The Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs

Nurses have many opportunities to advance in their careers and earn higher salaries. For example, registered nurses (RNs) can earn qualifications as nurse practitioners (NPs), which allows them to practice nursing with greater independence and responsibility.

In Colorado, NPs need a master of science in nursing (MSN) to qualify for this role. RNs with an associate degree can bypass the bachelor’s degree by enrolling in an RN-to-MSN program, which offers nurses advanced education and training.

This guide outlines the best RN-to-MSN programs in Colorado and offers information about what to expect and how to apply.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best Colorado RN-to-MSN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program, or go straight to our full ranking of the best Colorado RN-to-MSN programs.

RN-to-MSN programs in Colorado bridge the gap between an ADN to a master’s degree. Therefore, these programs comprise advanced nursing coursework and a demanding curriculum.

Schools may offer both full-time and part-time programs, with the time commitment ranging from 24-48 months. Students can also find online, on-campus, or hybrid programs to fit into their schedules.

Master’s candidates choose specializations, including family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and adult-gerontology nurse practitioner. The curriculum covers both bachelor’s- and master’s- level coursework, with subjects that include nursing theory and research. All students must complete supervised clinical hours that comply with state requirements.

To apply to an RN-to-MSN program in Colorado, your previous academic and career experience should show your capability to handle higher-level coursework. Each program lists different requirements for admission, but generally applicants need an ADN and RN license.

When choosing an RN-to-MSN program in Colorado, accreditation is essential. The accreditation process ensures that schools and academic programs deliver a quality education. As unbiased stakeholders, accreditation agencies independently evaluate programs and grant accreditation status to programs that adequately prepare students for their careers.

Because of this, many state boards only allow nursing candidates to become qualified if they attended an accredited program. Plus, employers usually only consider applicants with accredited degrees. If you want to transfer schools or pursue a doctorate, graduate schools list accredited programs in previous education requirements.

If a program does not hold accreditation, this is a red flag. That’s why all RN-to-MSN programs in this ranking are accredited.

The pace of an RN-to-MSN program depends on several factors — those factors include whether the school offers part-time, full-time, accelerated, online, or on-campus options. Students can graduate in 24-27 months, although often full programs take four years to complete.

The nursing industry is growing in the U.S., and that includes Colorado. In fact, labor market figures from Projections Central show that the NP profession could increase by 43% from 2020 to 2030. For nurses who want more opportunities and the chance to make a higher income, completing an RN-to-MSN is worth it in Colorado.

Nurse practitioners earned an average annual salary of $112,580, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. NPs in larger cities tend to make a higher income. In the metro areas of Boulder, Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, and Pueblo, all made average salaries that surpassed $114,000.

Nurses who earn an MSN in Colorado become advanced practice nurses, or nurse practitioners. These professionals carry out their nursing duties with greater autonomy than their RN colleagues. An MSN can also lead to jobs in nursing education or leadership. Finally, some master’s graduates go on to earn a doctorate in nursing.