Best RN to BSN Programs in Colorado | 2025

Registered nurses (RNs) have multiple points of entry to their careers, including obtaining an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Although both degrees prepare students to become RNs, BSN-prepared nurses have the potential to earn higher pay and have increased employment rates.

Considering this, many ADN-prepared nurses are returning to school to pursue their BSN degrees. For those seeking to do so in Colorado, we've compiled the best RN to BSN degrees and information on their admission requirements, curriculum, salary expectations after graduation, and more.

Best Colorado RN to BSN Programs in 2025

Learn More About Colorado's Top RN to BSN Programs

To help you choose the best RN to BSN program for your needs, we've compiled essential data for the top 10 programs in Colorado. This overview highlights key program features, admission requirements, and more.

_{For details on tuition rates, accreditation, and program formats, please refer to the section above.}

1. Denver College of Nursing

Denver College of Nursing is a dedicated nursing school offering programs tailored for working nurses. The RN to BSN program is both challenging and rewarding, providing a supportive environment with smaller class sizes. Students benefit from close collaboration with peers and professors through their studies and experiential learning activities. The program is fully online, granting constant access to all materials and allowing for flexible completion in as little as 15 months, with no mandatory course times.

Upon enrollment in the DCN RN to BSN program, students receive 90 credit hours for prior nursing education. The curriculum includes 62 Nursing Quarter Credits and 28 General Education Quarter Credits, totaling 180 Quarter Credits.

The DCN program boasts a 92% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam, with a retention rate of 75% and a graduation rate of 63%. An impressive 98% of graduates secure employment within a year of completing the program.

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: The RN-BSN admission requirements include academic transcripts from an accredited ADN program or an RN Diploma program, along with an unencumbered RN license.

Financial Aid: Denver College of Nursing provides several financial aid options for students. These include interest-free payment plans, federal financial aid programs, funding specifically for veterans, and credit-based alternate funding.

2. University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus

The University of Colorado offers fully online RN to BSN programs through both the Anschutz Medical Campus. These programs are designed to help you balance work, life, and your studies while developing leadership skills and enabling you to implement quality improvements in your work environment. The flexible web-based courses can be completed in 12, 16, or 36 months, depending on your needs.

The RN-BSN program requires 30 nursing credits to complete and boasts a 95% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam.

RN to BSN Admission Requirements: To be admitted into the program, candidates must complete 60 hours of prerequisite coursework and hold a current RN license. 

Application Deadlines:

• Summer Start: November 15th
• Fall Start: January 15th
• Spring Start: June 15th

Financial Aid: A tuition buy-down is available, reducing total tuition costs in the final semester. For specific details on eligibility and application, students are encouraged to consult the financial aid office.

3. University of Colorado, Colorado Springs

Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs offers a fully online RN to BSN program. Designed with flexibility in mind, this program allows working professionals to manage their education while maintaining their careers. Nursing courses are delivered in 8-week increments, and students can choose the number of classes to take per session, ensuring a balanced approach to work, life, and study.

Requiring 30 nursing credit hours and 15 general education elective credits, the program provides a comprehensive education that fosters both clinical expertise and leadership skills. Focused on quality and career advancement, graduates consistently achieve high pass rates on licensure exams, reflecting the program's strong academic foundation.

Dual Enrollment Option: For students currently enrolled in an Associate's Degree in Nursing program, a dual enrollment option is available. These students can begin working toward their BSN while completing their ADN.

RN to BSN Admission Requirements:

• A cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher from all previously attended colleges
• A current, unrestricted RN license
• Submission of the Undergraduate Transfer Application
• Official transcripts from all colleges attended

Application Deadlines: There are multiple rolling start dates throughout the year.

Financial Aid: Scholarships are available for this program, in particular, RN to BSN students are encouraged to apply for the Newberry Scholarship Endowment.

4. Adams State University (ASU)

Adams State University's RN to BSN program is designed to advance nursing practices, particularly for those working in rural areas. The program aims to enhance the development, knowledge, and maturity of its students in daily nursing care. This program consists of 42 core credit hours in nursing, in addition to required general education and course hours. Students in this program enjoy a 94% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam.

RN-BSN Admission Requirements:

• R.N. licensure
• Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
• A minimum grade of C in all biology courses and PSYC 211
• Two letters of recommendation
• 500-word autobiographical essay
• Resume or C.V. with current RN license information. 

Application Deadlines:

• June 15 for Spring Semester Early Admission
• August 15 for Spring Semester Regular Admission

Financial Aid: The Adams State Foundation offers over 100 scholarships, with an average award of $12,000. Full-time students can benefit from credit hour discounts, and additional types of aid are available upon request, including work-study opportunities, grants, loans, and disbursements.

5. University of Northern Colorado (UNC)

The University of Northern Colorado prides itself on having an exceptional teaching staff, with every professor being a registered nurse possessing extensive experience in teaching, nursing, and research. Many faculty members are specialists in their respective healthcare fields, providing students with access to invaluable knowledge and expertise. The fully online RN to BSN program is designed for completion in 20 months, making it ideal for working nurses.

A total of 120 credit hours are required for graduation, with many credits from associate-level nursing education eligible for transfer, including 30 core nursing credit hours. UNC proudly maintains a 96% pass rate for the NCLEX-RN exam.

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be certified in CPR for adults and children with a current American Heart Association CPR card, and be graduates of an accredited ADN or diploma nursing program. Additionally, applicants must hold a current unencumbered RN license, and it is recommended to have 1,000 hours of RN experience within the previous three years.

Application Deadlines: Students can begin the online program in any term, with specific deadlines listed below. 

• Summer Start: April 15th deadline
• Fall Start: July 15th deadline
• Spring Start: December 15th deadline

If you want to apply in the middle of a term, contact an admission coach. 

6. Pikes Peak Community College (PPCC) Nursing Department

PPCC's RN to BSN program aims to prepare nurses to become essential contributors to the nursing profession of the future. Students are taught to value excellence, caring, ethical practice, civility, and lifelong learning. The program extends beyond individual patient care, equipping nurses to promote better healthcare within their communities. Featuring manageable 8-week courses that are transferable within the Colorado Community College System, the coursework is 100% online, although some courses require in-person attendance for practical work.

The program recognizes and transfers up to 71.5 block credit hours and consists of 18 General Education Credit Hours, 24.5 Upper Division Course Credit Hours, and 30.5 RN-BSN Curriculum Credit Hours, totaling 120 credit hours required for graduation.

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: Candidates must complete an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing and hold a current RN license in good standing.

Application Deadlines: tart dates for the program are available in January, May, and August.

Financial Aid: Students may apply for federal financial aid, and Colorado offers tuition reimbursement in the form of a tax credit for college.

7. Regis University

Regis University is a Jesuit Catholic institution in Denver, home to the Loretto Heights School of Nursing, which offers one of the top RN to BSN programs in Colorado. Graduates are recognized as leaders in nursing knowledge, competence, and ethics. The university prides itself on its diverse student body, being the only private institution in Colorado designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and one of the top private universities for veterans.

Designed for working nurses, the program can be completed in as little as 10 months or up to 20 months, depending on individual needs, and is available 100% online for added convenience.

Students can transfer up to 90 credits from their associate-level nursing program, with a minimum of 30 credit hours required to complete the RN-BSN program, totaling 120 credits for graduation. The most recent NCLEX-RN exam pass rate for this program was 78%, and 94% of graduates secured employment within six months of completion.

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: Applicants must hold a nursing diploma or an ADN, along with an active RN license.

Application Deadlines: Regis offers a Fall Term and two Spring Terms. Online programs have unique deadlines, so it is advisable to consult your advisor for specific application dates.

Financial Aid: Options include external nursing scholarships, grants, student loans, and employer discounts.

8. Colorado Mesa University (CMU)

Colorado Mesa University's RN to BSN program provides professional nurses with an excellent opportunity to grow, enhance their competencies, and assume leadership roles. The program is designed to be flexible and affordable, featuring some of the most competitively priced tuition in the state.

This program requires 31 upper-division nursing credits, which can be completed in 8-week sessions or at the student's own pace. Notably, 90% of students in the CMU RN to BSN program pass their NCLEX-RN exam on their first attempt.

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Successful completion of an associate degree or an ACEN-accredited diploma program
• Minimum GPA of 2.5
• Proof of a current RN license
• Successful compilation of 38 previous nursing credits

Application Deadlines: CMU has five start dates throughout the year. 

• Fall 1 Deadline: July 15th
• Fall 2 Deadline: September 16th
• Spring 1 Deadline: December 2nd
• Spring 2 Deadline: February 24th
• Summer 1 Deadline: April 29th

Financial Aid: CMU offers some of the lowest tuition fees in the state, with federal financial aid available. Partners of certain healthcare facilities can receive a $1,000 tuition discount, and in-state students may qualify for College Opportunity Funding.

9. Colorado Christian University (CCU)

Colorado Christian University is a private non-profit institution located in Lakewood, Colorado. It's RN to BSN Completion program is entirely online and designed for active working adults. The program can be completed either full-time or part-time to suit individual schedules, allowing registered nurses to explore new career opportunities while integrating biblical values. The program can be finished in as little as 14 months, with all theory courses offered 100% online, while clinical hours can be completed in the student's geographic area.

Students can transfer up to 90 earned credits into the program, which consists of 30 credit hours. The NCLEX-RN pass rate for this program is 86%.

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Associate degree or diploma in nursing from a nationally accredited program and institution
• Proof of active, unencumbered RN license

Financial Aid: The program features a guaranteed tuition rate, and a variety of financial aid options are available, including grants, loans, and scholarships from both CCU and external sources.

10. Colorado State University, Pueblo

Colorado State University Pueblo's fully online RN to BSN program is designed to not only enhance nursing skills but also foster personal growth in areas such as empathy, confidence, compassion, and resourcefulness. With a flexible format that allows completion in 1-2 years, the program is ideal for working nurses looking to advance their education. Graduates of the program consistently perform well, with a current NCLEX-RN exam pass rate of 93%.

The program requires 33 credit hours through the articulation agreement, 57 credit hours from prerequisite courses, and 30 nursing credit hours to a cumulative 120 credit hours required for graduation. This structure ensures a comprehensive education that prepares students for leadership roles while enhancing their clinical expertise.

RN to BSN Admission Requirements:  To be eligible for the RN to BSN program, applicants must have a minimum 2.0 GPA and at least 24 credit hours of prior college coursework. Students with a GPA of 2.3 or higher in their associate-level nursing program, who have also completed all basic skills coursework, will receive direct admission into the program.

Additional requirements include holding a current, unrestricted RN license and submitting an official application through the university's admissions portal.

Application Deadlines: Applications for the RN-BSN degree are accepted year-round. However, specific application deadlines may vary, and students are encouraged to consult with counselors for detailed guidance on the application timeline.

Financial Aid: Nursing scholarships are available, typically awarded to students with high GPAs or those residing in Colorado. Interested applicants should inquire with the financial aid office for further details on eligibility.

What Is an RN to BSN Program?

A BSN degree is a baccalaureate focusing on expanding the foundations of nursing care offered in an ADN program.

As an ADN-prepared nurse, you'll earn a two-year degree and complete nursing fundamentals coursework. As a BSN-prepared nurse, you'll earn a four-year degree; your classes will be more in-depth and cover additional subjects, such as leadership, research, and informatics. Some classes include nursing leadership, research, advanced pathophysiology, and informatics. 

As a BSN-prepared RN, you'll provide patient care duties and implement and evaluate nursing interventions to promote health and best care practices. You can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient physician offices, and long-term care and community health facilities.

Why Earn Your BSN?

In addition to increased employment rate and pay, BSN-prepared nurses improve patient outcomes and increase healthcare systems' revenue. Therefore many healthcare organizations now require new nurses to be BSN-prepared or encourage their employed ADN-prepared nurses to earn their BSN.

Also, many hospitals want to achieve Magnet recognition in nursing excellence. This expectation means that all of their nurse managers and higher have a BSN.

RN to BSN Curriculum

RN to BSN programs expand an RN's knowledge and skills through advanced coursework, including:

• Advanced Nursing Practice: Deepens understanding of patient care, healthcare policies, and advanced nursing techniques.
• Community Health Nursing: Focuses on public health, health promotion, and disease prevention in community settings.
• Leadership and Management in Nursing: Develops essential management and leadership skills tailored to the healthcare environment.
• Health Assessment: Teaches advanced patient assessment techniques, enhancing diagnostic and clinical skills.
• Pathophysiology: Explores the physiological effects of diseases on the human body.
• Pharmacology: Covers medication effects, interactions, dosages, and safe administration practices.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Emphasizes the importance of research and the application of evidence-based practices in nursing.
• Ethics in Nursing: Examines ethical dilemmas and legal considerations within healthcare settings.

RN to BSN Clinical Training

Clinical training in RN to BSN programs provides practical experience in various settings:

• Hospital-Based Training: Offers diverse experiences across different hospital departments, enhancing clinical versatility.
• Community Health Clinics: Emphasizes preventive care, health education, and community health promotion.
• Long-Term Care Facilities: Focuses on chronic care management and the needs of elderly or long-term patients.
• Public Health Departments: Engages students with public health initiatives and community health assessments.
• Specialty Clinics: Provides specialized experience in areas like oncology, pediatrics, or other focused medical fields.
• Home Health Care: Focuses on personalized, individualized care in patients' homes, promoting holistic health management.
• Simulation Labs: Utilizes advanced simulation technology for realistic practice of clinical skills in a controlled environment.

RN to BSN Program Admission Requirements in Colorado

When applying to an RN to BSN program, you must meet both the school's and the program's admission requirements. Most Colorado programs typically include the following criteria:

• An ADN, ASN, or AAS degree from an accredited institution
• Passed the NCLEX-RN exam and hold an unrestricted Colorado RN license
• Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
• Transcripts from all prior institutions or colleges
• Proof of clinical hours, usually about 1,000, with a letter or transcripts
• New or transfer application, as required by the institution
• Background check and drug screen
• Up-to-date immunizations and physical examination

Many programs also require a minimum GPA in previous coursework, typically a B average (3.0) or higher for a better chance of acceptance. In addition to an accredited ADN RN program and an active RN license, students must complete core courses with a minimum GPA. These courses may include:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• General Chemistry with lab
• Microbiology with lab
• Anatomy and Physiology with lab
• College Algebra
• Statistics
• Human Nutrition
• Speech or Interpersonal Communication

Always check the specific admission requirements for each RN to BSN program to ensure you meet all criteria, as they can vary by program.

Colorado RN to BSN Program Costs

When evaluating the costs of RN to BSN programs in Colorado, it's important to consider several factors:

• Tuition: Varies by institution.
  • State schools are generally cheaper than private or out-of-state.
  • Public universities often charge lower rates for residents. 
  • Online programs can reduce costs, though clinical hours may still be required.
• Fees: Application, technology, and graduation fees.
• Books and Supplies: Costs for textbooks, medical instruments, and other materials.
• Technology Expenses: Software and digital learning tools for online or hybrid courses.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Additional administrative fees and travel costs for clinical rotations.
• Living Expenses: Significant for those not working while studying or relocating.
• Opportunity Costs: Financial impact of reduced work hours while in school.
• Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
• Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or the need to maintain employment may affect choice.

These elements collectively contribute to the total investment required for a BSN RN program, necessitating thorough financial planning for those embarking on this educational path. To reduce the overall cost of nursing school, explore the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.

2025 Colorado RN Salary & Job Projection

A common motivation for RNs to pursue a BSN is the potential for a pay increase. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Colorado RNs can expect a mean annual wage of $91,730, compared to the national average of $94,480.

The top five paying states for registered nurses are as follows: 

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

The states with the highest employment level of RNs and their average annual earnings in 2023 were:

• California (332,560) $137,690.00
• Texas (251,840) $90,210.00
• FLorida (207,910) $84,760.00
• New York (188,060) $106,620.00
• Pennsylvania (144,100) $87,530.00

Other factors influencing salary include years of experience, nursing specialty, the healthcare system, and your location. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer higher salaries for RNs with a Bachelor's degree. Although the BLS does not distinguish between ADN RN and BSN RN salaries, ZipRecruiter offers valuable insights into the pay differences for ADN and BSN registered nurses.

Average ADN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $39.00
• Annual Wage: $80,321.00

U.S states with the highest ADN RN salaries are:

• Washington: $99,301.00
• New York: $88,028.00
• Vermont: $86,437.00
• California: $84,528.00
• Maine: $82,150.00

Average BSN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $49.00
• Annual Wage: $102,263.00

U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are: 

• Washington: $126,428.00
• New York: $112,075.00
• Vermont: $110,049.00
• California: $107,620.00
• Maine: $104,591.00 

According to ZipRecruiter, BSN RNs in Colorado earn an average of $97,927.00. 

RN to BSN Job Projection

Data from the BLS highlights that the nursing sector had over three million registered nurse positions in 2022, with a projected 6% growth by 2032, adding approximately 177,400 new jobs. While Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) RNs are valued, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) considers the Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN) as the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice.

The projected job growth does not fully account for demographic shifts, such as an aging population and the retirement of a significant portion of the nursing workforce in the coming decade. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to career path changes among nurses, exacerbating the shortage of nursing professionals. Consequently, the demand for well-qualified nurses, particularly those with a BSN, is expected to remain high. The AACN's endorsement of the BSN as the minimal preparation for professional practice is likely to further drive this trend.

Are RN to BSN Programs in Colorado Worth It?

Evaluating whether RN to BSN programs in Colorado are worth it involves weighing the pros and cons.

Pros of RN to BSN Programs in Colorado

1. Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses often command higher salaries compared to their ADN counterparts. In Colorado's competitive healthcare market, this can translate to significant financial benefits.
2. Increased Job Opportunities: Many healthcare facilities in Colorado, especially larger hospitals and clinics, prefer or require nurses with a BSN, offering more job opportunities for BSN-prepared nurses.
3. Advancement in Career: A BSN is often necessary for leadership roles, specialized nursing positions, or administrative roles. In Colorado, this degree can open doors to various career advancement opportunities.
4. Educational Foundation for Advanced Degrees: For nurses in Colorado aiming to pursue further education, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree, a BSN is typically a prerequisite.
5. Meeting Industry Standards: With a nationwide push towards a more educated nursing workforce, having a BSN aligns with the evolving standards of the nursing profession. This is particularly relevant in Colorado's dynamic healthcare landscape.

Cons of RN to BSN Programs in Colorado

1. Cost and Time Investment: Pursuing a BSN requires a significant investment of time and money. This can be a substantial burden, especially for working nurses.
2. Work-Life Balance Challenges: Balancing work, life, and studies can be challenging, particularly for RNs who are working while pursuing their BSN.
3. Variable Return on Investment: Depending on the specific job market in Colorado, the financial benefits of a BSN may not immediately offset the cost of education.
4. Online vs. In-Person Learning: Many RN to BSN programs are offered online, which can be a pro for some but a con for those who prefer or benefit more from in-person learning experiences.
5. Potential Redundancy for Experienced RNs: For RNs with many years of experience, the additional degree may not significantly change their job prospects or salary, especially in parts of Colorado where experience is highly valued.

Tips to Choose an RN to BSN Program

The criteria for choosing a nursing school vary based on personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations.

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. Another critical consideration is accreditation. Though its importance may not be immediately apparent, accreditation is crucial, especially for RN to BSN programs. Here's why you should choose an accredited RN to BSN program:

• Program Standards:  Ensures program credibility by maintaining a comprehensive curriculum, qualified faculty, and thorough clinical training.
• Career Prospects: Preferred by employers, broadening job opportunities and flexibility.
• Credit Transfer: Easier acceptance of credits by other institutions.
• Credibility: Enhances professional reputation with education aligned to national standards and minimum nursing degree recommended by AACN. 
• Financial Aid: Necessary for federal financial aid eligibility.
• Licensure: Guaranteed to meet state requirements (in all states) for RN licensure and further education.
• Professional Growth: Access to networking and professional development opportunities.
• Quality Assurance: Regular evaluations ensure ongoing program quality and legitimacy.

Aspiring nurses should verify that their selected RN-to-BSN programs are accredited by reputable bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

RN to BSN Programs Near Me

Discover RN to BSN programs in the following states:

FAQs and Additional Readings

Q: Is a BSN degree worth it?

A: Many RNs enjoy helping and caring for others. They choose to become BSN-prepared to expand their nursing knowledge and open the door for opportunities in leadership or other areas of nursing. Often, RNs return to earn their BSN and think it's worth it, especially if they want to increase their earning potential.

Q: Is a BSN higher than an RN?

A: An RN is a license that you receive from the state board of nursing to practice nursing. An RN can have an associate, bachelor, or master's degree. A BSN is a four-year degree that prepares you for practice as an RN but has more advanced courses than an ADN degree.

Q: Why choose an RN to BSN program?

A: Many healthcare systems encourage nurses to earn their BSN degrees with the potential to increase their earning potential. Many online and self-paced programs make earning your degree much more manageable while working.