Nursing
If you're passionate about helping others, drawn to science and healthcare, and want a career that makes a real impact every day, Nursing could be for you!
Nurses are at the heart of patient care. At NAU, we prepare future nurses to lead with empathy and think critically in fast-paced clinical environments. Whether you’re interested in bedside care, community health, or advanced practice, our programs are designed to launch your career with confidence.

What is Nursing?
Compassion in action. Clinical skill meets human connection. Nursing is both a science and an art. It’s about understanding the body, managing complex care, and building relationships with patients and families. NAU’s Nursing programs emphasize hands-on experience, ethical leadership, and care that considers the whole person. With access to simulation labs, clinical placements, and faculty with real-world experience, you'll graduate ready to step into the field.
What you'll study
As a nursing student at NAU, you'll take courses like:
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Evidence-based practice and research
- Health assessment and patient care
- Mental health and community nursing
- Leadership and nursing ethics
You’ll also spend significant time gaining clinical experience in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations throughout Arizona.
Career possibilities
NAU Nursing students are prepared for meaningful careers in healthcare. Our graduates go on to work in major hospital systems, rural and tribal health clinics, and nonprofits in Arizona, and beyond.
Nursing degrees offered at NAU
NAU’s School of Nursing offers pathways to a rewarding nursing career, including our traditional bachelor of science in Nursing (BSN), accelerated options, RN-to-BSN, and graduate-level Nursing degrees.
FAQs: Nursing degrees
Can I become a Registered Nurse (RN) after graduating from NAU?
Yes! Graduates of NAU’s BSN programs are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam to become registered nurses and our NCLEX pass rates are the highest in Arizona.
Where do students do their clinicals?
Clinical placements happen across Arizona, including major hospitals, public health agencies, and rural or tribal clinics. NAU partners with dozens of healthcare providers to give students diverse, real-world experience.
Are there Nursing programs outside of NAU's Flagstaff campus?
Yes! NAU offers nursing programs at multiple statewide campuses, including Tucson, Yuma, and through partnerships with community colleges—making nursing education accessible across Arizona.
Are there scholarships for Nursing students?
Yes. NAU offers scholarships specifically for Nursing majors, including support for students from underserved communities or those committed to rural healthcare.
What kind of support will I get as a Nursing student?
Students have access to academic advising, peer mentorship, clinical skills labs, tutoring, and dedicated Nursing faculty who support you every step of the way.

What's next on your trail to NAU?


Find your home at NAU!
Looking for attainable and valuable degree programs? Searching for a community as unique as you are? Wishing for adventure? Explore all your passions at NAU.