Key Takeaways
- Phoenix, Arizona offers a growing number of accredited nursing programs from community colleges to major universities, each catering to different career goals.
- Top options include Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, Gateway Community College, Chamberlain University, and University of Phoenix.
- NCLEX pass rates for leading schools in the city consistently exceed 85–95%, showing strong preparation for licensure.
- Many schools provide flexible scheduling, online-hybrid learning models, and clinical placements with major Phoenix healthcare employers such as Banner Health and Dignity Health.
Best Nursing Schools in Phoenix for 2024
The demand for skilled nurses in Phoenix is soaring as healthcare systems expand across Maricopa County. Whether you are pursuing your first nursing credential or advancing to a bachelor’s or master’s degree, Phoenix offers accredited programs that combine academic excellence with strong clinical opportunities. Below is a curated list of the top nursing schools in Phoenix based on accreditation, NCLEX performance, affordability, student satisfaction, and job placement outcomes.
1. Arizona State University (Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation)
Location: Downtown Phoenix
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Programs Offered: BSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD
Average NCLEX Pass Rate (2023): 93%
Arizona State University (ASU) consistently ranks among the nation’s top nursing schools. Its state-of-the-art simulation labs and partnerships with major hospitals like Banner Health provide immersive clinical training. The BSN program emphasizes evidence-based care and interprofessional collaboration, preparing students for leadership roles in diverse healthcare settings. ASU also offers an accelerated BSN for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field.
2. Grand Canyon University (College of Nursing and Health Care Professions)
Location: West Phoenix
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, Post-Master’s Certificates
Average NCLEX Pass Rate (2023): 90%
Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers one of the most flexible nursing programs in the city, providing both campus-based and online options. Students can choose evening or online RN to BSN programs designed for working nurses. GCU’s curriculum integrates Christian values and community service, appealing to learners who value holistic patient care. Graduates benefit from strong ties to healthcare networks across Arizona.
3. Gateway Community College (Department of Nursing and Health Sciences)
Location: Downtown/Red Mountain campus
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Programs Offered: Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (AAS), LPN to RN Bridge
Average NCLEX Pass Rate (2023): 88%
Part of the Maricopa County Community College District, Gateway offers affordable tuition with a strong focus on practical nursing skills. The AAS program allows graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and seamlessly transfer to a BSN completion program at partnering universities. The program emphasizes high clinical competency through local hospital rotations and small student-to-faculty ratios.
4. Chamberlain University College of Nursing – Phoenix Campus
Location: North Phoenix
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs Offered: 3-Year BSN, RN-BSN, MSN
Average NCLEX Pass Rate (2023): 89%
Chamberlain’s three-year BSN program is designed for students who want an accelerated path to becoming a registered nurse. The Phoenix campus provides high-fidelity simulation labs and an emphasis on compassionate patient care. With rolling admissions and no waitlist for qualified applicants, it remains popular among students seeking an efficient entry point into nursing. Graduates also enjoy nationwide mobility due to Chamberlain’s national reputation.
5. University of Phoenix (College of Nursing)
Location: Central Phoenix (Online and Campus Options)
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs Offered: RN to BSN, MSN, DNP
Average NCLEX Pass Rate: Not applicable for RN to BSN programs
The University of Phoenix stands out for its working-professional focus. Its online nursing programs are tailored for licensed nurses who need flexibility while advancing their careers. Courses are taught by nurse practitioners and healthcare administrators with real-world expertise. Students report strong academic support and career counseling to help them move into leadership, education, or informatics roles.
6. Carrington College – Phoenix Campus
Location: North Phoenix
Accreditation: ACEN
Programs Offered: Practical Nursing (PN), RN Bridge
Average NCLEX-PN Pass Rate (2023): 86%
Carrington College offers a hands-on curriculum for aspiring licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and those aiming to bridge to registered nurse credentials. The college emphasizes clinical confidence early through lab simulations and supervised patient care experiences. Its compact program structure and supportive faculty make it an attractive entry-level option for healthcare careers.
7. Brookline College – Phoenix Campus
Location: Midtown Phoenix
Accreditation: CCNE
Programs Offered: BSN, LPN, MSN
Average NCLEX Pass Rate (2023): 85%
Brookline College’s nursing programs are tailored for career-focused learners seeking smaller class sizes and personalized instruction. Its BSN program can be completed in as little as three years. The college incorporates real-world case studies and partnerships with Phoenix-area hospitals to ensure hands-on clinical readiness upon graduation.
Comparison of Phoenix Nursing Schools (2024)
Institution Program Level Accreditation Estimated NCLEX Pass Rate Program Length Approx. Tuition (Resident) Arizona State University BSN–DNP CCNE 93% 4 years (BSN) $12,000/year Grand Canyon University BSN–MSN CCNE 90% 4 years $17,000/year Gateway Community College AAS ACEN 88% 2 years $2,100/semester Chamberlain University BSN CCNE 89% 3 years $665/credit University of Phoenix RN–BSN CCNE N/A 12–20 months $398/credit
Admission Requirements
While admission criteria differ slightly across institutions, most Phoenix nursing schools require:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum GPA (typically 2.75–3.0)
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology
- TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) scores for entry-level programs
- Background check and up-to-date immunization records
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships
Costs vary depending on the type of program and institution. Public colleges like Gateway offer the most affordable tuition, while private universities such as ASU and GCU offer extensive financial aid options, including:
- Federal Pell Grants and Direct Loans
- Arizona Nurses Association scholarships
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
- Merit-based and diversity scholarships for nursing majors
Prospective students should complete the FAFSA early to qualify for the widest range of financial assistance.
Clinical Experience and Job Placement
Top-ranked nursing schools in Phoenix maintain active partnerships with premier healthcare providers including Banner Health, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Dignity Health, and HonorHealth. These collaborations ensure direct clinical rotations and potential job offers post-graduation. Many institutions report job placement rates above 90% within six months of licensure.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School in Phoenix
Selecting the best-fit nursing school involves balancing quality, cost, and career outcomes. Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN for eligibility to take the NCLEX exam.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: Higher pass rates indicate better preparation for licensure.
- Clinical Partnerships: Look for programs offering rotations with major Phoenix hospitals.
- Flexible Options: Choose online or evening courses if you are a working professional.
- Career Support: Evaluate resources like resume workshops, mock interviews, and job placement services.
Student Reviews: What Graduates Say
Feedback from recent graduates highlights Phoenix’s nursing schools for their supportive faculty and hands-on learning. ASU students praise the research opportunities, while GCU alumni appreciate flexible class scheduling. Gateway Community College students often cite affordable tuition and accessible professors as top strengths. Across the board, graduates agree that Phoenix offers a dynamic environment for launching a successful nursing career.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Phoenix
What types of nursing programs can you find in Phoenix?
In Phoenix, you can choose from practical nursing (LPN/PN), associate (AAS), bachelor’s (BSN), RN to BSN, master’s (MSN), and advanced practice degrees such as DNP and PhD. Programs are offered at community colleges, private colleges, and major universities like ASU and GCU.
How long does it take to become a registered nurse in Phoenix?
Program length varies by school and degree. An associate degree in nursing usually takes about 2 years, a traditional BSN takes about 4 years, and some schools offer 3-year or accelerated BSN options if you already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.
What are the basic admission requirements for Phoenix nursing schools?
Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA around 2.75–3.0, completed science prerequisites like anatomy and physiology, TEAS exam scores for entry-level tracks, plus a background check and current immunizations.
Are nursing programs in Phoenix accredited and do they prepare you for the NCLEX?
Leading Phoenix schools hold CCNE or ACEN accreditation, which is important for NCLEX eligibility and licensure. Many of these programs report NCLEX pass rates in the 85–95% range, showing strong exam preparation for new nurses.
What clinical and job opportunities can you expect after studying nursing in Phoenix?
You can complete clinical rotations with major Phoenix healthcare systems such as Banner Health, Dignity Health, Mayo Clinic Arizona, and HonorHealth. Many schools report job placement rates above 90% within six months of licensure, helped by these local partnerships.
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