ADN Programs in Arizona

Arizona Western College-Yuma offers nursing programs designed to prepare students for careers as Registered Nurses (RN). Here's an overview for prospective students:

Programs Offered

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

Admission Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• GPA: Minimum of 2.5 in prerequisite courses.
• Prerequisites: Courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and English.
• Entrance Exam: TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) with a competitive score.
• Background Check & Drug Screening: Mandatory for all applicants.

Application Deadlines

• Fall Admission: Typically in March.
• Spring Admission: Typically in September.
• Deadlines may vary; always check the latest information from the college's website.

Entrance Exams

• TEAS Exam: Required for admission. The exam covers reading, math, science, and English. A strong score improves admission chances.

Transfer Options

• Transfer to BSN Programs: AWC has agreements with several Arizona universities, including Arizona State University (ASU) and Northern Arizona University (NAU), for students wishing to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) after completing the ADN program.

Clinical Placement Opportunities

• Local Hospitals and Clinics: Clinical rotations are offered at Yuma Regional Medical Center and other local healthcare facilities, providing hands-on experience.
• Job Placement: The college has a strong network within the Yuma healthcare community, supporting job placement after graduation.

Location & Convenience

• Driving Convenience: AWC-Yuma is easily accessible by car with ample parking available. The campus is located near major highways, making commuting straightforward.
• Public Transportation: Limited, so having personal transportation is advisable.

Admission Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Completion of prerequisite courses with a grade of 'C' or higher.
• A minimum GPA of 2.5 in prerequisite courses.
• Current Arizona CNA certification is highly recommended.

Application Deadlines:

• Fall semester: Applications are typically due by March 1st.
• Spring semester: Applications are typically due by October 1st.

Entrance Exams:

• Applicants must take the HESI A2 entrance exam, scoring at least 75% in each section.

Transfer Options:

• The program has transfer agreements with several universities in Arizona, including Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University

Job Placement/Clinical Placement Opportunities:

• Students benefit from clinical placements at healthcare facilities across Pinal and Maricopa Counties.
• The program has a strong job placement rate, with many graduates securing positions in local hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Convenience of Driving:

• The Coolidge campus is centrally located, making it accessible for students from surrounding areas like Casa Grande and Florence. Ample parking is available, and the campus is situated near major highways, making the commute straightforward.

The ADN program at Cochise College is designed to prepare students for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN). This program blends theoretical instruction with practical, hands-on experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and succeed in various healthcare settings.

Admission Requirements:

• Prerequisites: Students must complete certain prerequisite courses, including human anatomy and physiology, college-level math, and English composition, with specific grade requirements.
• TEAS Entrance Exam: A minimum score of 66.1% on the TEAS exam is required for consideration.
• Other Requirements: Applicants must also submit a fingerprint clearance card and official transcripts from any previous institutions.

Program Structure:

• Coursework: The program covers core nursing concepts, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing, along with specialized courses in mental health and maternal-child nursing.
• Clinical Rotations: Students gain practical experience through clinical assignments in hospitals and healthcare facilities across Cochise and Pima counties. This real-world training is essential for developing the skills needed to provide high-quality patient care.
• Program Length: The AAS program typically takes four semesters to complete.

The program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and will allow its graduate the opportunity to take the licensing exam to become a registered nurse.

Candidates for this program must pass the HESI nursing entrance exam before they will be considered for the program. Admission into the program is available during spring and fall semesters. Applications for the spring program become available every April and must be completed by August interviews for the program take place in October. For the fall semester applications become available each October and are due by February. Interviews for fall take place in March.

Individuals who complete the Coconino Community College Nursing program are able to transfer their credits to other Arizona educational institutes. For example, if the student is interested in receiving their BSN they may transfer their credits to Northern Arizona University or to Arizona State University.

Applicants to the program must have a current CPR card, fully complete the program application, and complete an interview with the faculty. Spaces in the program are limited, so the student should be sure to complete all of the required steps before applying.

Eastern Arizona College (EAC) in Thatcher, Arizona, offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing, a program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and entry-level nursing positions. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring it meets high standards of nursing education.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission into the nursing program, applicants must complete several prerequisites and meet specific criteria:

• Prerequisites: Key courses include English Composition I & II, Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Microbiology, and Chemistry. A minimum GPA of 3.0 in these courses is required for competitive standing.
• Entrance Exam: The ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) is mandatory, with a required score of "proficient" or higher.
• Background Check and Health Requirements: Applicants must pass a background check and submit proof of immunizations and health screenings as part of the application process.

Application Deadlines

The nursing program has two annual deadlines: April 1st for fall admission and October 1st for spring admission.

Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP)

EAC offers a Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU). This program allows students to work toward their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from ASU while completing their AAS at EAC. The CEP includes hybrid classes with both in-person and online components, making it a time-efficient and cost-effective pathway to earning a BSN.

Campus Location

EAC is located in Thatcher, a small town in southeastern Arizona. The Thatcher campus is convenient for students from the region, though those from larger cities may find the location less accessible. The college’s partnerships with ASU provide additional flexibility for students aiming to continue their education beyond the associate degree.

For students exploring nursing programs in Arizona, EAC offers a solid option with strong local ties, accredited education, and pathways to advanced degrees through its CEP with ASU. Other regional options include Pima Community College and Central Arizona College, both of which also offer nursing programs.

The Associates degree-nursing program offered at Estrella Mountain community college offers individuals with the training and resources they need to become a registered nurse. The program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Students will be eligible to take the licensing exam after graduation and successful completion of the program.

Admission into the nursing program requires that candidates have a High school diploma or GED as well as submit to a drug screening and criminal background check. The student must also receive a fingerprint clearance card. Certain courses are required to be completed as prerequisites before applying to this program.

The program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse by providing hands-on clinical experience in a variety of health care settings. To complete the course the student will complete between61 and 74 total credit hours. The student must also maintain a “C” or better in all of the required courses. After Graduation the student should be prepared to take the licensing exam to become a registered nurse, however, completion of the program does not guarantee that the student will pass the licensing exam.

GateWay Community College, part of the MaricopaNursing consortium, offers a comprehensive Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing program. This program is accredited by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), preparing students for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN).

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the AAS Nursing program, students must complete the following prerequisites with a grade of "C" or better:

• BIO156 or BIO181: Biology courses
• BIO201: Human Anatomy and Physiology I
• CHM130 and CHM130LL or CHM130AA: Chemistry with lab
• ENG101 or ENG107: First-Year Composition
• MAT140, MAT141, or MAT142: College Mathematics
   

Additionally, students must achieve a minimum GPA of 2.0 in these courses to be placed in the queue for a cohort start date. A valid Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety is also required, along with passing the HESI A2 entrance exam.

Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP)

GateWay Community College also offers a Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) for students who wish to earn both their AAS and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) concurrently. This program allows students to take courses at GateWay while simultaneously enrolled in a partner university’s BSN program, potentially completing both degrees in about the same time it would take to complete just the AAS.

Program Locations

GateWay Community College operates across multiple campuses in Phoenix, including the Washington Campus, Central City, and the 18th Street locations, providing accessible options for students throughout the region.

This program is a solid option for those seeking a cost-effective and flexible pathway to a nursing career, with the added benefit of progressing toward a BSN through the CEP.

Glendale Community College (GCC) offers a comprehensive Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing program, which is part of the MaricopaNursing consortium. This program is designed to prepare students for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) through a combination of classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical rotations.

Program Overview:

• Duration: The AAS in Nursing is a four-semester program.
• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing.

Admission Requirements:

• Prerequisites: Before applying, students must complete prerequisite courses, which include Human Anatomy and Physiology, College Mathematics, and English Composition, among others.
• Entrance Exam: The HESI Admission Assessment (HESI A2) is required with a minimum score of 80% in English Language Composite and 75% in Math.
• Health & Safety: Students must submit a Health & Safety Documentation Checklist, have a valid Healthcare Provider CPR card, and obtain a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• Background Check: All students must pass a background check to participate in clinical rotations.

Program Pathways:

• Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP): Students can simultaneously work towards their AAS and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through partnerships with local universities. This option allows students to complete their BSN more quickly and affordably.
• Advanced Placement: Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), paramedics, and students from other nursing programs may apply for advanced placement, allowing them to enter the program at a more advanced level.

The program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Students will be eligible to take the licensing exam after graduation and successful completion of the program.

Admission into the nursing program requires that candidates have a High school diploma or GED as well as submit to a drug screening and criminal background check. The student must also receive a fingerprint clearance card. Certain courses are required to be completed as prerequisites before applying to this program.

The program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse by providing hands-on clinical experience in a variety of health care settings. To complete the course the student will need to complete between 61 and 74 total credit hours. The student must also maintain a grade of “C” or better in all of the required courses. After graduation the student will be eligible to take the licensing exam to become a registered nurse.

This program is offered at the following locations: Chandler-Gilbert, Estrella Mountain, Glendale, GateWay, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Scottsdale

Mesa Community College (MCC) at Red Mountain offers a nursing program that is part of the Maricopa Nursing consortium, providing a seamless pathway to becoming a registered nurse (RN). Below are key details about the program:

Admission Requirements

• Educational Requirements: Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Prerequisites: Key prerequisites include courses in Human Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and College Mathematics. Students must complete these with a grade of "C" or better.
• GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.5 in prerequisite courses is required.
• Background Check and Health Screening: Successful candidates must pass a background check and provide proof of immunizations, TB testing, and other health screenings as required by clinical sites.

Entrance Exam

• HESI A2: Applicants must take the HESI Admission Assessment (HESI A2) exam, scoring at least 75% in English Composite and 75% in Math. The test evaluates readiness in areas critical to nursing, such as reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and math.

Admission Deadlines

• Application Periods: The program accepts applications during specific periods throughout the year, typically aligning with the Fall and Spring semesters. Exact deadlines may vary, so it's essential to check the MCC Nursing Program webpage for the most current information.

Transfer and Partnership Options

Mesa Community College's nursing program is part of the Maricopa to ASU Pathways Program (MAPP), which allows students to transfer credits seamlessly to Arizona State University (ASU) to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) after completing their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

Alternative Programs in the Area

Students might also consider other nursing programs in the Phoenix metro area, such as those offered by Phoenix College or Scottsdale Community College, both of which are also part of the Maricopa Nursing consortium and provide similar pathways to becoming an RN.

The program takes approximately two years to complete. For enrollment into the program students must complete all of the prerequisite courses and take the Test of Essential Academic Skills or TEAS Test.  The TEAS test can be taken three times within a calendar year. Candidates for the program are also required to have a complete background check as well as contact the Department of Public Safety to obtain a background clearance card. There is no wait list for the program but there are a limited amount of spaces available. Students should make sure that their application is fully completed before submitting it to avoid being passed over for a spot.

The Arizona State Board of Nursing approves the Mohave Community College nursing program.  After the successful completion of this program students will be eligible to sit for the nursing licensure exam.

Program Overview:

• Duration: The ADN program can be completed in approximately two years, depending on whether students choose the traditional or accelerated tracks.
• Flexible Scheduling Options:
  • Traditional: Starts in the fall and spring, with students having summers off.
  • Accelerated: Begins in the fall and includes coursework during the summer, allowing completion in under 20 months.
  • ENTICE (Entering Nursing Through Innovative Clinical Experiences): A weekend-based option allowing students to maintain full-time jobs while completing the program over 24 months.

Step-Out Option for LPN Licensure:

The program includes a step-out option for students interested in becoming Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). After successfully completing the first two semesters, students can sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. This option allows students to work as LPNs while continuing their education toward an RN if they choose.

Advanced Placement:

The program also offers advanced placement options for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and paramedics, allowing them to receive credit for prior learning and accelerate their progress through the program.

Northland Pioneer College (NPC) offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Nursing at its White Mountain Campus in Show Low, Arizona. This program is designed to prepare students for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) and is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Admission Requirements

To apply to the nursing program, students must first be admitted to NPC and meet specific prerequisites. Applicants are required to have an active Arizona Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) license in good standing. Additionally, the following courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better before July 1 of the application year:

• BIO 181: General Biology I
• BIO 201: Human Anatomy and Physiology I
• BIO 202: Human Anatomy and Physiology II
• BIO 205: Microbiology
• CHM 130: Fundamental Chemistry
• ENL 101: College Composition I
• MAT 142 or higher level math course, or sufficient placement test scores.

A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 is recommended for applicants.

Entrance Exam

Prospective students must take the HESI Admission Test as part of the application process. This exam assesses knowledge in areas relevant to nursing and is a critical component of the admission criteria.

Transfer Options

NPC has established transfer agreements with several universities, including Northern Arizona University (NAU), Arizona State University (ASU), and Grand Canyon University (GCU). These partnerships allow students to transition smoothly into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program after completing their AAS degree at NPC.

Program Location and Accessibility

The White Mountain Campus is located in Show Low, which is the largest city in the region, making it a convenient option for students from northeastern Arizona. The campus is well-equipped to support nursing students with both classroom instruction and practical labs.

Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing as part of the MaricopaNursing program. This program is designed to prepare students for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) and provides various pathways to achieve this goal, including the Traditional Program and the Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP), which allows students to simultaneously earn their AAS and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Admission Requirements

To apply to the nursing program, students must meet the following prerequisites:

• Courses:
  • BIO201: Human Anatomy and Physiology I
  • ENG101 or ENG107: First-Year Composition
  • MAT140 or higher: College Mathematics
  • CHM130: Fundamental Chemistry (with lab), or equivalent high school chemistry.
• Certification: Completion of a Nurse Assistant (NA) course or holding a current Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) or Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) certification.
• Fingerprint Clearance: An unrestricted Arizona Department of Public Safety Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• Entrance Exam: Passing scores on the HESI A2 exam, with at least 80% in English Composition and 75% in Math.

Additional Options and Pathways

Students can also participate in the Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP), where they can work towards both their AAS and BSN concurrently in partnership with several universities. For those already holding an LPN or paramedic certification, there are advanced placement options available.

Waitlist and Advisement

The program is competitive, and applicants may be placed on a waitlist. During this time, PVCC encourages students to complete co-requisite courses such as BIO202 (Human Anatomy and Physiology II), BIO205 (Microbiology), and ENG102 (First-Year Composition II), which can enhance their readiness for the program and future BSN pursuits.

Program Details

• Accreditation: The AAS in Nursing at Phoenix College is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This ensures that the program meets rigorous educational standards and that graduates are well-prepared to enter the nursing profession.

• Clinical Rotations: Students will engage in clinical experiences across a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health centers. These rotations provide hands-on learning opportunities, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

• Program Length: The ADN program typically takes four semesters to complete after the prerequisite courses are fulfilled. The curriculum includes courses in nursing theory, pharmacology, and specialized areas such as mental health and maternal-child nursing.

Admission Requirements

• Prerequisites: Before applying to the nursing program, students must complete prerequisite courses in subjects like biology, chemistry, math, and English. These courses are foundational to the advanced nursing curriculum.
• TEAS Exam: A passing score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is required for admission. This exam assesses readiness for health science programs and covers reading, mathematics, science, and English.
• Additional Requirements: Applicants must also complete a background check and obtain a fingerprint clearance card, as these are required for clinical placements.

Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP)

Phoenix College offers a Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) for students interested in earning both their ADN and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) simultaneously. This program allows students to take courses at both Phoenix College and a partnering university, making it an efficient pathway to a BSN.

The ADN program at Pima Community College provides students with the knowledge and clinical experience needed to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and start a career as a Registered Nurse. The program typically spans 5-6 semesters and is highly competitive.

Admission Requirements

• Prerequisites: Students must complete several prerequisite courses with strong grades before applying:
  • BIO 201IN or BIO 201IH: Human Anatomy and Physiology I with a grade of "B" or better.
  • BIO 202IN: Human Anatomy and Physiology II with a grade of "B" or better.
  • MAT 142 or higher: College Mathematics with a grade of "C" or better.
  • WRT 101: College Composition with a grade of "C" or better.
• Competitive Admission: Admission is based on academic performance in these prerequisites, and only the most qualified applicants are admitted.

Program Structure

The ADN program follows a cohort model, meaning students progress through the curriculum together as a group. Key components include:

• Core Nursing Courses: Students will engage in both theoretical and practical training. The curriculum includes courses on nursing processes, pharmacology, and specialized labs for clinical skills development.
• Clinical Rotations: Students participate in clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, gaining hands-on experience in patient care under the supervision of experienced nurses.

Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP)

For those interested in advancing their education further, PCC offers a Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) in partnership with universities. This program allows students to work towards a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) while completing their ADN, providing a streamlined pathway to higher education

The ADN program is ideal for individuals seeking a fast-track route to becoming a registered nurse, offering a balance of rigorous academic training and practical clinical experience in Tucson, Arizona.

Program Overview:

• Duration: The ADN program can be completed in approximately 20 months, making it a relatively quick path to becoming an RN.
• Delivery Method: The program is conducted on-campus, providing hands-on training through lab exercises and clinical rotations.
• Curriculum: The coursework covers a wide range of topics essential for nursing, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, patient care, and more. The program also emphasizes soft skills such as communication and professionalism, which are crucial in the healthcare setting.

Clinical Externships:

One of the key components of the ADN program at Pima Medical Institute is the clinical externships. These externships provide students with real-world experience in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. During these externships, students work alongside experienced healthcare professionals, allowing them to apply what they have learned in a practical setting. This hands-on experience is invaluable in preparing students for their future roles as RNs​.

Admission Requirements:

• Educational Background: Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Prerequisites: Courses such as human anatomy and physiology and applied mathematics are integrated into the program and may need to be completed before or during the program.
• Additional Requirements: Students must pass a background check and may need to provide proof of immunizations and other health-related requirements.

Scottsdale Community College (SCC) offers a Nursing program through its partnership with the Maricopa Community Colleges system. The program is located on SCC's main campus in Scottsdale, Arizona, which is easily accessible from major highways and serves as a convenient location for students in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Nursing program at Scottsdale Community College, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED: Proof of graduation is required.
• Prerequisite Courses: Students must complete specific prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better. These courses include Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Microbiology, College Mathematics, and English Composition.
• Background Check: A mandatory criminal background check is required.
• Health and Immunization Requirements: Students must provide evidence of required immunizations, a negative TB test, and CPR certification (Healthcare Provider level).
• Entrance Exam: Applicants must take the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) A2 Admission Exam and achieve a minimum score as determined by the program.

Enrollment Deadlines

Admission into the Nursing program follows a specific timeline. Typically, the application cycle opens in the fall for the following year's cohort. However, specific deadlines can vary, and students are encouraged to check the SCC website or contact the Nursing department for the most up-to-date information.

Alternative Programs

For students exploring other nursing program options in the area, Glendale Community College and Mesa Community College, also part of the Maricopa Community Colleges system, offer similar nursing programs with comparable requirements and clinical experiences.

The program is available at both the Prescott and Verde Valley campuses and is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Arizona State Board of Nursing.

Program Overview:

• Duration: The ADN program typically takes two years to complete, spanning four semesters.
• Admission Requirements:
  • Prerequisites: Students must complete certain prerequisite courses, including Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II, College Composition, and College Mathematics, among others. Additionally, applicants must be certified as a Nursing Assistant (CNA) or have completed an equivalent course within the last three years.
  • Entrance Exam: The ATI TEAS exam is required for admission, with a minimum score of 58.7% necessary to apply.
  • Health and Safety: A health declaration, background check, and Level I Fingerprint Clearance Card are also required for enrollment.

Program Structure:

• Core Nursing Courses: The program includes a robust set of core nursing courses such as Nursing Theory, Pharmacology, and Mental Health Nursing, amounting to a total of 68.5 credits.
• Clinical Rotations: Hands-on clinical experience is an integral part of the program, allowing students to practice in real healthcare settings.