Arizona Registered Nursing Schools and Training Programs (RN Schools)

While specific work responsibilities for a registered nurse (RN) may vary depending on work setting and patient population, all RNs take care of patients and provide education and advice to both patients and their family members. Most (60%) registered nurses are employed by hospitals, but RNs can also be found in physicians' offices, home healthcare services, nursing care facilities and employment services.

Registered Nursing Schools in Arizona

You can become an RN by earning a bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN) from a college or university. You can also get an associate degree at a community college or a diploma from a hospital-based nursing school. Registered nurses who earn a master's degree in nursing (MSN) are known as advanced practice nurses. These nurses can perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures as well as prescribe medication. All registered nursing programs provide classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Examples of registered nursing coursework include chronic disease management, health assessment, human anatomy, microbiology and nursing studies. Whether online or in a traditional classroom, RN schools in Arizona can help you earn your nursing degree or diploma. All states and the District of Columbia require that registered nursing students graduate from an approved program as well as pass a licensing examination, known as the NCLEX-RN. Other requirements, including continuing education credits, may be necessary so be sure to contact your state's board of nursing for more information. Enrolling at one of the many Arizona RN schools is the first step to becoming a registered nurse.

Registered Nursing Salaries in Arizona

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RN employment is expected to increase by 22 percent between 2008 and 2018. In 2008, RNs constituted the largest healthcare occupation, with more than two million jobs in the United States. In Arizona, there are over 38,500 registered nurses. The BLS reports that as of May 2009, registered nurses in Arizona earned a median annual salary of $66,100. The tenth percentile earned an annual median salary of $43,340, while the 90th percentile earned $89,740. Within Arizona, employment for registered nurses is highest in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Tucson and Prescott.

For a rewarding career as a registered nurse, get more information from one of the registered nursing schools in Arizona below.

Fast Facts for Registered Nurses in Arizona

• Cities with highest percentage of jobs relative to population: Prescott, Kingman and Flagstaff
• Cities with lowest percentage of jobs relative to population: Phoenix, Yuma and Tucson
• Cities with the highest absolute number of jobs: Phoenix, Tucson and Prescott

Salaries for Registered Nurses in Arizona

• Metro areas with the highest median salaries: Phoenix, Tucson and Prescott