Are you ready to launch a rewarding career in nursing? Colorado offers a variety of online and hybrid RN programs that combine flexible coursework with in-person clinical experiences, making it easier to balance your studies with other life commitments. In this EduMed guide, we’ll introduce top-rated nursing schools, explain why proper accreditation matters, and walk you through the key steps to licensure. Keep reading to explore your options and learn what it takes on how to become a registered nurse in Colorado. Why Trust EduMed? We partner with 150+ nursing & allied health professionals to bring you the most in-depth data & insights on higher education & careers in healthcare. Meet our team and review our editorial values.Online Nursing Schools in CO: Your Guide to Leading Programs
Overview of the Types of Online Nursing Programs Offered in Colorado
If you’re looking to start or advance your nursing career, online programs in Colorado offer the flexibility to fit your schedule while preparing you for career success. There are plenty of options, whether you’re aiming for an entry-level certification or a higher degree.
Keep in mind that most online nursing programs aren’t fully remote. While you can complete anatomy, pharmacology, and healthcare ethics coursework online, in-person clinical rotations and lab work are essential. These hands-on experiences usually occur at nearby healthcare facilities or on campus, making hybrid programs a top choice for many students. This blend of virtual learning and real-world practice ensures you’re ready for the day-to-day demands of nursing.
When choosing a program, consider important factors like accreditation, clinical placement opportunities, and Colorado’s licensing requirements. Enrolling in an accredited school sets you up to take the NCLEX-RN and secure your nursing license in the state. You may also want to take an RN specialty quiz to help find your nursing niche, and focus on the areas of care that best align with your skills and interests.
Next, we’ll explore the different undergraduate nursing options—from entry-level certifications to degree pathways—so you can find the right program to move your career forward.
Online Undergraduate Degree Program Options in the State
If you’re ready to begin or advance your nursing career, Colorado offers a variety of undergraduate pathways to match your goals. If you’re feeling uncertain, using a degree pathfinder can guide you toward a program that matches your interests and career goals.
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program provides the quickest entry into the field, while a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program equips you with the fundamentals of practical nursing. If you aim to become a Registered Nurse (RN), you can pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which takes about two years and prepares you for RN licensure, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which can lead to broader career opportunities.
For those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program offers a fast-track route into nursing. All of these programs blend online coursework with hands-on clinical training, ensuring you develop both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed—and to pass the NCLEX-RN.
Let’s take a closer look at each program with examples below.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
If you want to enter the nursing workforce quickly, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an excellent first step. Offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and even some healthcare facilities across Colorado, these short programs (often just a few weeks long) combine online coursework with on-site clinical training.
After completing the program, you’ll take the Colorado Nurse Aide Exam administered by Pearson VUE. This exam certifies you to work in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities, where you’ll perform essential patient care duties.
Example: Nurse Aide Program — Technical College of the Rockies
- Cost: $995
- Length:1 semester
- Mode: Online/Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
An LPN program prepares you for direct patient care in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings. Typically lasting 12–18 months, these programs feature online coursework paired with in-person clinical rotations at approved healthcare sites. Upon completion, you must pass the NCLEX-PN to obtain your state licensure. This is a great choice if you want to enter the workforce relatively quickly but still keep open the option of advancing to an RN role in the future.
Example: Pueblo Community College Southwest – Practical Nursing Certificate
- Cost: $19, 866 (Cost per credit: $462 (online). Required Credits to Graduate: 43)
- Length: Three semesters
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An ADN program in Colorado usually spans 18–24 months and prepares you to become an RN. You’ll take online courses in subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, and healthcare ethics while participating in face-to-face clinical rotations at approved healthcare facilities. After graduating, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed. With an ADN, you can find work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings—and you’ll also have the option to pursue a BSN later to expand your career opportunities.
Example: ASN Program – Joyce University
- Cost: $56,340
- Length:20 Months
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A BSN program provides a comprehensive nursing education over 3–4 years, blending in-depth online coursework with in-person clinical training. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles, specialized nursing positions, and higher earning potential. After completing your studies, you’ll sit for the NCLEX-RN to earn your RN license, opening doors to roles in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other specialized healthcare environments.
Example: Online BSN – Chamberlain University
- Cost: $101,950
- Length: 3-4 years
- Mode: Online with in-person clinicals
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
An ABSN program is specifically designed for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into nursing. Generally completed in 12–24 months, ABSN programs combine intensive online coursework with hands-on clinical experience. After finishing the program, you’ll take the NCLEX-RN to become a licensed RN, ready to work in hospitals, clinics, or specialized healthcare settings.
Example: Colorado State University-Pueblo – ABSN Program
- Cost: $31,000
- Length:14 Months
- Mode: Hybrid
Examples of Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs
Colorado’s graduate nursing programs offer opportunities for nurses to refine their skills and advance into specialized or leadership roles. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can lead to positions in education, management, or advanced clinical practice, while a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) focuses on high-level clinical expertise and leadership. For those drawn to academia and research, a PhD in Nursing provides the skills to shape the future of healthcare through scholarly investigation. If you already hold an MSN, Post-Master’s Certificate programs allow you to specialize further in areas like nurse practitioner (NP) specialties or healthcare leadership.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
An MSN typically takes 18–36 months and prepares you for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles, such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse educator. Programs often feature online coursework alongside in-person clinical experiences, providing flexibility and practical training. With an MSN, you can pursue leadership positions, enjoy higher earning potential, and specialize in areas like healthcare administration, policy, or education.
Example: University of Colorado Anschutz – Master of Science Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Cost: $39,250 (Colorado Residents)
- Length: Three years
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or PhD in Nursing can propel you into high-level roles in clinical practice, leadership, or research. DNP programs emphasize improving patient outcomes and transforming healthcare systems, while PhD programs focus on original research and academic scholarship. Both routes usually take 2–4 years, blending online study with clinical and research components. Graduates often become nurse executives, policy advisors, educators, or researchers.
University of Northern Colorado – Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Cost: $734 per credit (44 credits)
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Online
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
A Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing is a great option if you already hold an MSN and want to specialize in a new area, such as acute care, family practice, adult gerontology, pediatrics, or women’s health. Generally lasting 12–24 months, these programs combine online coursework with clinical rotations, equipping you with the advanced skills needed to excel in hospitals, clinics, universities, or healthcare administration.
University of Colorado Springs – Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate
- Cost: Between $22,000 and $25,000.
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Hybrid
Bridge Degree Programs for Colorado Nursing Professionals
Bridge nursing programs in Colorado help you move forward in your career faster. Whether you’re an LPN aspiring to be an RN, an RN aiming for a BSN, or a BSN graduate ready for a DNP, there’s a bridge program to match your ambitions.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
This program is for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who want to become Registered Nurses. If you are unsure, various online guides to RN bridge programs can help you find the best route.
- LPN to RN programs typically take 12–18 months, culminating in an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN.
- LPN to BSN programs often span 2–3 years, offering a broader education and preparing you for leadership roles.
Example: Herzing University –LPN to RN online
- Cost: ($755 per credit/ 72-120 credits)
- Length: 20-28 Months
- Mode: Online
RN to BSN
An RN to BSN program is designed for Registered Nurses who already have an ADN and want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. These flexible, 12–24-month programs allow you to complete online coursework while continuing to work. Clinical components can often be fulfilled at your current workplace.
Example: University of Northern Colorado (UNC) – RN to BSN degree
- Cost: $12,8200 (five semesters, Cost per semester: $25,640)
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to MSN
An RN to MSN program enables ADN-prepared nurses to earn a master’s degree without completing a BSN. Spanning 24–36 months, these programs combine online study with clinical experiences at approved healthcare facilities.
Example: Regis University – Family Nurse Practitioner Program
- Cost: $46,320
- Length:24 months
- Mode: Hybrid
BSN to DNP
A BSN to DNP program offers a direct route for BSN-prepared nurses to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 3–4 years. You’ll complete advanced coursework, clinical practicums, and leadership training, positioning yourself for top-tier roles in clinical practice, policy-making, or healthcare management.
Example: Regis University – BSN to DNP Program
- Cost: $80, 422
- Length:74-79 credit hours
- Mode: Hybrid
Direct-Entry MSN
A Direct-Entry MSN program is geared toward those who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree but want to become registered nurses at an advanced level. Over 2–3 years, you’ll engage in online coursework and hands-on clinical training, covering both foundational nursing skills and graduate-level leadership or specialty topics. After graduation, you’ll take the NCLEX-RN for licensure and may also qualify for
Herzing University – Online MSN Direct Entry Program
- Cost: $59, 675
- Length:20-24 Months
- Mode: Online
Licensing Criteria for Registered Nurses in Colorado
Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Colorado requires completing an approved nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and applying for licensure through the Colorado Board of Nursing. Once licensed, you must renew your credentials every two years, meeting continuing education or active practice requirements. While not mandatory, specialty certifications can help you advance in leadership, clinical practice, and specialized nursing fields. Here’s what you need to know to get licensed and maintain your RN status in Colorado.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
Your journey begins with enrolling in an accredited nursing program. You can choose between an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Both programs must be accredited by agencies recognized by the Colorado Board of Nursing, ensuring that your education meets state and national standards. Many programs now offer flexible options with online coursework paired with in-person clinical training. Completing a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) not only guarantees eligibility for licensure but can also open the door to financial aid and competitive job placements.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
After graduation, the next step is registering and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Registration is managed by Pearson VUE, and you will need to pay the associated exam fee (approximately $200). Preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam with practice tests, review courses, and study guides can greatly improve your chances of success. Upon passing the exam, your results are sent to the Colorado Board of Nursing, advancing you toward obtaining your state license.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
Once you pass the NCLEX-RN, you can submit your application for licensure through the Colorado Board of Nursing. The RN state licensing requirements typically include:
- Providing proof of graduation from an accredited nursing program (official transcripts)
- Completing a background check and fingerprinting (note that Colorado is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, so RNs from other compact states may have streamlined requirements)
- Paying the required fees, which generally include an application fee of around $88 and, if applying via endorsement, an additional fee (for example, $43 for endorsement, if applicable)
For nurses licensed in another Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, Colorado allows licensure by endorsement—this means that if you already hold an active, multi-state license and Colorado is your primary state of residence, you may not need to retake the NCLEX.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
Colorado RNs must renew their licenses every two years. Renewal requirements are designed to ensure that your skills and knowledge remain current. Although there are no mandated continuing education hours for active license renewal in Colorado, many nurses choose to pursue continuing education or accumulate practice hours to meet other professional development requirements. The renewal process is completed online, and the fee is approximately $108. Keeping up with your renewal deadlines and any changes in state regulations is essential to maintaining uninterrupted licensure.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
While specialty certifications are not required to maintain your RN license, they can significantly enhance your professional credibility and career prospects. Certifications in fields such as critical care (CCRN), emergency nursing (CEN), and oncology nursing (OCN) demonstrate advanced expertise and can lead to leadership and higher-paying roles. Advanced practice roles, for instance, becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), require additional education and national certification. Specialty certifications are highly valued in a competitive job market and can provide you with the skills necessary to advance into roles with prescriptive authority and expanded clinical responsibilities.
Career Prospects & Salary for Registered Nurses in CO
The data below offers valuable insights into your potential earnings and job outlook as a registered nurse in Colorado. Salaries vary significantly based on location, with Boulder and the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood areas offering some of the highest wages for nurses across all levels of experience. Statewide, the median salary for RNs is $86,900, with top earners making over $112,800 annually.
In addition to strong earnings potential, job growth is robust. Currently, there are 53,720 RN positions in Colorado, projected to increase to 63,290 by adding 9,570 new jobs—a 17.8% growth rate compared to the national average of 5.6%. This growth will generate about 4,100 annual openings, highlighting high demand in the field. With a rewarding career path and increasing opportunities, nursing in Colorado is an attractive option for those committed to healthcare and professional advancement.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $70,790 | $86,900 | $112,800 |
| Boulder, CO | $74,400 | $96,260 | $129,060 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $65,170 | $84,340 | $103,110 |
| Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO | $71,560 | $87,330 | $116,680 |
| Fort Collins, CO | $68,560 | $86,790 | $107,470 |
| Grand Junction, CO | $71,400 | $86,940 | $108,790 |
| Greeley, CO | $70,830 | $85,180 | $103,960 |
| Pueblo, CO | $70,980 | $88,270 | $103,450 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Colorado | 53,720 | 63,290 | 9,570 | 17.80% | 4,100 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
EduMed’s Ranking of Colorado’s Best Online Nursing Programs
We know searching for the perfect nursing programs that match your academic and professional ambitions can be overwhelming, so here at EduMed our data scientists have compiled a ranking to narrow your search. Schools were evaluated using data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), considering aspects such as the percentage of students taking online courses, financial aid availability, faculty-to-student ratio, and tuition costs for full-time students. For more information on our ranking methodology, visit the “About the Rankings” pop-up below.
Regis University
Denver, Colorado
Why We Selected Regis University:
- The program offers a unique "dissertation by publication" approach, enhancing research skills.
- Regis University provides preferred tuition reimbursement benefits with partner organizations.
- The program is accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (AACN-CCNE).
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$39,260
- Average Institutional Aid$20,014
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course59%
- % of Students Receiving an Award63%
- Student/Faculty Ratio10/1
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Why We Selected University of Colorado Colorado Springs:
- Bethel University's nursing program offers a Christ-centered education with a strong liberal arts foundation.
- Bethel University's nursing graduates consistently achieve a high pass rate on the NCLEX exam, ensuring career readiness.
- The program integrates critical thinking and evidence-based practice, preparing students for leadership roles in healthcare.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,338
- Average Institutional Aid$3,604
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course50%
- % of Students Receiving an Award44%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, Colorado
Why We Selected University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus:
- The University of Colorado College of Nursing offers a high NCLEX pass rate of 94.88%.
- The program features extensive clinical placements with top hospitals and clinics in the metro area.
- It provides hands-on training in a state-of-the-art simulation lab, enhancing real-world nursing skills.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,160
- Average Institutional Aid$3,304
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course59%
- % of Students Receiving an Award51%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, Colorado
Why We Selected University of Northern Colorado:
- The University of Northern Colorado's nursing program offers specialized career tracks in various healthcare settings.
- The program provides a strong foundation for graduate study, enhancing future career advancement opportunities.
- Clinical experiences are integrated throughout the program, ensuring high clinical placement rates and practical skills development.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,127
- Average Institutional Aid$5,440
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course46%
- % of Students Receiving an Award52%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, Colorado
Why We Selected Colorado Mesa University:
- The program offers extensive clinical experience with over 900 hours in diverse healthcare settings.
- Employers highly regard graduates, citing them as some of the best-prepared in the state.
- The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring quality education.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,020
- Average Institutional Aid$4,430
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course43%
- % of Students Receiving an Award35%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, Colorado
Why We Selected Colorado Christian University:
- The program offers a Christ-centered learning environment that emphasizes compassion and moral leadership.
- The curriculum includes hands-on clinical practice and simulation labs for comprehensive learning experiences.
- CCU's nursing program provides opportunities for community service and ministry, enhancing personal and professional growth.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$24,503
- Average Institutional Aid$19,939
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course48%
- % of Students Receiving an Award51%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, Colorado
Why We Selected Metropolitan State University of Denver:
- The program offers an Accelerated Nursing Option for students with prior degrees, enhancing career mobility.
- MSU Denver's Nursing program emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a supportive learning environment.
- The program incorporates simulation experiences to enhance clinical skills and patient safety in a risk-free setting.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,280
- Average Institutional Aid$3,033
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course67%
- % of Students Receiving an Award27%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
