Master of Science in Nursing

What Sets Us Apart

It’s never too late to pursue your calling! If you hold a Bachelor of Science degree in a field other than nursing but feel attracted to a more fulfilling career, the College of Nursing's Master of Science – Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MEPN) program provides the opportunity to transition into becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). 

Ranked #1 in Arizona and #13 nationwide among public universities, our affordable, accelerated program is designed for motivated career changers like you who want to become an RN quickly. In just 15-16 months, you’ll gain the clinical skills, leadership training, and graduate-level education needed to confidently enter the nation’s most trusted profession.

With a pass rate of over 90% on first-time NCLEX testing and an average starting salary of $88,000, our graduates don’t just earn a degree; they build successful careers. Employers value U of A nurses for their clinical skills, leadership qualities, and compassion. From your first class to your new job, we’re with you every step of the way.

Two Campuses, One Standard of Excellence

Complete the MEPN program at our Tucson or Gilbert campus while receiving the same comprehensive education, clinical training, and support from our faculty.

• Tucson: A top-tier research university advancing health care innovation.
• Gilbert: A student-focused campus with a cutting-edge simulation lab.

Students complete the full-time, in-person program year-round (fall, spring, and summer semesters), enabling you to graduate sooner and enter the workforce faster.

Graduates of ASU, NAU, U of A, and GCU with a Bachelor of Science degree may qualify for direct admission, making your transition into nursing even easier. For more details about our Direct Admissions pathway, please visit our MEPN admissions webpage and check the section titled “Direct Admission for Arizona University Graduates.”

Where Learning Becomes Real Impact

MEPN students acquire extensive real-world experience through:

• 120+ hours of guided simulation training
• 550+ hours of direct clinical experience
• Advanced simulation labs featuring realistic patient scenarios
• Learn to think like a leader and guide teams
• Virtual reality clinical training
• Clinical placements at top hospitals and healthcare networks across Arizona

These experiences develop the confidence and clinical judgment necessary to succeed as a new nurse.

Learn from the Best, Become Your Best

Many MEPN students choose nursing after realizing they want a career with greater purpose and impact. With high demand for nurses across Arizona and nationwide, this degree provides a path to a stable, meaningful profession. Become a Wildcat Nurse and transform your life experiences into life-saving care.

You’ll learn from expert faculty who are practicing clinicians, researchers, and healthcare leaders. Their mentorship helps you develop both the clinical and leadership skills needed in today’s complex healthcare systems. With small class sizes and a network of over 10,000 alumni, you’ll become part of a community dedicated to your success.

We provide financial aid, 62 scholarship opportunities, and career support services to help facilitate your transition into nursing.