Known as the Centennial State, Colorado offers incredible natural beauty with majestic mountains and rolling plains. With Colorado needing to add 4,430 new registered nurses per year and ranking #2 in the U.S. for the percentage of new nurses needed by 2030, picking a career in nursing is a good choice.
Registered nurses currently earn an average annual salary of $80,670, and with over 68,000 job openings for registered nurses expected by 2030, this state provides tremendous opportunities to launch your nursing career. The colleges and universities in Colorado provide top nursing programs to prepare you for this need. To help you find the best nursing school and program available, we ranked the top options in the state of Colorado.
- There are 35 nursing schools in Colorado.
- The CCNE accredits 18 nursing school(s)
- The ACEN accredits 18 nursing school(s).
- The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Colorado is between 83.13% and 96.72%.
- The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in Colorado is between 62.66% and 99.58%.
- RNs currently employed in Colorado are 51,680.
- RNs in Colorado earn an average of $80,670 per year or $38.78 per hour.
- Colorado needs 68,270 new RNs by 2030 or 4,430 new nurses per year.
Nursing Schools in Colorado
Overview of Nursing Programs in Colorado
Colorado is committed to providing high-quality programs. When researching the many nursing schools in Colorado and comparing the different nursing programs, it is helpful to understand the typical degree pathways and educational formats.
Some of the most common nursing degrees offered in Colorado schools are:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – Usually takes 2 years and prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become RNs. Offered at community colleges statewide.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional 4-year degree for RNs, covers more advanced topics versus the ADN. Graduates still take the NCLEX-RN. Offered at universities and colleges.
- RN to BSN programs – For current RNs with an associate’s degree to bridge to the bachelor’s level. Expanding leadership skills and career options. Can often be completed online in 1-2 years.
- Accelerated BSN (ABSN) – Intensive 12-18 month bachelor’s degree for those who already have a bachelors in another field. Coursework plus hundreds of clinical hours prepare graduates to be RNs.
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Graduate-level degree for advanced specialty nursing careers like nurse practitioner or educator roles. Usually takes 2+ years.
- DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) – Designed for very high level nursing practice in a chosen specialty, with more clinical hours and residency components. Leads to titles like DNP or DrNP.
- PhD in Nursing – Focused on nursing research and academia. 4+ year program typically requires a dissertation and specializations are available.
When researching nursing schools in Colorado, pay close attention to each program’s accreditation status, affordability, format/delivery options, clinical hour requirements, and faculty qualifications. It is also essential to confirm if the Colorado Board of Nursing approves a nursing program to qualify graduates for initial licensure in Colorado.
What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Colorado?
- University of Northern Colorado
- University of Colorado College of Nursing (Traditional)
- University of Colorado at Colorado Springs - Traditional
- Colorado State University-Pueblo
- Regis University-Choice
- Adams State University
- Metropolitan State University of Denver (TNO)
- Colorado Mesa University - Traditional
- Denver College of Nursing
- Colorado Christian University
- Platt College-Aurora
#1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Northern Colorado
Carter Hall - Rm 4000, Greeley, CO - 80639
(970) 351-1890
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
University of Northern Colorado is located in Greeley, Colorado. UNC has a diverse student population; 87% of its population is from Colorado, with 58 of its 64 counties represented. 47 out of 50 states currently have students studying there. In addition, 34 countries are represented at UNC. In addition, their nursing program is over 50 years old. Their nursing program offers a BSN option and an RN to BSN option.
The University of Northern Colorado prides itself in its College of Natural and Health Sciences for having highly qualified faculty, competitive and rigorous academic standards, and a commitment to quality professional practice. It is one of the top nursing colleges that teaches students to view the patient holistically and practice patient-centered care.
One of the most unique and prominent features of this university's nursing program is the Poverty Simulation for Nursing Students. This simulation is set up each semester and allows nursing students to understand social justice, reservation of judgment, and personal biases that people living in poverty face. It helps students get a sense of how it feels to live in poverty and teaches them a valuable lesson on empathy.
The University of Northern Colorado is diverse in terms of both its majors and student body. The students here learn the value of hard work and personal growth while participating in rigorous lessons as well as extra-curricular activities. In addition to being highly affordable, the University of Northern Colorado also provides a multitude of financial aid and scholarships to students who seek them.
Undergraduate Programs: The College of Natural and Health Sciences has a five semester RN-BSN program for RNs who have completed their associate degree. There is also a dual enrollment option where students who are currently studying for their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in an affiliated Colorado Community College are able to take the RN-BSN courses at the University of Northern Colorado.
Graduate Programs: The University offers multiple courses in their MSN program, including FNP, Leadership, Adult-Gerontology, and so on. These courses prepare nurses to become primary care providers while contributing to evidence-based research and practices.
The DNP courses at the University of Northern Colorado aim to prepare nurses to become clinical experts, critical thinkers, leaders, and policymakers. Similarly, there is also a Ph.D. in Nursing Education course, which can be taken online. This course focuses on knowledge development, education strategies, leadership, and research.
#2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Colorado College of Nursing (Traditional)
- 1380 Lawrence Street, Lawrence Street Center, Suite 1400, Denver, CO - 80217-3364
- (303) 556-5600
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to PhD, MSN to DNP
University of Colorado Denver is located in Denver, Colorado. They offer a few different options for their BSN students. They offer a traditional BSN program. They also offer an RN to BSN program, which is an online program. This online program is also available to non-Colorado residents. They also offer their "integrated nursing pathway" program, which is a collaboration with various local community colleges. This allows students with an ADN to take their first two semesters of their BSN program at their local college, finishing up at the main campus.
In the University of Colorado College of Nursing, students get to choose from 17 programs, four nurse-led practices in nine locations, and two major Colorado hospitals in the region's largest academic medical campus. The university prides itself in its reputation as a leader and pioneer in nursing education.
The University of Colorado has a history as rich as its student body is diverse. The university was the first one to start a Nurse Practitioner program and created the very first Nurse Practitioner and School Nurse in the US. The learning environment here is innovative and both classes and labs are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. Students learn classes integrated with high-quality research in an environment that is designed to foster innovation and interdisciplinary education. To facilitate this innovation and research, the University of Colorado has provided over $654 million in research grants alone.
Undergraduate Programs: University of Colorado offers multiple undergraduate degrees for aspiring nurses who wish to build a career in healthcare, research, and leadership. They include the Traditional BSN pathway, Integrated Nursing Pathway, Accelerated Nursing Bachelor's pathway, Online RN to BSN pathway, and Online Dual Enrollment ADN and BSN pathways. Students enrolling in these pathways enjoy the benefit of being taught by a distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and innovative programs.
Graduate Programs: The Master's Degree in Nursing program prepares nurses for direct and indirect care roles, administrative duties, health promotion activities, and managing and evaluating care within communities and healthcare systems.
The college also offers one of the nationally top ranked DNP programs which is a clinical practice-oriented leadership curriculum focusing on evidence-based practice that aims to improve clinical care delivery, health system leadership and management, and so on. Students can enroll in the BS to DNP pathway directly or advance to the Post-Graduate DNP pathway with a Master's degree.
For students who hold a MSN degree and want to become nurse scientists, the University of Colorado offers a Nursing Ph.D degree which is a research degree taught with a combination of online and in-person classes.
#3 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs - Traditional
Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences
- 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO - 80918
- (719) 255-3000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
University of Colorado - Colorado Springs is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The Beth-El College of Nursing offers a traditional BSN program, an RN to BSN option and an Allied Health Completion Program, which allows those who hold a degree in an Allied Health to enroll for a BSN degree.
#4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Colorado State University-Pueblo
Colorado State University - Pueblo
- 2200 Bonforte Blvd, Pueblo, CO - 81001-4901
- (719) 549-2100
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nursing Administration, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, RN to MSN
The School of Nursing at Colorado State University-Pueblo is a regional nursing school for Southern Colorado. It provides its students with quality learning experiences, multiple degree entry paths, educational excellence, and a supportive and caring learning environment. The students here are capable of maintaining competencies throughout their practice, and hence are capable of bringing a positive change in the healthcare environment.
Being a diverse and inclusive institution, Colorado State University offers its students a variety of social, educational, and cultural opportunities that help them develop as competent human beings, in addition to apt professionals. Students enjoy personal mentorship and individualized education in small class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1. The University also offers CARES funding to help students pay for their food, housing, healthcare, course materials, technology, and other needs in addition to their tuition.
In Colorado State University School of Nursing, students enjoy the benefits of online, in-person, or hybrid learning formats, student organizations, high-quality simulation labs, and networking opportunities.
Undergraduate Programs: The BSN program at Colorado State University teaches students the holistic synthesis of person, health, and environment. There are also courses designed especially for working RNs who want to complete their degrees. The RN (ADN) to BSN and RN (ADN) to MS programs are online courses that the students can take without letting their work schedule affect education and vice-versa.
Graduate Programs: The MS-Nurse Practitioner, Nurse manager, and Leader, and MS-Nurse Educator are online courses with in-person clinical postings that help students master evidence-based practice, ethical decision making, and use of technology as they provide advanced nursing care.
Similarly, the DNP program exists for those seeking a terminal degree in nursing. This is an innovative, inter/intra-professional education that focuses on evidence-based healthcare.
#5 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Regis University-Choice
Loretto Heights School of Nursing
- 3333 Regis Blvd, Denver, CO - 80221-1099
- (800) 388-2366
- Programs: Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to MSN
At Regis University Loretto Heights School of Nursing, all students are taught to think logically, critically, and creatively to formulate a global view of nursing and healthcare. The University has been ranked as one of the best in the country and rightly so.
Nursing students at Loretto Heights School of Nursing, Regis University learn in a dynamic and collaborative environment and practice all the necessary nursing skills required in their career as a nurse in the high-fidelity simulation health center. Here nursing students learn alongside physical therapy, pharmacy, and counseling students and learn to integrate interprofessionalism into practice. Students also gain hands-on experiences in community, institutional, research and other healthcare settings under the guidance of experienced faculty members.
Graduates from Loretto Heights School of Nursing are known for their knowledge, competence, compassion, ethics, leadership abilities, commitment to social justice, and community service.
Undergraduate Programs: In addition to a traditional and accelerated approach to BSN, the Loretto Heights School of Nursing also offers a CHOICE BSN program (Connecting Health Occupations with Innovative Curriculum Experiences). This program allows working students to take night and weekend classes to complete their BSN degree and open doors to a multitude of opportunities.
There is also an RN to BSN completion degree that is offered online for current RNs.
Graduate Programs: Students can choose from a plethora of MSN courses at Regis University, including an RN to MSN dual degree program. This program allows students to gain both their undergraduate and master's degree in Nursing: Leadership in Health Care Systems in just three years.
Similarly, the traditional DNP and the Post-BSN to DNP dual degree programs allow nurses to become competent enough to change healthcare policies and nursing as a profession upon completion.
In addition to these programs, the university also offers multiple post-masters and graduate certificates such as FNP, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Health Care Education, and others.
#6 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Adams State University
- 208 Edgemont Blvd, Alamosa, CO - 81101
- (719) 587-7011
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
#7 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Metropolitan State University of Denver (TNO)
- Speer Blvd and Colfax Ave, Denver, CO - 80217-3362
- (303) 556-3058
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Metropolitan State University of Denver is located in Denver, Colorado. They offer various BSN choices: a traditional nursing option (TNO), an accelerated nursing option (ANO) and baccalaureate registered nurse completion option (BRNCO). The ANO option is designed for students with a previous bachelor's degree (non-nursing) and the BRNCO option is designed or students already holding an ADN degree and RN license.
#8 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Colorado Mesa University - Traditional
- 1100 North Avenue, Grand Junction, CO - 81501-3122
- (970) 248-1020
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP
#9 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Denver College of Nursing
- 1401 19th St, Denver, CO - 80202
- (303) 292-0015
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, MSN
Denver College of Nursing provides its students with quality nursing education through a faculty of highly-trained dedicated professionals and multiple hands-on experiences. Focused solely on nursing education, this college allocates all its resources from finances to infrastructure to prepare competent, professional nurses.
Students at Denver College of Nursing engage in multiple in-person experiences that provide them with all kinds of learning experiences such as SNA, community service, service-learning, and GHP. The college has various learning facilities like a skills lab and clinical classes at healthcare facilities on top of traditional classes with small student sizes. The college also provides multiple financial aids and scholarships tailored to the needs of each individual student.
Students can choose to attend the college in person or enroll in online classes as per their choice of program and work.
Undergraduate Programs: Denver Nursing College offers an 18-month long ADN program, an in-person program that includes both didactic and clinical components. The students are considered eligible to take their NCLEX-RN exam upon the completion of this program. Similarly, the BSN degree is another of their in-person degrees that is also composed of both didactic and clinical components. In addition to these, there is an online RN to BSN option designed for working RNs by competent nurse educators.
Graduate Programs: Their MSN program can be taken online, and it is a great course for RNs who wish to advance their education to become nurse leaders and educators.
#10 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Colorado Christian University
School of Nursing and Health Professions
- 8787 West Alameda Avenue, Lakewood, CO - 80226
- (303) 963-3000
- Programs: Nurse Educator, Nursing Administration, Registered Nursing, Research or Clinical Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN
Colorado Christian University is located in Lakewood, Colorado. They offer a pre-license BSN program (designed for students without a nursing degree) and an RN to BSN program, which is offered online. This program is offered online as a courtesy to its students, so that they do not have to travel to class as these students often have busy lives.
At Colorado Christian University, nursing students are taught to be competent, compassionate, and moral leaders who can make a positive impact and transform healthcare. At the university, the students are trained while upholding the teachings and values of Christianity. The nursing profession at CCU is a scientific discipline along with a sacred calling.
Many of the CCU's nursing pathways are available online, and the university even provides some scholarships for simply transferring the credits to an online program. With more than 9000 students attending the university, CCU ensures that no student has to turn away from education because of their financial situation by providing almost 90% of the students with some kind of financial aid and scholarship. Alumni graduating from this top-ranked university have nothing but good things to say about their educational experience while at Colorado Christian University.
Undergraduate Program: CCU offers three pathways for the completion of a BSN degree which include a traditional BSN pathway, a BSN Adult Student Pathway for adult students with a high school diploma or GED, and an online RN to BSN degree completion pathway for working RNs.
Graduate Programs: For nurses who already have a bachelor's degree, the two-year MSN program that is available online is a perfect choice as it allows the students to work while studying.
Finally, the online DNP program is the best fit for nurses who want to become nurse practitioners, nurse administrators, healthcare leaders, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse educators. This practice-focused degree is aimed to prepare experts in specialized advanced nursing practice.
#11 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Platt College-Aurora
- 3100 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO - 80014-3141
- (303) 369-5151
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
Online Nursing Programs for Colorado Students
Many prospective Colorado nursing students wonder if they can complete an accredited online nursing program while living in the state. The good news is several online options are available, often through top-ranked national universities.
Always confirm if the online nursing school accepts Colorado students into their program and if it meets approval standards set by the Colorado Board of Nursing.
When researching online nursing programs in Colorado, look for options that match your schedule and commitments. See if the virtual campus delivers interactive lectures, simulated clinical labs, supervised clinical placements, and dedicated student advising.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs
For career changers and those with an existing bachelor’s degree in another field, Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs offer the fastest route to become a registered nurse. These intensive 12-18 month curriculums immerse students in rigorous nursing coursework and hands-on clinical training.
The typical ABSN program structure covers:
- Prerequisites: General education credits like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and others usually required for admission
- Nursing Foundations: Fundamentals, health assessment, pharmacology
- Advanced Nursing Concepts: Specialty topics and nursing management/leadership
- 600-700 Supervised Clinical Hours: Across medical/surgical, critical care, mental health and other nursing fields
Upon completing all required credits and clinical training, graduates can take the NCLEX-RN exam for nursing licensure in Colorado. Programs publish NCLEX first-time pass rate data in their outcomes reports.
The fast pace and academic intensity makes time management abilities, stress resilience, study skills, and clinical competency extremely important for any ABSN student. Having realistic expectations along with academic and personal support systems set nursing graduates on a direct path to success.
RN to BSN Programs
Have you graduated from an ADN program? Already a licensed RN? Earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree offers RNs expanded career options, eligibility for more advanced nursing roles, and potentially higher salaries. Diploma or Associate Degree RNs can upgrade their education through flexible RN to BSN completion programs, many available online.
Here are some of the top nursing schools in Colorado that offer top-rated RN to BSN programs:
Best RN to BSN Schools in Colorado
RN to BSN programs provide the additional credits, expanded knowledge, enhanced clinical judgement and leadership skills needed to excel as a professional registered nurse. Courses build upon prior nursing education with topics like:
- Community Health Nursing
- Health Promotion Across the Lifespan
- Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
- Health Policy, Ethics, and Legal Issues
When evaluating RN to BSN nursing school options, look for established universities with generous transfer credit acceptance and dedicated nursing advisors. Confirm if they give credit for past Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or diploma registered nursing coursework. This allows RNs to graduate faster, usually within 1-2 years.
Online program formats offer flexibility for busy nurses through asynchronous courses that fit around work schedules. Look for affordable RN to BSN programs that offer school scholarships or are eligible for external nursing scholarships and reimbursement programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program. Investing in an RN to BSN can truly expand opportunities in this growing nursing career.
Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Those ready to advance into top-tier nursing roles often pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. The MSN opens doors to prestigious and high salary positions like Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Midwives, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse Anesthetists and Nursing Administrators or Educators.
When researching MSN programs, look closely at the specializations offered to ensure they align with your desired nursing career. Common MSN tracks include:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
- Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) – with population focus area
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
MSN degrees generally take 2-3 years to complete post-bachelor’s, with variations by program and enrollment format. Many MSN programs blend online coursework with in-person skills intensives and faculty-supervised clinical rotations. Expect 500+ hours of hands-on clinical practice in patient care settings like hospitals, clinics, private practices or telehealth platforms.
Due to popularity of nursing graduate degrees, MSN programs can be highly competitive with enrollment caps. Tips for getting into a top MSN nursing program often include:
- Earning High GPA – 3.2+ GPA is common
- Submitting Competitive GRE Scores
- Having 2+ Years of RN Experience
- Securing Strong Letters of Recommendation
- Conveying Clear Goals in Admissions Essays
Investing in an MSN degree for specialized nursing practice takes dedication but pays dividends through increased autonomy in patient care delivery paired with an average nationwide salary bump of $30,000+ per year.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Colorado
Nurse Practitioner roles are one of the most popular Master’s of Nursing specializations due to the clinical autonomy, flexible work settings, robust career outlook, and excellent salaries they offer. NPs hold an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license and work in primary or specialty care environments.
Here are the schools that offer high-quality NP programs:
Best NP Schools in Colorado
NPs take medical histories, diagnose health conditions, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications and develop patient treatment plans fairly independently. This requires a blend of academic coursework and 500-1,000 supervised clinical hours learning advanced assessment skills and practice protocols.
The typical length of Colorado nurse practitioner programs depends on enrollment format:
- Full-time: Usually 2 years post-bachelor’s
- Part-time: Around 3 years for working nurses
- Post-master’s NP certificate: 12-18 months for nurses who already hold an MSN
All NP students must collaborate with a designated physician or experienced NP to discuss complex patient cases as needed. This ensures new NPs develop excellent clinical judgement before independent practice authority.
There are many NP population foci options in adult/geriatric health, family health, pediatrics, women’s health, emergency nursing, mental health and more. Graduates take a national NP certification exam aligned with their specialization before credentialing in Colorado.
Becoming an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse through a CCNE/ACEN-accredited MSN Nurse Practitioner Program means vastly expanded career opportunities delivering compassionate, evidence-based nursing care.
Doctoral Nursing Programs (DNP & Ph.D.)
For MSN-prepared nurses seeking the highest level of clinical knowledge, practical experience, and leadership influence, doctoral nursing pathways offer rewarding challenges.
The two main nursing doctorate options are:
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): The DNP prepares elite nursing clinicians for specializations like nurse anesthetists, midwives, and advanced clinical nurse specialists. The 3-4-year curriculum covers emerging healthcare theories, organizational leadership competencies, and a culminating Evidence-Based Practice Project. Expect over 1,000 supervised clinical hours.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing: Nurses pursuing academic research roles or university nursing faculty positions complete intensive Ph.D. programs focused on research methodology and intensive dissertation work. Many PhD students secure faculty mentorship, conduct original studies, and apply for dissertation funding during 4+ years of doctoral coursework.
When evaluating competitive DNP and PhD nursing programs, look for established research universities with high rankings and CCNE accreditation. Consider faculty specialties that align with your nursing interests, funding for doctoral candidates like scholarship or research grants, and practical learning opportunities through organizational partnerships or residency options.
Investing in a terminal degree like these nursing doctorates means leveraging advanced expertise to shape the future of nursing science, practice, and education.
Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Colorado
Along with nationally high demand, Colorado offers nurses competitive salaries, stunningly beautiful locations to live/work and, a wide variety of clinical settings.
The Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence reports consistent, significant nursing shortages across the state, especially in specialty areas like labor & delivery, operating rooms, emergency care, intensive care, and ambulatory clinic settings. Nurses can truly create meaningful change through knowledge, dedication, and compassionate care.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Colorado nurses earned a strong median annual wage of $80,800 as of 2021. This outpaces national averages.
Nursing graduates have opportunities to launch their careers in world-class healthcare organizations like UCHealth, HealthOne, Centura Health, Kaiser Permanente, Veterans Health Administration, Denver Indian Health Services, academic medical centers, and cutting-edge specialty clinics.
Whether drawn to the innovative city scenes of Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins or the charming mountain towns of Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge, nurses at all degree levels find rewarding career paths aligned with lifestyle goals.
How to Earn Your Colorado Nursing License
Once you complete a State Board of Nursing-approved Registered Nursing education program, follow these primary steps to officially credential as an RN within Colorado:
1. Apply for RN Licensure
- Submit Colorado RN licensure application form and fee
- Complete criminal background check
- Send official nursing program transcripts
2. Register for NCLEX
- Register with Pearson VUE testing service
- Pay exam registration fee
- Receive Authority to Test letter
3. Pass NCLEX Exam
- Schedule exam date at Colorado testing center
- Take computerized exam, typically 75-145 questions
- Pass benchmark for minimum nursing competency
4. Obtain Colorado RN License
- Once you pass the NCLEX, the testing company reports your score to the Colorado Board of Nursing
- Your RN license number should be emailed within 1 business day
- Keep license active through timely renewals
Then you’re ready to start applying for registered nursing jobs as a valued Colorado nurse!
Find Nursing Schools
Join a Top-Ranked Nursing School for a Life-Changing Career!
Finding the Right Nursing School in Colorado
With nursing remaining one of the most trusted and meaningful professions, taking time to find the best-fit nursing school for your goals and learning style is essential during this important journey.
Here are top factors to evaluate when researching nursing schools in Colorado:
Accreditation
Confirm the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) approves the nursing program. This hands-on oversight and accountability ensure rigorous quality standards are continually met. Unaccredited programs do not qualify graduates for RN licensing. Moreover, the program should also be approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing and the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
NCLEX Pass Rates
The culminating National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) tests the minimum competencies expected of newly licensed registered nurses. Research the best Colorado nursing schools require students to pass practice NCLEX exams at certain scoring benchmarks before approving them for final licensure testing. High 1st-time pass rates indicate effective nursing program preparation.
Tuition Costs & Scholarship Availability
While investing in an accredited nursing education has invaluable lifelong returns, carefully evaluate program costs against expected salaries post-graduation. Many Colorado nursing schools offer institution grants and scholarships or participate in federal Student Loan Forgiveness programs. Also research external scholarships and reimbursement programs like NURSE Corps and others highlighted by the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA).
Clinical Rotation Opportunities
Choose a nursing program that have established partnerships with the major healthcare systems, specialty clinics, and community health networks desired for future employment. Some nursing program offers partnership with hospitals in Colorado. Broad clinical rotation options let nursing students experience diverse real-world environments to find their best scope fit. Preceptor programs also foster valuable mentorships. These are the skills needed for a successful nursing career.
Student-to-Faculty Ratios
While online modules certainly have a place in modern learning, nursing remains deeply rooted in human connections. Beyond checking rankings, learn how large core nursing classes are and expected clinical group sizes. High instructor attention through lower Student-to-Faculty ratios provide needed support, especially when balancing the demands of advanced nursing curriculums. On-campus academic advising and tutoring resources also ease success.
Doing thoughtful research helps find the right accredited nursing program for your needs and professional aspirations. The rewarding journey to become a Colorado nurse starts with a first step grounded in facts.
Getting Licensed as an RN in Colorado
Once you graduate from an approved Registered Nurse (RN) diploma, Associate or Bachelor’s degree program in Colorado, follow formal steps to earn your license in Colorado. This grants legal authority to provide competent nursing care under set standards and scopes.
Licensure Steps in Colorado
We covered key licensing milestones earlier, but let’s revisit primary steps:
- Finish Board of Nursing-approved RN program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN national exam
- Apply for RN license with State
- Renew license every 2 years to remain active
Earning an initial Colorado registered nursing license ensures you meet minimum competencies for safe, ethical care in various healthcare settings before advancing your career.
In-Demand Specializations
While nursing shortages impact hospitals statewide, certain specialties seem to need RNs and advanced nurses most. Be open-minded during clinical rotations and early career scope exposure before specializing further.
In-demand nursing specialization options likely include:
- Emergency Room / Trauma Care Nurses
- Intensive / Critical Care Nurses
- Labor & Delivery / Maternity Nurses
- Operating Room / PeriOperative Nurses
- Oncology / Cancer Care Nurses
Later in your career, experienced nurses can continue specializing through future Master’s degrees, Doctorates or industry-specific certifications.
Job Outlook & Salaries for Colorado Nurses
The State continues experiencing RN shortages as over 52% of the nursing workforce nears retirement age combined with expanding healthcare demands from an aging population. This fuels very high job security and strengthening salary growth.
As of 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Colorado employs around 60,000 Registered Nurses earning an average, mean wage of $80,800. This outpaces national median salaries.
Nursing remains a meaningful way to provide compassionate care while pursuing a well-compensated, flexible and stable career. BSN or higher prepared nurses also open doors to leadership roles positively shaping modern healthcare through innovation and vision.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Colorado
What kinds of nursing professionals work in Colorado?
Colorado has a wide range of nursing professionals, including registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and more. Major employers of nursing professionals in the state include hospitals, physician offices, nursing homes, schools, and home health agencies.
How does the Colorado Nurses Association and state regulations impact nurses in Colorado?
The Colorado Nurses Association (CNA) serves as the professional association and advocate for nurses in the state. All nurses must meet licensure and regulation standards set by the Colorado Board of Nursing to legally work in healthcare settings. Colorado is also part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing nurses registered in the state to practice in other compact states. Nurses must uphold high standards in skills, ethics, and continuing education throughout their careers.
How is the nursing profession regulated for those working in Colorado hospitals?
In order to legally practice as a nurse in Colorado hospitals and healthcare settings, professionals must hold an active registered nursing license approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing. This requires meeting strict educational, testing, and renewal standards set by the Department of Regulatory Agencies. Nurses must also uphold the surgical nursing concepts and ethical codes that provide the foundation for safe, high-quality patient care.
Should I choose an online RN to BSN or an applied science in nursing degree?
Both pathways have their advantages. Online RN to BSN programs allow current RNs to continue working while earning their Bachelor’s degree. Applied science in nursing (ASN) degrees that lead to an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) typically take 2-3 years to complete but allow graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN sooner. Evaluating program cost, flexibility, and career goals can help choose the best nursing degree.
What types of nursing careers build on an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing?
An AAS in nursing is a common stepping stone to becoming a registered nurse. After passing the NCLEX-RN exam, those with an AAS can work in diverse nursing roles and environments. Many choose to continue their education through RN to BSN or RN to MSN programs for advancement. An AAS also qualifies graduates to pursue specialized nursing certifications.
How can advancing my nursing degree improve my patient care and nursing skills?
Earning an advanced nursing degree such as a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can expand critical thinking skills, leadership capabilities, and evidence-based knowledge to enhance patient care. Coursework emphasizes up-to-date best practices in nursing assessment, intervention, technology, quality improvement, and more. With an advanced degree, nurses gain expertise to take on greater responsibilities and make meaningful impacts through patient care skills.
More of the Best Nursing Schools in Colorado
|
Grade
|
University
|
Colorado Rank
|
Degree
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 83.13 | Platt College-Aurora | 10 | BSN |
Ranking Methodology and Data Sources
- Ranking Methodology
- University Webpages
- Colorado Board of Nursing
- Department of Education’s College Scorecard
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings
- Bureau of Labor Statistics Salary Data
- Department of Labor Projected Employment
- Bureau of Economic Analysis Cost of Living Data
