Best Nursing Programs in Chandler, AZ (2026 Guide)
Choosing the right nursing program is one of the most important decisions in your healthcare career. Chandler, Arizona offers access to respected community colleges, universities, and hybrid programs that prepare students for RN licensure and long-term advancement. This guide ranks the best nursing programs in Chandler based on accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, affordability, flexibility, and career outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) offers one of the most affordable and respected Associate Degree in Nursing programs in the region.
- Arizona College of Nursing – Chandler provides an accelerated BSN pathway ideal for career changers.
- NAU and ASU offer accessible RN-to-BSN completion options for working nurses in Chandler.
- Accreditation and NCLEX pass rates should be your top two decision criteria.
- Most programs require prerequisite coursework, TEAS testing, and background checks.
How We Ranked the Best Nursing Programs in Chandler
Programs were evaluated using the following criteria:
- Accreditation: ACEN or CCNE accreditation and Arizona Board of Nursing approval.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: First-time pass rates as an indicator of program effectiveness.
- Cost and Financial Aid: In-district tuition and scholarship availability.
- Program Flexibility: Evening, hybrid, and accelerated formats.
- Career Outcomes: Job placement, hospital partnerships, and alumni growth pathways.
Top Nursing Programs in Chandler
SchoolProgram TypeApprox. LengthHighlightsBest ForChandler-Gilbert Community CollegeAAS in Nursing (RN)2 YearsLow tuition, high NCLEX outcomes, clinical partnershipsBudget-conscious studentsArizona College of Nursing – ChandlerAccelerated BSN3 Years or lessNo waitlist, simulation labs, BSN preparationCareer changersNorthern Arizona University (NAU)RN-to-BSN, BSN12–24 Months (RN-BSN)Online flexibility, public universityWorking RNsArizona State University (ASU)RN-to-BSN12–18 MonthsNational reputation, online programAdvancement-focused nurses
1. Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC)
Best Overall Value Nursing Program in Chandler
CGCC is part of the Maricopa Community Colleges system and consistently ranks as one of Arizona’s most affordable and respected nursing pathways. The Associate in Applied Science in Nursing prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN and enter practice as registered nurses.
Why It Stands Out:
- Accredited and approved by the Arizona Board of Nursing
- Strong clinical partnerships with East Valley healthcare systems
- Significantly lower tuition for in-district students
- Structured skills labs and simulation training
Admission Requirements:
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology
- Minimum GPA requirements
- TEAS exam scores
- Background check and fingerprint clearance
Ideal Student: Applicants seeking an affordable entry point into nursing with plans to complete an RN-to-BSN later.
2. Arizona College of Nursing – Chandler
Best Accelerated BSN Option
This private nursing-focused institution offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing designed for students who want a direct BSN pathway without traditional university waitlists.
Program Highlights:
- Year-round enrollment opportunities
- High-fidelity simulation labs
- Clinical placements arranged by the school
- BSN preparation for hospitals that prefer bachelor’s-prepared nurses
Considerations:
- Higher tuition compared to community college options
- Fast-paced academic structure
Ideal Student: Career changers or students seeking a streamlined path to a BSN without waiting multiple cycles for admission.
3. Northern Arizona University (NAU)
Best Public University Advancement Path
NAU serves Chandler-area students through hybrid and online nursing options. Its RN-to-BSN program allows licensed RNs to earn a bachelor's degree while continuing to work.
Strengths:
- CCNE-accredited programs
- Online flexibility for working professionals
- Competitive public university tuition
- Strong reputation across Arizona healthcare systems
Ideal Student: Licensed RNs looking for career mobility into leadership, public health, or graduate nursing programs.
4. Arizona State University (ASU)
Best for Long-Term Career Growth
While not physically based in Chandler, ASU’s online RN-to-BSN program is heavily utilized by nurses across the East Valley. The university has national recognition and provides pathways into MSN and DNP programs.
Advantages:
- Nationally ranked university
- Fully online RN-to-BSN
- Direct pathways to advanced practice degrees
Ideal Student: Nurses focused on graduate education or leadership roles.
Online vs On-Campus Nursing Programs in Chandler
Pre-licensure nursing programs in Chandler require in-person clinical hours, even if theory courses are delivered online. Expect:
- Skills labs and simulation training in person
- Clinical rotations at hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Hybrid lecture options for flexibility
RN-to-BSN programs, however, are often fully online since students already hold licensure.
What to Look for in a Chandler Nursing School
1. Accreditation
Verify ACEN or CCNE accreditation and approval from the Arizona Board of Nursing.
2. NCLEX Pass Rates
Strong programs typically report first-time NCLEX pass rates near or above state averages. This directly reflects curriculum rigor and exam preparation.
3. Clinical Partnerships
Programs connected with major East Valley healthcare systems offer better real-world training and networking opportunities.
4. Tuition Transparency
Community colleges usually provide the lowest cost pathway. Private programs may offer faster start dates but higher tuition.
5. Support Services
Look for tutoring, simulation labs, NCLEX review sessions, and career placement support.
Typical Admission Requirements
Although specific criteria vary, most Chandler nursing programs require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of science prerequisites
- Minimum cumulative GPA, often 2.75 or higher
- TEAS entrance exam scores
- CPR certification
- Background check and drug screening
Start prerequisite coursework early to remain competitive, especially for community college programs with limited seats.
Career Outlook for Nurses in Chandler, AZ
The Phoenix metro region continues to experience strong healthcare growth. Hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities all employ registered nurses. Earning a BSN increasingly improves advancement opportunities and salary potential.
Many Chandler graduates begin at local hospital systems and later pursue advanced roles such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse leader.
How to Apply to Nursing Programs in Chandler
- Complete Prerequisites: Anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and English composition.
- Take the TEAS Exam: Aim for competitive scores to strengthen your application.
- Submit Transcripts: Include all previous colleges attended.
- Apply by Deadline: Nursing programs often have limited cohorts.
- Prepare for Interviews or Information Sessions: Some schools require orientation participation.
Planning ahead by one year significantly improves your likelihood of acceptance.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Nursing Program in Chandler
The best nursing program in Chandler depends on your budget, timeline, and long-term goals. For affordability and strong local clinical access, Chandler-Gilbert Community College is a leading choice. For accelerated BSN options with fewer waitlists, Arizona College of Nursing provides a direct path. For career advancement, NAU and ASU offer flexible university-level education designed for working nurses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Programs in Chandler, AZ
How do you choose the right nursing program in Chandler, AZ?
Start by checking accreditation (ACEN or CCNE) and Arizona Board of Nursing approval. Then compare NCLEX pass rates, total cost, class and clinical schedules, and career support. Think about your goals, such as earning an AAS in Nursing now and an RN-to-BSN later, or going straight into a BSN program.
What are the main types of nursing programs near Chandler?
You can choose an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) at Chandler-Gilbert Community College to become an RN, an accelerated BSN at Arizona College of Nursing – Chandler, or online and hybrid RN-to-BSN programs through schools like Northern Arizona University and Arizona State University.
How long does it take to become an RN in Chandler, AZ?
If you follow a traditional AAS in Nursing program, plan on about two years after finishing your prerequisites. An accelerated BSN pathway can take up to three years or less, depending on how many credits you transfer and how fast you move through the curriculum.
What admission requirements do Chandler nursing programs usually have?
Most programs ask for a high school diploma or GED, science prerequisites like anatomy and physiology, a minimum GPA (often 2.75 or higher), TEAS exam scores, current CPR certification, and a background check and drug screening. Some schools also hold information sessions or interviews.
Can you complete a nursing degree in Chandler fully online?
Pre-licensure RN programs are not fully online, because you must complete in-person labs and clinical rotations. However, once you are a licensed RN, many RN-to-BSN programs serving Chandler, such as those at NAU and ASU, offer coursework fully online with flexible schedules.
What is the job outlook for nurses in Chandler and the Phoenix metro area?
The Phoenix metro region, including Chandler, has steady demand for registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings. Earning your RN license opens entry-level roles, and completing a BSN can help you qualify for leadership, public health, and graduate nursing opportunities over time.
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