs free licensed nurses for complex responsibilities and bolster Arizona’s healthcare workforce statewide.

Arizona RN to BSN Program Overview

Arizona’s RN to BSN pathways combine essential coursework in leadership, public health, research and policy with hands‑on clinical rotations in urban hospitals and rural or tribal clinics. Offered in hybrid, part‑time or accelerated formats, they let RNs continue working while they study. Earning a BSN enhances skills in evidence‑based practice and care coordination, meets Magnet and employer standards, and opens doors to supervisory and specialty roles. These programs strengthen Arizona’s nursing workforce to meet diverse healthcare needs, from remote desert communities to busy metropolitan centers.

Arizona Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program Overview

Arizona’s Nurse Practitioner programs build on a Bachelor of Science in Nursing by delivering in-depth advanced practice coursework and extensive supervised clinical rotations, usually completed over two to four years, in concentrations such as family practice, pediatric care, and psychiatric-mental health. Offered through on-campus, hybrid, and fully online formats, these MSN and DNP tracks prepare graduates for APRN certification and state licensure. Serving in community health centers, urgent care clinics, urban hospitals, and remote desert and border-area practices, NPs act as primary care providers, chronic illness managers, and telehealth specialists. By alleviating provider shortages and enhancing patient outcomes, NP programs are integral to strengthening Arizona’s diverse healthcare network.

Traditional RN Degree Types

DegreeTypical LengthPrerequisitesOutcome / Notes
Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)~2 yearsHigh school diploma or GEDCommon entry route, many employers require later BSN completion
RN Diploma2-3 yearsHigh school diploma or GEDNot offered in Arizona
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)4 yearsHigh school diploma or ADN transferStrong demand, BSN often preferred or required by major healthcare systems
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)2 years (post-BSN)BSN + RN licensePrepares for advanced roles, NPs have full practice authority
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)3-6 years (post-BSN or post-MSN)BSN or MSN + RN licenseHighest degree, full practice authority

List of RN Programs in Arizona

Jump to City:

Avondale, AZ

Estrella Mountain Community College

  • Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-semester program
    • Eligibility for RN licensure
    • Concurrent Enrollment Program available
    • In-state tuition under $20,000
    • Health & Safety requirements
    • CPR certification needed
    • Background check required
    • DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card

Coolidge, AZ

Central Arizona College

  • Associate - Nursing (AAS)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Limited class sizes.
    • Competitive entry process.
    • Starts Fall and Spring.
    • 2.75 GPA requirement.
    • HESI exam required.
    • Focus on NCLEX RN prep.
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis.
    • Community outreach included.

Flagstaff, AZ

Coconino Community College

  • Associate - Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-semester program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • LNA license required
    • NLN NEX exam needed
    • Tuition $244/credit
    • Uniform and supplies costs

Northern Arizona University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month intensive program
    • Hybrid online and on-campus
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Requires bachelor's degree
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
    • Clinical practice included
    • Leadership skills development
    • Global health focus
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid format available.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Focus on holistic care.
    • Leadership and safety emphasized.
    • Multiple format options.
    • Competitive admission process.

Glendale, AZ

Glendale Community College

  • Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • 62-75 total credits required
    • Prepares for RN licensure exam
    • Clinical experiences included
    • High school diploma or GED required
    • Admission test score needed
    • Focus on safety and quality care
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Holbrook, AZ

Northland Pioneer College

  • Associate - Registered Nursing (AAS)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year program duration.
    • Nearly 100% employment success rate.
    • Small class sizes for personalized attention.
    • Hands-on labs and clinical experience.
    • Affordable compared to other Arizona programs.
    • Accredited by ACEN and Arizona State Board.
    • Pathways for LPNs and paramedics to RN.
    • Prerequisite courses required before admission.

Kingman, AZ

Mohave Community College

  • Associate - Nursing - Registered Nursing - RN - A.A.S.

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited nursing program.
    • Prepares for RN licensure.
    • Requires 2.85 GPA.
    • Hands-on clinical training.
    • Computer and internet essential.
    • Some training in Las Vegas.
    • Biology and chemistry prerequisites.
    • National League for Nursing accredited.

Mesa, AZ

Carrington College-Mesa

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Associate Degree in Nursing.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Prepares for healthcare careers.
    • Focuses on practical skills.
    • Quick workforce entry.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online post-licensure program
    • Completed in 15 months
    • Builds on existing RN experience
    • Focuses on leadership skills
    • Prepares for advanced nursing roles
    • Financial aid available
    • Conferred by Sacramento campus

Mesa Community College

  • Associate - Associate in Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • 62-75 credits required
    • Prepares for RN licensure
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • High school diploma or GED needed
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • 2.0 GPA for prerequisites
    • Admission test score required

Pima Medical Institute-East Valley

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 20-month program length.
    • On-campus delivery method.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Hands-on training included.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Covers anatomy and pharmacology.
    • Teaches patient care skills.
    • Focuses on communication skills.

Pima Medical Institute-Mesa

  • Associate - Nursing Associate Degree Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 20-month program duration.
    • On-campus delivery method.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Includes clinical externships.
    • Covers anatomy and physiology.
    • Teaches pharmacology basics.
    • Focuses on patient care.
    • Financial aid available.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible learning platform
    • Approximately 1-year program length
    • Designed for working RNs
    • Leadership and management focus
    • No additional licensing required
    • 42 Nursing credits transferred
    • Experienced field expert instructors
    • Advanced career opportunities

Phoenix, AZ

Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix

  • Bachelor's - 3-Year BSN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-Year BSN program.
    • CCNE-accredited.
    • Night classes available.
    • Advanced simulation facilities.
    • Personalized attention.
    • Clinical rotations included.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Scholarships offered.

Brookline College-Phoenix

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated 3-year program.
    • Combines online and hands-on learning.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Financial aid available.
    • CCNE accredited.

GateWay Community College

  • Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Clinical experiences included
    • Eligible for RN licensure exam
    • High school diploma or GED required
    • 2.0 GPA in prerequisites needed
    • Admission test score required
    • Focuses on safe, quality care
    • Meets Arizona Board requirements

Grand Canyon University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Hands-on clinical practice
    • Immersive simulation experiences
    • Focus on critical thinking
    • Ethical nursing practices
    • Leadership development
    • Patient safety emphasis

Phoenix College

  • Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Prepares for RN, LPN roles.
    • Covers general to advanced nursing.
    • Focus on practical healthcare skills.
    • Admissions advisor meetings required.

Prescott, AZ

Yavapai College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4 semesters to complete.
    • 44.5 credits required.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Located in Prescott, AZ.
    • Minimum GPA 2.0 for admission.
    • Pre-admission testing required.
    • Hands-on experience included.
    • Financial aid available.

Scottsdale, AZ

Arizona State University Online

  • Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online BSN program
    • Flexible study options
    • Accredited nursing education
    • Prepares for RN licensure
    • Financial aid available

Scottsdale Community College

  • Associate - Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Prepares for RN licensure.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Requires 2.0 GPA for prerequisites.
    • Focus on safety and quality care.
    • Covers legal and ethical practices.
    • Teamwork in healthcare emphasized.
    • High school diploma or GED required.

Tempe, AZ

Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe

  • Bachelor's - BSN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-Year BSN program.
    • CCNE-accredited.
    • Night classes available.
    • Advanced simulation facilities.
    • Clinical rotations included.
    • Financial aid options.
    • Scholarships available.
    • Personalized attention.

Arizona State University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program flexibility.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Competitive cost with aid.
    • High school diploma required.
    • Covers essential nursing practices.

Brookline College-Tempe

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 36-month program length
    • Campus-based learning
    • CCNE accredited
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Financial aid available
    • No wait-list for enrollment
    • Faculty coaching support
    • Diverse clinical learning opportunities

Thatcher, AZ

Eastern Arizona College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Prepares for RN licensure.
    • Concurrent enrollment options.
    • Separate admission process.
    • ATI TEAS exam required.
    • Focus on practical experience.
    • Limited program space.
    • Campus-based program.

Tucson, AZ

Arizona College of Nursing-Tucson

  • Bachelor's - Baccalaureate Degree Program in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-Year BSN program
    • No prerequisite coursework
    • CCNE-accredited
    • Evening classes available
    • Hands-on labs and clinical rotations
    • Scholarships up to $5,000
    • NCLEX-RN exam prep
    • Flexible start dates

Carrington College-Tucson

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • High school diploma required
    • Financial aid available
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online post-licensure program
    • Complete in 15 months
    • Advanced nursing skills development
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Designed for working RNs

Pima Medical Institute-Tucson

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 20-month program length
    • On-campus delivery method
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Hands-on training included
    • Financial aid available
    • Comprehensive nursing education
    • Eligible for RN licensure
    • Covers anatomy and physiology

University of Arizona

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 93% NCLEX pass rate.
    • High starting salary.
    • 24-month conventional pathway.
    • 15-16 month accelerated pathway.
    • Blend of technology and clinical experiences.
    • Options in Tucson or Gilbert.
    • Supportive faculty.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Integrative Health - Campus Based - Website

    • Integrative Health concentration
    • 15-16 month accelerated program
    • Hybrid online and in-person learning
    • High NCLEX pass rate
    • Strong starting salaries
    • Located in Tucson, AZ
    • Focus on holistic patient care
    • Comprehensive nursing education

Yuma, AZ

Arizona Western College

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 66 credits required.
    • Resident tuition $6,402.
    • Course fees $3,272.
    • Textbooks estimated $1,500.
    • Uniform & equipment $60.
    • Health & safety $325.
    • Graduation fee $15.
    • Total estimated cost $11,574.
*Data obtained from: IPEDS 2023 survey (NCES).