2026 Arizona Guide

Top LPN Programs & Schools in Arizona

Compare accredited LPN programs, tuition costs, and salary data. Find the right nursing school to launch your career in Arizona.

$72,840 Avg. Annual Salary
$35.02 Avg. Hourly Wage
5% Job Growth (10-yr)
~1,400 Annual Openings

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Accredited LPN Programs & Colleges in Arizona

Arizona offers several accredited LPN programs through community colleges, technical centers, and vocational schools. Most programs can be completed in 11 to 14 months and include both classroom instruction and supervised clinical rotations. The table below lists top programs — tuition shown is approximate in-state/in-district and does not include books, fees, or supplies.

School City Type Program Length Approx. Tuition
GateWay Community College Phoenix Community College 12 months $8,400
Pima Community College Tucson Community College 14 months $7,800
Maricopa Skill Center Phoenix Technical Center 12 months $6,500
East Valley Institute of Technology Mesa Technical School 11 months $9,200
Central Arizona College Coolidge Community College 12 months $7,200

Tuition figures are approximate and reflect in-state rates. Contact each school for current pricing, financial aid, and enrollment deadlines. Always confirm the program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing.

Online & Hybrid LPN Programs in Arizona

LPN programs require hands-on clinical training, so no program is 100% online. However, many schools in Arizona now offer hybrid formats that let you complete didactic coursework (anatomy, pharmacology, nursing theory) online while attending in-person clinicals at local healthcare facilities.

Hybrid programs are ideal for working adults, parents, or anyone who needs scheduling flexibility. Typical hybrid programs cover 40–60% of coursework online, with the remainder as on-site clinical hours at approved partner hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and clinics.

For a complete list of online-friendly LPN programs available to Arizona residents, visit our dedicated guide:

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Requirements to Enroll in a Arizona LPN Program

Admission requirements vary by school, but most LPN programs in Arizona share these common prerequisites:

Quick Facts: LPN Licensing in Arizona

Licensing Exam NCLEX-PN
Regulatory Board Arizona State Board of Nursing
Min. Education State-approved LPN program (typically 12–18 months)
Background Check Required

After completing an approved program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN examination and apply for licensure through the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Most candidates receive their results within 48 hours of testing.

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LPN Salary & Job Outlook in Arizona

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, May 2024 OEWS data), LPNs in Arizona earn an average of $72,840 per year ($35.02/hour). This places Arizona above the national LPN average of $62,340.

Salaries in Arizona typically range from $54,300 for entry-level positions to $89,100 for experienced nurses in high-demand specialties or metro areas.

LPN Salary by City in Arizona

City / Metro Area Average Annual Salary
Phoenix $74,200
Tucson $69,800
Mesa $73,500
Scottsdale $75,100

Job Outlook

Employment of LPNs in Arizona is projected to grow 5% over the next decade — faster than average for all occupations. The state sees approximately 1,400 annual job openings for LPNs, driven by retirements, career transitions, and growing demand in skilled nursing facilities and home health.

Where LPNs Work in Arizona

The majority of LPNs in Arizona work in skilled nursing facilities and long-term care, which together employ roughly 35% of the state's practical nurses. Other common employers include hospitals, physician offices, home health agencies, and outpatient care centers. Shift differentials for evenings, nights, and weekends can add $2–$5/hour on top of base pay.

First Job Tips for New LPN Graduates

Landing your first LPN position in Arizona is usually straightforward given current demand. Skilled nursing facilities and long-term care centers actively recruit new graduates and often offer sign-on bonuses. Staffing agencies are another option — they can place you quickly and often pay above-average hourly rates. Once you have 6–12 months of experience, you'll qualify for positions in hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices.

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Explore More Nursing & Healthcare Careers in Arizona

Whether you're starting out or planning your next credential, these guides can help: