Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Colorado | 2025

Explore top NP programs in Colorado, offering detailed information on NP program curricula, admission criteria, salary expectations, and tips for selecting the perfect program for your needs.

best nurse practitioner programs colorado
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Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking to advance your career or generally curious about the role of Nurse Practitioners (NPs), you've come to the right place. Discover the best NP programs in Colorado as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and more.

Best NP Programs in Colorado - Online & Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus

    Denver, Colorado

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1380 Lawrence Street, Lawrence Street Center, Suite 1400, Denver, Colorado 80217, US
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 10,922 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 9,689 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 75% Acceptance Rate
    • 52% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 24 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 82% White
    • 15% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 3% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $39,354 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  2. #2 University of Colorado, Colorado Springs

    Colorado Springs, Colorado

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    University of Colorado, Colorado Springs is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80918, US
    • 1-719-225-4420
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 9,102 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 1,891 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 85% Acceptance Rate
    • 49% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 46% Men
    • 54% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 84% White
    • 11% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 2% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $39,544 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  3. #3 University of Northern Colorado

    Greeley, Colorado

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    University of Northern Colorado is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 6,024 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 2,652 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 79% Acceptance Rate
    • 55% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 33% Men
    • 67% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 14% Hispanic
    • 3% Black
    • 3% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $40,015 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  4. #4 Regis University

    Denver, Colorado

    School Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Regis University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 2,239 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 2,270 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 76% Acceptance Rate
    • 58% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 27 Average Age
    • 35% Men
    • 65% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 82% White
    • 14% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 3% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $41,742 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  5. #5 Colorado Mesa University

    Grand Junction, Colorado

    School Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Colorado Mesa University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, DNP, LPN to BSN, LPN/LVN, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1100 North Avenue, Grand Junction, Colorado 81501, US
    • 1-970-248-1398
    • Baccalaureate Colleges: Diverse Fields
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 7,654 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 224 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 82% Acceptance Rate
    • 38% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 47% Men
    • 53% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 89% White
    • 11% Hispanic
    • 1% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $41,426 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  6. #6 Colorado State University Pueblo

    Pueblo, Colorado

    School Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Colorado State University Pueblo is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 2200 Bonforte Blvd, Pueblo, Colorado 81001, US
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 3,008 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 1,845 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 40% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 47% Men
    • 53% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 80% White
    • 26% Hispanic
    • 4% Black
    • 2% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $39,174 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

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What Is an Nurse Practitioner Program?

An NP Program in Colorado is a graduate-level pathway designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice roles as nurse practitioners. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical training, equipping nurses to deliver enhanced healthcare services, including patient diagnosis, treatment planning, and medication management.

Graduates of nurse practitioner programs emerge as skilled advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), ready to work in various settings such as hospitals, primary care clinics, emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, and private practices. NPs play a crucial role in bridging the care gap and improving access to healthcare, addressing the shortage of MDs. For nurses seeking career advancement, higher earning potential, and increased responsibilities in patient care, NP programs offer a path to the pinnacle of nursing practice.

Primary NP Responsibilities

While roles and responsibilities vary with different NP specialties and state regulations, primary NP responsibilities include:

  • Performing comprehensive physical health evaluations
  • Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays, lab work)
  • Diagnosing and managing acute and chronic conditions
  • Prescribing medications and treatments
  • Educating patients on prevention, treatment options, and self-care strategies

NP Specialty Concentrations

Colorado offers numerous NP specializations, with the most common being:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive health care for individuals of all ages, focusing on wellness, illness prevention, and managing long-term health issues. They often serve as primary healthcare providers for families.
  • Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs specialize in women's health from adolescence through post-menopause. They offer care in reproductive health, gynecology, prenatal, and postpartum support.
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs cater to adults from young adulthood to old age, addressing acute and chronic health conditions with a focus on personalized health education and promotion.
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs care for newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with significant health issues. They primarily work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) alongside a multidisciplinary medical team.
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs focus on the health and development of children from infancy to adolescence. They manage common childhood illnesses, conduct routine wellness checks, and provide guidance on nutrition and growth.
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs specialize in mental health care, performing assessments, offering therapeutic interventions, and providing comprehensive care for various mental health conditions.

Other less common NP specializations include areas like oncology, neurology, cardiology, or nephrology. Additionally, some programs offer the option to choose between a primary or acute care path in concentrations like pediatric or gerontology. 

NP Curriculum

The coursework for NP programs in Colorado combines advanced nursing theory, research, and specialized clinical practice. While specifics can vary by program and specialty, common courses include:

  • Advanced Health Assessment
  • Advanced Pharmacology
  • Advanced Pathophysiology
  • Primary Care Practices
  • Health Policy and Ethics
  • Clinical Decision Making
  • Specialty courses depending on the focus area (e.g., Family Practice, Pediatrics, Adult-Gerontology, etc.)

After graduation, students must pass a national certification exam in their chosen specialty area and obtain state licensure, which may include additional state-specific requirements.

NP Clinical Training

Clinical training is a crucial part of NP programs, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. In Colorado, clinical training requirements can differ based on the program and specialty.

Per the AACN Essentials all advanced-level nursing programs require 500 practice hours that cover both direct and indirect experiences. Specifically for NP programs, the National Task Force Standards for Quality NP Education (NTFS) mandate a minimum of 750 direct patient care hours.. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs typically require 1,000 or more clinical hours.

Students usually rotate through diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers to gain comprehensive experience. Training is supervised by experienced nurse practitioners and physicians, ensuring guided and practical learning. Depending on the program's focus, students receive training in areas like gerontology, pediatrics, neonatology, family medicine, or psychiatric health, with an emphasis on either primary or acute care.

NP Educational Pathways

The admission requirements, clinical hour requirements, and curriculum in NP programs vary based on the educational route you take. Here are the three most common pathways:

  1. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): A 2-3 year program combining coursework and clinical experiences, preparing graduates for NP certification.
  2. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A 3-4 year program focused on advanced clinical practice, including extensive practicum and a scholarly project.
  3. Post-Master's Certificate: A one-year program for RNs with an MSN or DNP, offering specialization in an NP role and preparation for NP certification.

For these three main pathways, nursing education and experience are required; prospective students without nursing experience should consider Direct Entry NP (DENP) Programs

NP Program Graduation Requirements

To graduate from an NP Program in Colorado students will generally need to meet the following requirements, though specifics can vary by program:

  • Complete Coursework: Finish courses in advanced pharmacology, advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, and specialty-focused subjects.
  • Minimum GPA: Maintain a minimum GPA in courses or overall curriculum, as specified by the program.
  • Clinical Hours: Complete a minimum of 750 supervised clinical hours in relevant settings.
  • Capstone Project or Thesis: Some programs require a capstone project or thesis to demonstrate the practical application of skills and knowledge.

NP Program Admission Requirements

In Colorado, individuals interested in pursuing a career as an NP must meet specific admission requirements. Common minimum admission requirements for NP programs typically include:

  • Educational Background: A BSN or MSN from an accredited institution is required.
  • Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure: Candidates must hold an active and unrestricted RN license in Colorado or a compact state.
  • Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended.
  • Academic Performance: A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4-point scale is usually required.
  • Prerequisite Courses: Completion of certain undergraduate courses, such as statistics, with a minimum grade requirement (often a grade of C or higher).
  • Clinical Experience: Prior clinical experience as a registered nurse is often required, although the specifics can vary by program.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
  • Personal Statement: A statement of career goals and motivations for pursuing an NP degree is typically required.
  • Resume or CV: Submission of a current resume or CV detailing educational and professional experiences is usually necessary.
  • Interview: An in-person or virtual interview to assess the candidate's suitability and dedication to the NP specialization.

Additional requirements to begin clinicals in most nursing programs typically include a background check, physical health screening, immunizations, and a drug test.

Cost of NP Programs in Colorado

Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) education entails a diverse array of expenses, reflecting the program's specialty, duration, and degree level. Critical cost elements consist of:

  • Tuition Fees: This is the principal cost for NP programs and varies by institution type, residency status, and may be charged per credit or by term.
  • Supplementary Fees: Students encounter additional charges for applications and use of university facilities, significantly impacting overall expenses.
  • Study Materials: Notable costs arise from required textbooks and medical equipment such as stethoscopes and lab coats.
  • Clinical Costs: Clinical rotations may necessitate travel, incurring further expenses.
  • Certification and Licensing: Post-graduation, certification exams and licensure fees are essential expenditures.
  • Living Costs: Full-time students must budget for significant living expenses, often without the ability to maintain full employment.

Financial Aid Overview

By utilizing financial strategies, students can better manage their education costs and concentrate on their path to becoming skilled healthcare providers. For additional information, check out the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and explore the Most Affordable NP Programs in 2025.

Colorado NP Salary Expectations 2025

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean NP salary in Colorado is $121,990 or $58.65 per hour, which is lower than the national average of $128,490, or $61.78 per hour — a difference of approximately 5%. However, job prospects in Colorado are good, with the state having at least 3,680 NP positions in 2023, placing it around the 50th percentile for nursing positions nationwide.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

  • California: $161,540
  • Nevada: $148,670
  • Washington: $145,400
  • New Jersey: $145,030
  • Oregon: $144,950

The average salaries for NP specialties are:

  • PMHNP: $139,486
  • FNP: $130,295
  • PNP: $135,161
  • NNP: $139,590
  • WHNP: $114,532
  • AGNP: $242,952

NP specialty salary data by ZipRecruiter.

Industries with the highest levels of employment and the pay for NPs include:

  • Offices of Physicians (137,030 NPs) $122,780
  • General Medical & Surgical Hospitals (61,740 NPs) $135,610
  • Outpatient Care Centers (25,440 NPs) $139,860
  • Offices of Other Health Practitioners (11,400) $121,250
  • Home Health Care Services (7,410 NPs) $146,850

When considering salary projections, it's important to account for various factors. These include your educational background, years of experience, the healthcare institution where you work, your employer, the demand for your nursing specialization, and your work schedule, including shifts and hours.

To understand your potential income fully, explore the specifics of your situation and your employer's compensation policies. You can compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide or learn more about nursing salaries in Colorado.

Are NP Programs in Colorado Worth It?

Deciding whether an NP Program is worth it in Colorado requires considering various pros and cons.

Pros of NP Programs in Colorado

  1. Growing Healthcare Demand: With a rising need for healthcare services, especially in rural and underserved areas, Colorado offers increasing opportunities for NPs, ensuring job security and availability.
  2. Competitive Salary Prospects: NPs in Colorado often earn competitive salaries, which can be higher than the national average for nurse practitioners, making the financial investment in education more justifiable.
  3. Full Practice Authority: Colorado is one of the states that grant full practice authority to NPs, allowing them to practice independently, which can lead to greater job satisfaction and autonomy in patient care.
  4. Diverse Specializations: NP programs in Colorado offer a range of specializations, enabling nurses to pursue careers in fields that align with their interests, such as family health, psychiatry, or pediatrics.
  5. Career Advancement: An NP degree can open doors to advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and opportunities in healthcare policy and education, offering a significant career growth trajectory.

Cons of NP Programs in Colorado

  1. High Educational Costs: The cost of NP programs can be substantial, leading to financial considerations and potential student debt, which is a significant factor for many.
  2. Intensive Time Commitment: Completing an NP Program requires a significant time investment, often several years, which can be challenging for those balancing work and personal responsibilities.
  3. Competitive Admission: NP programs can be competitive, with stringent admission criteria, making it challenging for some applicants to secure a spot.
  4. Increased Responsibility: NPs carry a higher level of responsibility, including diagnosing and treating patients, which can be stressful and demanding.
  5. Continuing Education Requirements: Maintaining licensure as an NP in Colorado requires ongoing education and recertification, necessitating a commitment to continuous professional development.

Pursuing an NP Program in Colorado can be a worthwhile endeavor for those seeking to advance in the nursing field, especially considering the state's favorable practice environment and growing healthcare needs. However, it's important to carefully consider the financial and time investments, as well as the long-term career benefits and personal fulfillment that this path offers.

Colorado NP Scope of Practice Considerations

Colorado affords Nurse Practitioners (NPs) Full Practice status, enabling them to independently perform patient evaluations, diagnose conditions, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and manage treatments, including the prescription of medications and controlled substances. This autonomy aligns with the recommendations of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

NP training in Colorado is designed to be comprehensive, equipping nurses to practice in any state, regardless of the scope of practice status. Education in a full-practice state like Colorado emphasizes the full range of an NP's competencies. Aspiring NPs must be mindful of the nuances in state-specific licensure laws. With eleven states enforcing restricted NP practice and fifteen with reduced practice, these regulations may necessitate some level of physician oversight.

NP students are tasked with confirming that their program aligns with the licensure needs of the state where they intend to practice, as well as any other states they may move to in the future. Resources such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) provide insights into state regulations, while the respective state's board of nursing offers detailed state-specific requirements.

National NP Certification

NP certification transcends state lines, offering nationally recognized credentials across specialties. NPs are encouraged to pursue certification through boards such as the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Board (AANPCB), the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and the National Certification Corporation (NCC), details of which are available on the AANP's website.

Tips to Choose the Best NP Program for You

Selecting the right NP Program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. A survey by allnurses revealed the top reasons nursing students chose their programs:

  1. Cost
  2. High Pass Rates
  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

For prospective NP students, additional considerations include:

  • Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen NP specialty.
  • Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
  • Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
  • Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
  • Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support. 
  • Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
  • Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
  • Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
  • Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
  • Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
  • State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state you want to work. 

Selecting the right NP Program depends on your personal preferences and career goals. By evaluating these elements, you can find a program that best fits your needs.

Why NP Program Accreditation Matters

  1. Guaranteed to meet nursing education standards
  2. Ensures compliance with state regulations
  3. Guarantees minimum clinical hour requirement
  4. Supports APRN licensure eligibility
  5. Prepares for certification exams
  6. Facilitates credit transfers
  7. Enhances professional credibility
  8. Improves employment prospects
  9. Enables access to financial aid
  10. Promotes long-term career success

In light of these factors, aspiring NPs are recommended to choose programs accredited by reputable organization like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accrediation (NLN CNEA).

Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I complete an NP Program in Colorado through online courses?

Many universities in Colorado offer online NP programs, providing flexibility for students who may be working or have other commitments. These programs typically include both online coursework and in-person clinical practicums.

Q: What is the role of informatics in NP graduate programs?

Informatics is increasingly integrated into NP graduate programs, focusing on how to use data and technology to improve patient care. It covers topics like electronic health records, data analysis, and telehealth, which are essential in modern healthcare.

Q: How many credit hours are typically required for NP programs in Colorado?

The number of credit hours required for NP programs in Colorado varies by specialization and degree level. Generally, master's level programs require around 40-70 credit hours, while Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs may require more.

Q: What is the importance of evidence-based practice in NP education?

Evidence-based practice is a cornerstone of NP education, emphasizing the use of current research and clinical expertise in making patient care decisions. It ensures that NPs provide the most effective and up-to-date treatments.

Q: Are there part-time NP programs available in Colorado, and do they include on-campus requirements?

Many institutions in Colorado offer part-time NP programs to accommodate students who need a more flexible schedule. While part-time programs take longer to complete, they often include on-campus components, especially for clinical competencies and practicums, alongside online coursework.

Edited by Erin Lee

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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