THATCHER, Ariz. — 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.
