The University Of Arizona
The University of Arizona has a high NCLEX pass rate and affordable in-state tuition. These are solid reasons why nursing students should have this on their list of the best nursing programs in Arizona.
Take note that its not easy to get into its program. Its more competitive if you compare it with other Arizona BSN programs. Additionally, admission requirements are also stricter.
Top 10 Most Popular Online Nursing Schools
Our 2021 rankings named Grand Canyon University the most popular online school in Arizona for nursing students. Located in the city of Phoenix, Grand Canyon University is a private for-profit college with a fairly large student population.
Nursing majors at Grand Canyon University take out an average of $32,934 in student loans while working on their egree. This translates to an average monthly loan payment of $378, based on a 10-year repayment plan.
Youll join some of the best and brightest minds around you if you attend University of Phoenix – Arizona. The school came in at #2 on this years Most Popular Online Nursing Schools in Arizona list. Located in the city of Tempe, UOPX – Arizona is a private for-profit college with a fairly large student population.
The excellent online programs at Northern Arizona University helped the school earn the #3 place on this years ranking of the best nursing schools in Arizona. Located in the city of Flagstaff, NAU is a public college with a very large student population.
The average amount in student loans that nursing majors at NAU take out is $28,982. For students who choose a 10-year repayment plan, the average monthly student loan payment is $324.
Why You Should Care About The Nursing Programs Accreditation
Nursing students who complete their studies at a non-accredited university will not be able to sit for the NCLEX. Therefore, they will face immense challenges in securing stable, well-paying jobs. Why? Because students who do not take the NCLEX are not eligible to work as Registered Nurses.
The two nursing program accrediting organizations are,
Don’t Miss: Online Nursing Programs In Georgia
Financial Aid Opportunities For Nursing Students In Arizona
If youre concerned about how youre going to pay for your education, rest assured that there are several options available to you. For example, you may be able to receive a scholarship or grant through your nursing school and grants or loans from federal financial aid programs. In addition, Arizona students have access to funding from the Arizona Foundation for the Future of Nursing.
For more information about financial aid options for your nursing school in Arizona, visit our nursing scholarship guide and financial aid guide.
Best Ranked Nursing Schools In Arizona
To help nursing students in their search for a top RN program, the education experts at RNCareers.org publish their annual findings of the best nursing schools for both Arizona and the country. Schools ranked on our list have proven their ability to educate highly competent nurses.
To create our rankings, we evaluated 17 ADN degree programs and 5 BSN degree programs in Arizona. We obtained each institutions first-time NCLEX-RN passing rates, the number of students taking the test, the program nursing accreditation and more. We then compared the results against other nursing programs in Arizona to provide our state rankings. View our methodology.
Don’t Miss: Accelerated Nursing Programs Without Teas
The Best Nursing Schools In Arizona
While there are many good reasons to choose a career, stability and pay are among the most important. While it might not be the first to leap to mind, those reasons make nursing an excellent choice. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for nurses will grow by 7% over the next year, and those with nursing degrees average a salary of $75,300. And theres good reason for these financial awards. More than other healthcare professionals, nurses play an essential role, caring for patients, coordinating with family, and preparing physicians.
Because it is such an important job, future nurses should do their research when choosing the school that will teach them their trade. But while people generally think of Ivy Leagues such as Harvard and Yale, one can find excellent schools everywhere, especially in the field of nursing. In fact, future nurses would do well to consider Arizona as the place to look for a good nursing school. In addition to a pleasant and warm climate, the Grand Canyon State features a diverse population, one that the nursing schools in the state are dedicated to working with.
With so many options, it can be challenging to choose the best school. Many factors go into deciding upon a college, including location, faculty, and concentration. To start making the decision, one can look at the list of best nursing schools published in the highly respected outlet, U.S. News & World Report.
Here are the best nursing schools in Arizona.
Are There Accelerated Nursing Degree Programs In Arizona
Yes, there are search results for accelerated nursing degree programs Arizona. As of January of 2020, there are four schools that offer this option. In these programs, a person can earn a degree in nearly half the time it takes for a standard program. For instance, a bachelors degree that usually takes a total of four years to complete can be completed in a little over two years.
When searching accelerated nursing programs Arizona, a person will find options that allow him or her to earn a degree in nursing in a shorter amount of time. This is beneficial for someone who wants to start their nursing career as soon as possible. However, accelerated programs are more intense. An individual has to complete more coursework on a regular basis to finish the degree quickly. For some, this isnt feasible.
You May Like: What Is A Masters Degree In Nursing
Who Is In Charge Of Nursing School Accreditation In Arizona
If a nursing school is not accredited, its better you do not apply.
Also, student nurses who complete their studies at a non-accredited university will not be able to sit for the NCLEX nor will they be able to find a job.
In Phoenix Arizona, organizations in charge of accrediting nursing schools are
- The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing .
- The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education .
Arizona Nurse Salaries And Employment Trends
Arizona pays all four nursing types a higher mean wage than the national average. Arizona’s mean wages also compete with other states in the region, though nurses can find higher mean wages elsewhere.
Projections show significant growth for every nursing type in Arizona. According to Projections Central, projections for each type are the highest in the nation and outpace other states in the region with high projected growth. One factor influencing the potential growth of nursing jobs in Arizona is the national nursing shortage. National projections show a significant shortage of RNs in Arizona. Wages for all nursing types could increase significantly during this time to attract qualified nurses.
Note that projections do not necessarily reflect real growth and no amount of education guarantees a specific salary or a position as a nurse in Arizona.
You May Like: Jersey College School Of Nursing Fort Lauderdale
Arizona College Of Allied Health
Arizona College of Allied Health has been providing nursing education and medical assistant training for at least three decades. The school is primarily a trade school operation, with a heavy emphasis on practical training for fast career placement. Arizona College operates two facilities in Tempe and Tuscon, and the school is networked in four other cities outside of the state as well. Arizona College provides students an accelerated 3-year bachelors degree option. The school is accredited by the CCNE as well as the Bureau of Health Education Schools.
- Cost per Year: $15,499
- Degree Programs: BSN
How Do Online Nursing Degree Programs Work
Most nursing students possess no previous nursing experience. Since every nursing license requires a combination of education and experience, nurses with insufficient experience must earn it through in-person clinical hours. Most online nursing programs in Arizona are hybrid programs, combining in-person and online education. Students complete courses online and clinical experience in person.
Some degrees in Arizona allow for entirely online learning. For example, an RN with sufficient experience may enroll in an entirely online RN-to-BSN program. Other nursing types, such as NPs, require significant in-person experience.
Although most online nursing programs in Arizona require some in-person study, students choose online programs because of their flexibility. Nursing students with busy personal lives or those who must work while earning their degree take advantage of flexible online programs. Keep in mind that accredited online programs follow the same admission requirements as on-campus programs.
Also Check: Best Liability Insurance For Nurses
Tuition And Costs Of Bsn Programs In Arizona
Tuition costs vary between states and between each institution. While a portion is paid by the taxpayer and from other government subsidies, tuition costs are definitely on the rise. While financial aid is available to most, it is important to consider the cost of tuition for the BSN programs that you’re considering applying to. Phoenix’s Arizona State University BSN program has in-state tuition costs that average about $977 per credit hour, depending on the program track in question.
Best Nursing Schools In Arizona In 2020
Nursing can be an incredibly rewarding field, and the demand for nurses has never been higher. There are many accredited nursing schools in Arizona that will give you a step above your peers as you seek out a salary and job security. Are you looking for a BSN program in Arizona? LPN program? RN program? A good program will include community health, leadership, good judgment, supervising skills, health promotion, research, and clinical experience.
Be sure to look at the Arizona Board of Nursing requirements for a nursing license and make sure the program you choose meets all of the requirements. A program can lose its accreditation if it achieves less than a 75% pass rate on the licensing exam. Make sure the school is accredited so you dont waste any time or money.
Nursing schools in Arizona have requirements in order to apply, so youll want to be sure to research the requirements and have them prepared. Some requirements vary, but below is an example of what most schools request for their nursing program.
- Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better
- Achieving a minimum standard grade of C or better in prerequisite courses
Read Also: Nurse Practitioner Laser Hair Removal
Types Of Nursing Programs Available In Arizona
Since the nursing profession is such a broad field, students can choose from multiple paths to get the education they desire, from associate degrees to PhDs. The following section will familiarize you with Arizona nursing programs at each academic level consider which options are the best match for your career goals and lifestyle. /p>
Are Nurses In High Demand In Phoenix Arizona
Nurses will always be in high demand due to the increase in the need for quality healthcare services which has become a global concern.
In Arizona, nurses are employed in different healthcare settings including for home services. Its rare to find a nurse out of a job in Arizona.
Registered Nurses in Arizona expect favorable job growth of 15% between 2016 to 2026.
Also, Arizona also has more nurses per capita than other states in the area, such as California and Texas.
Once you have the right requirements and license, you are sure to get a nursing job in Arizona.
Recommended Reading: Good Colleges For Nurse Practitioner
How Much Do Nurses Earn In Arizona
Nurses have different ranks and specializations that determine how much they earn as a salary.
Registered nurses earn differently from nurses with a BSN degree or an associate degree.
However, following the report made by the Bureau of Labor Statistics , nurses in Arizona on the average earn $80,380 as an annual wage.
However, registered nurses in Arizona earn between $52,080 to $111,220 a year.
Arizona Lpn Licensing Requirements
License by Examination
Aspirants who hold a diploma or degree in nursing from the practical nursing program accredited by the Arizona Nursing Board and have passed the NCLEX exam are eligible to apply for an LPN license.
For downloading the form, click here
Requirements To Be Fulfilled By the U.S. Educated Applicants:
- Submit the signed, dated, and completely filled application form along with the requisite fee .
- Request a completion certificate of the LPN program to be sent directly by the college to the Arizona State Board of Nursing.
- Out-of-state graduates are required to request an official transcript of the LPN program sent directly by the college to the board.
- Provide fingerprint cards.
- A copy of documents of nationality status.
Note-
- You will have to submit the application within a 30-day period. The outdated application will be returned to you.
- The board will not accept e-mailed or faxed application. Submit the original signed copy directly to the office or by postal mail.
Recommended Reading: Nurse Practitioner Programs In Washington Dc
How We Ranked The Best Arizona Nursing Schools
Whether theyre going back to school to earn a higher salary, or just starting their nursing career, nursing students have to keep a lot of factors in mind. Nursing School Hub editors focus on the most important will a program provide quality education and a real career impact. We rank programs according to their return on investment, using data on cost, reputation, and salary from IPEDS, Niche, and College Scorecard.
Msn Admission Requirements In Arizona
With rigorous training at the undergraduate level, nurses may wish to carry on their studies and pursue a master’s degree – known as an MSN. Admission to the University of Arizona’s two MSN tracks is highly competitive. Candidates who wish to apply are advised to use the following information as a minimum entry requirement as criteria can change with demand.
- Graduate with a BSN
- NCLEX in good standing and without disqualifying incidents
- Minimum 3.0 GPA at the undergraduate level
- Record of all official transcripts
- Prerequisite course load consisting of Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Statistics, Human Lifespan Development, and Human Nutrition
- 3 professional letters of reference, mailed directly to Admissions
You May Like: Collin County Community College Nursing Program
Arizona Lpn Schools License Requirements Job Outlook And Salary
The state of Arizona takes pride in supporting and securing the welfare of the society ensuring high-quality healthcare by providing dedicated, caring, and work-oriented nurses. This state is a heaven for those healthcare providers who hold a license in other state and want to practice in Arizona. Being an active participant of Nurse Licensure Compact , Arizona gives opportunities to all out-of-state licensed nurses to avail multi-state rights. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated a hike of 16% in the employment of LPNs by the year 2024.
There are many LPN programs in Arizona, including technical centers, community colleges, vocational centers, and career schools, but finding an accredited nursing school is a tough task. To assist the aspirants, we have analyzed various nursing institutes based on the NCLEX-PN Pass Rate and prepared a list of top nursing schools that are accredited by the Arizona Board of Nursing . The LPN programs strive to improve understandability and develop competence and proficiency in the students.
Getting A License In Arizona
The good news is that Arizona has fewer requirements to become a registered nurse than most other states. However, you still must:
- Take and pass the NCLEX
- Complete a criminal background check
- Complete the Arizona nursing application
Nursing students should also know that Arizona has one of the nations highest NCLEX pass rates. The best way to prepare for the NCLEX is by applying for, then completing, a BSN.
> > Related: The Complete Guide to Nursing in Arizona
Don’t Miss: Nazareth Nursing Home St Louis
Pima Community Collegewest Campus
An associates degree in applied science is available at Pima Community College, which students can subsequently use to apply for registered nursing. There are also several certificates that students may qualify for if they choose not to finish the program.
Pima Community College Facts
With six different locations across Pima County in Arizona, PCC was established in 1966 and continues to help students achieve their dreams to this day. In 2015, the overall student population topped at 47,588 people. This population boasts ethnic diversity, as well as age diversity within the college. The campus also has numerous degree options, including arts, sciences, education, and many others.
- NCLEXRN Pass Rates: 91.72%
- Program Length or Course Hours: 5-6 semesters
- Admissions Requirements: College reading assessment and several other pre-requisite courses needed.
- Tuition: Arizona Residents per credit$78.50. Out-of-state Residents per credit$300.00.
- Accreditation: The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
Grand Canyon University College Of Nursing And Healthcare Professions
A private, for-profit Christian institution, Grand Canyon University exists to help students realize their purpose. For the College of Nursing and Health Care Professionals, this means using systems- and evidenced-based practices, all while emphasizing a Christian worldview. That can be a real benefit for those whose career decisions are influenced by their religious beliefs.
Another appealing element of GCU Nursing is its versatility. The program offers a variety of degrees, including eight online Master of Arts degrees. After three initial courses that teach nursing theory, research, and ethical practice, students develop an evidence-based project that demonstrates the knowledge theyve gained.
Two Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees are available from GCU Nursing, including one emphasizing educational leadership. But most students benefit from the RN to BSN degree, which allows those with nursing experience to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
Like every other quality institution, GCU Nursing isnt cheap. But even in that case, GCU can help out. For those who need help paying for college, GCU directs students to several limited-time tuition scholarships. Between these payment assistance options and the range of degree courses available, GCU Nursing is perfect for working professionals who want to study nursing from a Christian perspective.
Also Check: Spring Arbor University Nurse Practitioner Program Tuition