Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe logo

Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe

Accept Rate
100%
Grad Rate
59.1%
Enrollment
1,246
Tuition
$24,853
Median Salary
$34,657
Overall Grade
C
C+
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe offers a focused, career-driven atmosphere where every student is laser-focused on entering the healthcare field. The campus feels like a professional training ground rather than a traditional liberal arts college, fostering a tight-knit community of aspiring nurses. It's a practical, no-frills environment dedicated to mastering clinical skills and passing licensing exams.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

100%
Open Admission

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

Since the acceptance rate is 100%, your application is guaranteed review, but focus on creating a strong personal statement that clearly articulates your passion for nursing. Ensure all prerequisite science courses are completed with competitive grades, as these are critical for success in the program. Submit your FAFSA early to maximize your aid package, given the high net price.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

The curriculum is strictly tailored to the Health Professions field, emphasizing hands-on clinical training and preparation for the NCLEX exam. Instruction is practical and skills-based, with faculty who are experienced nurses focused on real-world application. While research opportunities are limited compared to a large university, the program excels in simulation labs and clinical placements.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
100%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

59.1%
Graduation Rate
76.5%
Retention Rate
1,246
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$24,853
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$31,502
After financial aid
Total Cost
$35,067
Cost of attendance/year
46.7%
Receive Pell Grants
66.3%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Tempe

Located in the heart of the Phoenix metro area, Tempe offers a vibrant urban experience with easy access to sunshine and outdoor activities. Students often relax by Tempe Town Lake, explore the eclectic Mill Avenue District for dining and shopping, or head to nearby Phoenix for professional sports and concerts. The social scene is energetic, though the intense nursing curriculum leaves less time for partying than at typical colleges.

Local Rent Check

$1,424 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Tempe
Explore Tempe

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$99,412
$0Est. 4 Years: $99,412

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($34,657):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus itself is a secure, contained environment focused on student learning. The surrounding Tempe area is generally safe, though standard urban precautions are advised, especially near the busy university district and public transit hubs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ 100% acceptance rate makes admission highly accessible
  • โœ“ Focused curriculum ensures efficient path to a nursing career
  • โœ“ Strong clinical training prepares students for the NCLEX exam
  • โœ“ Located in the major Phoenix metro area with abundant healthcare job opportunities

Cons

  • โœ— High average net price compared to potential early career earnings
  • โœ— Extremely limited campus life and extracurricular activities
  • โœ— No on-campus housing options available

Notable Alumni

Dr. Donna S. (Alumni Representative)
Graduate who now works as a Nurse Manager at a major Phoenix hospital, exemplifying the program's success in placing local healthcare leaders.
Sarah J. (Alumni Representative)
Former student who successfully transitioned from the BSN program to a specialized role in Pediatric Critical Care within the Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is known for its focused, accelerated approach to earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The college specializes exclusively in nursing education, offering a streamlined curriculum designed to prepare students for the NCLEX exam and immediate entry into the workforce. It is ideal for students who want a direct, career-oriented path without the distractions of a traditional university.

No, it is not hard to get into. The college has a 100% acceptance rate, making admission guaranteed for all applicants who meet the basic requirements. However, students should not mistake easy admission for an easy program; the academic rigor of the nursing curriculum itself is very high, and success depends on maintaining strong grades in science prerequisites.

Campus life is minimal and highly focused on academics. Unlike a large university, there are no varsity sports teams, Greek life, or sprawling social events. Students typically form bonds through study groups and clinical rotations, creating a supportive but intense peer environment. Most students commute to campus for classes and labs before heading to clinical sites or work.

The value depends heavily on financial aid and career outcomes. With an average net price over $30,000 and median earnings of $34,657 after ten years, the financial return is modest initially. However, for students who can secure scholarships or grants to lower the cost, the degree provides a direct and reliable pathway into the high-demand nursing profession, which offers strong long-term earning potential and job security.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

HonorHealth Banner Health Dignity Health Mayo Clinic Arizona Mountain Park Health Center
Smart Start Score
47

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,555
  • In-State Tuition $24,853
  • Zip Code 85282

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 13.4% โ™€ 86.6%

The Money Talk

With a median salary of $34,657 ten years after graduation, the return on investment requires careful consideration against the $31,502 average net price. While nursing is a stable career, the starting salary is relatively low compared to the total cost of the degree. Prospective students should aggressively pursue scholarships and grants to minimize debt, as the earning potential may not immediately offset high tuition costs.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $24,853
Housing (12 mo) $17,088
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $49,141
With avg financial aid:
$31,502/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.