Best Nursing Programs in Buckeye, AZ (2026 Guide)
Finding the best nursing programs in Buckeye requires more than a quick Google search. While Buckeye itself is rapidly growing, many of the highest-performing nursing schools serving Buckeye residents are located nearby in Maricopa County and the greater Phoenix metro area. This guide ranks the top options based on accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, tuition value, program flexibility, and clinical partnerships.
Key Takeaways
- Buckeye students primarily attend accredited nursing schools in Maricopa County and nearby Phoenix.
- Maricopa Community Colleges offer the strongest value for ADN programs with competitive NCLEX pass rates.
- Arizona College of Nursing and Grand Canyon University provide fast-track BSN pathways.
- Accreditation by ACEN or CCNE is essential for licensure and employment.
- Arizona projects continued RN job growth, driven by population expansion and hospital demand.
How We Ranked the Top Nursing Schools Near Buckeye
Programs were evaluated using the following criteria:
- Accreditation: ACEN or CCNE approval.
- NCLEX-RN pass rates: Consistent performance above state averages.
- Tuition and value: In-district and total program cost.
- Program variety: ADN, BSN, accelerated, and bridge pathways.
- Clinical partnerships: Relationships with Phoenix-area hospitals and healthcare systems.
- Flexibility: Evening, hybrid, and accelerated options for working adults.
Top Nursing Programs Serving Buckeye Students
SchoolProgram TypesAccreditationHighlightsEstrella Mountain Community CollegeADNACENAffordable, strong local clinical placementsArizona College of NursingBSNCCNEAccelerated 3-year BSN modelGrand Canyon UniversityBSN, Accelerated BSNCCNELarge simulation labs, hospital partnershipsGateWay Community CollegeADN, BSN partnershipACENLong-established nursing programBrookline CollegeBSN, Practical NursingACENCareer-focused, hybrid coursework
1. Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC)
Location: Avondale, AZ
Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Accreditation: ACEN
Part of the Maricopa County Community College District, EMCC is one of the most practical and cost-effective pathways for Buckeye residents. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and offers competitive tuition for in-district students.
Why it stands out:
- Strong NCLEX performance compared to state averages
- Clinical placements throughout West Valley hospitals
- Partnership pathways to complete a BSN after graduation
- Lower tuition than private institutions
2. Arizona College of Nursing – Phoenix
Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Accreditation: CCNE
Arizona College offers a streamlined three-year BSN, which is appealing to students who want to enter the workforce quickly. The program features modern simulation labs and structured clinical rotations.
Key advantages:
- No waitlist model for qualified applicants
- Year-round enrollment opportunities
- Focused nursing curriculum without general education delays
- Designed for career changers and first-time students
3. Grand Canyon University (GCU)
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Programs: Traditional BSN and Accelerated BSN
Accreditation: CCNE
GCU is known for its high-tech simulation labs and strong hospital partnerships throughout Arizona. The accelerated BSN is particularly attractive for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
Program highlights:
- Extensive clinical site network
- Modern campus and laboratory facilities
- Faith-based private university environment
- Competitive admission standards reflecting strong student outcomes
4. GateWay Community College
Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Accreditation: ACEN
GateWay is one of Arizona’s most established nursing schools. It offers comprehensive training with an emphasis on acute care skills and hospital-based clinical experience.
Why students choose GateWay:
- Strong healthcare reputation in Phoenix
- Affordable tuition structure
- Bridge pathways for LPNs and paramedics
- Consistent placement within local hospital systems
5. Brookline College – Phoenix
Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Practical Nursing
Accreditation: ACEN
Brookline emphasizes career readiness and smaller class sizes. The BSN combines classroom, simulation, and supervised clinical training.
Best for:
- Students seeking structured support
- Those who prefer hybrid coursework
- Fast-paced program completion
Nursing Career Outlook in Buckeye and Maricopa County
Buckeye is one of Arizona’s fastest-growing cities. As healthcare infrastructure expands across the West Valley, demand for registered nurses continues to rise. Major healthcare employers in the region include:
- Banner Health
- Dignity Health
- Mayo Clinic Arizona
- Abrams Realty Healthcare Development sites in Buckeye
Registered nurses in Arizona earn competitive wages, particularly in metropolitan Phoenix. Hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, urgent care facilities, and long-term care providers all contribute to strong hiring demand.
How to Choose the Right Nursing Program
1. Verify Accreditation First
Only choose programs accredited by ACEN or CCNE. This ensures eligibility for licensure and federal financial aid.
2. Compare NCLEX Pass Rates
High first-time pass rates are one of the strongest indicators of program quality.
3. Consider ADN vs BSN
- ADN: Faster and more affordable entry into nursing.
- BSN: Preferred by many hospitals and required for leadership roles.
4. Evaluate Commute and Clinical Sites
While Buckeye has limited standalone nursing schools, nearby campuses in Avondale and Phoenix provide accessible options. Clinical sites close to Buckeye can improve convenience and reduce transportation strain.
5. Look at Total Program Cost
Private colleges often charge more than community colleges. Compare tuition, books, uniforms, clinical fees, and exam costs before committing.
Are There Nursing Schools Directly in Buckeye?
At present, Buckeye does not host a major standalone RN program within city limits. Most students attend nearby colleges within a 20 to 40 minute drive. However, Buckeye’s rapid development suggests potential future expansion of healthcare education facilities.
Accelerated and Bridge Nursing Options
For students seeking faster pathways, several Phoenix-area institutions offer accelerated BSN programs. These programs typically take 12 to 18 months for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree.
LPN-to-RN and RN-to-BSN bridge programs are also widely available through Maricopa Community Colleges and Arizona universities, allowing career mobility without starting over.
Admission Requirements to Expect
While requirements vary by school, most programs near Buckeye require:
- Prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology
- Minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.0
- TEAS exam scores
- Background checks and immunization verification
Competitive programs may use point-based admission systems due to high demand.
Next Steps for Future Nurses in Buckeye
Start by confirming accreditation and comparing NCLEX pass rates. Next, attend information sessions at top schools like Estrella Mountain Community College or Arizona College of Nursing. Complete prerequisite courses early to avoid application delays, and prepare thoroughly for the TEAS entrance exam to strengthen your candidacy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Programs in Buckeye, AZ
Are there any RN nursing schools located directly in Buckeye, AZ?
No. Right now, Buckeye does not have a standalone RN nursing school. You will likely attend nearby campuses in Avondale or Phoenix, such as Estrella Mountain Community College, Grand Canyon University, or Arizona College of Nursing.
Which nursing degrees can you earn near Buckeye?
Near Buckeye, you can earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), accelerated BSN options, and practical nursing diplomas. Bridge pathways like LPN-to-RN and RN-to-BSN are also offered through Maricopa Community Colleges and area universities.
How long does it take to become a registered nurse near Buckeye?
An ADN program usually takes about 2 years once you enter the nursing core. A traditional BSN takes about 4 years, including general education. Accelerated BSN programs for students who already have a bachelor’s degree often take 12 to 18 months of full-time study.
What are the basic admission requirements for nursing programs near Buckeye?
Most programs ask you to complete prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, meet a minimum GPA of about 2.5–3.0, take the TEAS exam, and pass a background check with current immunizations. Some schools use a point system to select applicants when demand is high.
Is an ADN or BSN better if you plan to work as an RN in the Phoenix area?
An ADN lets you start working as an RN sooner and at a lower upfront cost, especially through Maricopa Community Colleges. A BSN can make you more competitive at large hospital systems, may open doors to leadership roles, and is often preferred for specialty units and long-term career growth.
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