By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College’s nursing program has been ranked No. 1 in Arizona by RegisteredNursing.org, a national nursing advocacy organization that evaluates programs based on student success and licensure exam performance.
The organization analyzed 31 nursing schools across the state and ranked the top 10 using current and historical pass rates from the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). In addition to exam performance, criteria included national accreditation status, low tuition rates, student satisfaction, and clear academic pathways to advanced nursing degrees. EAC secured the top spot with an average NCLEX pass rate of 98.2% over the past three years — significantly above the state average of 93.86% in 2024.
“EAC’s nursing program has remarkable faculty and an extraordinary student body,” said Sara Lemley, EAC director of nursing. “We are dedicated to helping our graduates become safe, caring, and accountable professional nurses.”
EAC President Todd Haynie said the recognition reflects the College’s deep commitment to student success. “We are proud to be at the top of the list among so many esteemed nursing programs,” Haynie said. “This speaks volumes about how much our faculty and staff care about preparing outstanding practitioners and leaders.”
Prospective students are encouraged to contact the EAC Admissions Office at admissions@eac.edu or (928) 428-8396. Nursing program applications are due Nov. 1 for the spring semester and April 1 for the fall semester.
About EAC’s Nursing Program
For more than 30 years, Eastern Arizona College’s nursing program has prepared students for immediate entry into the healthcare workforce, as well as for advanced roles in leadership, education, administration, and research. Graduates work in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, communities, homes, and even military environments.
EAC offers concurrent enrollment programs with Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, and Northern Arizona University, allowing students to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing while completing their associate degree. The baccalaureate program features online classes, experienced faculty, and reduced tuition rates for EAC students.
For more information, visit https://eac.edu/academics/programs/nursing/
