The Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs

The Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs

Nurses have abundant prospects to elevate their careers and augment their earnings. For instance, registered nurses (RNs) can attain credentials as nurse practitioners (NPs), granting them greater autonomy and responsibility in their nursing practice. RN-to-MSN programs emerge as a preferred route for ADN-educated nurses seeking career advancement in Colorado. Delve into details about the top Colorado RN-to-MSN programs available today.

In Colorado, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) necessitate a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to qualify for their role. RNs holding an associate degree can expedite their educational journey by enrolling in an RN-to-MSN program, providing them with advanced education and training. This comprehensive guide not only outlines the finest RN-to-MSN programs in Colorado but also furnishes valuable insights into the application process and expectations. Our data-driven approach facilitates the ranking of these programs based on key metrics, such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

A Quick Overview: Premier Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs

1. University of Northern Colorado
2. Regis University
3. Colorado Mesa University
4. Colorado State University-Pueblo

For a more in-depth understanding of the critical factors to weigh when selecting a program, peruse our detailed ranking of the best Colorado RN-to-MSN programs.

How Do Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs Work?

RN-to-MSN programs in Colorado serve as a crucial bridge, enabling the transition from an ADN to a master’s degree. Consequently, these programs integrate advanced nursing coursework and a rigorous curriculum.

Institutions may present both full-time and part-time program options, with the duration spanning from 24 to 48 months. Students can opt for online, on-campus, or hybrid programs, accommodating diverse schedules.

Nursing in Colorado: Requirements, Licensing, and Salary Outlook

As part of the master’s program, candidates select specializations like family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or adult-gerontology nurse practitioner. The curriculum encompasses coursework at both bachelor’s and master’s levels, delving into subjects such as nursing theory and research. Mandatory supervised clinical hours, aligning with state requirements, constitute an integral component of the program.

Spotlight on Featured Online RN-to-MSN in Nursing Programs

For detailed information on program start dates, credit transfer policies, financial aid availability, and more, connect with the universities mentioned below.

Navigating the Application Process for Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs

Embarking on an application to an RN-to-MSN program in Colorado mandates a demonstration of prior academic and career experiences indicative of an aptitude for handling advanced coursework. While specific admission requirements vary among programs, a common baseline typically includes possession of an ADN and an active RN license.

Essential Admission Materials
– Official transcript from an accredited ADN program
– Current and unencumbered RN license
– Usually, at least two letters of recommendation
– A personal statement or essay

GPA Requirement
– Typically, a minimum 3.0 GPA in undergraduate coursework
– Some schools might accept a 2.5-2.75 GPA, with specific minimum grades for science or statistics courses

Additional Requirements
– Some programs necessitate a minimum of one year of work experience
– International students often must submit English language test scores

Why Is Colorado RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?

When contemplating an RN-to-MSN program in Colorado, accreditation emerges as a critical factor. Accreditation ensures that schools and academic programs deliver a high-quality education. Accreditation agencies, serving as impartial evaluators, independently assess programs and confer accreditation status upon those adequately preparing students for their professional journeys.

Many state boards exclusively recognize candidates who have graduated from accredited programs. Additionally, employers typically prioritize applicants with accredited degrees. For those contemplating further education, graduate schools often stipulate completion of accredited programs in prerequisite education requirements.

Absence of accreditation serves as a warning signal. Hence, all RN-to-MSN programs featured in this ranking boast accreditation.

The Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs and Schools

The information presented here relies on publicly accessible provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). As of the publication date, all data is current. However, program-specific details may exhibit variations.

#1 University of Northern Colorado

Location: Greeley, CO
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

The family nurse practitioner program at the University of Northern Colorado stands out, not necessitating a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or an RN license for enrollment. Students lacking these prerequisites can attain equivalent qualifications during their studies. Applicants must have completed an undergraduate research and physical assessment course, making this a program beyond the entry level. The hybrid format facilitates mostly online coursework with occasional on-campus components. Throughout the program, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA.

Program(s): Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus: Greeley, CO
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $649 per credit hour for Colorado residents; $1,217 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA (if the student has at least 18 graduate credits, a 3.0 in graduate studies); two references
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.2%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $93,076 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $7,596
Out-of-state: $19,854
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $10,867
Out-of-state: $19,620
Retention Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 88%
Students Enrolled: 11,460
Institution Type: Public
Percentage of Online Enrollment: 83%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#2 Regis University

Location: Denver, CO
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Regis University stands as a leading institution for RN-to-MSN programs in Colorado, featuring a family nurse practitioner program tailored for working students. Classes are conducted throughout the day, once a week, accommodating the busy schedules of working professionals. Regis University offers both on-campus classes and an out-of-state option with synchronous online classes, focusing on rural and underserved populations. However, students from Oregon, Louisiana, New York, or North Dakota are ineligible for this format. Clinical experiences for students in Colorado’s Front Range region are mandatory and take place at designated locations. This comprehensive program entails 48 credits and 630 clinical hours for successful completion.

Program(s): Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus: Denver, CO
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $910 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a 2.75 GPA; completion of an undergraduate statistics class; possession of a current and unencumbered RN license; AHA Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; while two years of RN experience are recommended, three references are required
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.2%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $86,621 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $38,208
Out-of-state: $38,208
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $14,322
Out-of-state: $14,322
Retention Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 78%
Students Enrolled: 6,310
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 66%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#3 Colorado Mesa University

Location: Grand Junction, CO
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Colorado Mesa University takes pride in its master of science in nursing programs, specifically designed for family nurse practitioners and nurse educators. These programs primarily operate online, offering flexibility for working students, with occasional in-person intensive sessions. A noteworthy aspect is the requirement for learners to maintain a 3.0 GPA, with coursework below this threshold not counting towards the 47 required credits. Students are actively engaged in Goals-Needs-Objectives-Methods-Evaluation (GNOME) service learning projects, collaborating with community organizations. Family nurse practitioner students are tasked with completing 700 clinical hours and a capstone project, while nurse education students complete 250 clinical hours and 36 credit hours.

Program(s): Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner; Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Education
Campus: Grand Junction, CO
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $618 per credit for Colorado residents and online learners; $927 per credit for all other students
Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a 3.0 GPA; current and unencumbered RN license; three references; submission of a professional writing sample, such as a published manuscript, grant application, or scholarly paper
Minimum Time Commitment: 27 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80.5%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $7,787
Out-of-state: $21,336
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $9,000
Out-of-state: $13,500
Retention Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 75%
Students Enrolled: 9,110
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 62%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

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#4 Colorado State University-Pueblo

Location: Pueblo, CO
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Colorado State University-Pueblo distinguishes itself with its nursing school offering both nurse practitioner and nurse educator programs. The nurse practitioner programs provide three distinct options: adult-gerontology acute care, adult-gerontology acute care/family, and psychiatric mental health. Admission preference is granted to students from southern Colorado and CSU graduates. While the nurse practitioner program follows a hybrid format, incorporating some on-campus components, the nurse educator program is exclusively online. Graduation requirements include passing a comprehensive oral examination or completing a research thesis. It’s noteworthy that while the MSN program holds accreditation, the doctor of nursing practice program is still a candidate for accreditation, a consideration for those contemplating immediate pursuit of a doctorate after graduation.

Program(s): Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; MSN – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Family Nurse Practitioner; MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Campus: Pueblo, CO
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $479 per credit hour for Colorado residents; $1117 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a 3.0 GPA; completion of undergraduate courses in statistics, chemistry, and microbiology with a “C” grade; ability to obtain a current and unencumbered Colorado RN license by the end of the first semester; three references; possession of healthcare provider CPR certification; while one year of experience as an RN is preferred, it is not mandatory
Minimum Time Commitment: 27 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.9%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $96,539 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $6,349
Out-of-state: $12,907
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $5,651
Out-of-state: $16,803
Retention Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 5,925
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 89%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs

How long does it take to go from an RN to MSN in Colorado?

The duration of an RN-to-MSN program in Colorado varies based on factors such as part-time, full-time, accelerated, online, or on-campus options. While some students may graduate in 24-27 months, comprehensive programs typically span four years.

Is completing an RN-to-MSN worth it in Colorado?

In the growing field of nursing in the U.S., including Colorado, completing an RN-to-MSN is deemed worthwhile. Projections Central labor market figures indicate a potential 43% increase in the nurse practitioner profession from 2020 to 2030, providing ample opportunities for career advancement and increased income.

How much do MSN nurses make in Colorado?

Nurse practitioners in Colorado earn an average annual salary of $112,580, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Higher-income opportunities are often found in larger cities, with metro areas such as Boulder, Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, and Pueblo reporting average salaries surpassing $114,000.

What can nurses do with an MSN in Colorado?

Nurses holding an MSN in Colorado assume roles as advanced practice nurses or nurse practitioners, operating with greater autonomy than their RN counterparts. Additionally, an MSN opens doors to positions in nursing education or leadership. Some graduates further their education by pursuing a doctorate in nursing.