The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing provides graduates many options in a rewarding profession. It is an excellent starting point if you have a genuine desire to help others. Unlike the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, it provides a fast-track to the licensure exam. Most programs can be completed in two years or just eighteen months for accelerated programs. The ADN program offered as part of the consortium of Maricopa Community College Nursing Programs in Arizona includes a concurrent enrollment option for students who want to complete the AAS and the BSN at the same time. Nursing programs take a generalist approach to training but graduates will have a solid foundation to continue their studies including specialized training offered through the Masters of Science and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees.
Mesa Community College
Mesa Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing that is a part of MaricopaNursing, a consortium of Maricopa Community College Nursing Programs. The training combines classroom learning with experiential learning in the lab and clinical sites. The training incorporates best practices in nursing education, teaching methodologies, and use of learning spaces. Students participate in theory and lab practice two days per week and one or two additional days for lab, simulation or clinical practice. Program graduates will receive the AAS Nursing and be eligible to take the NCLEX for licensure as a Registered Nurse. There are two scheduled program options for the program. The morning class meets from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm. The afternoon class meets from 12:00 noon to 7:00 pm. A Concurrent Enrollment Program is available for eligible students who desire to complete the AAS in Nursing and a BSN in Nursing at the same time.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Follow the enrollment steps to gain admission to Maricopa Community College. It includes creating a MEID account, submitting a completed application, and providing proof of identification and residency
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Attend a mandatory orientation session
- Must have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must attest to to meeting this requirement by signing the statement of high school graduation
- Submit all official college/university transcripts to the Admissions Office for evaluation of prerequisite and corequisite courses
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Must provide evidence of passing HESI A2 scores for English Composition and Math (taken at the same time). A score of 80% or higher in English Language and 75% or higher in math are required for admission to the nursing program
- Complete a criminal background check and urine drug screen. Enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Register in the clinical placement database to upload health and safety documents
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition for the program is $6,290 for Maricopa County Residents (74 x $85). Other costs include fees, textbook, electronic resources, fingerprint clearance card, background check, drug screen, clinical placement registration, uniform, clinical supplies, immunizations, health requirements, and health document tracking.
Website: https://www.mesacc.edu/
Address: 1833 W. Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202
Phone: 480-461-7106
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.66%
Scottsdale Community College
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing Program at Scottsdale Community College includes classroom theory and clinical experiences to prepare students for a career in nursing. The program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The coursework includes general education and core nursing courses to prepare students to become a generalist capable of delivering health care to individuals, families, and communities. Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure as a Registered Nurse. Licensure is at the sole determination of the State Board of Nurse who will determine the candidate’s eligibility.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Follow the enrollment steps to gain admission to Maricopa Community College. It includes creating a MEID account, submitting a completed application, and providing proof of identification and residency
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Attend a mandatory orientation session
- Must have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must attest to to meeting this requirement by signing the statement of high school graduation
- Submit all official college/university transcripts to the Admissions Office for evaluation of prerequisite and corequisite courses
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Must provide evidence of passing HESI A2 scores for English Composition and Math (taken at the same time). A score of 80% or higher in English Language and 75% or higher in math are required for admission to the nursing program
- Complete a criminal background check and urine drug screen. Enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Register in the clinical placement database to upload health and safety documents
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition for the program is $6,290 for Maricopa County Residents (74 x $85). Other costs include fees, textbook, electronic resources, fingerprint clearance card, background check, drug screen, clinical placement registration, uniform, clinical supplies, immunizations, health requirements, and health document tracking.
Website: https://www.scottsdalecc.edu/degrees-certificates/health-sciences/nursing-3812-aas
Address: 9000 East Chaparral Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85256-2626
Phone: (480) 423-6000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 67.18%
Phoenix College
Phoenix College’s Nursing program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Theory and practical training prepare students with the fundamental skills needed to succeed as registered nurse in acute, long-term, and community-based healthcare facilities. Graduates will be eligible to apply for a nursing license. The college offers bridge programs for paramedics and veterans to pursue a career in nursing.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Follow the enrollment steps to gain admission to Maricopa Community College. It includes creating a MEID account, submitting a completed application, and providing proof of identification and residency
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Attend a mandatory orientation session
- Must have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must attest to to meeting this requirement by signing the statement of high school graduation
- Submit all official college/university transcripts to the Admissions Office for evaluation of prerequisite and corequisite courses
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Must provide evidence of passing HESI A2 scores for English Composition and Math (taken at the same time). A score of 80% or higher in English Language and 75% or higher in math are required for admission to the nursing program
- Complete a criminal background check and urine drug screen. Enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Register in the clinical placement database to upload health and safety documents
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition for the program is $6,290 for Maricopa County Residents (74 x $85). Other costs include fees, textbook, electronic resources, fingerprint clearance card, background check, drug screen, clinical placement registration, uniform, clinical supplies, immunizations, health requirements, and health document tracking.
Website: https://www.phoenixcollege.edu/degrees-certificates/nursing
Address: 1202 W Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Phone: 602-285-7777
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.14%
Paradise Valley Community College
The nursing program at Paradise Valley Community College is a part of MaricopaNursing, a consortium of Maricopa Community College Nursing Programs. The training is aligned with Nurse of the Future Competencies which includes patient-centered care, leadership, informatics, technologies, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, communication, collaboration, and professionalism. Students will gain the expertise needed to provide individualized care for diverse populations, demonstrate accountability in practice, communicate effectively with patients, families, and colleagues, integrate technology to provide safe quality care, and improve patient outcomes. Graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX to become a registered nurse.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Follow the enrollment steps to gain admission to Maricopa Community College. It includes creating a MEID account, submitting a completed application, and providing proof of identification and residency
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Attend a mandatory orientation session
- Must have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must attest to to meeting this requirement by signing the statement of high school graduation
- Submit all official college/university transcripts to the Admissions Office for evaluation of prerequisite and corequisite courses
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Must provide evidence of passing HESI A2 scores for English Composition and Math (taken at the same time). A score of 80% or higher in English Language and 75% or higher in math are required for admission to the nursing program
- Complete a criminal background check and urine drug screen. Enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Register in the clinical placement database to upload health and safety documents
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition for the program is $6,290 for Maricopa County Residents (74 x $85). Other costs include fees, textbook, electronic resources, fingerprint clearance card, background check, drug screen, clinical placement registration, uniform, clinical supplies, immunizations, health requirements, and health document tracking.
Website: https://www.paradisevalley.edu/academics/health-and-exercise-science/nursing/degrees-and-programs
Address: 18401 N. 32nd Street Phoenix, AZ 85032
Phone: 602-787-7000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.57%
Gateway Community College
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing offered by Gateway Community College covers the art and science of nursing. Graduates will be eligible to apply for licensure as an RN and assume employment in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home health care agencies, and community health agencies. The college offers several schedules to meet students’ needs. The accelerated program will include a semester in the summer and can be completed in just 16 months. Traditional day and evening schedules are also available and can be completed in 24 months. The evening schedule may require attendance on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays depending on the clinical availability.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Follow the enrollment steps to gain admission to Maricopa Community College. It includes creating a MEID account, submitting a completed application, and providing proof of identification and residency
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Attend a mandatory orientation session
- Must have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must attest to to meeting this requirement by signing the statement of high school graduation
- Submit all official college/university transcripts to the Admissions Office for evaluation of prerequisite and corequisite courses
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Must provide evidence of passing HESI A2 scores for English Composition and Math (taken at the same time). A score of 80% or higher in English Language and 75% or higher in math are required for admission to the nursing program
- Complete a criminal background check and urine drug screen. Enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Register in the clinical placement database to upload health and safety documents
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition for the program is $6,290 for Maricopa County Residents (74 x $85). Other costs include fees, textbook, electronic resources, fingerprint clearance card, background check, drug screen, clinical placement registration, uniform, clinical supplies, immunizations, health requirements, and health document tracking.
Website: https://www.gatewaycc.edu/registered-nursing
Address: 108 North 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone: (602) 286-8000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 74.08%
Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s nursing program is accredited by the ACEN and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Students will acquire fundamental skills need to succeed as a nurse in acute, long-term, and community-based healthcare settings. CGCC offers students smaller class sizes, concurrent enrollment to complete the AAS and BSN, and quality education at an affordable price. Graduates will be eligible to apply for a registered nursing license to work as a competent member of the healthcare team.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 62-75
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – College Math, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I, Anatomy and Physiology with Lab II Chemistry, First Year Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Critical Reading, Humanities Elective
Core Courses – Nursing Theory and Science I, Nursing Theory and Science II, Nursing Theory and Science III, Nursing Theory and Science IV
Admission criteria:
- Follow the enrollment steps to gain admission to Maricopa Community College. It includes creating a MEID account, submitting a completed application, and providing proof of identification and residency
- Meet with an Advisor or Admissions Officer to complete the application process for the nursing program
- Attend a mandatory orientation session
- Must have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must attest to to meeting this requirement by signing the statement of high school graduation
- Submit all official college/university transcripts to the Admissions Office for evaluation of prerequisite and corequisite courses
- Complete a Level One DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Must provide evidence of passing HESI A2 scores for English Composition and Math (taken at the same time). A score of 80% or higher in English Language and 75% or higher in math are required for admission to the nursing program
- Complete a criminal background check and urine drug screen. Enrollment is contingent upon receiving passing results
- Register in the clinical placement database to upload health and safety documents
- Meet the technology requirements
Program Cost:
Tuition for the program is $6,290 for Maricopa County Residents (74 x $85). Other costs include fees, textbook, electronic resources, fingerprint clearance card, background check, drug screen, clinical placement registration, uniform, clinical supplies, immunizations, health requirements, and health document tracking.
Website: https://www.cgc.edu/degrees-certificates/nursing
Address: 626 East Pecos Road, Chandler, Arizona 85225-2499
Phone: 480-732-7000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.38%
Carrington College
The nursing program at Carrington College culminates with an Associate of Science Degree. Students will acquire skills to take the state licensure exam to become a registered nurse. They will learn how to provide patient-centered nursing care, use the nursing process to obtain positive patient outcomes, meet the health care needs of diverse patient populations, communicate therapeutically with patients, families, and health care team members, and evaluate critical thinking skills in the delivery of care.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 72
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional
Course titles:
General education courses – English Writing and Composition, College Algebra, Introduction to Sociology, Introduction to Psychology, Chemistry for Health Care Professional, Interpersonal Communication, Human Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab, Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab, Microbiology with Lab
Core Courses – Fundamentals and Medical-Surgical Nursing I, Medical Surgical Nursing II, Pharmacology I, Pharmacology II, Community and Mental Health Nursing, Maternal Child Nursing, Medical Surgical Nursing III, Pediatric Nursing, Medical Surgical Nursing IV, NCLEX-RN Review, Manager of Care
Admission criteria:
- Pass the ATI TEAS Admission Assessment with a combined score of 53%
- Attend an Associate Degree in Nursing information session
- Submit to drug screening and background check that include fingerprinting
- Provide negative TB test results – must not be more than 12 months
- Provide proof of immunization – MMR, hepatitis B, varicella, Tdap, yearly influenza
Program Cost:
The program cost of $52,482 includes tuition, books, and supplies.
Website: https://carrington.edu/program/registered-nursing/
Address: 1001 W. Southern Ave., Suite 130, Mesa, AZ 85210
Phone: (480) 734-2378
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.12%