Best Nursing Programs in Surprise, AZ (2026 Guide)
If you are searching for the best nursing programs in Surprise, Arizona, you are likely comparing accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, tuition costs, and career outcomes. Surprise is part of the fast-growing West Valley healthcare corridor, giving students access to major clinical partners, hospitals, and high-demand job opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Top nursing pathways near Surprise include Maricopa Community Colleges, Arizona State University West, Ottawa University, Chamberlain University, and West-MEC.
- Students can choose from RN, BSN, RN to BSN, accelerated BSN, and high school career pathways.
- Accreditation by ACEN or CCNE is essential for licensure and employment.
- Graduates in the Phoenix metro area benefit from strong job demand and competitive salaries.
- Cost varies widely, with community colleges offering the most affordable tuition.
How We Evaluated the Best Nursing Schools Near Surprise
To determine the top programs, we evaluated institutions based on:
- Accreditation (ACEN or CCNE recognition)
- NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Graduation and employment rates
- Tuition and financial aid availability
- Clinical partnerships in the West Valley
- Flexible formats including online or hybrid learning
All schools listed are regionally accredited and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing.
Top Nursing Programs in and Near Surprise, AZ
SchoolDegree OptionsApprox. TuitionFormatBest ForMaricopa Community CollegesAssociate Degree in Nursing (ADN), RN to BSNLow in-state ratesIn-person + hybridAffordable route to RN licensureArizona State University (West Campus)BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSNMid to highIn-person + online optionsResearch-focused, strong reputationOttawa University (Surprise)BSN, RN to BSNPrivate tuitionHybridSmall class sizesChamberlain University (Phoenix)BSN, RN to BSNPrivate tuitionHybridFlexible admissions cyclesWest-MECHigh school nursing pathwayPublic funding optionsCareer-tech programEarly nursing exposure
1. Maricopa Community Colleges
The Maricopa County Community College District serves the Surprise area through campuses like Glendale Community College and Estrella Mountain Community College.
Program Highlights
- Associate Degree in Nursing leading to RN licensure
- Seamless transfer pathway to BSN programs
- Competitive NCLEX pass rates
- Low in-district tuition
Clinical Experience
Students complete hands-on clinical training at local hospitals and healthcare centers across the Phoenix metro area.
Ideal For
Students seeking a cost-effective pathway to becoming a registered nurse before completing a BSN.
2. Arizona State University West Campus
ASU’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation operates programs at its West Valley campus, offering nationally respected nursing degrees.
Degree Options
- Traditional BSN
- Accelerated BSN for students with prior degrees
- Online RN to BSN completion program
Why It Stands Out
- Strong research emphasis
- Advanced simulation labs
- Consistently high NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Extensive hospital partnerships
Best Fit
Students seeking a comprehensive university experience and long-term career growth opportunities.
3. Ottawa University – Surprise Campus
Ottawa University provides a smaller, more personalized nursing education experience directly in Surprise.
Benefits
- Lower student-to-faculty ratio
- Flexible hybrid format
- Faith-based institutional values
Ottawa’s RN to BSN pathway is particularly attractive to working nurses who need evening or flexible coursework.
4. Chamberlain University – Phoenix Area
Chamberlain University is a well-known private nursing institution offering multiple start dates per year.
Key Features
- Flexible admissions cycles
- Extensive nursing-focused curriculum
- Strong employer recognition nationwide
Tuition is higher than public institutions, but financial aid and scholarship opportunities are widely available.
5. West-MEC Nursing Pathway Programs
Western Maricopa Education Center (West-MEC) offers high school students early entry into health sciences and nursing-related training.
Why Consider West-MEC?
- Hands-on healthcare exposure
- Industry certifications
- Affordable public program
This pathway can accelerate a student’s timeline toward formal nursing school admission.
Admission Requirements to Nursing Programs in Surprise
While requirements vary, most programs expect:
- Prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and anatomy
- A minimum GPA, typically 2.75 to 3.0+
- TEAS or HESI entrance exam scores
- Background check and immunization records
Early preparation increases acceptance odds, particularly for competitive ADN and BSN programs.
Cost and Return on Investment
Tuition differs significantly by institution:
- Community Colleges: Most affordable option for in-state students
- Public Universities: Moderate tuition with strong career outcomes
- Private Universities: Higher tuition but flexible admissions
According to regional employment data, registered nurses in the Phoenix metro area earn competitive annual salaries, often allowing graduates to recover educational costs within a few years.
Financial aid options include federal grants, Arizona-based scholarships, work-study opportunities, and hospital tuition reimbursement programs.
Career Outlook for Nurses in Surprise, AZ
The healthcare sector in the West Valley continues to expand due to population growth and demand for medical services.
Top Employers in the Area
- Banner Health
- Dignity Health
- Abrazo Health
- Mayo Clinic (greater Phoenix region)
Graduates from accredited programs are positioned for roles in hospitals, outpatient facilities, long-term care centers, and specialty practices.
Choosing the Right Nursing Program
When deciding between nursing schools near Surprise, consider:
- Commute time to campus and clinical sites
- Total program length
- Pass rates and student outcomes
- Support services and tutoring
- Scheduling flexibility
Community colleges offer high value and affordability, while universities often provide expanded leadership and specialization opportunities. Your ideal program depends on budget, timeline, and long-term career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Programs in Surprise, AZ
What types of nursing programs can you find near Surprise, AZ?
Near Surprise, you can find ADN, BSN, RN to BSN, and accelerated BSN programs, along with high school health science pathways through West-MEC. These are offered by Maricopa Community Colleges, ASU West, Ottawa University, Chamberlain University, and local career-tech centers.
How do you choose the right nursing school in Surprise, AZ?
You should compare accreditation (ACEN or CCNE), NCLEX pass rates, total cost, commute to campus and clinical sites, program length, and schedule flexibility. Also look at support services, such as tutoring and advising, to match your learning style and work schedule.
How much does nursing school cost in the Surprise, AZ area?
Community colleges in the Maricopa system usually have the lowest in-state tuition, public universities like ASU fall in the middle, and private schools such as Ottawa and Chamberlain tend to cost more. You can lower out-of-pocket costs with federal aid, Arizona scholarships, and employer tuition help from local hospitals.
What are the typical admission requirements for nursing programs near Surprise?
Most programs ask for prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and anatomy, a minimum GPA around 2.75–3.0 or higher, TEAS or HESI scores, a background check, and proof of immunizations. Some programs may also require CPR certification, essays, or interviews.
What is the job outlook for nurses graduating in the West Valley and Surprise area?
The West Valley is growing, and local systems such as Banner Health, Dignity Health, Abrazo Health, and Mayo Clinic in greater Phoenix continue to hire nurses. Many graduates find roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, and specialty practices with competitive starting pay for new RNs.
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