The Top Nursing Schools in Colorado

The Top Nursing Schools in Colorado

Colorado experiences a higher projected growth rate for nurses compared to the national average. Explore the state’s requirements and consider these leading schools to embark on your nursing journey. If you seek a tax-friendly state with breathtaking natural scenery and a wholesome lifestyle, Colorado could be your ideal destination. Cities in the state host high-performing hospitals and healthcare organizations, creating an appealing environment for working nurses.

The presence of world-class skiing and outdoor recreation encourages nurses to maintain a healthy work-life balance, preventing burnout. Just beyond Denver and south of Fort Collins lies Rocky Mountain National Park, a haven for diverse wildlife. Museums, professional sports, and abundant shopping and dining options make Colorado an attractive place for almost everyone.

This page delves into the process of becoming a nurse in Colorado, explores the job outlook for nurses, and provides information on RN salaries in Colorado. Continue reading to discover more about the premier nursing schools in Colorado and how to choose the program that aligns with your goals.

The Best Nursing Schools in Colorado

Only you can determine the optimal nursing program in Colorado that suits your needs. This guide furnishes essential criteria to aid your comparison of nursing schools, encompassing graduation rates, tuition, time commitments, and admission prerequisites. Since accreditation is crucial for obtaining your nursing license, the listed schools are all accredited nursing institutions in Colorado.

Our Ranking Methodology: We employ a data-driven approach to rank the best nursing schools in Colorado, simplifying the process of finding a suitable program. Our methodology hinges on key metrics we deem vital for students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Utilizing publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) informs the data for these schools. All information is current as of the publication date of this article, and program-specific details may vary.

 The Top Nursing Schools in Colorado

#1 Morgan Community College

Fort Morgan, CO
4 years
Online + Campus

Morgan Community College, situated in Fort Morgan, offers several of the finest nursing programs in Colorado. Students have the option to pursue an LPN-to-RN, RN-to-BSN, or associate degree in nursing (ADN) program.

– Program(s): LPN-to-RN; RN-to-BSN; ADN
– Type: Public
– Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $244-$363 per credit for in-state learners; $457-$657 per credit for out-of-state learners
– Admission Requirements: LPN-to-RN enrollees require an active unencumbered practical nurse license in Colorado or a compact state
– Minimum Time Commitment: N/A
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.9% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,990 for associate degree-holders, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $3,680
– Out-of-state: $15,102
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
– Retention Rate: Not provided
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 1,376
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 68%
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#2 Regis University

Denver, CO
4 years
Online + Campus

Regis University, a Jesuit Catholic college in Denver, offers the 120-credit bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) on campus during the day. Transfer students can complete the degree in just two years.

– Program: BSN
– Type: Private
– Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $20,233 per semester
– Admission Requirements: High school diploma; a minimum cumulative 2.75 GPA; and prerequisite coursework
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.2% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,140 for bachelor’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 Aims Community College

Greeley, CO
2 years
Online + Campus

Aims Community College boasts one of the premier nursing schools in Colorado. Students can complete the AAS in nursing on the Greeley, Fort Lupton, or Loveland campus, requiring full-time enrollment.

– Program: AAS in nursing
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
– Tuition: $7,817-$12,532 total tuition for in-state learners; $36,870 total tuition for out-of-state learners
– Admission Requirements: High school transcripts; prerequisite coursework; and HESI test scores
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.5% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,990 for associate degree-holders, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $2,544
– Out-of-state: $10,200
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
– Retention Rate: 52%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled

: 5,981
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 83%
– Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#4 University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, CO
4 years
Online + Campus

University of Northern Colorado, located in Greeley, offers a nine-semester bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Students can opt for a traditional or second bachelor’s degree track, both requiring full-time, on-campus attendance.

– Program: BSN
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $10,947 per semester for in-state learners; $21,246 per semester for out-of-state learners
– Admission Requirements: School transcripts; prerequisite nursing courses; a minimum cumulative 3.3 GPA; and HESI test scores
– Minimum Time Commitment: Nine semesters
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.2% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,990 for bachelor’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

#5 Colorado Mesa University

Grand Junction, CO
4 years
Online + Campus

Colorado Mesa University provides a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) with three tracks: traditional RN route, RN-to-BSN, or LPN-to-BSN. The BSN prepares all enrollees to meet state licensing requirements.

– Program(s): BSN; online RN-to-BSN; LPN-to-BSN
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: RN-to-BSN: $322 per credit
– Admission Requirements: RN-to-BSN: An associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited program; minimum 2.5 GPA; prerequisite courses
– Minimum Time Commitment: RN-to-BSN: 18 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes, for traditional BSN and LPN-to-BSN students
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80.5% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,750 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– 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

#6 Trinidad State Junior College

Trinidad, CO
2 years
Online + Campus

Trinidad State Junior College offers an array of nursing programs on its Trinidad and Alamosa campuses, providing students with diverse pathways to one of the best nursing programs in Colorado. Prospective nurses can opt for the associate degree in nursing (ADN), BSN through dual enrollment, PN certificate-exit, or LPN-to-ADN option.

The ADN program, leading to an AAS with 64.5 credits, includes courses in nursing fundamentals, maternal-child nursing, and medical-surgical nursing concepts. Noteworthy is the program’s outstanding 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.

Program(s): ADN; BSN through dual enrollment; PN certificate-exit; LPN-to-ADN option
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $247 per credit for in-state learners; $255 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: ADN: High school or GED diploma; Accuplacer scores; and prerequisite coursework
Minimum Time Commitment: ADN: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,850 for associate degree-holders, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,680
– Out-of-state: $6,135
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 64%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,404
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 17%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#7 University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO
4 years
Online + Campus

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs offers a comprehensive master of science in nursing (MSN) program designed for RNs with 1-2 years of experience. This program includes an MSN core, an advanced practice core, and specialized classes in either adult/gerontology or family majors.

This flexible nursing program in Colorado provides options for nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist specialties, and all graduate courses are completed online.

Program: MSN
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $770 per credit for in-state learners; $770 for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: Accredited bachelor’s degree in nursing; minimum 3.0 GPA; unrestricted RN license in the state where clinicals will be completed
Minimum Time Commitment: N/A
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.9% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $92,360 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $9,208
– Out-of-state: $19,572
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $13,918
– Out-of-state: $25,774
Retention Rate: 71%
Admission Rate: 90%
Students Enrolled: 12,380
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 46%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#8 Northeastern Junior College

Sterling, CO
2 years
Online + Campus

Northeastern Junior College, located in Sterling, presents a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN) program. After the initial year, students have the option to pursue the practical nursing (PN) certificate-exit, allowing them to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam.

For licensed practical nurses, Northeastern offers an advanced placement option for entry into one of the best nursing programs in Colorado.

Program(s): ADN; PN certificate-exit; LPN to associate advanced placement option
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $177-$255 per credit for in-state learners
Admission Requirements: ADN: Prerequisite courses and a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: ADN: Four semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 76.2% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $4,601
– Out-of-state: $6,902
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,293
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 20%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#9 Community College of Aurora

Aurora, CO
2 years
Online + Campus

The Community College of Aurora, situated in Denver, offers a patient care technician (PCT) program designed to prepare certified nursing assistants (CNAs). This program involves lectures and exercises in a simulation lab, coupled with 30 hours of practical experience in a clinical setting. Graduates of the PCT program qualify to sit for the Colorado nurse’s aide certification exam, and additional phlebotomist coursework is also available.

Program(s): PCT: Certified Nursing Assistant; Phlebotomy
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $1,206 for CNA certificate
Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; SAT or ACT scores
Minimum Time Commitment: Two semesters for the entire patient care technician program
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,680
– Out-of-state: $15,102
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 52%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 7,835
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 25%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#10 Otero Junior College

La Junta, CO
2 years
Campus

Otero Junior College, recognized as one of the best nursing schools in Colorado, offers an associate of applied science (AAS) in nursing with two distinct tracks. Full-time students can complete the full AAS program in two years, preparing them for state RN licensure.

Alternatively, students can opt for the AAS degree’s practical nursing (PN) certificate-exit option, completing the program in two semesters and qualifying for the state practical nursing exam.

Program(s): AAS in Nursing; Practical Nursing Certificate-Exit Option
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $247 per credit for in-state learners; $255 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: AAS: High school or GED diploma; prerequisite coursework; minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-4 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $3,680
– Out-of-state: $6,136
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,216
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 28%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Colorado

When evaluating nursing programs in Colorado, consider the school’s acceptance rate, a key factor influencing your chances of admission. A higher acceptance percentage increases your likelihood of being admitted. Additionally, assess the NCLEX-RN pass rate, as it reflects the school’s efficacy in preparing students for their nursing careers.

Achieving the right balance between educational quality and program cost is crucial. While considering tuition, explore various financial aid options. The Colorado Nurses Association offers several nursing scholarships, and colleges typically provide information about external scholarships not administered by the institution.

Many nursing programs in Colorado offer online options to accommodate working students. However, it’s essential to note that despite online coursework, in-person clinical requirements align with state accreditation standards.

Clinical opportunities differ based on the program and licensure status. First-year nursing students often receive assistance in securing clinical placements, while advanced online nursing programs may necessitate students finding their own clinical settings, subject to school approval.

The duration of your nursing program in Colorado depends on the degree pursued. Full-time students can complete an associate degree in nursing (ADN) in two years, while a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) typically takes four years.

Why Become a Nurse in Colorado

Beyond its appealing recreational attractions, Colorado boasts 13 Magnet Hospital designations, a testament to nursing excellence recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

The 2020 NCLEX-RN pass rate in Colorado surpasses the national average by 4%, indicating the high quality of nursing education in the state.

Although Colorado isn’t a right-to-work state, the Labor Peace Act establishes fair workplace conduct standards, ensuring most employees enjoy comparable compensation and benefits to union members.

While mandatory nurse-to-patient ratios haven’t been enacted in Colorado, the Colorado Nurses Association emphasizes principles for nurse staffing, including the importance of nurse input, staffing guidelines with measurable outcomes, needs based on various factors, and initiatives promoting flexible staffing and teamwork.

Colorado’s inclusion in the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses to hold a multistate license, enabling practice in their home state and other participating NLC states.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Colorado

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Colorado ranks 16th nationally for registered nurse (RN) salary, with an average annual salary of $80,670 among its 51,680 employed RNs. The state also holds the 18th position in the cost-of-living index.

Projections Central anticipates job growth rates for RNs and nurse practitioners (NPs) in Colorado to be comparable to or higher than the national average, positioning the state as the second fastest-growing for these professions in the U.S.

Highest Paying Cities for Nurses in Colorado

Some of the top-paying metropolitan areas in Colorado include Boulder, Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, Fort Collins, Pueblo, and Colorado Springs, with median salaries ranging from $76,930 to $85,020, according to the BLS.

High-Paying Cities in Colorado

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Boulder	$85,020
Denver-Aurora-Lakewood	$82,860
Fort Collins	$78,660
Pueblo	$76,930
Colorado Springs	$78,520

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Colorado

Several pathways exist for RNs in Colorado to advance their education and careers. Obtaining an RN license is possible through accredited ADN or BSN programs, followed by successfully passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Initial licensure applications are submitted to the Colorado State Board of Nursing, overseen by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.

RN Requirements

To practice as an RN in Colorado, completion of an accredited ADN or BSN program and successful NCLEX-RN passage are mandatory. The board manages nursing education, licensing, and enforcement, requiring applicants to submit official transcripts, a nonrefundable application fee, fingerprints, background checks, and other pertinent information. RNs must renew their license every two years without mandatory continuing education credits.

APRN Requirements

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Colorado must graduate from accredited MSN or DNP programs. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies oversees APRN licensure, requiring an active and unencumbered RN license in Colorado or an NLC state. To apply for a new license, a student must submit an application online. The application includes fees, information about healthcare licenses, national certification verification, population focus selection, and professional liability insurance. APRN status renewal occurs every two years, coinciding with RN license renewal, with no mandatory continuing education credits for RN renewal.

A comprehensive application involves:

• Payment of the relevant non-refundable and non-transferable fees.
  Providing details about any other healthcare licenses you may currently possess.
• Confirmation of your national certification.
• Choosing a population focus, if applicable, along with obtaining the necessary additional certification.
• Declaration of your primary state of residency.
• Affirmation of your professional liability insurance.
• Details regarding your RN license.
• Undergoing a criminal history screening and completing the Healthcare Professions Profile if you hold a multistate license.

For APRNs, there is also the option to apply for prescriptive authority. The APRN status undergoes renewal every two years and can be accomplished concurrently with the RN license renewal by September 30. While continuing education credits are not obligatory for RN renewal, they may be required to renew the APRN certification through the national organization.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Colorado

How long does it take to become an RN in Colorado?

Becoming an RN in Colorado involves graduating from an accredited ADN or BSN program, typically taking 2-4 years. The timeline depends on program specifics, full or part-time attendance, and successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam.

Is there a nursing shortage in Colorado?

Colorado, like many areas, faces a nursing shortage, exacerbated by the aging nurse population, with 32% of nurses over 55 according to Colorado’s Center for Nursing Excellence. This demographic trend indicates a potential increase in the shortage over the next decade.

How do I transfer my nursing license to Colorado?

As an NLC state, Colorado allows nurses from compact states to practice in the state. Transferring a license involves applying for endorsement through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, which includes fingerprinting, background checks, license verification, fees, and completion of a Health Professions Profile.

How much do BSN nurses make in Colorado?

According to ZipRecruiter, BSN nurses in Colorado earn an average annual salary of $78,270, with variations based on metropolitan areas. Top-paying cities include Boulder, Denver, Fort Collins, Pueblo, and Colorado Springs.