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.
At a Glance: The Top Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs
- University of Northern Colorado
- Regis University
- Colorado Mesa University
- Colorado State University-Pueblo
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.
How Do Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs Work?
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.
Featured Online RN-to-MSN in Nursing Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Applying to a Colorado RN-to-MSN Program
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.
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Admission Materials
Official transcript from an accredited ADN program; current and unencumbered RN license; usually at least two letters of recommendation; a personal statement or essay
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GPA Requirement
Typically a minimum 3.0 GPA in undergraduate coursework, although some schools may accept a 2.5-2.75 GPA. Some schools require a minimum grade for specific courses in science or statistics as well.
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Other Requirement
Some programs require at least one year of work experience. International students often must send English language test scores.
Why Is Colorado RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?
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.
Learn More About the Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs and Schools
See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.
#1 The Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs
University of Northern Colorado
- Greeley, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Northern Colorado's family nurse practitioner program does not require a bachelor of science in nursing or an RN license, though students without these can earn the equivalent during their studies. Applicants must have an undergraduate research and physical assessment course, so this is not an entry-level program. The hybrid format allows students to take coursework mostly online, with some on-campus components. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the program.
- Program(s): Master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner
- Campus: Greeley, CO
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $649 per credit hour for Colorado residents; $1,217 per credit hour for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA (if the student has at least 18 graduate credits, a 3.0 in graduate studies); two references
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.2%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $93,076 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 The Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs
Regis University
- Denver, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
One of the top RN-to-MSN programs in Colorado, Regis University's family nurse practitioner program is designed for working students, with classes held all day, one day per week. Regis offers an on-campus class or an out-of-state option with synchronous online classes that emphasize rural and underserved populations. Students in Oregon, Louisiana, New York, or North Dakota are not eligible for this format. Students in Colorado's Front Range region must take clinical experiences at designated locations. The program requires 48 credits and 630 clinical hours for completion.
- Program(s): Master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner
- Campus: Denver, CO
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $910 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of science in nursing with 2.75 GPA; undergraduate statistics class; current and unencumbered RN license; AHA Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; two years of RN experience recommended; three references
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.2%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $86,621 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 The Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs
Colorado Mesa University
- Grand Junction, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Colorado Mesa University's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner and nurse educator programs are primarily online, with some in-person intensive sessions, to accommodate working students. Learners must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Coursework with lower than a 3.0 GPA do not count toward the 47 required credits. Students are also expected to participate in Goals-Needs-Objectives-Methods-Evaluation (GNOME) service learning projects, in collaboration with a community organization. Family nurse practitioner students complete 700 clinical hours and a capstone project, while nurse education students complete 250 clinical hours and 36 credit hours.
- Program(s): Master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner; master of science in nursing - nurse education
- Campus: Grand Junction, CO
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $618 per credit for Colorado residents and online learners; $927 per credit for all other students
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of science in nursing with a 3.0 GPA; current and unencumbered RN license; three references; professional writing sample, such as a published manuscript, grant application, or scholarly paper
- Minimum Time Commitment: 27 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80.5%
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 The Best Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs
Colorado State University-Pueblo
- Pueblo, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Colorado State University-Pueblo's nursing school provides both nurse practitioner and nurse educator programs. The nurse practitioner programs offer three options: adult-gerontology acute care, adult-gerontology acute care/family, and psychiatric mental health. Students from southern Colorado and CSU graduates receive admission preference. The nurse practitioner program takes place in a hybrid format, with some on-campus components, but the nurse educator program is online only. To graduate, students must pass a comprehensive oral examination or complete a research thesis. Note that while the MSN is accredited, the doctor of nursing practice program is still a candidate for accreditation, a consideration if you want to earn a doctorate immediately after graduating.
- Program(s): Master of science in nursing (MSN) - adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner; MSN - adult-gerontology acute care family nurse practitioner; MSN - psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner
- Campus: Pueblo, CO
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $479 per credit hour for Colorado residents; $1117 per credit hour for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of science in nursing with 3.0 GPA; undergraduate courses in statistics, chemistry, and microbiology with a "C" grade; ability to obtain a current and unencumbered Colorado RN license by the end of the first semester; three references; healthcare provider CPR certification; one year of experience as an RN preferred
- Minimum Time Commitment: 27 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.9%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $96,539 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado RN-to-MSN Programs
How long does it take to go from an RN to MSN in Colorado?
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.
Is completing an RN-to-MSN worth it in Colorado?
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.
How much do MSN nurses make 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.
What can nurses do with an MSN in Colorado?
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.
