LPN Programs in Arizona: Schools, Requirements & Salary (2026)
Arizona LPN programs prepare students for a thriving nursing career in one of the nation’s fastest-growing Sun Belt states. With approximately 10,890 LPNs employed statewide and a median salary of $60,200, Arizona offers excellent earning potential for practical nurses — particularly in the greater Phoenix area and the Tucson metro. LPN schools in Arizona are spread across Maricopa, Pima, and Cochise counties, offering community college and vocational training options at accessible price points. The AZ State Board of Nursing approves all LPN programs and oversees licensure in the state. If you are researching LPN programs in Arizona, this guide covers top accredited schools, admission requirements, salary data, and the steps to earn your LPN license. Arizona is a Nurse Licensure Compact state, so licensed LPNs can practice across numerous other compact member states without obtaining additional licenses.
LPN Salary in Arizona
The median annual salary for LPNs in Arizona is $60,200, which is $470 above the national median of $59,730. The state employs approximately 10,890 LPNs, with projected job growth of 6% through 2032.
Top-Paying Cities in Arizona
| City | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Scottsdale | $62,100 |
| Mesa | $60,800 |
| Phoenix | $61,500 |
| Tucson | $59,200 |
For detailed salary percentiles and metro-area data, see our complete LPN salary guide.
How to Become an LPN in Arizona
To practice as an LPN in Arizona, you must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Here's the process:
Complete prerequisites
High school diploma or GED, CPR/BLS certification, passing TEAS or HESI entrance exam score, background check, and current immunizations.
Enroll in an approved LPN program
Choose a program approved by the AZ State Board of Nursing. Arizona LPN programs typically require 600+ clinical hours across acute care, long-term care, and community health settings.
Complete coursework and clinical rotations
Programs cover nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, anatomy, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health. Clinical rotations take place at hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics across Arizona.
Pass the NCLEX-PN
After graduating, register with the AZ State Board of Nursing and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to earn your LPN license.
Apply for Arizona licensure
Submit your license application through the AZ State Board of Nursing. Processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks. Many Arizona employers hire pending license verification.
Top LPN Programs in Arizona
The following accredited programs are among the most established LPN schools in Arizona:
| School | City | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| GateWay Community College | Phoenix | 12 months | In-person |
| Pima Community College | Tucson | 12 months | In-person |
| Mesa Community College | Mesa | 12 months | In-person |
| Cochise College | Sierra Vista | 11 months | In-person |
Program details are subject to change. Verify current offerings directly with each school.
Browse LPN programs in all 50 states
Career Pathways for Arizona LPNs
Your LPN license in Arizona opens several advancement routes:
MA to LPN
Already a medical assistant? Bridge programs can fast-track your LPN in 6–12 months.
CNA to LPN
CNAs can earn advanced standing and complete LPN programs faster.
LPN to RN
Advance to Registered Nurse and boost your salary to $86K+ median.
LPN to BSN
Earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing for the widest career options.
Exploring options in nearby states? Check out LPN programs in California, Nevada, and New Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions: LPN Programs in Arizona
How much do LPNs make in Arizona?
The median LPN salary in Arizona is $60,200 per year. LPNs in Scottsdale earn the highest wages at approximately $62,100, while those in Tucson average around $59,200. Total compensation can be higher with overtime, specialty placements, and night-shift differentials.
How long does it take to become an LPN in Arizona?
Most Arizona LPN programs take 11 to 12 months to complete as a full-time student. After graduation, you must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and apply for licensure through the AZ State Board of Nursing, which typically takes an additional 2 to 6 weeks.
What are the best LPN programs in Arizona?
GateWay Community College in Phoenix, Pima Community College in Tucson, and Mesa Community College are among the top state-approved LPN programs in Arizona. Each offers affordable tuition, strong clinical partnerships, and competitive NCLEX-PN pass rates.
Does Arizona have online LPN programs?
Some Arizona LPN programs offer hybrid delivery with online coursework and mandatory in-person clinical rotations. Fully online LPN programs are not available in Arizona because hands-on clinical experience must be completed at approved healthcare facilities.
What does the Arizona Board of Nursing require for LPN licensure?
The AZ State Board of Nursing requires graduation from a board-approved practical nursing program, a passing score on the NCLEX-PN, a fingerprint-based background check, and a completed license application with fees. Arizona participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).
Find LPN Programs in Arizona
Compare accredited LPN programs near you. Search by location, schedule, and cost to find the right fit.
Last updated: 2026-03-03. Salary data: BLS May 2024 OES, SOC 29-2061.