Top Nursing Schools in Colorado: Best Programs for Future Nurses
Why Study Nursing in Colorado?
Colorado is home to some of the best nursing schools in the U.S., offering high-quality nursing education, clinical training, and specialized programs to prepare students for rewarding careers in healthcare. With a growing demand for nurses, competitive salaries, and top-ranked healthcare facilities, Colorado is an excellent place to pursue nursing degrees and certifications.
This guide covers the best nursing schools in Colorado, detailing their programs, admission requirements, tuition costs, and financial aid options.
Top Nursing Schools in Colorado
Best Nursing Schools in Colorado
University of Colorado College of Nursing (CU Anschutz Medical Campus)
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Why Choose CU College of Nursing?
- One of the top nursing schools in the U.S.
- Affiliated with UCHealth and Children’s Hospital Colorado
- Offers online, hybrid, and in-person programs
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional 4-year and accelerated options
- RN to BSN – For registered nurses seeking a bachelor’s degree
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Specializations in nurse practitioner, leadership, and informatics
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Advanced clinical practice training
- PhD in Nursing – Focuses on nursing research and education
Regis University – Loretto Heights School of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Why Choose Regis University?
- Private Jesuit institution with strong nursing programs
- NCLEX-RN pass rates exceed the national average
- Small class sizes and personalized mentorship
Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN – A 4-year program with clinical training
- Accelerated BSN (ABSN) – 12- to 16-month intensive nursing program
- RN to BSN – Fully online, designed for working nurses
- MSN & DNP Programs – Advanced practice and leadership tracks
Colorado State University Pueblo – School of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Why Choose CSU Pueblo?
- Affordable tuition compared to private institutions
- Strong emphasis on rural healthcare and community nursing
- Simulation labs and real-world clinical experiences
Programs Offered:
- BSN (Traditional & Accelerated) – Prepares students for RN licensure
- RN to BSN – 100% online, flexible program
- MSN in Nursing Education & Leadership
- DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) – Focus on advanced clinical skills
University of Northern Colorado – School of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Why Choose UNC?
- Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates and job placement
- Focus on evidence-based nursing and patient-centered care
- Hands-on clinical training at major Colorado hospitals
Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN – 4-year nursing degree
- Second-Degree Accelerated BSN – 20-month program for non-nursing graduates
- RN to BSN – Online, flexible format
- MSN in Nursing Education & Leadership
Colorado Mesa University – Department of Health Sciences
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Why Choose CMU?
- Affordable tuition with strong clinical partnerships
- Small class sizes with individualized faculty support
- Strong rural nursing and community health focus
Programs Offered:
- BSN (Traditional & Accelerated) – Includes hands-on clinical rotations
- RN to BSN – Designed for working nurses, fully online
- MSN in Nursing Education & Administration
Metropolitan State University of Denver – Department of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Why Choose MSU Denver?
- Affordable tuition and flexible scheduling
- Strong emphasis on diverse and underserved communities
- Innovative simulation labs for hands-on training
Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN – Prepares students for NCLEX-RN
- Accelerated BSN (ABSN) – 17-month fast-track option
- RN to BSN – Online and part-time options available
Front Range Community College – Nursing Program
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Why Choose FRCC?
- Affordable alternative to four-year universities
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Direct transfer options to BSN programs at CU and CSU Pueblo
Programs Offered:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – Prepares students for RN licensure
- RN to BSN Transfer Pathway – Partnerships with Colorado universities
Other Notable Nursing Schools in Colorado
Arapahoe Community College – Nursing Department
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
- Offers ADN program with transfer pathways
- Focus on community health nursing
- High NCLEX-RN success rates
Pikes Peak State College – Nursing Program
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
- Affordable ADN program with strong job placement
- Clinical training in Colorado Springs healthcare facilities
- Direct pathway to BSN programs at CU and CSU
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Nursing School in Colorado
Colorado offers excellent nursing programs, whether you’re pursuing a BSN, MSN, or a DNP. Here’s what to consider when choosing a program:
✔ Accreditation – Ensure the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN.
✔ NCLEX-RN Pass Rates – Higher pass rates mean better preparation.
✔ Clinical Rotations – Look for programs with strong hospital partnerships.
✔ Flexibility – If you’re a working nurse, consider online RN to BSN options.
✔ Financial Aid & Scholarships – Check funding options to reduce tuition costs.
Whether you’re starting as a new nursing student or advancing your career, Colorado’s top nursing schools provide excellent education and career opportunities.
“College and University Guide .com
a guide to colleges and universities across the USA”
Colleges and Universities
If you know of a college or university in the USA that should be listed here then tell us about it so that we can add it to our growing directory!
Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in the USA.
Connect with the top Colorado recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.