GCU Nursing Programs: NCLEX & Costs
Grand Canyon University’s College of Nursing has become one of the larger nursing programs in the country, graduating approximately 1,800 nurses annually. The Arizona-based school offers both campus and online programs, with CCNE accreditation and an 82% NCLEX pass rate. Here’s what you should know before applying.
GCU Nursing at a Glance
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| NCLEX Pass Rate | 82% (2024) |
| Nursing Accreditation | CCNE |
| Institutional Accreditation | SACSCOC |
| Graduation Rate | 77% |
| Job Placement Rate | 93% |
| Total Enrollment | 20,724 |
| Annual Nursing Graduates | ~1,800 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 13:1 |
NCLEX Pass Rates: The Honest Picture
GCU’s 82% NCLEX-RN pass rate deserves context. The national average hovers around 87-89% for first-time test takers, so GCU falls a few points below.
How Does 82% Compare?
| Category | Typical Pass Rate |
|---|---|
| Top-tier programs | 95%+ |
| National average | 87-89% |
| GCU | 82% |
| At-risk programs | Below 75% |
An 82% pass rate means roughly 1 in 5 graduates doesn’t pass NCLEX on the first attempt. That’s not catastrophic—most states don’t intervene unless programs drop below 75-80%—but it’s worth factoring into your decision.
What Affects Pass Rates
Pass rates reflect multiple factors beyond program quality:
- Student preparedness and study habits
- Program selectivity (acceptance rate)
- NCLEX prep resources provided
- Student demographics and support systems
GCU’s 52% acceptance rate is less selective than many traditional nursing programs, which typically accept 30-50% of applicants. Less selective admissions can correlate with lower aggregate pass rates, even when the education quality is solid.
Accreditation Details
Nursing Accreditation: CCNE
GCU’s nursing programs hold CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) accreditation. This is one of two main nursing accreditors (the other being ACEN) and is widely considered the gold standard.
Why CCNE matters:
- Required for most graduate school admissions
- Required for many military and VA nursing positions
- Ensures curriculum meets national standards
- Satisfies licensure requirements in all 50 states
Institutional Accreditation: SACSCOC
The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This regional accreditation means:
- Credits transfer to other accredited institutions
- Eligible for federal financial aid
- Degree recognized by employers nationwide
State Approval
GCU is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and participates in NC-SARA (National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements), allowing them to enroll students from all 50 states in online programs.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Format | Campus (Phoenix) |
| Duration | 4 years (48 months) |
| GPA Minimum | 3.0 |
| Tuition | $22,015 total / $183 per credit |
| Acceptance Rate | 52% |
| Start Dates | Fall, Spring |
| Seats Available | 192 per cohort |
Prerequisites:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Statistics
The BSN is a traditional 4-year program based at GCU’s Phoenix campus. Clinical rotations are arranged throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Format | Campus |
| Duration | 3 years (36 months) |
| Prior Degree | MSN required |
| GPA Minimum | 3.0 |
| Tuition | $33,023 total / $183 per credit |
| Acceptance Rate | 54% |
| Start Dates | Fall, Spring |
| Seats Available | 50 per cohort |
The DNP is designed for nurses who already hold an MSN and want to pursue the terminal practice degree.
Cost Breakdown
BSN Total Cost Estimate
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (120 credits × $183) | ~$22,015 |
| Fees (estimated) | ~$2,000-4,000 |
| Books and supplies | ~$1,500-2,500 |
| Clinical equipment (scrubs, stethoscope, etc.) | ~$500-800 |
| Room and board (4 years, on-campus) | ~$40,000-50,000 |
| Estimated 4-Year Total | ~$70,000-80,000 |
The net price reported to the federal government is $15,410 annually after financial aid, but actual costs vary significantly based on aid packages, housing choices, and personal expenses.
Financial Aid
GCU participates in federal financial aid programs:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Federal Direct Loans
- Federal Work-Study
- State grant programs (varies by state)
- Institutional scholarships
Contact their financial aid office for specific scholarship opportunities.
Admission Requirements
BSN Admission
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| GPA | 3.0 minimum (cumulative) |
| Prerequisites | Science courses with lab |
| Application Deadline | November 1 (Fall) |
| Background Check | Required before clinicals |
| Health Requirements | Immunizations, TB test, drug screen |
DNP Admission
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Prior Degree | MSN from accredited program |
| GPA | 3.0 minimum |
| Application Deadline | January 15 |
| Current License | Active RN license |
| Certification | Varies by specialty track |
The Faith-Based Element
GCU is a Christian university, and this shapes campus culture. Nursing students can expect:
- Chapel requirements (for campus students)
- Faith integration in some coursework
- Christian-oriented community events
- Optional faith-based student organizations
This is a feature for some students and a consideration for others. The nursing curriculum itself follows CCNE standards regardless of the institutional religious affiliation.
Strengths and Considerations
Strengths
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| CCNE accreditation | Industry-standard nursing accreditation |
| Job placement | 93% employment rate |
| Large program | Resources, clinical site networks |
| Phoenix location | Major healthcare market |
| NC-SARA participant | Online options for all 50 states |
Considerations
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| NCLEX pass rate | 82% (below national average) |
| For-profit structure | Higher scrutiny, different incentives |
| Large class sizes | 13:1 ratio, but 192 per BSN cohort |
| Cost | Comparable to other private schools |
For-Profit Context
GCU was previously classified as for-profit and transitioned to non-profit status in 2018. Some nursing educators and employers still carry skepticism toward schools with for-profit backgrounds. That said, CCNE accreditation and state board approval indicate the program meets educational standards.
How GCU Compares
Vs. Arizona State Schools
| School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Tuition (In-State) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Arizona | ~90% | ~$13,000/year |
| Arizona State University | ~88% | ~$12,000/year |
| GCU | 82% | ~$22,000 total |
| Northern Arizona University | ~87% | ~$12,000/year |
State schools generally have higher pass rates and lower costs for Arizona residents. GCU’s value proposition is stronger for out-of-state students or those who don’t gain admission to more selective programs.
Vs. Other Large Private Programs
| School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain University | ~85% | ~$20,000 |
| GCU | 82% | ~$22,000 |
| Western Governors University | ~80% | ~$8,000 |
| Herzing University | ~82% | ~$15,000 |
Among large-enrollment private nursing programs, GCU’s pass rate is competitive.
Student Outcomes
Employment
GCU reports a 93% job placement rate for nursing graduates. Phoenix’s healthcare market—with Banner Health, HonorHealth, Dignity Health, and other major systems—provides strong employment opportunities.
Graduate School
CCNE accreditation means GCU graduates are eligible for most graduate nursing programs. The BSN provides the foundation needed for:
- MSN programs
- NP programs (all specialties)
- DNP programs
- PhD in nursing
Licensure
GCU graduates are eligible to sit for NCLEX in all 50 states. The program meets education requirements for RN licensure nationwide.
Making Your Decision
GCU May Be Right If You:
- Value a faith-based educational environment
- Prefer a large university with extensive resources
- Are an out-of-state student (competitive vs. other private options)
- Didn’t gain admission to more selective programs
- Want campus-based education in Phoenix
Consider Other Options If You:
- Prioritize highest possible NCLEX pass rates
- Are an Arizona resident (state schools offer better value)
- Prefer small cohort sizes
- Want a more selective program on your resume
How to Apply
- Start online — grandcanyon.edu/nursing/admissions
- Submit transcripts — From all previous colleges
- Complete prerequisites — Science courses with labs
- Submit application — By November 1 for Fall
- Interview — If selected
- Background check — Before clinical placement
Next Steps
Researching nursing programs? Compare GCU with other options:
- Find nursing programs by state
- Use the program finder tool
- Understand NCLEX requirements
- Learn about nursing career paths
GCU graduates roughly 1,800 nurses annually, making it one of the larger contributors to the nursing workforce. The program meets accreditation standards and produces licensed nurses. Whether it’s the right fit depends on your priorities, budget, and alternatives.
About the Author
License Guide Team
Clinical Editorial Team
Our editorial team includes licensed nurses and healthcare professionals dedicated to providing accurate, up-to-date nursing licensure information sourced directly from state boards of nursing.