Eastern Arizona College

Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher offers two main entry points into nursing: a Practical Nursing (LPN) track and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN/AAS) for registered nurse preparation. As a community college, the nursing department is designed for students seeking a direct path to licensure. There is a separate, competitive program application process with set semester deadlines of April 1 and November 1. Students applying should also prepare for required screening items. These include an Arizona DPS fingerprint clearance card, meeting entrance exam requirements, and meeting prerequisite expectations before starting core nursing courses.

For the RN pathway, the AAS program consists of four full-time semesters after completing the prerequisites. This structure leads to eligibility for the NCLEX-RN. The curriculum focuses on preparing students for beginning staff nurse roles. The program allows students to enter or exit based on their needs, available space, and timing. Before starting the nursing sequence, requirements include a current AHA BLS CPR card (healthcare provider level) and an Arizona Nursing Assistant license number. Students can obtain the license through EAC’s NUR 100 route and state testing. The nursing department also uses standardized pre-admission testing. EAC lists the ATI TEAS cost at $87 plus tax and offers testing through the Thatcher campus Testing Center in the Academic Programs Building, Room 126.

Accreditation is an important factor for transfer and employer recognition. EAC’s nursing program is accredited by ACEN, with the current accreditation period running from Spring 2016 through Spring 2029. If you plan to continue beyond the associate level, EAC also has partnerships with Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and Grand Canyon University, allowing BSN coursework to take place alongside the associate program.

In terms of licensure outcomes, EAC’s average weighted NCLEX-RN pass rate is 98.8%, while Arizona’s 2024 RN average is 93.7%. For practical nursing, the average weighted NCLEX-PN pass rate is 97.1%, compared to the state PN average of 93.8%.

Classes and required steps are based at EAC’s Thatcher campus, located at 615 N Stadium Ave, Thatcher, AZ 85552, in the Gila Valley in southeastern Arizona.

Updated: 05 Oct, 2013

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.