Best Online Nurse Practitioner Schools in Arizona

Keith E. Sax, BSN, RN
Last Updated On Sep 24, 2024
Expert Verified: Keith E. Sax, BSN, RN
12 Min Read
Arizona

Nurse practitioners are one of the most important members of the medical field, and becoming one is often easier than you might think! Whether you’re just beginning your journey as a registered nurse or you’re looking at graduate programs, there are many nurse practitioner programs available across the great state of Arizona. In the sections below we’ll highlight these programs, the various NP specialties available, and how you can access them in communities such as Phoenix or Tucson or through online learning. Jump to program listings.

2025 - Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arizona

Introducing RegisteredNursing.org's 2025 rankings of the Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arizona! Our rankings are designed to help prospective nurse practitioners find the top online programs in the state. We evaluate programs based on completion rates, cost of living, institutional competitiveness, program diversity, and faculty experience to ensure a thorough assessment. For more information on our ranking process, please visit our methodology page.

1.

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

Grand Canyon University offers a distinguished Nurse Practitioner program known for its comprehensive curriculum and experienced faculty. The program combines advanced coursework with practical clinical experience, preparing graduates to excel in various healthcare settings. Its commitment to excellence and innovative approach makes it a leading choice for aspiring nurse practitioners.

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
2.

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ

The University of Arizona offers a renowned Nurse Practitioner program with flexible online options. This program combines advanced coursework with practical clinical training, allowing students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments. It is highly regarded for its comprehensive approach and preparation for advanced roles in healthcare.

DNP ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
3.

Arizona State University

Phoenix, AZ

Arizona State University provides a well-regarded Nurse Practitioner program with both online and hybrid options. This program offers a rigorous curriculum and hands-on clinical experience, preparing students for advanced practice roles. ASU’s flexible format and strong academic support ensure graduates are well-prepared for diverse healthcare settings.

DNP ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

To become a nurse practitioner, you’ll need to complete a graduate degree program in nursing. But that doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily need to commit a decade to your education to enter this exciting career. If you’ve already had experience as a nurse or have obtained an accelerated bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), you may be able to complete your nurse practitioner degree program in just a few years saving you time, money, and energy in the process.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

The two primary degrees associated with nurse practitioners are the master’s degree in nursing (MSN) and the doctor of nursing practice (DNP). If you’re looking to save time, a master’s degree is usually ideal. A master’s degree in nursing is the minimum requirement for becoming a nurse practitioner and they usually take about two years to complete following a bachelor’s degree program. However, some MSN programs are able to be completed even faster than this. Take a look at these programs available in Arizona that are among the fastest MSN programs available to students wanting to become nurse practitioners.

NP ProgramLengthOnline/Campus
Arizona State University1-2 YearsOnline
Northern Arizona University2 YearsOnline and Campus
University of Phoenix21 MonthsOnline

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

Just as master’s degrees are usually the fastest option for nurse practitioners, they are also usually the cheapest. In theory, the fastest college degree programs are usually the most affordable because you’ll be enrolled in a shorter amount of time. Here are a few of the most affordable MSN programs available in Arizona:

School NameTuition RangeEstimated Credits
Northern Arizona University$10,000 – $25,00030 Credits
Arizona State University$11,000 – $30,00030 Credits
University of Phoenix$9,55236 Credits

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

One of the most common reasons that many nurses become nurse practitioners is so that they can specialize in a specific area and apply a more direct approach to the patients they serve. Here is a few programs in Arizona that allow students to narrow their studies down to a particular practice area:

School NameNP SpecialtyCredits Required
University of PhoenixInformatics36
University of ArizonaAdult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner96
Arizona State UniversityNursing Education30

Find out more about popular NP specialty programs: Acute Care (ACNP), Adult Gerontology (AGNP), Family (FNP), Pediatric (PNP), Psychiatric (PHMNP), Women’s Health (WHNP).

Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus

Beyond traditional nurse practitioner programs, there are also several alternative routes for students and working nurses to get licensed as nurse practitioners. Below are the various types of bridge programs and accelerated programs that you can seek out to get on the path to your new career.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

As we mentioned, MSN degrees are the most common and typically the fastest and cheapest traditional nurse practitioner degree program. They usually take around 2 years to complete following a bachelor’s degree. Here are some examples in Arizona:

RN to NP Programs

RN to NP programs (also known as ADN to MSN) is a bridge program designed for associate-level nurses to skip their BSN program and move straight to the MSN degree. These programs are usually longer than a traditional MSN program but much shorter than a BSN and MSN program combined. Here are a few RN to NP programs based in Arizona:

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

The highest level of nurse practitioner degree is a doctor of nursing practice. This degree usually takes 4-6 years of study after your master’s degree and will come in a variety of specializations. Here are some DNP programs located in Arizona:

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

Post-master nursing certificates are a great way to pick up an additional nurse practitioner specialization once you’ve graduated from your nurse practitioner specialization choice. It’s not enough to become licensed on its own, but it does provide valuable training in specific nursing practices. Here are a few to choose from in Arizona:

Accelerated, Direct & Master’s Entry (MENP/MEPN) to Nursing Practice

Decide to become a nurse practitioner later in life? Accelerated, direct-entry and master’s entry NP programs are a bridge program that allows you to combine your BSN and MSN into one nursing program. This type of program isn’t for everyone — it is long and very intense, but for many it is worth the time and money saved. Here are a few available in the state:

General Admissions Requirements

While each specific nurse practitioner degree level will have its own set of requirements, most NP programs will require the following to be eligible for admission:

  • BSN from an accredited school
  • Transcripts from all colleges attended
  • Minimum grade point average (often 3.0 or above, but varies by school/program)
  • Active, unencumbered RN license
  • Essay or statement of purpose outlining career goals
  • Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
  • Resume or CV

Arizona NP License and Certification Requirements

To become an NP in Arizona, candidates must hold an active and valid Arizona RN license and meet the minimum educational requirement of a master’s degree in nursing. Applicants will need to submit proof of these qualifications, complete the required application, and pay a fee of approximately $500. Detailed application instructions for NP licensure or certification in Arizona are available here.

Nurse practitioners can earn certification in various specialties through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Typically, applicants must possess a current RN license and have graduated from a master’s or doctoral-level program relevant to their specialty. Arizona NPs enjoy full practice authority, allowing them to work independently without physician oversight. Additional resources can be accessed through the Arizona Nurses Association.

List of NP Programs in Arizona

Flagstaff, AZ

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
202 E Pine Knoll Dr- PO Box: 15035
Flagstaff, AZ 86011
(928) 523-2671

Phoenix, AZ

Tempe, AZ

MSN Programs
1625 W. Fountainhead Pkwy
Tempe, AZ 85282
(866) 484-1831

Tucson, AZ

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