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2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Colorado

By OnlineU Writers • Updated 9/24/2024

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There are several options for online nursing degrees in Colorado, and we've highlighted accredited schools offering degrees you should consider. Learn about licensure and how to become a nurse in Colorado once you've earned your degree. For inclusion on our list, the colleges with the best online nursing degrees in Colorado are based on the following criteria:

  • The nursing school has a primary location in Colorado.
  • The school offers an online nursing degree at the bachelor's level or an online RN to BSN.
  • The nursing school has publicly available for 2023, which is sourced from government data. Pass rates are listed for the baccalaureate degree level.
  • Either all or the vast majority of coursework is completed online. Many of the best online nursing programs still require some in-person clinical hours, internships, or practicums.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

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2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Colorado

Tuition numbers were manually collected and verified where noted
School NCLEX Pass Rate Online Enrollment
University of Northern Colorado 96.15% 1,594
Metropolitan State University of Denver 95.83% 4,246
University of Colorado Colorado Springs 95.38% 1,832
Colorado Christian University 94.2% 5,248
Colorado State University - Pueblo 92.86% 820
Denver College of Nursing 92.81% 273
Colorado Mesa University 91.21% 666

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Becoming a Nurse in Colorado

Becoming a nurse in Colorado requires education and demonstrating your competence with nursing skills. The specifics will vary based on the type of nurse you're trying to become, but you'll need to complete a nursing diploma or degree program and pass one of the National Council Licensure Examinations (NCLEXs).

There's a growing demand for healthcare workers in every state, but the is especially acute. The state is even for nurses in mental health offices. You have a good chance of job stability as a nurse in Colorado, but there's also a possibility for burnout because many types of care facilities find themselves stretched thin.

The regulates this profession and grants three types of Idaho nursing licenses: licensed practical nurse (LPN), registered nurse (RN), and advanced practice nurse (APN, often called an advanced practice registered nurse or APRN in other states). The board also governs certification for certified nurse aides (CNAs).

To learn about online nursing programs and requirements in other states, explore our list of accredited nursing degrees by state below:

Nursing Degrees by State

How To Get Certified Nurse Aide Certification in Colorado

A CNA helps patients with necessary daily activities under the supervision of an RN or LPN. Their tasks include bathing, transferring and repositioning patients, tending to wounds, and other essential tasks.

Candidates can earn their either by examination or by endorsement. For certification by exam, the first step is completing a state-approved training program that includes at least 80 hours of instruction. Various community colleges in the area offer training programs. After completing this training, an individual must pass the competency exam. The test consists of a knowledge portion and a skills test. After passing the test, an individual may apply for certification. 

Certification by endorsement is only for CNAs with an active certification in another state. They must provide and undergo a criminal background check before receiving their Colorado credential.

CNA certifications are valid for two years. All certifications expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years.

How To Get a Licensed Practical Nurse License in Colorado

An LPN plays an important role in healthcare by providing basic nursing care to patients under the direction of an RN or physician. LPNs perform a range of duties, including taking vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, and pulse), maintaining patient records, bathing and feeding patients, and teaching families how to properly care for their relatives.

Colorado has a mandatory practice act, which means an individual may not practice as an LPN without a state license. Receiving a begins with graduating from an approved LPN program, regardless of whether a candidate opts for licensure by exam or licensure by endorsement. 

There are several Colorado community colleges and technical schools that offer such programs. The curriculum includes courses such as human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and human growth and development. Students will also receive hands-on experience in a clinical setting. The program takes approximately 12-14 months to complete at a full-time pace.

After graduating from an LPN program, an individual can apply for licensure. Requirements include verifying completion of the training program and verifying any healthcare licenses held in other states or countries. Applicants need to pay an application processing fee, provide a Social Security number, and answer screening questions related to criminal history. Aspiring LPNs must also pass the NCLEX-PN. 

LPN licenses must be renewed every two years. All licenses expire on August 31 of even-numbered years.

How To Get a Registered Nurse License in Colorado

The daily responsibilities of an RN vary greatly by employer, but they're generally tasked with monitoring patients, administering medications, acting as a liaison between patient and doctor, and managing medical records.

To obtain a Colorado RN license, an applicant must first earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited college. Licensure candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Pay the application processing fee. 

  • Verify any other healthcare licenses held in another state or country.

  • Complete the Affidavit of Eligibility to work in the United States.

  • Submit fingerprints to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in order to conduct a state and national background check and answer screening questions related to criminal history.

  • Provide a Social Security number.

RN licenses are valid for two years. All licenses expire on September 30 of odd or even-numbered years, depending on when they were issued.

Aspiring RNs may want to learn how to become a neonatal nurse, how to become a pediatric nurse, or how to become a travel nurse if they plan to specialize in these areas.

How To Get an Advanced Practice Nurse License in Colorado

An APN is an RN who has an advanced degree, usually a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, along with years of experience in the field. Colorado APNs may choose to specialize as nurse practitioners (NPs), certified nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists, or certified registered nurse anesthetists. The duties of APNs vary widely depending on their area of specialization. 

The first step to an APN license is for the nursing board to verify a candidate's status as an RN. This can be an active Colorado RN license for licensure by exam candidates or a license from another state in the case of licensure by endorsement.

The board also needs to see proof of graduation from an accredited graduate-level nursing program. Individuals must also hold a national nursing certification in their specialty practice area, which the appropriate independent certification agency must issue. 

Once certified, the next step is applying to the Colorado Board of Nursing for licensure. Some types of APNs can also to prescribe medication and other treatments. 

Colorado APN licenses expire every two years and are renewed at the same time as RN licenses. Recertifying in a specialty is the job of the appropriate national certification agency, and APNs are responsible for keeping up to date on their certification requirements.

Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs

Leah, Graduated 2024

Attended: Chamberlain University

I’m not one to write reviews, but Chamberlain university has me so upset I would not recommend the school to anyone. The classes were great and I enjoyed the curriculum it was the staff such as the financial dept/advisor that was the problem. So many gaps, lack of communication and conflicting stories. The 30 minutes to an hour wait time make it difficult to actually speak to someone. They do not look out for your best interest at all. I will definitely be looking for another school to finish my... Read More

Review Date: 3/9/2023

Attended: Chamberlain University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 1/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Leah, Graduated 2024

Julie, Graduated 2019

Attended: Excelsior University

The CPNE was a nightmare- spelled out fair enough- but they will fail you for the most simple things- out $1200- then raised another $1200 and banged it off without a problem. Much to memorize- then just do the steps- done! Now Im fininshing last few weeks of BSN- idk of all online programs are as bad as this or if it is just Excelsior. Out of touch with students- minimal comunnication. Im so done with it! 4 years of hell.

Review Date: 11/21/2019

Attended: Excelsior University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 3/5

Instruction Rating: 2/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Julie, Graduated 2019

daisy2daisy, Graduated 2016

Attended: American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Post University

American Sentinel's RN to BSN program, like most high caliber nursing programs, requires many hours of reading, research, writing discussions and assignments, power point presentations, voice thread technology, and knowledge of virtual patient and hospital situations. I had been out of school over 20 years and felt very anxious about returning to a world where new technologically-oriented teaching methods were mandatory. With the help of my husband to guide me with the technical aspect, I made It!... Read More

Review Date: 9/17/2016

Attended: American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Post University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

daisy2daisy, Graduated 2016

Alan, Graduated 2016

Attended: Chamberlain University

I started originally in 2006 but will graduate in December 2016. I took all this time because I worked full time and cared for my mother until she passed. I never had any issue with confusion from enrollment, student aid or the teachers. I was in the RN to BSN Online program. I enjoyed it. However if you think a college that is work friendly is easier then don't go here. You will have to READ and participate, plus write papers. CCN wont give you a degree, you must earn it. I enjoyed my time here... Read More

Review Date: 6/5/2016

Attended: Chamberlain University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Alan, Graduated 2016

Diane Jacobs, Graduated 2015

Attended: American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Post University

I will finish my BSN from ASU in about a month. As an experienced nurse out of nursing school for over 3 decades with other advanced degrees I found the program gave me an opportunity to earn my degree without travel - I live in a rural area - at a reasonable cost (compared to other schools I researched). The school has good online setup and resources. The instructors I had were all experienced, both clinically and academically, and helpful with student learning. I appreciated the flexibility of... Read More

Review Date: 4/2/2015

Attended: American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Post University

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Diane Jacobs, Graduated 2015

Jenn, Graduated 2014

Attended: Indian River State College

The college that I'm doing my degree is an excellent institution to go to if one would like to get the best degree. Amazing instructors and resources. They always ready to help with any concern or question. They really care about one education. Great school!

Review Date: 9/16/2016

Attended: Indian River State College

Overall Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Jenn, Graduated 2014

Jasmine Perkins, Graduated 2017

Attended: Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University has two campuses. One campus is located in Huntsville, TX and the other is in the Woodlands, Texas. This university is great for students who want have the university experience, but also have smaller class sizes where the professor will know your name. The nursing program is fairly new, however the NCLEX pass rates are great for those who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing.

Review Date: 12/7/2018

Attended: Sam Houston State University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Jasmine Perkins, Graduated 2017

Anon, Graduated 2020

Attended: University of Missouri at Saint Louis

I am a student currently in the nursing program. I am just completing my first year, and unfortunately, I cannot with good conscience recommend this school to anyone. I am a VERY passive person. You could spill a glass of water on me, I would immediately be assuring you "It's okay, don't worry about it!" But dealing with school has been a horrible experience, and by this point my nerves are completely shot. Had I been paying attention, I would have seen the warnings: I applied for the school months... Read More

Review Date: 4/4/2019

Attended: University of Missouri at Saint Louis

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Anon, Graduated 2020

Brittany E. Lieber, Graduated 2019

Attended: Chamberlain University

In terms of my own personal learning, I highly recommend this school. I enjoyed the small class sizes, and I highly recommend the accelerated program timing. Having only two or three classes for eight weeks is so much more effective than five classes for sixteen weeks. I feel I can really focus so much more and really learn the material. With this schedule, I was also able to work while in school. It is cheaper than going away and living somewhere... So far very great experience.

Review Date: 10/8/2018

Attended: Chamberlain University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Brittany E. Lieber, Graduated 2019

Shyla, Graduated 2015

Attended: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

I truly enjoyed my time at TTUHSC School of Nursing. It's an incredibly rigorous program but definitely doable. Faculty and staff work with you in great detail to prepare you for a career as a nurse, especially in the last semester as you begin applying for jobs. I was incredibly surprised at how well prepared I was for the NCLEX, job applications and interviews. Additionally, I was trained well to be able to handle the complexity of working in the ER. It's a great school!

Review Date: 2/16/2017

Attended: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Shyla, Graduated 2015

Lauren, Graduated 2014

Attended: University of Alabama at Birmingham

UAB is a fantastic nursing school. Most of the courses are on campus. They have an excellent skills lab with some top notch equipment. The coursework is difficult, but it adequately prepares you for the real nursing world. The instructors are great and willing to help whenever needed. I was able to pass my boards on the first try, with only 75 questions.

Review Date: 3/28/2017

Attended: University of Alabama at Birmingham

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Lauren, Graduated 2014

Elizabeth Aviles, BSN, RNC-OB, Graduated 1998

Attended: College of Mount Saint Vincent

My experience was wonderful. The campus is beautiful. Teachers were professionals and knowledgeable in the field. The curriculum was rigorous but prepared me for my profession. I did pass the NCLEX on first try. The counselors were very helpful, all my credits transferred and I was able to graduate quickly with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Review Date: 10/31/2015

Attended: College of Mount Saint Vincent

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Elizabeth Aviles, BSN, RNC-OB, Graduated 1998

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