Tucson Nursing School
3-Year BSN Program: Become a Nurse Faster With No Prerequisite Coursework
Classes begin January 5th
Why Our Nursing School in Tucson Is Right for You
- No waitlist to start at our Tucson nursing campus
- Up to $5,000 scholarships available at our Tucson campus
- Earn your BSN in just 3 years, or less with qualified transfer credits!
- Flexible scheduling with gen ed night classes and a mixture of in-person, online, and blended nursing classes
- Small class sizes with personalized attention
All Arizona College campuses are institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program at Arizona College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.aacnnursing.org).
Your Nursing Dream Can Start Now
Our nursing school in Tucson, AZ is designed with one goal: to prepare you for a successful career in the health sciences as a registered nurse (RN). We strive for academic excellence through classroom teaching, hands-on simulations, and training in real-world healthcare environments to give you the nursing skills you need to enter the nursing field.
Graduate in Less Time With Eligible Transfer Credits
Get Hands-On Experience in Guided Labs
NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation From Day One
What You Get from Arizona College of Nursing
Convenient Scheduling for Nursing School in Arizona
Looking for convenient scheduling for nursing school in Arizona? Our accredited three-year BSN program offers multiple start dates and evening gen ed night classes, plus online nursing program courses designed for working adults like you.
With convenient scheduling that includes blended learning and virtual classes, you can earn your nursing degree without putting everything on hold. Discover how our nursing program works with your busy schedule.
A Welcoming Community for BSN Degree Students
Joining our nursing program in Tucson means becoming part of something bigger—a supportive, purpose-driven community that’s with you every step of the way. From the first day of your nurse classes to your final clinical rotation, you’ll be surrounded by faculty, classmates, and mentors who truly want to see you succeed.
If you’re looking for a place where your goals are taken seriously, your voice matters, and your purpose is understood, then you belong here.
Learn Hands-On Skills to Meet Nursing School Requirements
Tucson, Arizona nursing students build confidence through hands-on training in labs and realistic clinical environments. You’ll develop the skills to assess patients, think critically, and deliver effective care in fast-paced settings.
Our nursing courses prioritize real-world learning so you’re prepared for clinical application—and a strong start in your nursing career.
Support Resources and a Clear Admission Process
Unlike some university programs, our nursing school keeps the application process clear and focused on nursing students. We’ll guide you from first questions to final steps—so you can stay focused on your goals as a future nursing student.
From day one, you’ll have access to personalized support and resources to help you succeed through graduation. We can even help with scholarships and NCLEX-RN exam prep!
RN Salary Potential in Arizona
Registered Nurses in Tucson, Arizona earn a median annual wage of $95,960 per year. While new graduates typically start below the median, earnings often grow steadily with experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries for RNs in Tucson range from $62,890 to $122,080 annually. A nursing degree can help you build a solid foundation for long-term career growth.
Updated May 2025. Source: O*NET Online
Build Leadership Skills That Set You Apart
Today’s healthcare system needs nursing students who are prepared to lead. That’s why our degree in nursing doesn’t stop at clinical training—it also develops the leadership skills that position you for long-term growth.
Through targeted nursing courses and mentorship, you’ll learn how to manage teams, make data-informed decisions, and advocate for patients. Whether you choose bedside care or a broader nurse manager role, you’ll be ready to make an impact.
Nursing Practice in Clinical Rotations
Throughout your nursing program, you’ll learn in clinical rotations. Like other RN programs, you’ll collaborate with healthcare professionals that may include nurse managers (RN), registered nurses, and clinical nurse specialists (CNS).
These nursing program experiences enhance your clinical skills and knowledge. Clinical rotations may provide insights into how RNs and nurse managers in Tucson work together in real medical environments.
BSN Program Curriculum
From day one, our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program is built to prepare you for a thriving career as a registered nurse (RN). Our curriculum combines classroom teaching, hands-on labs, real-world clinical experience, and extensive NCLEX-RN exam prep to get you ready for a successful nursing career.
Sample Classes in Our BSN Curriculum:
- Fundamentals of Biology
- Introduction to Psychology
- Human Anatomy/Physiology I
- College Mathematics
- First Year Composition (Writing) I
- Human Pathophysiology
- Human Nutrition
- Critical Thinking in Clinical Decision-Making
- Pharmacology I
- Evidence-Based Practice I
- Community Health Nursing + Practicum
- Maternal Health Theory and Application + Practicum
- Transition to the Nursing Profession
- Professional Seminar (NCLEX-RN Preparation)
How Transfer Credits Work for Your BSN Degree
At Arizona College of Nursing, we understand that you want to get the most out of your previous education experience on your journey through nursing school. Students can progress through our BSN program of study in three years or less with qualifying gen ed transfer credits. Our academic advisors will work closely with you to review transcripts and transfer as many credits as possible.
Clinical Partnerships at Our Nursing School in Arizona
In the final year of the program, students spend most of their time in clinical rotations, training in real-world healthcare environments as they pursue their nursing degree. Hands-on experience with patients and medical professionals is one of the most powerful ways to learn. We make it a priority for our students. We’ve partnered with healthcare providers in Arizona to provide students with opportunities for clinical experience and nursing research by working with nurse leaders.
Visit Our BSN Program Curriculum Page For More Details.
Complete NCLEX-RN Exam Prep
Our nursing school in Tucson, Arizona is designed to start preparing you for the NCLEX-RN exam on day one. Instructors introduce students to NCLEX-RN-style questions and clinical judgment throughout our curriculum to get them comfortable. To learn more about testing format and study strategies, read our blog post Mastering the NCLEX: A Comprehensive Guide to Preparation.
Here are just a few of the ways we prepare you for NCLEX-RN:
Finally, a nursing school near me in Tucson!
Our nursing degree program proudly serves the entire Tucson area, including Menlo Park, South Tucson, and West University. Our college campus is located about 15 minutes from downtown Tucson making it convenient for you to pursue your nursing career.
Additional hours available upon request.
Our Nursing Program in Tucson
At Arizona College of Nursing, we know nursing students. You dream of getting your nursing degree, but your life is already extremely busy, so you ask yourself how you can make it happen. We have tailored our courses to match your busy life.
During the first 4 semesters of general education classes, they are held in the evenings and each course is completed in just 8 weeks. New sessions start six times per year, so you are not restricted to starting school in just Fall or Spring. Start when the timing is right for you.
Our nursing school in Tucson, Arizona, is conveniently located approximately 7 miles from downtown Tucson. Aspiring nurses will find a supportive environment as they work towards their nursing degree.
Stop by our Tucson location to learn more about our 3-year BSN degree program, which prepares you to take on a wider range of responsibilities than an ADN, CNA, LVN, or LPN program. Visit our Tucson Campus Life page for more information on our nursing program and student life in the Tucson area.
Full approval by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Arizona College of Nursing is approved for participation with AZ-SARA
Learn How Our Faculty and Leadership Bring Practice to the Classroom
Our faculty and leadership at the Tucson campus have real-world nursing knowledge and experience and want to help equip you for a successful career with your nursing degree. With mentorship and hands-on guidance in in-person labs and simulations, you can apply what you’re learning to advanced nursing practice scenarios.
Meet Our Tucson Nursing School Campus Leadership
Sharen Lacayo, DNP
Executive Director of Academic Operations
I have always loved helping and caring for people. As a new graduate nurse, I was inspired by so many in the medical field who were willing to teach and mentor me. These men and women inspired me to go the extra mile for my patients and the community that I served. This led to a love for education, and helping students achieve their dreams of becoming part of this amazing profession.
Arizona College puts the student first and wants to see each student achieve their goals and dream of becoming a nurse.
The Tucson campus has an abundant number of resources that are available for students. We have an incredible team that is ready and willing to help students be successful. The campus has a state-of-the-art simulation center and skills lab that allows students to practice skills. The learning resource center provides free tutoring and study areas for students.
Opportunities for Nursing Scholarships in Arizona
As you consider 3-Year BSN programs in Tucson for your nursing education, we know that the cost of the program is an important factor in your decision. Students can receive up to $5,000 in scholarship support.
Click the button below to learn more about our nursing scholarships in Arizona and to determine eligibility.
- Futures Scholarship
- Advancement Scholarship
- Working Parent Scholarship
- Achievement Scholarship
- Opportunity Scholarship
BSN Degree FAQs at our Tucson Campus
Browse below to learn about nursing concepts or click on the following link to view the most frequently asked questions at our Tucson nursing school. To find a nursing school near you, visit our Campus Locations page.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Arizona College of Nursing – Tucson is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (https://www.aacnnursing.org). All Arizona College of Nursing campuses are also institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Understanding the differences between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) school and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) school is crucial to planning your nursing career path. This because the education requirements between RNs and LPNs vary significantly. An LPN program typically takes about one to two years to complete. It is intended to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles to perform basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurse (RNs) and physicians.
In Arizona, you may take NCLEX-RN as many times as necessary to pass successfully. However, if at the time of licensure, it has been more than two years since you completed the clinical portion of your nursing program, you will be required to take and pass a nurse refresher course.
Source: https://www.azbn.gov/sites/default/files/education/nclex/faqs-for-failed-nclex.pdf
Registered Nurses in Tucson, Arizona have a median RN salary of $95,960 per year.
As you will be newly entering the workforce, it’s important to know that you will likely not start at the median rate but would likely increase your earnings with experience. To view our Tucson nursing market outlook click here.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that Registered Nurses in Arizona range from a low rate of $69,930, per year, to the highest-paid Nurses earning as much as $123,480 per year for their nursing salary.
Updated 5/2025. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-1141.00?zip=85711
Arizona College of Nursing – Tucson has built a full support system to help you at every step of the program. Our student support resources include a student success coach, tutoring sessions, peer mentoring, faculty office hours, NCLEX-RN exam prep class, and more.
Contact our admissions team to learn more about how we support you throughout your nursing education. We’re committed to helping you pursue your goal of becoming an RN.
You can read more about our admissions requirements here. For detailed information about the nursing prerequisites for our BSN program, please contact our admissions office. They can provide you with the specific details and answer any questions you may have about our application process.
A nursing assistant provides basic patient care and support, such as helping with daily activities and monitoring vital signs, under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN). An RN, on the other hand, typically has more advanced training and responsibilities, including developing and implementing patient care plans, administering medications, and performing complex medical procedures. RNs also oversee and coordinate care provided by nursing assistants and other healthcare staff.
Earning a BSN degree can open doors to more advanced roles and opportunities in the nursing field as an RN. Our BSN program is designed to provide the comprehensive education and clinical experience to help advance your career.
Arizona College of Nursing (AZCN) – Tucson is not a 100% online nursing program in Arizona. However, most of our campuses offer some online nursing courses. The AZCN curriculum includes a mixture of in-person, online, and blended classes. At the majority of our campuses, many non-clinical courses are offered asynchronously and delivered fully online, while nursing courses with a clinical component are held in person.
Our general education courses also incorporate a blended learning experience, including night and virtual classes, providing flexibility for our students. Contact our admissions team to learn more about our online nursing course formats at AZCN Tucson and how you can earn a BSN degree in just three years.
After completing your BSN degree and fulfilling Arizona’s licensing requirements, many nursing career paths may become available to you in the Tucson area.
The following roles represent potential career directions for those who have completed BSN education, passed the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtained proper state licensure. These roles span hospitals, community settings, specialized units, and leadership positions.
Hospital-Based Roles in Arizona
Registered Nurse (RN) – The foundation of nursing practice, working in various healthcare settings.
Emergency Room Nurse – Providing urgent care in fast-paced emergency department settings.
ICU Nurse / Critical Care Nurse – Caring for patients with life-threatening conditions requiring intensive monitoring.
Labor and Delivery Nurse – Supporting mothers and newborns through the childbirth process.
OR Nurse / Perioperative Nurse – Assisting in surgical procedures and providing pre/post-operative care.
Specialized Care Roles in Arizona
Pediatric Nurse – Focusing on the healthcare needs of children and adolescents.
Hospice Nurse/Palliative Care Nurse – Providing compassionate end-of-life and comfort care.
Home Health Nurse – Delivering care to patients in their homes, often following hospital discharge.
Forensic Nurse – Working at the intersection of healthcare and the legal system.
Nurse Manager & Administration Roles in Arizona
Charge Nurse – Overseeing nursing operations for a unit during a specific shift.
Nurse Manager – Supervising nursing staff and handling administrative responsibilities. Learn more about becoming a Nurse Manager.
Utilization Review Nurse – Evaluating the necessity and efficiency of healthcare services.
Community & Public Health Roles in Arizona
Public Health Nurse – Addressing community health needs through education and preventative care.
School Nurse – Providing healthcare services in educational settings.
Occupational Health Nurse – Focusing on workplace health and safety.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), registered nurses held about 3.3 million jobs in 2023, with the largest percentage (58%) working in hospitals. Other significant employment settings include ambulatory healthcare services (19%), government agencies (6%), nursing and residential care facilities (5%), and educational services (3%). Data last updated April 18, 2025. Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm#tab-3
Important Note: A BSN degree itself does not qualify individuals to work as registered nurses. Additional steps including passing the NCLEX-RN examination and obtaining state licensure are required before pursuing these career opportunities.
The NCLEX-RN is for registered nurse licensure after you complete a BSN or ADN nursing program, while the NCLEX-PN is for practical/vocational nurse licensure after completing an LPN or LVN program. Both exams are developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and are required for nursing licensure in the United States. For RNs in Arizona, licensure allows for greater autonomy, higher-level clinical responsibilities, and more opportunities for career advancement compared to LPN licensure. Licensed practical nurses typically work under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians.
The NCLEX exam is the licensing examination that you must pass to become a registered nurse and practice legally. Passing this exam demonstrates that you’ve met the minimum competency standards required for entry-level nursing practice. The NCLEX exam is a standardized test used across all states to ensure consistent nursing practice standards. Successfully completing it allows you to apply for your nursing license and begin your professional nursing career in Arizona.
Arizona College of Nursing – Tucson
(520) 549-3041 info@arizonacollege.edu
5285 E. Williams Circle Suite 1000 Tucson, AZ 85711
Accreditations
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program at Arizona College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.aacnnursing.org).
All Arizona College campuses are institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency.
*Arizona NCLEX Pass Rate Data: https://www.azbn.gov/nursing-programs/arizona-nclex-pass-rates
National NCLEX Pass Rates: https://www.ncsbn.org/exams/exam-statistics-and-publications/nclex-pass-rates.page