Best Nursing Programs in Peoria, Arizona (2026 Guide)
Choosing the right nursing program is one of the most important decisions you will make on your path to becoming a Registered Nurse or advancing your nursing career. Peoria, Arizona offers access to several highly respected nursing schools within the city and throughout the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. This guide provides a detailed comparison of the best nursing programs serving Peoria students, including accreditation status, NCLEX pass performance, program formats, tuition considerations, and career outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Peoria students have access to top accredited programs through Maricopa Community Colleges, private institutions, and nearby universities.
- Accreditation and NCLEX-RN pass rates are the most important indicators of quality.
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs offer the fastest path to RN licensure, while BSN programs improve long-term earning potential.
- Hybrid and evening options are available for working adults.
- The Phoenix metro area consistently reports strong demand for registered nurses, with competitive starting salaries.
How We Evaluated the Best Nursing Schools in Peoria
To identify the top nursing programs serving Peoria, we focused on objective, career-focused criteria:
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Arizona State Board approval
- NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Program flexibility: day, evening, hybrid, or accelerated options
- Affordability and financial aid
- Reputation among local healthcare employers
All programs listed below meet Arizona licensure requirements and prepare graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN.
Comparison: Top Nursing Programs Near Peoria, AZ
SchoolDegree TypeAccreditationFormatHighlightsGateWay Community College (Maricopa)ADNACENIn-person / HybridStrong clinical partnerships, competitive tuitionGlendale Community College (Maricopa)ADNACENDay / EveningWell-established program, affordableArizona Christian UniversityBSNCCNETraditionalFaith-based, small class sizesGrand Canyon UniversityBSN / ABSNCCNEHybrid / AcceleratedModern simulation labs, strong employer connectionsBrookline College (Phoenix)BSNACENAcceleratedFast-track pathway for career changers
Top Nursing Programs Serving Peoria Students
1. GateWay Community College
Although located in Phoenix, GateWay Community College is one of the most sought-after nursing programs for Peoria residents. As part of the Maricopa County Community College District, it offers a highly regarded Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
Why it stands out:
- Accredited by ACEN
- Consistently competitive NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Extensive clinical rotations across Phoenix hospitals
- Affordable in-district tuition
This program is ideal for students seeking a cost-effective and direct pathway to RN licensure. Many graduates later complete RN-to-BSN programs while working.
2. Glendale Community College
Located just minutes from Peoria, Glendale Community College is one of the most convenient and respected options for local students.
Program highlights:
- ACEN accredited ADN program
- Day and evening cohort options
- Strong partnerships with Banner Health and HonorHealth
- Affordable public tuition rates
For students balancing work or family responsibilities, Glendale’s evening program provides valuable flexibility.
3. Grand Canyon University (GCU)
Grand Canyon University, located in nearby Phoenix, offers multiple pathways including a traditional BSN and an Accelerated BSN (ABSN).
Why students choose GCU:
- CCNE accredited BSN program
- High-tech simulation labs
- Accelerated option for students with prior degrees
- Strong clinical placement network
GCU’s ABSN pathway is especially attractive for career changers looking to enter nursing in 16 to 24 months.
4. Arizona Christian University
For students seeking a smaller, faith-based environment, Arizona Christian University offers a CCNE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Best for:
- Students seeking personalized instruction
- Those preferring a campus community with smaller class sizes
- Traditional four-year BSN candidates
This program emphasizes ethical leadership and holistic patient care alongside strong clinical training.
5. Brookline College
Brookline College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with an accelerated structure. While tuition is higher than public institutions, the shorter timeline appeals to working adults.
Key features:
- ACEN accreditation
- Accelerated degree completion
- Multiple start dates per year
- Hands-on clinical training
This option is ideal for students prioritizing speed and flexibility over cost.
ADN vs. BSN: Which Path Is Best in Peoria?
Both degrees lead to RN licensure, but career outcomes differ.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Typically 18 to 24 months
- Lower tuition
- Faster entry into the workforce
- Often followed by RN-to-BSN bridge
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Four-year degree or accelerated option
- Stronger competitiveness for hospital roles
- Preferred by many Magnet-designated facilities
- Higher long-term earning potential
Many hospitals in the Phoenix metro area increasingly prefer BSN-prepared nurses, particularly for leadership or specialty roles.
NCLEX Pass Rates and Licensing in Arizona
Graduating from an accredited program qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX-RN. Arizona nursing schools generally report solid statewide pass rates compared to national averages.
When evaluating a program, request:
- The most recent NCLEX first-time pass rate
- Program completion rate
- Clinical placement partnerships
- Graduate employment data
Strong programs typically post first-time pass rates above the national average.
Admission Requirements
While requirements vary, most Peoria-area nursing programs require:
- Prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry
- Minimum GPA requirement, often 2.5 to 3.0+
- Entrance exams such as the HESI or TEAS
- Background check and immunization clearance
Because programs are competitive, meeting minimum standards does not guarantee admission. High GPA performance in science prerequisites significantly improves acceptance chances.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Estimated tuition ranges:
- Public ADN programs: Approximately $5,000 to $10,000 total
- Public BSN programs: Approximately $30,000 to $45,000
- Private BSN programs: $50,000 or more depending on structure
Students should explore:
- FAFSA federal aid
- Arizona workforce grants
- Hospital tuition reimbursement programs
- Scholarships through the Arizona Nurses Association
Nursing Career Outlook in Peoria, AZ
The Phoenix metropolitan area continues to experience steady healthcare growth. RNs in Arizona earn competitive salaries, often exceeding the national median depending on specialty and employer type.
Graduates from Peoria-area nursing programs commonly secure positions in:
- Banner Health facilities
- HonorHealth hospitals
- Dignity Health systems
- Outpatient surgical centers
- Long-term care and rehabilitation facilities
Demand is particularly strong in critical care, emergency nursing, and geriatric services.
How to Choose the Right Program
Before applying, ask yourself:
- Do I want the fastest route to licensure or long-term advancement?
- Can I commit to a full-time schedule?
- What is my tuition budget?
- What are the school’s NCLEX pass rates?
- Does the school offer strong clinical placements?
The best nursing program in Peoria is the one that aligns with your financial situation, academic readiness, and long-term career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Programs in Peoria, AZ
What nursing degrees can you earn near Peoria, Arizona?
Near Peoria, you can earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at community colleges and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at universities and private colleges. Some schools also offer Accelerated BSN (ABSN) and RN-to-BSN options for students who already have college credits or an RN license.
How do you choose between an ADN and a BSN program in Peoria?
Choose an ADN if you want lower tuition and a faster route to RN licensure, usually in 18–24 months. Choose a BSN if you want more job options, better access to hospital and leadership roles, and stronger long-term earning potential. Many students start with an ADN and later complete an RN-to-BSN program while working.
What should you look for when comparing Peoria-area nursing schools?
You should check for ACEN or CCNE accreditation, Arizona State Board of Nursing approval, recent NCLEX-RN pass rates, total program cost, schedule options (day, evening, or hybrid), and where students complete clinical rotations. These factors have the biggest impact on your training and job readiness.
How competitive is admission to nursing programs near Peoria?
Admission is competitive. You usually need science prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, a minimum GPA around 2.5–3.0 or higher, and a passing score on the TEAS or HESI exam. A strong GPA in your science courses and a solid entrance exam score can improve your chances.
How much does nursing school cost in the Peoria area?
Public ADN programs often cost about $5,000–$10,000 in tuition, while public BSN programs can range from about $30,000–$45,000. Private BSN programs are usually higher, often $50,000 or more. You can lower your costs with FAFSA-based aid, state grants, scholarships, and hospital tuition reimbursement programs.
What is the job outlook for nurses who study near Peoria, AZ?
The Phoenix metro area, including Peoria, has steady demand for RNs in hospitals, outpatient centers, and long-term care. Many graduates find jobs with Banner Health, HonorHealth, Dignity Health, and local clinics. Needs are especially strong in critical care, emergency, and geriatric nursing.
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