Columbus Nursing School
3-Year BSN Program: Become a Nurse Faster With No Prerequisite Coursework
Classes begin January 5th
Why Our Nursing School in Columbus, Ohio Is Right for You
- No waitlist to start at our Columbus nursing campus
- Up to $5,000 scholarships available at our Columbus campus
- Earn your BSN in three 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
The Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) program at Arizona College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (https://www.aacnnursing.org). Official accreditation notification to CCNE for Chesapeake is submitted prior to first Semester 5 class start. 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.
Your Dream of Earning a Nursing Degree Can Start Now
Our nursing classes in Columbus, OH are designed with one goal: to prepare you for a future 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.
Graduate in Less Time With Eligible Transfer Credits
Gain 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 Ohio
Looking for convenient scheduling for a nursing school in Columbus? Our accredited three-year BSN program offers multiple start dates and evening gen ed night classes, plus online nursing 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. Take the next step toward your nursing goals and discover how our nursing classes work with your busy schedule.
A Welcome Community for Providing Care
When you join our Columbus nursing school, you become part of a supportive community in the nursing profession. Our student body includes aspiring healthcare professionals from throughout central Ohio, including Dayton, Springfield, Newark, Dublin, Lancaster and surrounding areas.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by dedicated faculty, mentors, and peers who understand the distinct challenges and rewards of pursuing a nursing degree in Ohio’s dynamic healthcare landscape.
Learn Hands-On Skills
Our nursing classes in Ohio emphasize practical learning so you’re prepared for clinical environments and start your nursing career on the right foot.
From day one, students in our Columbus nursing school develop confidence through hands-on training in realistic clinical environments and labs. You’ll develop the skills to assess patients, think critically, and deliver effective patient care in fast-paced settings.
Support Resources and Clear Admission Process
Among nursing schools in Columbus, we keep the application process clear and focused on nursing students. We’ll guide you from your initial questions to your final steps so you can stay focused on your goals as a future nursing student.
You’ll have access to personalized nursing school support and resources to help you succeed through graduation. We can even help with NCLEX – RN exam prep and scholarships!
Nursing Salary Potential in Ohio
Registered Nurses in Columbus, Ohio earn a median annual wage of $82,520 per year. While new nursing program graduates typically start below the median, earnings often grow steadily with experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries for RNs in Columbus range from $73,180 to $104,170 annually. A nursing degree can help you build a solid foundation for long-term career growth.
Updated July 2025. Source: O*NET Online
Nursing Practice in Clinical Rotations
Throughout your BSN classes in Ohio, you’ll gain experience in clinical rotations. Like other RN nursing programs, you’ll collaborate with healthcare professionals that may include nurse managers, registered nurses, and clinical nurse specialists.
These experiences enhance your clinical skills and knowledge. Clinical rotations may provide insights into how nurse managers and RNs work together in real medical environments.
Nursing School Curriculum
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
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. Transfer students can progress through our BSN program 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 Ohio
In the final year of nursing classes, students spend most of their time in clinical rotations, training in real-world healthcare environments. 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 Ohio to provide students with opportunities for clinical experience and nursing research by working with nurse leaders.
Visit Our 3-year BSN Program Curriculum Page For More Details.
Complete NCLEX-RN Exam Prep
Our nursing school in Columbus, Ohio 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.
Finally, a nursing school near me in Columbus!
We strive to be one of the best nursing schools in Ohio, helping students achieve their nursing career dreams. Our nursing degree school proudly serves the entire Greater Columbus metropolitan area, including Dayton, Springfield, Newark, Dublin, and Lancaster. Our college campus is conveniently located about 13 miles from downtown Columbus.
Additional hours available upon request.
Our Nursing School in Columbus
At Arizona College of Nursing, we know nursing students. You dream of becoming a nurse, 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 four semesters of general education classes, they are held in the evenings and each course is completed in just eight 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 campus in Columbus is located in the Crosswoods area right off the I-270. We are less than 10 miles away from the Ohio Health Dublin Methodist hospital, less than 14 miles from Downtown Columbus, and 40 minutes from Newark.
Stop by our nursing school to learn more about our three-year BSN degree program. Visit our Columbus Campus Life page and FAQ page for more information on our nursing school and student life in the Columbus area.
Conditional approval by the Ohio State Board of Nursing
Learn How Our Nursing School Leadership Bring Practice to the Classroom
Our faculty and leadership have real-world nursing experience and want to help equip you for a successful career. 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 Nursing School Leadership
Amber Kool
Assistant Vice President of Assessment and Development
I pursued a career in nursing education because I believe in the power of nursing to change lives, not just for patients, but for the nurses themselves. Throughout my career, I’ve seen nurses step into leadership roles, improve patient outcomes, and shape healthcare policy. Teaching future nurses is my way of giving back to the profession and ensuring that the next generation is well-prepared, supported, and inspired.
At Arizona College of Nursing, we believe that anyone with the passion to become a nurse should have the opportunity to do so. Our year-round BSN program means students can earn their degree sooner than traditional programs. We produce graduates to be leaders in nursing education, who will improve healthcare and make a lasting impact.
Success in nursing school requires more than just dedication, it takes a strong support system. At Arizona College of Nursing, we provide a range of resources to help students thrive academically and professionally. With the right support in place, our students are empowered to focus on what matters most—becoming confident, capable nurses ready to make a difference in healthcare. By investing in students today, we’re shaping the profession for tomorrow.
Nursing School Scholarship Opportunities in Columbus
As you consider nursing schools in Ohio, 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 Wisconsin nursing scholarships and to determine your eligibility
- Futures Scholarship
- Advancement Scholarship
- Working Parent Scholarship
- Achievement Scholarship
- Opportunity Scholarship
FAQ: Getting a Nursing Degree in Ohio
Browse below to learn about nursing concepts or click on the following link to view the most frequently asked questions at our Columbus nursing program. To find a nursing school near you, visit our Campus Locations page.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Arizona College of Nursing – Columbus is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (https://www.aacnnursing.org). Official accreditation notification to CCNE for Columbus is submitted prior to first Semester 5 class start. All Arizona College of Nursing campuses are also institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Recognizing the differences between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is essential to planning your nursing career path. LPN/LVN programs prepare you to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (sometimes called Licensed Vocational Nurse in certain states). A BSN program prepares you to become a registered nurse (RN).
An LPN generally takes about one to two years to finish. It is designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles to perform basic nursing care under the guidance of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians.
A BSN typically takes three to four years to complete and is structured to prepare you for a career as a registered nurse. This provides a comprehensive nursing education that allows you to work in a variety of nursing jobs in Ohio. While pursuing a BSN takes a little more time, it puts you on a path to more career growth opportunities as an RN.
Click here to read our blog post comparing an LPN Program with a BSN Program.
There isn’t a limit to how many times you can retake the NCLEX-RN in Ohio, but all applicable exam fees are required each time. You must wait 45 days from the date of exam administration to retake the Ohio NCLEX-RN. After that, you can schedule another exam attempt; however, before this, the candidate must first obtain a new Authorization to Test (ATT) from the Ohio Board of Nursing. Once the ATT is provided, the candidate may begin the process of rescheduling the NCLEX-RN.
Source: https://nursingexams.org/nclex/taking-the-nclex-in-ohio/
Registered nurses in the Columbus area of Ohio have a median nursing salary of $82,520 per year.
As you enter the workforce, it’s important to know that you will not likely start at the median rate but will likely increase your earnings with experience. To view our Columbus nursing market outlook click here.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that RNs in Ohio range from a low rate of $66,060 per year, to the highest-paid Registered Nurses earning as much as $103,650 per year for their nursing salary.
Updated 07/2025. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-1141.00?zip=43235
Arizona College of Nursing – Columbus 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 [https://www.arizonacollege.edu/admissions/]. 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 nursing school in Columbus is designed to provide the comprehensive education and clinical experience to help advance your career.
Arizona College of Nursing (AZCN) – Columbus is not a 100% online nursing program in Ohio. However, most of our campuses offer some registered nursing classes online. 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 classes for nursing and virtual classes, providing student flexibility. Contact our admissions team to learn more about our online nursing course formats at AZCN Columbus and how you can earn your degree in just three years.
After completing your BSN degree and fulfilling Ohio’s licensing requirements, many nursing career paths may become available to you in the Columbus 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, diverse communities, specialized units, and leadership positions.
Hospital-Based Roles in Ohio
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 Ohio
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 Ohio
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 Ohio
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.
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.
*Nevada NCLEX Pass Rate Data: https://nevadanursingboard.org/education/
*Florida NCLEX Pass Rate Data: https://floridasnursing.gov/education-and-training-programs/
*Texas NCLEX Pass Rata Data: https://www.bon.texas.gov/
*California NCLEX Pass Rata Data: https://www.rn.ca.gov/education/passrates.shtml
*Michigan NCLEX Pass Rata Data: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bpl/health/hp-lic-health-prof/nursing/lic-info/nursing-education-programs
*Utah NCLEX Pass Rate Data: https://dopl.utah.gov/nursing/
*Arizona NCLEX Pass Rate Data: https://www.azbn.gov/nursing-programs/arizona-nclex-pass-rates
*Virginia NCLEX Pass Rate Data: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing/EducationPrograms/TestingPassRates/
National NCLEX Pass Rate Data: https://www.ncsbn.org/exams/exam-statistics-and-publications/nclex-pass-rates.page