GCU announces new pre-nursing associate of science degree

Grand Canyon University (GCU) introduced its first Associate of Science in Pre-Nursing degree, a fully online 60-credit program targeting aspiring nurses seeking a faster entry into the field. The initiative aligns with GCU’s broader efforts to expand nursing education amid a critical shortage of healthcare workers nationwide, particularly in Arizona. The program fulfills foundational coursework requirements, enabling students to transition smoothly into GCU’s accelerated BSN program, though it does not independently qualify for registered nurse licensure. Federal financial aid eligibility for the associate degree reduces upfront costs for prospective students, addressing a key barrier to entry. GCU’s move reflects broader challenges in the healthcare sector, where hospitals and facilities continue to face staffing shortages. The university has already expanded its nursing footprint with 12 hybrid ABSN sites across eight states, including Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah, allowing students with prior college experience to earn a BSN in as little as 16 months. In the 2025-2026 academic year, GCU reported 4,116 BSN graduates and a 94.67% first-time pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), surpassing the national average of 86.71%. Dr. Lisa Smith, dean of GCU’s College of Nursing and Healthcare Professions, emphasized the need for flexible pathways to support students from diverse backgrounds entering nursing at different life stages. The new associate degree program aims to strengthen these pathways while contributing to the broader goal of addressing the nursing workforce gap.