LPN to RN Online Programs in AZ: Learning About Top Schools
While working as an LPN can be fulfilling, transitioning to an RN role provides more career opportunities and higher earning potential. If you live in Arizona, many online LPN to RN bridge programs can help you make the leap quickly and affordably. This guide details some of the top programs in the state, showcases nurse scholarships and financial aid options, and examines how to choose the right program.
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Top Online LPN to RN Programs in Arizona: How They Work
If you’re a practical nurse in Arizona, you’re likely aware of the major nursing shortage throughout the state. Arizona has suffered — and continues to suffer — one of the biggest nursing shortages in the nation. This presents a tremendous opportunity for practical nurses in Arizona interested in advancing their careers by becoming registered nurses. And that opportunity is well within reach with the surprising number of community colleges and nursing schools in Arizona that offer LPN to RN bridge programs.
For added flexibility, many of these programs offer a hybrid format. Online and hybrid programs are often easier to balance with a full-time LPN role, making it less stressful to get your RN license. While the three programs below are hybrid, the in-person components are typically offered at flexible times.
Mohave Community College
Mohave Community College (MCC) is another Arizona school that offers an LPN to RN bridge option. LPNs admitted into the program earn credits for six nursing courses, which, along with completion of all prerequisite coursework, allows them to complete all other AAS degree requirements in two semesters. In addition to academic coursework and labs on campus, students complete substantial clinical placement hours at program-affiliated practice facilities. The AAS in Nursing program is available on MCC’s Bullhead City, Colorado City, Lake Havasu, and Kingman campuses. At least two nursing courses and a handful of non-nursing prerequisites are available in either fully online or hybrid formats.
Duration: Two semesters
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $91 per credit in-state | $331 per credit out-of-state
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN license
- Completed prerequisite courses
- 3.0 or higher GPA
Curriculum:
- Foundations of Nursing (7 credits)
- Fundamentals of Nursing (2 credits)
- Mental Health Nursing (3 credits)
- Medical Surgical Nursing 1 (6 credits)
- Medical Surgical Nursing 2 (6 credits)
- Medical Surgical Nursing 3 (5 credits)
- Pediatrics in Nursing (3 credits)
- Obstetrics in Nursing (3 credits)
- Nursing Capstone (2 credits)
- General education courses
Northland Pioneer College
Northland Pioneer College offers a flexible LPN to RN bridge program. Two program nursing courses are available in a hybrid format, and a few prerequisite courses are available in either fully online or hybrid formats. In-person components occur at flexible times, and the school is committed to working with full-time LPNs to help balance their coursework and nursing shifts. Another hallmark feature of Northland’s program is its small class sizes, meaning students can ask professors more questions and get hands-on guidance for coursework and their professional development. The school also boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate for their 2024 graduating class.
Duration: Two years
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $73 per credit in-district | $91 per credit in-state | $410 per credit out-of-state
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN license
- Completed prerequisite courses
Curriculum:
- LPN to RN Transition (3 credits)
- Pharmacology (4 credits)
- Nursing 3 (8 credits)
- Nursing 4 (8 credits)
- NCLEX Review (2 credits)
- 32 general education credits
Pima Community College
The LPN to AAS program at Pima Community College (PCC) in Tucson provides current LPNs a path to skipping the first year of its AAS in Nursing program and instead entering directly into the second year. Once all prerequisites are completed, students apply for admission to the LPN Transition to AAS program, which includes submitting a letter of employer verification confirming a minimum of 576 hours of LPN employment. At Pima, the prerequisite courses can be completed online, though nursing courses are only offered in-person. Those courses often include hands-on clinical components. Program start dates are available in the spring and fall.
Duration: Three semesters
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $13,054.29 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN license
- Completed prerequisite courses
- Successful completion of a nine-credit transition course
- Passing the National League of Nursing Pre-Admission Exam for RN and PN applicants
Curriculum:
- Success in Health Professions (1 credit)
- Nursing Process 1 + Lab (7 credits)
- Drug Calculations (1 credit)
- Introduction to Pharmacology (3 credits)
- Nursing Process 2 + lab (8 credits)
- Nursing Process 3 + lab (8 credits)
- Nursing Process 4 + lab (9 credits)
- Trends and Issues in Nursing (1 credit)
Arizona Online LPN to RN FAQ
While the spotlights above are useful, they can’t answer every question you have. Admittedly, this FAQ section can’t either, though it does touch on some of the most important questions, such as financial aid and whether 100% online LPN to RN programs truly exist.
How long does it take to finish an LPN to RN bridge program in Arizona?
Completion times for LPN to RN programs in Arizona vary from program to program. This is due mainly to differences in program requirements and the number of prerequisite courses completed by the student prior to starting their program. In most cases, LPN to RN students complete their programs with two to four semesters of full-time study, not including prerequisite coursework.
What are the admissions requirements for LPN to RN bridge programs in AZ?
The admissions requirements for LPN to RN bridge programs in Arizona are very much alike. The details, however, often vary by institution, so be sure you clearly understand the requirements for any program you’re interested in before taking the time to enroll. In all cases, applicants must possess a current, unencumbered LPN license (in most cases, an Arizona LPN license). Other common requirements include completing prerequisite coursework and completing a pre-admission test.
What should I look for in an LPN to RN program in Arizona?
Along with such things as affordability, study convenience, and quality support services, there are two other important factors to look for in the LPN to RN programs in AZ that you consider: approval by the Arizona State Board of Nursing (AZBN) and programmatic accreditation. State program approval is required of all graduates of Arizona LPN to RN programs to be eligible for RN licensure. Programmatic accreditation provides an important indication that the LPN to RN bridge program you’re interested in meets certain standards of academic quality. The primary programmatic accreditor of associate degrees in nursing programs in the U.S., including LPN to RN bridge programs, is the ACEN.
How much do LPN to RN bridge programs in Arizona cost?
Considering the typical costs associated with earning a college degree, you may be surprised to find that total costs for most LPN to RN bridge programs in Arizona are surprisingly affordable. That’s especially true when it comes to programs offered by Arizona public community colleges, which account for most programs in the state. However, keep in mind that your total program cost will be higher once you factor in additional fees, books, supplies, uniforms, and travel costs. Fortunately, there are nursing scholarships that help lower what you pay out-of-pocket.
Can I get my LPN to RN online in Arizona?
Due to the nature of nursing education, it’s no surprise that fully online LPN to RN bridge programs don’t exist. To qualify for RN licensure in Arizona (and practically everywhere in the U.S.), you must sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and meet RN license requirements, both of which include completion of substantial clinical practice hours attended in-person at program-affiliated healthcare facilities. Nevertheless, LPN to RN students in Arizona may find their schools offer some prerequisite or more academic courses either fully or partially online.
Arizona LPN vs. RN Salary & Career Comparison
Now that you know what to expect from LPN-to-RN programs, it’s important to look at what you can expect after graduation. Growth for RNs in Arizona is projected at 21.9%, considerably higher than the national average of 5.6%. While the projected growth for LPNs is slightly higher, there are more jobs for RNs in Arizona. Currently, there are 4,820 RN job openings each year, with an anticipated increase of 12,940. Meanwhile, there are only 730 openings for LPNs, with an expected addition of 1,670 jobs.
The median salary for an RN in Arizona is $88,310, while LPNs earn a median salary of $65,500, representing an increase of nearly 35% for RNs. RNs with in-demand specializations can earn considerably more; the 90th percentile salary for RNs is $109,750. Dive into the data below to get a better feel for what you can expect in your future career.
| 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.
Top Online LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Arizona
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,474 Avg. Aid Amount
- 21% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Central Arizona College
- Central Arizona College's LPN to RN Bridge program requires attendance at monthly Nursing Information Sessions, providing direct engagement opportunities for prospective students to learn and apply, enhancing informed admission into a competitive, limited-class-space program.
- The program’s accelerated design enables completion in just 2.5 semesters, allowing LPNs to quickly earn their Associate of Applied Science-Nursing degree and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, facilitating rapid career advancement.
- Central Arizona College’s program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, ensuring high standards and credibility that support strong professional preparation.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,474 Avg. Aid Amount
- 21% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- ACCJC Accreditation
- $1,713 Avg. Aid Amount
- 24% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Glendale Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Glendale Community College offers advanced placement that awards credit for prior nursing education, allowing students to bypass first-year courses and accelerate degree completion.
- The program requires submission of comprehensive application materials, including HESI A2 scores and transcripts, supporting a structured and competitive admission process that prioritizes qualified applicants.
- Students gain access to specialized orientations and skills validation, including simulation-based learning and clinical competencies verification, ensuring preparedness for advanced nursing roles.
Program Details
- ACCJC Accreditation
- $1,713 Avg. Aid Amount
- 24% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,108 Avg. Aid Amount
- 17% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Mohave Community College
- The Mohave College LPN to RN Bridge program transitions LPNs to RNs in just two semesters, allowing for an accelerated and efficient pathway to RN licensure.
- The program grants advanced placement credits for LPNs, recognizing their prior education and experience to reduce coursework and time to completion.
- Students gain access to clinical experiences in multiple locations, including out-of-state sites like Las Vegas, enhancing practical exposure and professional networking opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,108 Avg. Aid Amount
- 17% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,949 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northland Pioneer College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at NPC offers a tuition discount specifically for LPNs advancing to RN, significantly reducing financial barriers.
- It provides high clinical placement rates through partnerships with local healthcare employers, ensuring essential hands-on experience.
- The program features accelerated completion options allowing students to progress from LPN to RN faster than traditional pathways.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,949 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,176 Avg. Aid Amount
- 30% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected GateWay Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program offers the opportunity to test out of initial nursing courses, reducing the program duration to three semesters and accelerating completion.
- Students receive credit for successful completion of bridge courses, earning multiple credit hours toward the ADN program, effectively shortening their time and cost to degree.
- The program provides flexible scheduling with evening and weekend clinical/lab experiences to accommodate work and family responsibilities alongside continuing education.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,176 Avg. Aid Amount
- 30% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Cochise County Community College District
Sierra Vista, AZProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,140 Avg. Aid Amount
- 18% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Cochise County Community College District
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Cochise College offers an advanced placement pathway that allows LPNs to transition efficiently into the RN role by taking specialized transition courses (NUR 130 and NUR 220) that update and build upon nursing skills and knowledge gained as an LPN.
- The program is designed with a Career Ladder Concept that accommodates students’ life circumstances by permitting multiple points of exit and reentry, enabling them to achieve employment at various stages while progressing toward RN licensure.
- Students receive diverse clinical experience through rotations in hospitals and health agencies across Cochise and Pima counties, providing hands-on training in real healthcare settings that enhances job readiness.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,140 Avg. Aid Amount
- 18% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,651 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Pima Community College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Pima Community College offers a three-semester accelerated pathway allowing students to transition efficiently from LPN to RN status while excluding prerequisite courses from the timeline.
- The program provides personalized admissions advising and dedicated success counseling to support students from application through program completion, enhancing student retention and success.
- Students gain hands-on clinical experience in local healthcare facilities combined with state-of-the-art simulation labs, boosting practical skills and job readiness before graduation.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,651 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
