Best Nursing Schools in Colorado for 2025

Best Nursing Schools in Colorado for 2025

Top Nursing Programs in Colorado for 2025

1. University of Northern Colorado (UNC)

  • Location: Greeley, CO
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 96%
  • Annual Tuition: Approximately $10,947
  • Graduation Rate: 55%
  • Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
  • Highlights: UNC provides a broad range of clinical experiences, culminating in a 225-hour practicum tailored to students' interests. 

2. University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (UCCS)

  • Location: Colorado Springs, CO
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 95% (Traditional BSN), 83% (Accelerated BSN)
  • Annual Tuition: Approximately $8,540
  • Programs Offered: Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP
  • Highlights: UCCS boasts state-of-the-art simulation labs and partnerships with local healthcare facilities, providing students with hands-on experience. Research.comResearch.com

3. University of Colorado, Denver (CU Denver)

  • Location: Aurora, CO
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 96.67%
  • Annual Tuition: Approximately $11,520 (Resident), $20,780 (Non-resident)
  • Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
  • Highlights: CU Denver's College of Nursing is nationally recognized, ranking in the top 15% by U.S. News & World Report. 

4. Denver College of Nursing (DCN)

  • Location: Denver, CO
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 92.81% (BSN), 100% (ADN)
  • Annual Tuition: Approximately $12,835
  • Graduation Rate: 91%
  • Programs Offered: ADN, BSN, RN to BSN
  • Highlights: DCN focuses exclusively on nursing education, offering a concentrated environment for nursing students. 

5. Colorado State University, Pueblo (CSU Pueblo)

  • Location: Pueblo, CO
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 78.04%
  • Annual Tuition: Approximately $10,664 (In-state), $18,862 (Out-of-state)
  • Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP
  • Highlights: CSU Pueblo offers a range of nursing programs with a focus on serving diverse populations. 

Choosing the Right Nursing Program

When selecting a nursing program in Colorado, consider the following factors:

  • Location: Proximity to clinical sites and personal preferences for urban or rural settings.
  • Tuition and Financial Aid: Evaluate the cost of attendance and explore scholarship opportunities.
  • NCLEX Pass Rates: Higher pass rates may indicate better preparation for licensure exams.
  • Program Offerings: Ensure the school offers the specific nursing degree or specialization you seek.
  • Graduation Rates: Higher rates can reflect student satisfaction and program effectiveness.

For more information on nursing careers and opportunities, visit GoodWork.

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