Nurses' Guide to the Best RN to BSN Programs in Colorado 2023 (2023)

Are you a registered nurse eager to pursue a BSN degree? Or have you completed your two-year RN program and are prepared to advance your education? This all-encompassing guide offers everything you need to know about obtaining an RN-BSN degree in the Centennial State, Colorado.

Featuring 10 RN to BSN programs available throughout Colorado, this guide encompasses vital information such as program rankings, admission requirements, and sample course outlines. You’ll gain valuable insights into each program’s unique offerings and strengths, allowing you to make an informed decision on the most suitable path for your nursing career.

Moreover, the guide explores scholarships for Colorado nurses, financial aid options, current salaries, and employment prospects for BSN-educated nurses. By providing a comprehensive overview of the opportunities present in Colorado’s nursing landscape, this guide serves as an indispensable resource for those seeking to elevate their nursing career in the picturesque state renowned for its stunning mountains and lively communities.

Are You Looking for an Online RN to BSN Degree Program?

If you are currently an RN, the following schools are currently accepting Colorado students into their online RN to BSN programs, providing flexible learning options to accommodate your busy schedule.

Listing of RN to BSN Programs in Colorado

A BSN degree holds immense value in the rapidly evolving field of healthcare. For nurses, this means greater job opportunities, enhanced job security, and higher earning potential.

These 10 RN to BSN programs in Colorado provide the essential stepping stone for nurses aiming to excel in their careers, impact healthcare policy, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Admissions Requirements for Colorado RN to BSN Programs

Embarking on the journey to a BSN degree in Colorado? Here’s what you’ll need to navigate the admission requirements for RN to BSN Programs in Colorado. Some of this information may take a while to obtain, so it’s best to start early.

• Active Registered Nurse (RN) License: Nurses must have an active RN license in the state of Colorado. Colorado Board of Nursing provides resources on obtaining and maintaining your RN license.
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Nursing Diploma: You must have completed either an ADN or a Nursing Diploma program. Transcripts must be sent directly from the school to the BSN program.
• Prerequisite Courses: Most programs require that certain prerequisite courses have been completed before admission. This usually includes classes in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics. Colorado Community College System can provide more information on available prerequisite courses.
• Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA is typically required, often around a 2.5 or higher. Check with the specific program for their exact requirement.
• Professional References: Letters of recommendation from employers or professors who can attest to your commitment and capability as a nurse.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed account of your professional nursing experience, highlighting your roles, responsibilities, and achievements.
• Personal Statement or Essays: These written pieces provide an opportunity to express your commitment to nursing, your understanding of the BSN program’s expectations, and how a BSN degree aligns with your career goals.
• Optional: Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): While not a requirement for admission, completing the FAFSA as early as possible can help you plan for your financial aid options. Visit the official FAFSA website for more information and to apply.

Remember, requirements may vary slightly between programs. Always check with the specific RN to BSN program in Colorado for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Typical RN to BSN Classes & Courses in Colorado

RN to BSN Programs in Colorado: A Pathway to Enhanced Nursing Skills

RN to BSN programs in Colorado provide registered nurses with the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and advance their education, skills, and career prospects. With courses designed to build on the foundation of an associate degree in nursing, these programs typically cover a diverse range of subjects, from evidence-based practice to leadership development.

Here are some common courses you can expect to take when enrolled in an RN to BSN program in Colorado:

• Health Assessment: This course covers techniques for comprehensive health evaluations of individuals across their lifespan. Nurses will learn to conduct thorough examinations, make accurate assessments, and create holistic care plans for patients.
• Nursing Informatics: Nurses in this course will explore the application of technology and information systems in the healthcare setting. They will learn how to use electronic health records, analyze data, and contribute to quality improvement initiatives.
• Public Health Nursing: This course focuses on population-based care and community health. Students will learn about environmental factors, epidemiology, and health promotion strategies applicable to diverse populations, preparing them for careers in public health settings.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: This course aims to equip nurses with

Online RN to BSN Programs in Colorado

The process to enroll in RN to BSN programs in Colorado involves several steps. Here’s what potential students should expect:

Timeline and Admission Process

1. Submit an Application: Prospective students start by submitting an application, usually online. This step usually includes paying a small application fee.
2. Provide Transcripts: Applicants need to provide transcripts from previous schools. This helps the university assess the student’s academic history.
3. Provide Proof of Licensure: Most RN to BSN programs require current licensure as a Registered Nurse.
4. Write an Essay: Some programs also require a personal statement or essay, detailing the applicant’s nursing experience and goals.

Deadlines for applications can vary from school to school. Some have rolling admissions, while others have specific deadlines. Always check the individual program for details.

Program Length and Time to Completion

RN to BSN programs in Colorado typically take around 2 years to complete for full-time students. This timeline can fluctuate based on whether the student is attending part-time or full-time:

• Full-time Students: Students who enroll full-time can typically complete the program in 18 to 24 months.
• Part-time Students: Part-time students may take up to 3 years to complete the program.

For nurses looking to upgrade their skills and knowledge while working, online RN to BSN programs in Colorado provide a flexible and feasible route to achieving their goals. As with any academic program, individual timelines and experiences will vary, so prospective students should reach out to their school of choice for specific information.

Tuition and Cost of Attendance for RN to BSN Programs in Colorado

The cost of obtaining a degree varies widely among RN to BSN programs in Colorado.

Take the University of Colorado, for example. Here, students pay an estimated $12,500 per year for in-state tuition. This figure includes fees, but not textbooks, housing, or personal expenses. Navigate to the University of Colorado’s Nursing Page for more information.

Regis University offers another option. Tuition for this RN to BSN program totals about $15,450 annually. Just like at the University of Colorado, these fees do not cover books, housing, or personal expenses. Visit the Regis University’s Nursing Page to learn more.

There’s also Colorado Mesa University. Here, in-state tuition and fees amount to roughly $10,500 per year. Visit the Colorado Mesa University’s Nursing Page for detailed breakdowns.

Keep in mind, these costs represent estimates. Actual costs depend on various factors. These factors include whether students enroll full or part-time and whether they choose to live on campus.

In conclusion, while the costs of RN to BSN programs in Colorado differ, they offer a range of prices suitable for many budgets. Students should factor in all associated costs to make informed decisions about their education.

10 Scholarships for Colorado RN to BSN Nursing Students

The cost of RN to BSN programs in Colorado can be offset by numerous scholarships available specifically for nursing students. Here are ten scholarships to consider:

1. Colorado Nurses Foundation Scholarship: Deadline in April, awards vary. Supports Colorado nurses seeking advanced degrees. Visit the Colorado Nurses Foundation for more information.
2. Nightingle Awards of Colorado: Deadline in February, award amounts vary. Given to Colorado nurses demonstrating excellent patient care. Visit the Nightingle Awards of Colorado for details.
3. American Indian Nurse Scholarship: Deadline in December, award $1,500. Open to American Indian students studying nursing. Learn more on the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution website.
4. Pinnacol Foundation Scholarship: Deadline in February, awards vary. For children of Colorado workers who were injured or killed in a compensable work-related accident. See the Pinnacol Foundation for more.
5. PEO Program for Continuing Education: Deadlines vary, award up to $3,000. For women whose education has been interrupted. See the PEO International page for details.
6. Minority Nurse Faculty Scholarship: Deadline in May, awards $18,000. For minority nursing students pursuing a faculty career. Visit the American Association of Colleges of Nursing for more.
7. Colorado Society of Advanced Practice Nurses (CSAPN) Scholarships: Deadlines and awards vary. For advanced practice nurses. See the CSAPN website for details.
8. AfterCollege/AACN Scholarship Fund: Deadline quarterly, award $2,500. For students seeking a baccalaureate, master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. Visit the American Association of Colleges of Nursing for information.
9. Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. Scholarship: Deadline in March, awards vary. For registered nurses looking for further education. See the Nurses Educational Funds page for details.
10. Promise of Nursing Regional Faculty Fellowship: Deadline in March, award $1,000-$7,500. For graduate nursing students preparing for the nurse educator role. Visit the Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association for more.

For all types of financial aid, including scholarships and grants, students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA helps determine eligibility for federal, state, and school-based financial aid, including loans, grants, and work-study programs. This step is crucial to maximize potential aid opportunities.

Does an RN to BSN Increase My Salary?

Boost Your Earning Potential with RN to BSN Programs in Colorado

Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through RN to BSN programs in Colorado can significantly increase your salary as a registered nurse. According to the 2022 BSN comprehensive salary report, BSN-educated nurses in Colorado earn a higher median salary than their counterparts with only an associate degree.

Over a two-year period, BSN graduates could see a salary increase of approximately 10 to 20 percent, with the potential for even greater earnings as they progress in their careers. After four years and beyond, the salary difference between registered nurses with a BSN and those without can widen even further, particularly if they assume leadership or advanced nursing roles.

Aside from an increased salary, earning a BSN also provides nurses with additional non-salary benefits:

• Expanded Opportunities: A BSN degree opens the door to a broader range of job opportunities, such as specialty nursing, administration, and academia.
• Higher Skill Level: BSN-educated nurses typically possess a greater depth and breadth of nursing knowledge, allowing them to provide more comprehensive and evidence-based care to their patients.
• Industry Preference:

10 Best RN to BSN Programs in Colorado in 2023

Here’s a list of RN to BSN Programs in Colorado. These programs vary in delivery method, from traditional on-campus, online, or a hybrid of both:

Note: CCNE stands for Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and ACEN stands for Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

Colorado offers a diverse range of RN to BSN programs, allowing nurses to find the right fit for their career goals and personal circumstances. As with any program, prospective students should consider a number of factors, including cost, delivery method, and accreditation, before deciding which RN to BSN program best suits their needs.

10 Ways to Pay for Your Colorado RN to BSN Program

Prompt: In the AP style of journalism and using varied sentence structures, varied sentence lengths, active verbs and simple word choices and no adjectives, write about the commonly known and some lesser known options to Pay for an RN to BSN Program for nurses in Colorado. Create a bolded list and summarize the following areas as they related to Colorado residents: Federal Financial Aid, State Aid, Scholarships, Employer Tuition Reimbursement, Work-Study Programs, Loan Forgiveness Programs, Military Benefits, Payment Plans, Tax Credits, Private Student Loans. Be sure to use the focus keyword of “RN to BSN Programs in Colorado” at least once in this section.

The 80 Percent BSN Initiative: Colorado’s Commitment to Excellence in Nursing.

Colorado’s Push for 80 Percent BSN: Elevating the Nursing Workforce

In line with the Institute of Medicine’s recommendation to increase the proportion of nurses with a BSN degree to 80 percent by 2020, Colorado has made significant strides in promoting RN to BSN programs. This ambitious goal reflects the state’s commitment to improving patient care and outcomes by enhancing the education and skills of its nursing workforce.

To support this initiative, Colorado has implemented various strategies, including increasing enrollment in RN to BSN programs and fostering collaboration between community colleges and universities. As a result, more registered nurses in the state are pursuing bachelor’s degrees, contributing to a higher-educated nursing workforce.

For Colorado nurses interested in advancing their education, several resources are available:

• The Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence: This organization offers resources, support, and guidance for nurses looking to advance their careers through higher education.
• Colorado Nurses Association: The association provides information on RN to BSN programs in Colorado, as well as scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities.
• Colorado Board of Nursing: The board offers information on nursing licensure requirements and approved nursing education programs within the state.

By encouraging more registered nurses to pursue BSN degrees through RN to BSN programs in Colorado, the state is taking important steps toward elevating its nursing workforce and improving patient care for all Coloradans.

10 Benefits of Earning an RN to BSN in Colorado

Pursuing RN to BSN programs in Colorado offers numerous advantages for registered nurses looking to elevate their careers. Here are ten benefits of earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in the Centennial State:

1. Increased Salary: BSN-educated nurses typically earn higher salaries than those with an associate degree, making the investment in further education worthwhile.
2. Greater Job Opportunities: A BSN degree can open doors to a wider range of nursing positions, including specialty roles, administrative positions, and academic opportunities.
3. Enhanced Skill Set: RN to BSN programs provide advanced education and training, equipping nurses with a deeper understanding of patient care, evidence-based practices, and critical thinking skills.
4. Leadership Development: BSN-educated nurses are often better prepared for leadership roles within healthcare organizations, thanks to their comprehensive education and enhanced skill set.
5. Higher Quality Patient Care: Studies have shown that hospitals with a higher percentage of BSN-educated nurses have better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates and fewer complications.
6. Job Security: Many healthcare organizations prefer hiring BSN-educated nurses, leading to increased job security and long-term career stability for those with a bachelor’s degree.
7. Professional Growth: Earning a BSN allows nurses to continue their professional development, staying current with industry trends and best practices.
8. Increased Networking Opportunities: RN to BSN programs in Colorado provide opportunities to connect with fellow nursing professionals, creating valuable networking opportunities that can lead to future career advancements.
9. Preparation for Advanced Degrees: A BSN degree serves as a stepping stone for nurses interested in pursuing advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
10. Personal Satisfaction: Completing an RN to BSN program can instill a sense of personal achievement and satisfaction, knowing that you have taken the initiative to further your education and enhance your nursing career.

Earning a BSN through RN to BSN programs in Colorado offers numerous benefits for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers and improve patient care. By investing in their education, nurses can enjoy increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and greater professional satisfaction.

RN to BSN Resources for Nurses in Colorado

Navigating the world of RN to BSN programs in Colorado can be challenging, but there are numerous resources available to help. Here are some key resources for nurses looking to further their education:

• Colorado Board of Nursing: This is the regulatory body for nurses in Colorado, providing licensing information, practice guidelines, and educational resources.
• Colorado Nurses Association: This professional organization offers networking, professional development opportunities, and advocacy for nurses in Colorado.
• American Nurses Association: This national organization provides a wealth of resources for all nurses, including those pursuing RN to BSN programs.
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education: This is an important accrediting body for nursing education programs, including RN to BSN programs. They provide a directory of accredited programs.
• RN to BSN Programs in Your State: This comprehensive resource offers a state-by-state breakdown of RN to BSN programs, making it easy to compare different options.
• National Student Nurses’ Association: This organization provides resources specifically for nursing students, including scholarship opportunities and leadership development.

Each of these resources can provide valuable assistance to nurses pursuing an RN to BSN degree in Colorado. They offer a variety of services, from networking opportunities to financial assistance and academic resources, that can help make the journey towards an advanced nursing degree smoother and more rewarding.