Best Nursing Schools in Colorado – 2025 Accredited ADN, BSN, MSN Programs

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Colorado is a great state for pursuing a long-lasting career in nursing. Hopeful students taking their nursing degrees for the first time or RNs aiming to upskill themselves with advanced degrees will find that the state has excellent nursing schools and lucrative jobs awaiting them, along with many benefits for nursing graduates. As of April 2023, there were more than 52,390 Colorado-employed nurses, and this number is expected to grow over the next decade (BLS, 2023).

For our ranking of the best nursing schools in Colorado, we have included only accredited schools offering traditional nursing degrees. We have ranked them according to program length, concentrations offered, costs, and required credits.

Best Nursing Schools in Colorado Table of Contents

• Is nursing a good job in Colorado?
• What are the steps to becoming a nurse in Colorado?
• Nursing Program Length in Colorado
• Tuition and Costs of the Best Nursing Schools in Colorado?
• Future Nursing Trends in Colorado and How They Impact Education
• Best Nursing Schools in Colorado for 2025
• What are the advantages of pursuing nurse practitioner programs in Colorado?
• How Do Nursing Programs in Colorado Enhance Job Placement and Career Advancement?
• What Are the Options for Online Nursing Education in Colorado?
• How Can Expanding into Complementary Healthcare Roles Enhance Your Career?
• How Can You Begin Your Nursing Journey as an LPN in Colorado?
• How Do Nursing Programs in Colorado Support Licensure Exam Preparation?
• Are Online LPN Programs in Colorado a Viable Pathway to a Nursing Career?
• What complementary healthcare roles can nurses explore in Colorado?
• What to Look for in a Nursing School in Colorado
• What types of clinical specialties are available in nursing programs in Colorado?
• How can you pursue a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner in Colorado?
• How do nursing programs in Colorado engage in community health initiatives?

Is nursing a good job in Colorado?

Colorado’s biggest employers are hospitals, health and wellness facilities, and healthcare research organizations. The state has also been recognized for the quality of its healthcare, ranking 10th among U.S. states in a recent study.

Here are some other pieces of good news for those considering taking the best RN to BSN program in this state:

1. Low cost of living. Colorado has a reasonable cost of living, which makes it an appealing place for many individuals. According to Best Places, its median home value is around $350,000, lower than the national median of more than $430,000. Rent is also low, unlike in other states. For a two-bedroom apartment, renters only need roughly $1,400 monthly.
2. School-based networks. Many schools in Colorado have connections with local healthcare centers and hospitals. Thus, completing online master in nursing programs or other nursing degrees in the state could improve your chances of landing a job in-state and across the country.
3. Numerous options for work. Colorado is an all-in-one place for nurses. A nursing degree acquired here will comply with any prerequisites for becoming a nurse in the state. RNs can work in highly developed facilities, hospitals, clinics, long-term care centers, residential homes, physician’s offices, trauma centers, and schools.
4. Full Practice authority for Nurse Practitioners. Nurse Practitioners can take on primary care provider roles for their patients. They can assess, diagnose, order, and read diagnostic tests, and oversee treatments, under the exclusive licensure authority of the Colorado Board of Nursing (CBN).
5. eNLC member. Colorado is a member of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), meaning that a nursing license in the state can get you to work as a nurse in about 37 other states.
6. Spike in healthcare demand. Colorado’s demographic is continuously aging. Soon, it will see a spike in demand for healthcare services, which also means a spike in RN demand. The state is expected to need approximately 68,270 nursing professionals by 2030 (Projections Central, n.d.).
7. Expanding economy. The latest ColoradoCast report reported that Colorado’s economic activity rebounded to its pre-COVID-19 levels and is forecast to continue expanding. Needless to say, wages and employment are also heading upward. Colorado even offers a $14,000 signing bonus for nurses in mental health facilities.

1. Networking opportunities. The Colorado Nurses Association (CNA) offers advancement and networking opportunities while advocating for nurses at the legislature at the same time. Its members get discounts on several publications and American Nurses Credentialing Cente (ANCC) certifications. The association also informs about openings at certain facilities or organizations within the state.
2. Pleasant work environments. Colorado is committed to providing its professionals with quality care and supportive workspaces, enabling nurses to grow individually and professionally. The state also has natural beauty and outdoor opportunities, such as wildlife, which provide its workforce with a refreshing break from their strenuous jobs.
3. Principles for Nurse Staffing. This mandatory by the CNA emphasizes that nurses can make suggestions for staffing decisions, healthcare facilities should include staffing standards with measurable results, there should be flexible staffing and teamwork efforts to best serve the patients, and more.
4. Labor Peace Act. This act permits the establishment of policies for fair conduct in the workplace, allowing employees to receive the same compensation and benefits as union members.
5. Solid work-life balance. Colorado has plenty of activities for its nurses and other professionals who want to unwind from stressful work. Some examples would be the shopping options and museums within the state.

What are the steps to becoming a nurse in Colorado?

Working as an RN in Colorado calls for an existing unencumbered RN license issued by the CBN or a state member of the eNLC. The two methods for applying for an RN license in this state are examination and endorsement.

Endorsement is espoused by nurses with an RN license from a non-eNLC state, while an examination is for those trying for their RN license for the first time. Here’s a more comprehensive look at the steps to becoming a nurse in Colorado.

• Earn your state-approved ADN or BSN program. One requirement for getting your Colorado RN license is passing the NCLEX exam. To be eligible for the exam, you must complete a CBN-approved RN program from nursing colleges in Colorado.
• Apply for your license with the CBN. You must then apply for your license through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) Online Services Portal. Application requirements include information about your nursing degree, school transcripts, a declaration of primary residence, background checks, and fingerprints. There are also some questions about your general and criminal history and an application fee.
• Register and take the NCLEX. Pearson VUE administers the NCLEX. You can take the exam at one of their testing locations. After passing the exam, you can verify the issuance of your license through the Healthcare Professions Profile Program website of DORA. The posting process is in two to three weeks.
• Renew your license regularly. There are no advanced education mandates for RN license renewal in Colorado. RN licenses in the state expire every two years.

Nursing Program Length in Colorado

One of the fastest routes to becoming a nurse is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). ADN programs Colorado schools offer are usually two-year programs. Coursework is occasionally condensed so that the four-semester course load will only take around a year and a half. Some also opt to take the LPN to ADN path or an LPN to RN Colorado schools offer, which can often be finished in much faster timeframes.

If you are more eager to get an advanced nursing degree at the beginning or halfway through your career, consider a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) offered at the best nursing schools in Colorado. Colorado BSN programs typically take 4 years to complete, and most are offered at universities. Registered nurses can also enroll in one of the best and cheapest RN to BSN online program options to obtain a bachelor’s in one to two years.

Meanwhile, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is for those determined to take leadership roles. This is a three-year program, as its requirements also include management courses. Many schools offer direct entry MSN online programs. Understandably, students taking this advanced degree part-time will take more time to complete it. If you are going to take one of the best RN to MSN programs two to three classes at a time, you may complete it in five or six years.

Professionals with a non-nursing degree who want to transition into a nursing career can also enroll in direct entry MSN programs Colorado schools offer. These programs may take up to 2 years to complete.

Tuition and Costs of the Best Nursing Schools in Colorado

Nonresidents can end up paying more than three times as much for the same program as resident students. In-state tuition is $9,394, while out-of-state tuition is $30,140 (EducationData.org, 2022). As per our research, the cheapest tuition in the best nursing schools in Colorado is $8,500+, while the highest can be around $42,500+.

In 1953, the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) was founded to help students in its participating states to save on tuition costs. Its programs offer savings on tuition at more than 160 colleges, universities, and healthcare initiatives.

Many of the best nursing schools in Colorado also offer financial aid through scholarships, grants, and other awards to help students finish their education.

Future Nursing Trends in Colorado and How They Impact Education

The evolving landscape of healthcare in Colorado is shaping the future of nursing education, creating a growing need for nurses skilled in emerging technologies and responsive to changing care models. Current trends suggest that the integration of technology, increased focus on patient-centered care, and strategies to address nurse shortages will define the future of nursing in the state.

Telehealth and digital healthcare services are becoming critical components of patient care. Consequently, many nursing schools in Colorado are incorporating telemedicine training and simulation technologies into their curricula to prepare future nurses for these advancements. Programs now emphasize digital literacy, ensuring graduates are equipped to use electronic health records (EHR), remote monitoring tools, and AI-driven diagnostics effectively.

Another significant emphasis is on preventive and community-based care due to an aging population and increased chronic disease cases. Nursing schools are responding by offering coursework and specializations in population health, geriatrics, and chronic disease management. These areas align with Colorado's efforts to focus on holistic, patient-centered healthcare, encouraging nurses to promote prevention over treatment.

To combat the rising nursing shortage in Colorado, accelerated pathways and "earn while you learn" programs are gaining traction. Initiatives such as dual enrollment BSN programs and partnerships with healthcare facilities provide students with practical experience even as they pursue their degrees, helping them transition rapidly into the workforce.

Nursing programs must also adapt to accommodate the increasing diversity of Colorado’s population. This includes cultural competency training aimed at equipping nurses with skills to provide inclusive care tailored to individual cultural, linguistic, and social backgrounds.

For those exploring how to become an RN in Colorado, aligning nursing education with these trends ensures the state’s nursing workforce is well-prepared to meet future demands. This approach fosters excellence in patient care while promoting innovation and adaptability in healthcare delivery.

Best Nursing Schools in Colorado

Research.com has ranked the best nursing schools in Colorado to show you what makes a nursing program tremendous and what sets them differently from each other. Do not rely on one factor alone, such as looking for the cheapest nursing schools in Colorado, when choosing your school. Ponder on other factors, too, such as financial aid offered, on-campus cost of living or relocation costs, online nursing school options, and distance from healthcare facilities, just to name a few.

1. Adams State University BSN Program

Adams State University is situated between San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges. Adams offers public school tuition benefits, but with small group sizes, one would find at private schools. This means that their BSN offering is a small, intimate one. The program has a 95% employment of graduates months after graduation, and 95% of its graduates were confident that they were sufficiently equipped to practice as nurses. This institution also introduces the National Student Nurses’ Association to its students to help them start their careers after graduation. Plus, it has a 92.85% NCLEX pass rate.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: N/A
3. Yearly In-State Tuition: $9,560
4. Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
5. Accreditation: CCNE, HLC

2. University of Colorado at Colorado Springs BSN Program

University of Colorado at Colorado Springs is the sole UC school outside Denver with a BSN degree. Students will not be taking their nursing classes until the second semester upon joining the fall or spring cohort, depending on the time they will enroll. UC boasts of an avant-garde Simulation Learning Center that creates real-world scenarios and partners with several hospitals in Colorado, as well as healthcare firms. UC’s NCLEX pass rate is 92.68%.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: Registered Nursing, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing
3. Yearly In-State Tuition: $8,539.60
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 127
5. Accreditation: CCNE

3. Aims Community College ADN Program

Aims Community College‘s ADN program can help graduates land jobs as nurses at hospitals, home healthcare companies, or medical offices. In this specialization, students will be tackling pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical and surgical nursing concepts, and nursing specialties. They will also delve into the ethical standards of nursing and practice how to communicate with patients and families in a therapeutic way.

1. Program Length: 2 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: N/A
3. Tuition: $13,150 (in-state); $38,837.50
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 67.5
5. Accreditation: ACEN

4. Pikes Peak State College ADN Program

Pikes Peak State College offers an ADN program that teaches students a broad set of nursing skills. They can apply these skills to all nursing areas, including providing care intervention, showing critical thinking when assessing patients, considering quality improvements, and more. The curriculum is guided by the CBN, National League for Nursing (NLN) Competencies of the Associate Degree Nurse, and ANA.

1. Program Length: 2 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: N/A
3. Estimated Cost: $17,403 (in-state); $42,208.06 (out-of-state)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 56.5
5. Accreditation: ACEN

5. Colorado State University Pueblo MSN Program

Colorado State University Pueblo offers an MSN program with a Major in Nursing to integrate evidence-based practice, technology, and ethical decision-making into progressive nursing practice. Students deploy interprofessional collaboration to deliver safe and high-quality patient-focused care. This hybrid program prepares them to become nurse administrators, clinical nurse leaders, or health policy specialists.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations:Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerAdult/Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse PractitionerPsychiatric-Mental Health Nurse PractitionerNurse Educator
3. Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
4. Adult/Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse Practitioner
5. Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
6. Nurse Educator
7. Costs: $26,776 (resident); $42,547 (nonresident)
8. Required Credits to Graduate: 127
9. Accreditation: ACEN

What are the advantages of pursuing nurse practitioner programs in Colorado?

Nurse practitioner programs in Colorado offer an advanced curriculum that integrates clinical reasoning, diagnosis, and treatment planning, enabling graduates to assume leadership roles in both primary and acute care settings. These programs emphasize interprofessional collaboration and advanced patient care techniques while incorporating emerging healthcare technologies. Detailed comparisons of accredited nurse practitioner programs in Colorado assist prospective candidates in selecting programs that align with their specialized career objectives, ensuring robust clinical placements and a strong focus on evidence-based practice.

How Do Nursing Programs in Colorado Enhance Job Placement and Career Advancement?

Nursing programs in Colorado actively bolster career success through robust career services, strong healthcare partnerships, and targeted internship opportunities. These programs implement professional development initiatives such as resume workshops, interview preparation sessions, and networking events to connect students with potential employers. Dedicated placement centers and industry collaborations further ensure that graduates transition smoothly into the workforce. Additionally, some programs facilitate expedited entry into the nursing field, offering insights into pathways at easy nursing schools to get into that emphasize swift professional integration.

What Are the Options for Online Nursing Education in Colorado?

Colorado offers various online nursing programs, providing flexibility and accessibility for students who cannot attend traditional on-campus programs. For those interested in pursuing online nursing education, researching accredited programs is crucial. You can find more information on online nursing programs in Colorado to explore the options that best fit! your needs and career goals.

How Can Expanding into Complementary Healthcare Roles Enhance Your Career?

Diversifying your healthcare expertise can open new avenues for professional growth and improve interdisciplinary collaboration. Many healthcare professionals are exploring opportunities beyond their primary field to gain broader clinical insight and increase job stability. For example, supplementing your nursing career with additional certifications in related fields can enhance your versatility and responsiveness to Colorado’s evolving healthcare demands. Consider exploring options such as how to be a pharmacist in Colorado to broaden your skill set and gain a competitive edge in a multifaceted healthcare environment.

How Can You Begin Your Nursing Journey as an LPN in Colorado?

For aspiring nurses seeking an accessible entry point, pursuing a Licensed Practical Nurse program in Colorado is a viable option to jumpstart a healthcare career. This pathway offers specialized training that balances clinical practice with core medical theory, ensuring graduates are prepared to deliver quality care from day one. Evaluating factors such as program accreditation, curriculum structure, and state-specific licensing processes is essential. For detailed guidance on meeting local certification standards, refer to LPN requirements in Colorado. By selecting a program that emphasizes hands-on experience and continuous professional development, candidates can establish a robust foundation for future advancements in the nursing field.

How Do Nursing Programs in Colorado Support Licensure Exam Preparation?

Nursing programs in Colorado integrate targeted exam preparation strategies to align academic learning with licensure requirements. Institutions offer specialized NCLEX review workshops, simulation labs that mimic clinical scenarios, and personalized mentoring sessions to enhance test-taking proficiency. These initiatives are designed to build confidence and ensure a smooth transition into professional practice. For further career guidance, explore how to become a nurse practitioner in Colorado.

Are Online LPN Programs in Colorado a Viable Pathway to a Nursing Career?

Online Licensed Practical Nurse programs in Colorado offer a flexible and affordable route to entering the healthcare field. These programs integrate interactive virtual coursework with scheduled clinical placements that meet state certification standards. Students benefit from self-paced learning environments combined with access to digital simulation labs, which support practical skill development needed for licensure. Additionally, many online routes provide personalized mentorship and exam preparation resources that streamline the transition from study to practice. For a comparative analysis of program quality and student outcomes, consider exploring the best online LPN programs in Colorado.

What complementary healthcare roles can nurses explore in Colorado?

Nurses can strategically extend their clinical expertise into supportive allied healthcare roles to diversify their career pathways. By targeting areas such as healthcare administration, informatics, and quality improvement, nurses can gain a competitive edge in an evolving industry. Certification in specialized fields—including programs that teach how to become a medical biller and coder in Colorado—equips professionals with the administrative acumen necessary to support efficient healthcare delivery, while also providing flexibility in career advancement.

What to Look for in a Nursing School in Colorado

Almost as crucial as finding the right institution is finding one that suits your personal preferences. Consider whether you can relocate and live on campus or if you need to find one closer to where you live. The following information about the nursing programs in Colorado is what we got by doing meticulous research, but heed that this is just a starting point for you.

1. Accreditation. Nursing graduates from non-accredited schools are not eligible to take the NCLEX and work as RNs. That means they will have a hard time finding stable, decent-paying jobs. The best nursing schools in Colorado should be recognized by accreditation bodies, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), among others.
2. Location. Nursing degrees in Colorado will require clinical experience, research, and lab practicums. So, it’s best to choose a school close enough to your residence so you can make the most out of your study time.
3. Programs offered. If you are only looking for a two-year degree, an ADN is the one for you. If you already have another degree but want to become a nurse, choose a program that can credit your former degree. There are also nursing schools that offer graduate programs to practicing RNs, including direct-entry MSN programs.
4. Graduation rate. The graduation rate is the percentage of students who finish their four-year program in a span of six years. A high graduation rate may imply that you can complete your degree without extra time and costs.
5. NCLEX pass rate. Review the school’s NCLEX pass rate. This number can give you a glimpse of how good you will do if you take your nursing degree there.

What types of clinical specialties are available in nursing programs in Colorado?

Aspiring nurses in Colorado have access to diverse clinical specialties within nursing programs, allowing them to focus on areas that align with their career goals. Pursuing a specialized field not only enhances expertise but also opens doors to niche roles within the healthcare sector. Here are some of the common clinical specialties available to nursing students in Colorado:

• Pediatric Nursing
  • Pediatric nursing focuses on the care of infants, children, and adolescents. Nurses in this specialty learn about growth and development stages, common pediatric illnesses, and family-centered care approaches. Many Colorado nursing programs partner with local children’s hospitals for practical training.
• Geriatric Nursing
  • With Colorado’s aging population, geriatric nursing is a vital specialty that focuses on the unique healthcare needs of older adults. Students gain expertise in managing chronic illnesses, mental health issues like dementia, and age-related physical changes, preparing them for roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare.
• Critical Care Nursing
  • Critical care, or intensive care, nursing prepares students to work in high-stakes environments like ICU units. This specialty covers advanced skills such as monitoring life-support systems, administering complex medications, and providing urgent interventions for critically ill patients.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
  • This specialty trains nurses to support individuals with mental health disorders. Students learn about therapeutic communication, medication management, and crisis intervention. Given the growing need for mental health services in Colorado, this specialty offers promising career opportunities.
• Oncology Nursing
  • Oncology nursing focuses on cancer care, including chemotherapy administration, symptom management, and patient education. Nursing students specializing in oncology gain insight into the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of cancer patients and their families.
• Community Health Nursing
  • Community health nursing emphasizes preventive care, health education, and the management of public health issues. This specialty is ideal for nurses interested in working in community clinics, schools, or public health organizations to address healthcare disparities.
• Neonatal Nursing
  • Neonatal nursing prepares students to care for newborns, particularly premature or critically ill infants. This specialty includes training on ventilators, specialized feeding techniques, and family-centered care, typically within neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
• Emergency Nursing
  • Emergency nursing equips students with skills to manage patients in acute, fast-paced settings like emergency rooms. The curriculum covers trauma care, rapid assessment, and quick decision-making, preparing nurses for the high demands of emergency medicine.

Affordable Pathways to Advanced Nursing Degrees in Colorado

For nurses aspiring to advance their careers, pursuing higher education such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a crucial step. Colorado offers numerous opportunities for cost-effective advanced nursing degrees through state and regional initiatives. For example, the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) allows eligible students to access reduced tuition rates, significantly lowering the cost of out-of-state programs.

Many Colorado institutions, including the University of Colorado and Regis University, provide financial aid options, scholarships, and flexible payment plans designed to ease the financial burden of pursuing an MSN. Additionally, online MSN programs are gaining popularity due to their affordability and flexibility. They enable working professionals to balance education with career responsibilities without the added expense of relocation or commuting.

To ensure you're making an informed decision, explore cheapest MSN programs for budget-friendly options that align with your financial and professional goals. These programs often offer specialized tracks in areas such as leadership, family nursing, and informatics, catering to the diverse needs of Colorado’s healthcare landscape.

By taking advantage of these affordable pathways, nurses in Colorado can enhance their skills, open doors to leadership roles, and contribute to the state's growing demand for highly qualified healthcare professionals.

How can you pursue a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner in Colorado?

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) programs in Colorado focus on delivering comprehensive primary care and advanced clinical skills. These programs require completion of rigorous coursework in health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and evidence-based practices, followed by supervised clinical rotations that expose students to diverse patient needs. Colorado institutions offer flexible learning formats, including online tracks that cater to working professionals without compromising on hands-on clinical training. Evaluating curriculum specifics, accreditation status, and clinical affiliation networks is crucial for prospective FNP candidates. For further insights into budget-conscious options, consider exploring affordable online FNP programs. Graduates emerge equipped to serve varied populations across both urban centers and rural communities, meeting the evolving demands of Colorado’s healthcare landscape.

How do nursing programs in Colorado engage in community health initiatives?

Nursing programs in Colorado are deeply involved in community health initiatives, providing students with practical experience while addressing local health needs. For those considering an easy entry into the nursing field, looking into an easy LPN program can be a beneficial first step. Here are some key ways they engage with communities:

• Partnerships with Local Health Organizations: Nursing schools collaborate with local clinics, hospitals, and health departments to offer students hands-on experience in real-world settings. These partnerships help students apply classroom knowledge to practical scenarios, improving community health outcomes.
• Public Health Campaigns: Students participate in public health campaigns focusing on issues like vaccination, disease prevention, and health education. These campaigns aim to raise awareness and promote healthy behaviors within the community.
• Free Health Clinics: Many nursing programs operate free or low-cost health clinics where students provide care under supervision. These clinics serve underserved populations and offer vital services such as screenings, vaccinations, and basic medical care.
• School Health Programs: Nursing students often collaborate with local schools to conduct health screenings, provide health education, and support school nurses. These initiatives help address children's health needs and promote early intervention.
• Community-Based Research: Nursing programs encourage students to participate in community-based research projects. These projects identify local health issues and develop evidence-based interventions to address them, enhancing student learning and community health.
• Telehealth Services: With the rise of telehealth, nursing programs are incorporating remote care training. Students provide virtual consultations and follow-ups, extending healthcare access to remote and rural populations in Colorado.

Why You Should Upskill as A Nurse

As far as the healthcare sector in Colorado is concerned, nursing remains one of the most vital careers in the state. Generally, aspiring nurses have multiple educational paths to choose from, including starting with LPN or ADN degrees. These programs provide students with solid foundational knowledge in nursing, but many employers are now more inclined to recruit graduates with more advanced types and levels of nursing degrees from the best nursing schools in Colorado.

With a relatively small number of nurses having these credentials, there is a shortage of qualified nurses to fill the rising demand in the field. Pursuing advanced programs like BSN or MSN degrees will give you the necessary skills and knowledge to stand out and be a better choice among the competition.

Key Insights

• Growing Demand for Nurses: Colorado has over 52,390 employed nurses as of April 2023, with this number expected to increase over the next decade, highlighting the robust demand for nursing professionals in the state.
• Diverse Employment Opportunities: Nurses in Colorado have opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care centers, and schools, supported by the state's broad healthcare network.
• Full Practice Authority: Nurse practitioners in Colorado enjoy full practice authority, allowing them to serve as primary care providers, enhancing their scope of practice and career opportunities.
• Economic and Professional Growth: Colorado's expanding economy, along with initiatives like the Colorado Nurses Association and the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), provides nurses with networking, professional growth, and job mobility across 37 states.
• Educational Excellence: Colorado offers a range of accredited nursing programs, from ADN to MSN, with schools like Adams State University and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs boasting high NCLEX pass rates and strong employment outcomes for graduates.
• Cost-effective Living and Education: Colorado's reasonable cost of living and initiatives like the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) help make nursing education more affordable, providing financial aid through scholarships, grants, and other awards.

FAQ

1. Is nursing a good career choice in Colorado? Yes, nursing is a good career choice in Colorado due to the high demand for healthcare professionals, diverse employment opportunities, reasonable cost of living, and robust support from professional organizations like the Colorado Nurses Association. Additionally, nurses in Colorado benefit from full practice authority and the state's membership in the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC).
2. What are the steps to becoming a nurse in Colorado? To become a nurse in Colorado, you need to earn an accredited ADN or BSN degree, apply for your RN license with the Colorado Board of Nursing (CBN), pass the NCLEX exam, and regularly renew your license every two years. If you have an RN license from another state, you can apply for licensure by endorsement.
3. How long do nursing programs in Colorado take to complete? The duration of nursing programs in Colorado varies: ADN programs typically take two years, BSN programs take four years, and MSN programs take around three years, though part-time students may take longer. Direct entry MSN programs for those with non-nursing degrees can take up to two years to complete.
4. What are the costs of nursing programs in Colorado? The cost of nursing programs in Colorado varies significantly based on residency status and institution. In-state tuition can range from $8,500 to $9,394, while out-of-state tuition can be as high as $42,500. Financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) can help offset these costs.
5. What should I look for in a nursing school in Colorado? When choosing a nursing school in Colorado, consider factors such as accreditation, location, programs offered, graduation and NCLEX pass rates, and available financial aid. Ensure the school provides the necessary clinical experience and has a good reputation for preparing students for successful careers in nursing.
6. Are there financial aid options for nursing students in Colorado? Yes, many nursing schools in Colorado offer financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and awards. Additionally, initiatives like the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) provide tuition savings for students in participating states.
7. What are the benefits of upskilling as a nurse in Colorado? Upskilling as a nurse in Colorado can provide advanced knowledge and skills, making you more competitive in the job market. With the rising demand for healthcare services and the state's expanding economy, pursuing higher degrees like BSN or MSN can lead to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and leadership roles in the healthcare sector.

References: 

1. Best Places. (n.d.). Cost of Living in Colorado. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from Best Places.
2. BLS. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022: Registered Nurses. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from BLS.
3. ColoradoCast. (n.d.). A 6-Month Statewide Economic Forecast. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from ColoradoCast.
4. Hanson, M. (2022, April 28). Average In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from EducationData.org.
5. Projections Central. (n.d.). Long-Term occupational projections (2020-2030). Projections Central.