LPN to BSN Programs in Arizona: Online & On-Campus
Ready to advance your practical nursing career? See how you can your bachelor’s degree and prepare for RN licensure at the same time with LPN to BSN programs in Arizona.
If you’re a licensed practical nurse in Arizona looking to move up the nursing career and earnings ladder, going from LPN to BSN nurse is a smart choice. While Arizona doesn’t have specific LPN to BSN bridge programs like other states do, there are still several sensible pathways to get there.
The first path to a bachelor’s in nursing for practical nurses is to enroll in an LPN to RN nursing program and then a separate RN to BSN program afterwards. The second path is to earn your ADN and BSN at the same time through one of the state’s many concurrent enrollment nursing programs where community colleges and universities partner together. In these programs, students take in-person nursing classes and training at a community college while taking upper-level coursework primarily online from a university. As an LPN, you may be able to shorten their degree path by transferring some of your previously earned credits.
Whichever path you choose, you’ll be on your way to earning your bachelor’s, getting your RN license, and qualifying for better career and pay opportunities. Ready to learn more? Take a closer look at some of the top LPN to BSN programs in Arizona below and get other key information you need to get started on your school search.
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Best LPN to BSN Programs in Arizona
When you’re searching for the best LPN to BSN program, there are plenty of factors to consider. In particular, timelines, locations, costs, features, and courses vary based on the college and program you choose. At the end of the day, however, chances are you want a program that’s reasonably priced and that you can be confident will prepare you for RN licensure. Therefore, we’ve spotlighted three of the best LPN to BSN programs in Arizona that meet these criteria. Learn more about each program below, and see if one has the features you’re looking for.
Northern Arizona University’s Concurrent Nursing Enrollment Program
The NAU CEP Program is a concurrent program that enables students to complete their community college nursing coursework and NAU courses at the same time. The program offers a hands-on summer program that enables students to get ahead in the program with the help of their experienced faculty members. Students who attend this program get the advantage of meeting their instructors and classmates early and making connections before the program officially kicks off.
NAU’s CEP offers a valuable 90/30 benefit to its students. You can earn 90 credits through the community college, and only 30 credits must be completed through NAU. You’ll receive the same quality of education and credentials for a fraction of the cost, because community college credits cost less than university credits. Students complete the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in nursing program at Arizona Community College while also working towards their bachelor’s in nursing through a hybrid program of required NAU BSN courses.
Grand Canyon University’s Concurrent Nursing Enrollment Program
Grand Canyon University offers the AAS-BSN CEP which enables students to take seven core nursing courses from the BSN program at GCU while completing AAS courses at Maricopa Nursing. After completing the AAS courses and passing the NCLEX, students then take their final three courses to earn a BSN.
Grand Canyon University’s concurrent nursing program enables students to learn core competencies while also gaining the hands-on experience required to work in the field. Students learn skills such as advanced clinical reasoning, critical thinking, creative problem-solving skills, and more. This is an excellent way to save both time and money while earning your nursing degrees and credentials.
Grand Canyon University’s BSN degree program requires a total of 123 credit hours to complete. Additionally, Grand Canyon University has impressive NCLEX exam scores – Its overall NCLEX first-time pass rate for 2020 was 96.17%, which was much higher than the national first-time pass rate of 86.58%.
Arizona State University’s Concurrent Nursing Enrollment Program
Arizona State University offers a concurrent nursing enrollment program that enables students to save time and money while earning an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree in nursing simultaneously. While completing the coursework required to become a registered nurse at a community college, students complete the coursework they need to earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) at Arizona State University 100% online.
This specialized program provides students with a mixture of the vital coursework and hands-on experience needed to secure gainful employment in the nursing field. Students learn about research, nursing theory, public and global health, management, and much more. Additionally, the course curriculum covers various practical activities and useful assignments. Upon completion, graduates possess skills such as interpersonal skills, clinical reasoning, problem solving, and communication. Students will be poised to excel in an array of healthcare settings despite sweeping healthcare reforms, advances in technology, and ongoing changes in evidence-based practice.
FAQs About LPN to BSN Programs in Arizona
What additional nursing skills and knowledge will I gain in an LPN to BSN program in Arizona?
When enrolled in an LPN to BSN program, you can expect to gain various skills to make you a more effective nurse. For instance, most of your early coursework will focus on the theoretical understanding of the biological and behavioral sciences, as these are common themes when taking on higher-level nursing jobs.
For example, Chamberlain University offers a BSN program that teaches skills such as how to:
- Think critically
- Remain organized in chaotic environments
- Research and conduct initial patient assessments
- Develop rapport with patients to provide them with optimal care
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science pre-licensure program teaches skills such as:
- Interpersonal communication
- Leadership
- Basic care administration
- Creative problem solving
How long does it take to complete an LPN to BSN program in Arizona?
The amount of time it takes to complete an LPN to BSN program varies. Most bachelor’s degree programs take around four years to complete, while LPN to BSN programs are specialized and allow students to obtain their degrees in a shorter time span of anywhere from one to three years. The average time for an LPN to BSN program in Arizona is three years, butthe University of Arizona’s states program can be completed in as little as two years.
How much do LPN to BSN programs in Arizona cost?
The overall cost of any LPN to BSN program varies based on the type of college and program. For instance, remote programs tend to cost less than traditional programs, and accelerated programs may be less expensive than traditional programs. Private colleges and universities tend to cost more, while state universities and community colleges usually offer programs that are more affordable.
What are the admission requirements for LPN to BSN programs in Arizona?
Each school has its own requirements, but here is a list of some of the most common requirements for an LPN to BSN program:
- Proof of Completion: Applicants must provide proof of a completed practical nurse program from an accredited institution in the U.S. This can be done by submitting an official practical nursing school transcript.
- Licensing: Applicants must possess an active or inactive unrestricted LPN license from the U.S. or a jurisdiction associated with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) free of active discipline measures.
- Work Experience: Most schools will also require students to have worked a minimum of 2,080 hours within the last two years as an LPN. Employer verification is required.
- Letters of Reference: Students may be required to submit professional letters of reference to attest to their nursing skills.
- Entrance Exam: You may need to complete a nursing entrance exam.
What should I look for in an LPN to BSN program in Arizona?
If you are wondering what to look for in an LPN to BSN program in Arizona, consider the following:
- Cost: Although the cost may not be a factor, if it is, you need to check the cost per credit hour of your chosen college.
- Approval: You should also take the time to make sure the program is approved by the Arizona Board of Nursing. If not, your credits will not transfer to other colleges, and you may be unable to take the NCLEX exam.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: Check the NCLEX pass rates for any schools you’re interested in attending.t This is a good indicator of how effective the coursework and faculty are.
Can I get financial aid to help pay for my LPN to BSN program in Arizona?
If you need financial assistance to earn your BSN in Arizona, you have several options. For instance, you can apply for federal aid by filling out the Free Application for Student Aid ( FAFSA). You can also apply for loans and grants through programs such as Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need (GAANN), Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP), and Advanced Education Nursing Traineeships (AENT). You may qualify for U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HRSA/HHS) awards and loan forgiveness programs. Another way to earn money for college is by applying for the work studies program. You may also qualify for Federal Direct Loans or Parent PLUS Loans. There are also various grants and scholarships you may be eligible for. Check out our financial aid guide for more information.
Inside Look at Online LPN to BSN Programs in Arizona
When you’re enrolled in an online LPN to BSN program in Arizona, your courses will occur online. Hybrid programs allow you to do most of your coursework off campus but may require you to attend class on campus occasionally. Traditional programs require students to complete most of their coursework on campus. All three of these programs will require hands-on clinical training at a healthcare facility in your area.
Concurrent nursing programs may incorporate online and hybrid elements and are ideal for students wishing to upgrade their education from an LPN to a BSN. Students of concurrent programs take in-person courses and receive training at community colleges to earn their associate in nursing while also working towards their bachelor’s in nursing at the university level at the same time.
Courses that students can complete online includes classes such as:
- The fundamentals of nursing
- Nursing health assessment
- Human growth and development
- Theory of clinical practice
While you may be able to complete most of your coursework online in a concurrent program, some courses must be taken in person. This is where the clinical aspect comes into play. Students are required to work in various healthcare settings to practice what they’ve been learning. They may also complete classes that include an in-person laboratory component as well. Our online LPN to BSN programs page offers more information on what to expect in an LPN to BSN program.
Common Questions About Online LPN to BSN Programs in Arizona
Are hybrid and online LPN programs more affordable than campus programs in Arizona?
Online courses may be the least expensive option because you can do most of your learning at home. This means you won’t have expenses for some items such as a technology fee, student health center fee, student recreation fee, food, parking, etc. Hybrid programs may cost a bit more than 100% online ones because you may have to pay some of these fees. Traditional programs cost the most because you have more fees to pay plus the added expenses of transportation and more.
Can I finish my LPN to BSN program in Arizona faster by taking coursework online?
If you are taking your program 100% online, you may be able to complete your LPN to BSN program faster than hybrid or traditional programs. Online courses are self-paced, meaning you can go as quickly or slowly as you wish when completing coursework.
Will earning my LPN to BSN degree online impact my ability to get licensed?
If you are attending a reputable, accredited college, earning your degree online will not impact your ability to get licensed. The only difference between an accredited online program and a traditional one is that the conventional program requires you to attend the classes in person. You are still completing the same curriculum either way.
Will employers care if I took some of my LPN to BSN classes online?
Most employers will only care that you took your LPN to BSN program at an accredited institution. Your degree will not explicitly state that you took your classes remotely. With good grades, a quality experience, and strong recommendations, most nursing school graduates will have no issue finding gainful employment after graduating from an online program.
How to Go From an LPN to a BSN Nurse in Arizona
Going from being an LPN to BSN in Arizona requires that you take the following steps:
- Possess an existing or previous practical nursing license from somewhere in the United States.
- Complete at least one of the following:
- Practice at least 960 hours as a nurse in the past five years
- Obtain a nursing degree or graduate from a nursing program within the past five years.
- Complete at least one Arizona board-approved refresher course within the past five years.
- Obtain an advanced nursing degree in the past five years
- Graduate from a board-approved BSN program. To complete the BSN program, you must have passed both the SBTPE (State Board Test Pool Exam) and LPN exams.
- Take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
LPN to BSN Salary and Employment Trends 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. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | Arizona | $70,060 | $88,310 | $109,750 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Arizona | $54,060 | $65,500 | $77,190 |
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.
