By Lori Dugan
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College is expanding opportunities for working nurses and current students with the launch of its new Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
EA’s RN to BSN program is designed to help working nurses and students earning an associate degree in nursing advance their careers with essential leadership and professional skills. The RN to BSN program offers flexible, fully online learning options and an affordable tuition of $6,174 for Arizona residents.
Upper-division courses are scheduled to begin in Fall 2026, and applications for the BSN program open March 1. Students can begin lower-division coursework now through EA’s Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program.
“Our RN to BSN program is built around student success,” said Sara Lemley, MSN, RN, CNE, director of nursing at EA. “We’ve designed a supportive, flexible pathway that enables working nurses to complete their bachelor’s degree while maintaining strong academic outcomes. Our focus is on equipping graduates with the advanced knowledge, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice competencies that translate directly into improved patient care and stronger healthcare systems across rural Arizona.”
To help prospective students explore the new degree, EA Nursing will host a series of informational sessions at the Nursing Education Center in Thatcher:
Monday, March 9, at 7 p.m., Room 104
Wednesday, March 11, at 11 a.m., Room 104
Wednesday, March 25, at Noon, Room 109
Tuesday, April 28, at 7 p.m., Room 104
Wednesday, May 20, at Noon, Room 109
Individuals who are unable to attend in person may contact Nursing to request a virtual access link.
Attendees will learn about career-ready training for in-demand healthcare roles, seamless transition options for associate-level students, and flexible online coursework designed for working professionals.
The RN to BSN program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is seeking authorization from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Graduates with a BSN are prepared for immediate workforce entry and advanced education, including the pursuit of a Master of Science in Nursing. Career pathways include public health nursing, case management, infection control, healthcare informatics, and more.
For more information about EA’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, visit eac.edu/4year, email nursing@eac.edu, or call 928.428.8396.
About EA
Eastern Arizona College is a comprehensive community college serving Graham and Greenlee counties and beyond. EA offers associate degrees, workforce certificates, and select bachelor’s degrees designed to meet the needs of rural Arizona. With a strong emphasis on healthcare education, including nursing and allied health programs, EA prepares students to enter high-demand medical fields and continue their education close to home. In addition to the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, EA also offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, further expanding advanced healthcare education opportunities in the region.
