School Details
The University of Colorado School of Nursing, celebrating over 115 years of contributions in nursing education, offers several BSN degree pathway programs and MSN, DNP, and PhD degree programs.
Accreditations
ACEN,CCNE,COA
,
,
Location
Colorado
Address
1380 Lawrence Street, Lawrence Street Center, Suite 1400, Denver, Colorado 80217, US
Telephone
1-303-724-1812
Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online
$17,910
3.5 /5
Online
$17,910
3.5 /5
Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online
$17,940
3.5 /5
School Details
The University of Northern Colorado offers CCNE accredited BSN, ABSN, RN to BSN, MSN, BSN, MSN to DNP and PhD degree programs including programs as a Nurse Practitioner and Post-graduate certificates.
Accreditations
ACEN,CCNE,COA
,
,
Location
Colorado
Address
Carter Hall - Rm 4000, Greeley, Colorado 80639, US
Telephone
1-970-351-2293
Programs
Format
Tuition
Score
Online
$10,500
3.5 /5
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.
Colorado RN BSN 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Work-Life Balance Challenges: Balancing work, life, and studies can be challenging, particularly for RNs who are working while pursuing their BSN.
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.
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.
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:
Cost
High NCLEX Pass Rate
Location
Academic Reputation
Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
Length of Time to Obtain Degree
Flexibility of Schedule
Curriculum
Campus and Surroundings
Nursing Clinicals Location
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).
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.
Amanda Marten, MSN (Columnist)