7 Best BSN Programs in Colorado in 2025

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Colorado involves exploring several educational pathways. Among them, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is considered one of the best launching points.

Considering this, we've provided everything you need to know to apply for a BSN in Colorado, along with salary expectations after graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.

Best BSN Programs in Colorado

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rate of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Metropolitan State University of Denver

At Metropolitan State University of Denver, a transformative BSN program awaits with an estimated annual tuition of $13,806. With ACEN accreditation and an impressive NCLEX pass rate of 95%, students can receive a quality nursing education without breaking the bank.

2. University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado in Greeley offers a comprehensive BSN program at an estimated annual tuition of $16,075. Accredited by ACEN and maintaining a commendable NCLEX pass rate of 92%, this program equips students with the skills needed for a successful nursing career.

3. Colorado State University – Pueblo

For aspiring nurses, Colorado State University's Pueblo campus provides a robust BSN program with an estimated annual tuition of $13,999. With an NCLEX pass rate of 89% and ACEN accreditation, this program ensures that students receive a valuable nursing education at an affordable cost.

4. University of Colorado – Colorado Springs

The BSN program at the University of Colorado, located on its Colorado Springs campus, offers an estimated annual tuition of $14,633. With ACEN accreditation and an NCLEX pass rate of 88%, this program provides students with a solid foundation to excel in nursing.

5. Colorado Mesa University 

Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction presents a BSN program with an estimated annual tuition of $15,898. The program is ACEN accredited and features an NCLEX pass rate of 84%, providing an affordable pathway for students to build a good foundation for their nursing careers.

_{*Costs as reported by the Department of Education unless otherwise noted. Actual costs will vary based on scholarship, coursework, and other factors.}

What Is a BSN?

A BSN, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, is a step up from an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). BSNs typically include more extensive study and coursework and offer a broader range of clinical experiences. Earning a BSN can provide nurses with more career opportunities beyond basic clinical care, including roles in:

• Administration
• Research
• Teaching
• Consulting

Many healthcare institutions today prefer BSN-prepared nurses to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements.

Where Do BSN-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with a BSN have many career options and opportunities and can practice in most care settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Home Care Agencies
• Physician Office
• Educational Services
• Government Agencies
• Schools
• Community Centers
• Hospices
• Dialysis Centers
• Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings

BSN Program Pathways Offered in Colorado

BSN programs aim to achieve the same objectives but come in various pathways:

1. Traditional BSN: A standard four-year bachelor's degree program.
2. Accelerated BSN: Condenses the same educational content into a shorter period, typically 12-24 months.
3. RN to BSN: Bridge programs designed for those with an associate degree in nursing, allowing them to advance their education without completing a full traditional BSN program.
4. LPN to BSN: A pathway for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to advance their careers by earning a BSN degree, bridging their practical nursing education with a comprehensive BSN curriculum, and expanding their scope of practice and career opportunities.
5. BSN RN Programs for Non-Nursing Graduates: Tailored for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, offering a streamlined curriculum that focuses on essential nursing courses for a swift transition into the nursing profession.

Can BSNs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Acquiring nursing skills requires hands-on learning and real-life practice, which can't be fully replicated in an entirely online environment for an initial nursing degree. Because of this, Pre-licensure BSN programs aren't entirely online, as in-person skills training and direct patient care experiences in healthcare facilities are needed. However, many BSN programs offer online coursework options, providing a hybrid environment for working students or those requiring more flexible schedules.

If you're an ADN RN aiming to advance to a BSN, consider enrolling in a fully online BSN program without clinical requirements. With your existing skills in providing bedside care as a registered nurse, this program offers a convenient pathway to further your education.

BSN Admission Requirements in Colorado

BSN programs generally require:

• Evidence of Previous Education: Verification of a high school diploma or GED.
• Prerequisite Courses: Specific coursework requirements vary by program, so consult your chosen program for precise prerequisites.
• Pre-Entrance Examination: Tests such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.).
• CPR Certification: Often not mandatory for admission but always required before commencing clinical courses.
• Criminal Background Check: Ensures patient safety and complies with healthcare regulations.
• Drug Screening: Ensures a drug-free environment and adherence to healthcare standards.
• Health Assessment: Validates that students meet the physical requirements essential for performing nursing duties.
• Immunization Requirements: Ensures the safety of students and patients by preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
• Additional Criteria: Some programs may also require volunteer work, submission of resumes, and provision of references to support the application.

The requirements vary depending on your starting point and chosen pathway. For instance, RN to BSN programs typically necessitate an associate degree in nursing, an RN license, and occasionally bedside experience as a registered nurse. It's essential to verify the specific requirements of the schools you intend to apply to.

Common BSN Admission Prerequisite Courses

Prerequisite course requirements can vary across programs, but generally, most BSN programs mandate a standard set of courses to be finished before enrollment. If these prerequisites are not needed at entry, equivalent courses are typically incorporated into the program. The following list is not exhaustive but comprises some of the most common prerequisites:

• Biology (including lab and lecture)
• Chemistry (including lab and lecture)
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology (including lab and lecture)
• Nutrition
• Pathophysiology
• Sociology
• Math (some require statistics, others only algebra or higher)
• General Psychology

These foundational courses provide a solid base in essential scientific and social sciences. Completing these prerequisites equips students to meet the rigorous demands of a BSN program and succeed in the nursing profession.

BSN Program Curriculum in Colorado

BSN programs emphasize essential nursing courses, ensuring students are well-equipped to tackle the diverse challenges in the nursing profession. No matter where you go to school, a typical BSN curriculum includes:

• Health Assessment: Techniques and methodologies for evaluating patient health.
• Pharmacology and Nursing Math: Mastery of medication administration and pharmacological principles.
• Nursing Essentials: Introduction to fundamental nursing practices and principles.
• Adult Health Nursing: Comprehensive care for adult patients with various health conditions.
• Pediatric Nursing: Specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents.
• Maternal and Neonatal Nursing: Focused care for mothers and newborns.
• Mental Health Nursing: Providing support and care for patients with psychiatric and mental health conditions.
• Community and Public Health Nursing: Nursing practice in community settings and public health.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Introduction to research methods and applying evidence-based practice in nursing.
• Leadership and Management in Nursing: Developing leadership skills and understanding management principles in healthcare settings.
• Nursing Ethics and Legal Aspects: Understanding the ethical and legal aspects of nursing practice.

These foundational courses provide a comprehensive education, equipping BSN graduates with the critical knowledge and skills needed to excel in their nursing careers.

Clinical Training in BSN Programs

Clinical training in BSN programs delivers the required and necessary hands-on experience necessary for developing comprehensive nursing skills. This training includes:

• Foundational Nursing Practices: Hands-on exposure to fundamental patient care techniques and basic nursing principles.
• Specialized Nursing Clinical Rotations: Exposure to diverse specialized nursing areas, such as Acute Care, Pediatric Care, Geriatric Care, Women's Health, and in-patient Psychiatric Units.
• Leadership and Management Clinical Experiences: Opportunities to shadow nurse leaders, engage in healthcare project management, and gain insights into healthcare administration.
• Community Health Clinical Placements: Hands-on experience in public health settings, focusing on community health promotion and preventive care initiatives.
• Simulation Labs: Practice navigating complex and critical scenarios within a controlled environment to hone clinical decision-making skills and refine hands-on competencies.

These clinical experiences, along with simulation lab sessions, prepare students with the competence and expertise needed to succeed in various nursing roles.

BSN Program Costs in Colorado

Understanding the financial commitment for a BSN program in Colorado requires careful consideration of various factors. Here's a concise guide

BSN Program Tuition Fee Insights:

• Resident vs. Out-of-State Tuition: Public universities often charge lower rates for in-state residents.
• Books and Supplies: Textbook and supply costs can add up quickly.
• Technology Fees: Common in hybrid programs for digital resources.
• Lab & Clinical Fees: Charged for courses requiring specific materials or equipment.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Include application, graduation, and administrative costs.
• Living Expenses: Relevant for students who relocate or reduce work hours.
• RN Licensing Fees: Necessary for nursing practice credentials.
• Opportunity Costs: Potential financial impact of reduced work hours.
• Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
• Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or maintaining employment may affect program choice.

BSN Program Financial Planning

To manage these expenses, students often utilize a mix of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Early financial planning can help make the cost of a BSN program more manageable, enabling students to concentrate on their studies and the rewarding career ahead. For further information, check out the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and the Cheapest BSN Programs available in 2025.

BSN RN Salary Expectations in Colorado

If you're planning to attend nursing school in Colorado, it's crucial to recognize that nursing salaries are affected by multiple factors -- your area of specialization, level of experience, and choice of employer can all influence your earning potential. Some employers offer higher wages to nurses with BSN degrees and often provide substantial tuition reimbursement to support further education. Moreover, your salary can differ significantly based on your location within the state, the type of healthcare facility where you are employed, and your experience level. Consider these elements as you plan your nursing education and career.

To help with your decision, we have outlined the differences in RN salaries across Colorado and compared earnings for RNs with an ADN to those with a BSN. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs in 2023 earned the following:

Colorado RN Wage

• Mean Hourly Wage: $44.10
• Mean Annual Wage: $91,730.00

Colorado employed 53,480 registered nurses in 2023, placing the state within the top 50th percentile for nurse employment nationwide.

National RN Wage

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

Top Paying States for RNs

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

Typically, there is a noticeable income gap between ADN-prepared and BSN-prepared RNs, with BSN RNs generally earning higher salaries. However, the BLS does not differentiate between these educational levels in its salary reports. Using data from ZipRecruiter, we can identify the salary differences between ADN RNs and BSN RNs in Maryland.

Average ADN RN Salary in Maryland:

• Hourly Wage: $37.00
• Annual Wage: $64,700.00

Average BSN RN Salary in Maryland:

• Hourly Wage: $47.00
• Annual Wage: $97,927.00

Maryland cities with the highest BSN RN salary are: 

• Aspen, CO: $132,524.00
• Castle Rock, CO: $115,776.00
• Centennial, CO: $114,389.00
• Boulder, CO: $107,093.00
• Highlands Ranch, CO: $103,534.00

By understanding these factors and differences in nursing salaries, you can make informed decisions about your nursing education and career to maximize your earning potential.

Should I Pursue My BSN in Colorado?

Earning a BSN not only strengthens your foundational nursing knowledge but also broadens your professional opportunities. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) reports that 28% of healthcare employers require a BSN, while a notable 72% show a preference for candidates holding this degree. This trend highlights the increasing value of a BSN in a competitive job market, positioning graduates to meet the demand for advanced nursing skills and expand their career prospects.

Selecting the best nursing program is crucial for shaping your future in the field. To help you navigate this decision, consider the key advantages of obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in Colorado, ensuring you are well informed about your options.

Pros of Pursuing a BSN in Colorado

• Diverse Clinical Settings: Colorado offers a variety of clinical placements, from cutting-edge urban hospitals to rural healthcare settings, equipping students with versatile clinical skills.
• Scenic Benefits: With its beautiful landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains and numerous parks, Colorado provides a serene environment that can help mitigate the stress of nursing studies.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: While immediate salary increments may not be guaranteed by location, holding a BSN can lead to more opportunities for career advancement and specialization, which may result in higher earnings over the course of a career.
• Enhanced Patient Care: Research indicates that BSN-prepared nurses are linked with improved patient outcomes, due to their advanced training in critical thinking, leadership, and health management.
• Professional Validation: Pursuing a BSN aligns with national standards set by leading nursing organizations, advocating for a bachelor's degree as the foundational education for nurses.
• Licensure Flexibility: Colorado is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows nurses to practice in other compact states with one license, enhancing job flexibility and mobility.

Cons of Pursuing a BSN in Colorado

• High Cost of Living: Colorado, particularly in areas like Denver and Boulder, has a high cost of living, which can impact overall expenses including housing and transportation.
• Traffic Congestion: Major cities in Colorado, such as Denver, experience significant traffic congestion, which can affect commute times to healthcare facilities.
• Extreme Weather: Colorado experiences a range of weather conditions, including heavy snowfall in Winter and occasional severe weather, which can be challenging for some individuals.
• Higher Education Costs: Pursuing a BSN requires a significant financial investment of both time and money, including potential student loans and a longer period without full-time income.
• Demanding Curriculum: BSN programs cover a broad and challenging curriculum, including clinical skills, research, leadership, and public health, which can be academically demanding.
• Competitive Job Market: In areas with a high concentration of BSN graduates, job competition can be intense, similar to the challenges faced by those with an ADN.
• Longer Time to Graduate: Completing a BSN takes longer than an ADN, potentially delaying your entry into the workforce, which could be a significant consideration for those eager to start their careers quickly.

By evaluating these factors in relation to your career goals and personal circumstances, you can make a well-informed decision about pursuing a BSN in Colorado.

Choosing a Nursing School in Colorado

Nursing students' reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary based on their specific needs. Some value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that best fit them.

Importance of BSN Program Accreditation in Colorado

Beyond the factors already discussed, the accreditation of your nursing program is a crucial consideration. Choosing an accredited nursing school is essential for a BSN due to several compelling reasons:

• Assured Educational Quality: Accreditation verifies that the program meets rigorous standards of nursing education, providing a high-quality learning experience crucial for developing essential nursing skills and knowledge.
• Eligibility for RN Licensure: Most regulatory bodies require graduation from an accredited program for RN licensure. While state board-approved programs without accreditation might allow practice within the state, they could limit relocation and practice opportunities in other states.
• Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers often prefer graduates from accredited programs as it ensures comprehensive education and training.
• Pathways to Advanced Education: ADN or BSN degrees acquired from accredited institutions typically serve as prerequisites for admission into advanced nursing programs, such as Master's or Doctorate levels.
• Access to Financial Aid: Enrollment in an accredited program is often a requirement for federal financial aid, as well as numerous scholarships and grants, which are essential for managing educational expenses.
• Boosted Professional Credibility: Graduating from an accredited program enhances professional credibility, indicating to employers, colleagues, and patients that you have a solid educational foundation.
• Increased Public Trust: Accreditation standards ensure nursing programs prepare students in a way that promotes patient safety and well-being, crucial for maintaining public trust in the healthcare system.
• Thorough Preparation: Accredited programs undergo regular reviews to keep their curriculum current and comprehensive, equipping students to meet the demands of the healthcare field.
• Valuable Networking Opportunities: Accredited programs often have connections with a wide array of healthcare facilities, providing students with beneficial clinical placements and post-graduation employment prospects.

Recognized accrediting bodies for BSN programs include the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), or the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). These programs adhere to stringent national standards, ensuring that nursing students receive comprehensive training and are well-prepared to enter the nursing workforce upon graduation, with the flexibility to practice across state borders.

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: How do I transfer my nursing license to Colorado?

Colorado is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other NLC states without additional steps. You do not have to transfer your license if moving from an NLC state.

Q: Are there specialization programs for nurses in Colorado?

Many schools in Colorado offer advanced nursing degrees, allowing RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

Q: Is it better to have an ADN or a BSN?

While obtaining an RN license after completing an ADN is possible, the opportunities after graduation and beyond are more significant with a BSN degree. BSNs focus more on research, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, whereas an ADN primarily focuses on clinical skills.

Additionally, many healthcare institutions now require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and to achieve the prestige of Magnet status.

Edited Oct 19 by Erin Lee