Online LPN to BSN Programs in Arizona: Review & Compare

Ready to advance your nursing career? LPN to BSN programsprovide a direct path to expanded opportunities. Built for working professionals, these transitional programs honor your LPN experience while preparing you for registered nursing excellence. Explore top schools—with insights on costs, curriculum, and more—and discover answers to some of the top questions regarding LPN to BSN programs.

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When you’re searching for the best LPN to BSN program, you’ll need to consider multiple factors. In particular, timelines, locations, costs, features, and courses vary based on the college and program you choose. At the end of the day, you want a program that’s reasonably priced, that fits your schedule and locale, and that you can be confident will prepare you for RN licensure.

In Arizona, LPN to BSN programs are designed for licensed practical nurses looking to advance their careers and become registered nurses (RNs). While some coursework can be completed online, these programs typically require in-person clinical rotations to meet state licensure requirements. Students should ensure their chosen program is accredited and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Additionally, Arizona residents must consider factors like program flexibility, NCLEX-RN pass rates, and clinical site locations. Learn more about three top programs below, and see if one has the features you’re looking for.

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Northern Arizona University

NAU’s Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) allows students to simultaneously earn their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees. Accredited by the Commission in Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program includes a hands-on summer component where students connect with faculty and peers before official program start. Students complete AAS coursework at a community college while taking NAU BSN courses online/hybrid. The program’s 90/30 structure means students can earn 90 credits at lower community college rates and just 30 through NAU, offering significant cost savings.


Duration:
Four years

Mode: Hybrid

Cost:$11,688/year

Admissions Requirements:

  • Nursing program admission at community college
  • NAU nursing prerequisite requirements
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA in certain courses
  • CEP information session at community college

Core Curriculum:

  • Health assessments
  • Palliative care
  • Gerontology
  • Nursing profession
  • Family nursing roles
  • Informatics and health policy
  • Public health nursing roles
  • Leadership
  • Research and evidence-based practices
  • Practicum

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers the AAS-BSN Nursing CEP allows students to take seven core BSN courses while completing AAS coursework at MaricopaNursing. After completing the AAS and passing NCLEX, students complete three final courses for their BSN. The 123-credit program takes 2 to 3 years in a hybrid format, with impressive NCLEX pass rates of 94.75% (2023). Students learn advanced clinical reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving while gaining hands-on experience.

Duration: Two to three years

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $33,465 (online)

Admissions Requirements:

  • MaricopaNursing pool acceptance
  • MaricopaNursing and GCU prerequisite requirements
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 in all MaricopaNursing and GCU courses
  • Online or NCEP information session attendance

Core Curriculum:

  • Professional dynamics
  • Health assessment
  • Statistics
  • Family centered health
  • Community and public health
  • Research
  • Management
  • Healthcare trends and issues
  • Ethics
  • Capstone and practicum

Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an Online RN to BSN program with concurrent enrollment. Students can earn both an ADN and BSN simultaneously, combining in-person RN coursework at a community college with online BSN courses through ASU. The 120-credit program consists of nine classes lasting 8 to 15 weeks each, covering research, nursing theory, public/global health, and management. Graduates develop strong clinical reasoning, problem-solving, and communication skills, preparing them for diverse healthcare settings amid ongoing industry changes. The program emphasizes practical experience and adaptability to healthcare reforms and technological advances.

Duration: One to two years

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $6,104/year resident, $12,173 non-resident

Admissions Requirements:

  • Enrollment in ADN program at a regionally accredited community college
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA

Core Curriculum:

  • Research and evidence
  • Nursing theory
  • Health promotion across the life span
  • Community and public health
  • Nursing management
  • Writing for health care
  • Public and global health
  • Capstone

Student Support: FAQs About Online LPN to BSN Programs

As you consider advancing your nursing career through an LPN to BSN program in Arizona, you likely have important questions about the educational journey ahead. The following frequently asked questions cover essential topics about skill development, program costs, online learning, accreditation, and program duration to help you make an informed decision about your nursing education.

What additional nursing skills and knowledge will I gain in an LPN to BSN program in Arizona?

Enrolling in an online LPN to BSN program in Arizona will expand your nursing knowledge and skill set, preparing you for higher-level responsibilities as a registered nurse (RN). Early coursework focuses on biological and behavioral sciences, helping you develop a deeper understanding of human health, disease processes, and patient care. In addition to refining your clinical abilities, you’ll gain expertise in interpersonal communication, leadership, and basic care administration, ensuring you can effectively coordinate patient care and work within diverse healthcare teams.

Programs like Grand Canyon University’s AAS to BSN program emphasize creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice, which are essential for making informed patient care decisions. You’ll also build skills in patient advocacy, community health, and ethical decision-making, equipping you to work in various healthcare settings.

How much do LPN to BSN programs in Arizona cost?

Investing in an LPN to BSN program in Arizona offers several cost-effective pathways, with concurrent enrollment programs providing particularly attractive options. While traditional university programs can exceed $40,000 total, innovative partnerships between community colleges and universities have created more affordable alternatives. For example, ASU offers a budget-friendly concurrent program at $6,104 annually.

Fortunately, many financial aid options are available to help offset costs. Students may qualify for federal and state grants, loans, and work-study programs by completing the FAFSA. Additionally, Arizona nursing students can apply for scholarships from organizations like the Arizona Nurses Association and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Some employers and healthcare facilities also offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees advancing their nursing education.

Will earning my LPN to BSN degree online impact my ability to get licensed?

Earning your LPN to BSN degree online will not impact your ability to get licensed as long as you attend a reputable, accredited program. Accredited online programs follow the same curriculum as traditional in-person programs, ensuring you meet the educational and clinical requirements for RN licensure in Arizona. The key difference is that online programs allow you to complete coursework remotely while fulfilling in-person clinical rotations at approved healthcare facilities.

To become a licensed RN in Arizona, graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet the Arizona State Board of Nursing requirements. As long as your program is properly accredited—such as by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)—your online degree will hold the same weight as one earned in a classroom setting.

What should I look for in an LPN to BSN program in Arizona?

When choosing an LPN to BSN program in Arizona, several key factors can help ensure you select a program that meets your needs and sets you up for success.

Cost is an important consideration, as tuition varies widely between private universities, state schools, and online programs. Be sure to compare the cost per credit hour and explore financial aid options like scholarships and tuition reimbursement programs. Accreditation is also crucial. Without program and school accreditation, your credits may not transfer, and you could face obstacles when applying for the NCLEX-RN exam.

NCLEX pass rates are another critical factor. Schools with high pass rates demonstrate strong faculty, effective coursework, and thorough preparation for licensure. Researching these factors will help you choose a high-quality, accredited LPN to BSN program that fits your budget and career goals while ensuring a smooth path to RN licensure in Arizona.

How long does it take to complete an online LPN to BSN program in Arizona?

The length of an online LPN to BSN program in Arizona varies based on the school, program structure, and whether you enroll full-time or part-time. While traditional BSN programs take about four years, online LPN to BSN programs offer a faster pathway, typically ranging from one to three years.

However, some accelerated options allow students to earn their degree in as little as one to two years. Factors like course availability, clinical rotation scheduling, and transfer credits can affect completion time.

Salary & Career Details for LPN vs. BSN in Arizona

Those who choose to enhance their careers by becoming registered nurses can enjoy a higher rate of job growth than they did when working as LPNs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, LPNs experience modest 3% national job growth while RNs enjoy double that rate at 6%.

BSN-prepared nurses also qualify for a wider range of positions, including specialized fields, leadership roles, and advanced practice pathways, while LPNs often work in more limited clinical settings with fewer advancement opportunities. With that, RNs can usually benefit from higher-earning careers.

LPNs often transition to work as RNs to enjoy a higher salary. In Arizona, LPNs earn a median annual wage of $66,720, while RNs earn a significantly higher median wage of $91,430. The difference in the 90th percentile is even greater, with top-earning LPNs making $77,190, while RNs can earn $109,750 or more each year.

Those who choose to enhance their careers by becoming registered nurses can enjoy a higher rate of job growth than they did when working as LPNs. The national job growth for LPNs in the United States is 5.3%, but the job growth for registered nurses is 5.6%. The job growth in Arizona from 2022 to 2032 is much higher, with LPNs growing at 25.5% and registered nurses growing at 21.9%. This means a plethora of job openings for both LPNs and RNs, but RNs have the edge with a higher number of job openings at 4,820 per year.

LPNs often transition to work as RNs to enjoy a higher salary. In Arizona, LPNs earn a median annual wage of $65,500, while RNs earn a significantly higher median wage of $88,310. The difference in the 90th percentile is even greater, with top-earning LPNs making $77,190, while RNs can earn $109,750 or more each year. Read through the charts below for more information on transitioning to work as an RN in Arizona.

Occupation Area 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Arizona $54,060 $65,500 $77,190
Registered Nurses Arizona $70,060 $88,310 $109,750

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.


Occupation Area Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth % Avg. Ann. Openings
Registered Nurses United States 3,172,500 3,349,900 177,400 5.60% 193,100
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses United States 655,000 689,900 34,900 5.30% 54,400
Registered Nurses Arizona 59,110 72,050 12,940 21.90% 4,820
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Arizona 6,540 8,210 1,670 25.50% 730

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

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