Key Takeaways
- Aurora, Colorado offers several high-quality Practical Nursing (LPN) programs with strong NCLEX-PN pass rates and clinical partnerships.
- The most reputable options include community colleges and accredited career institutions serving the greater Denver–Aurora area.
- Program length ranges from 12 to 18 months, with day, evening, and hybrid formats available.
- Average tuition varies widely, from approximately $6,000 at public colleges to $25,000 or more at private institutions.
- LPNs in the Aurora area earn an average annual salary of $58,000 to $63,000, with strong demand in long-term care and hospital systems.
Why Aurora, Colorado Is a Strong Choice for LPN Training
Aurora is part of the Denver–Aurora–Lakewood metropolitan area, one of Colorado’s largest healthcare markets. Major employers such as UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and numerous long-term care facilities create steady demand for Licensed Practical Nurses.
According to recent labor data, Colorado employs more than 13,000 LPNs, with projected job growth aligned with national healthcare expansion. For students, this translates into strong clinical placement opportunities and a reliable job market after graduation.
Top Practical Nursing Programs Near Aurora, Colorado
The following programs stand out based on accreditation, affordability, student support, scheduling flexibility, and regional reputation.
1. Community College of Aurora (CCA)
Location: Aurora, CO
Program Length: Approximately 3 semesters
Credential Awarded: Practical Nursing Certificate
The Community College of Aurora offers one of the most affordable and reputable LPN pathways in the area. As a public institution within the Colorado Community College System, CCA provides strong academic oversight and accessible tuition rates for in-state students.
Highlights:
- Accredited nursing curriculum aligned with Colorado Board of Nursing standards
- Comprehensive NCLEX-PN preparation
- Clinical rotations at regional healthcare facilities
- Financial aid eligibility and scholarship options
This program is competitive and requires prerequisite coursework, background checks, immunizations, and entrance testing.
2. Pickens Technical College
Location: Aurora, CO
Program Length: Approximately 12 months
Credential Awarded: Practical Nursing Certificate
Pickens Technical College provides a career-focused LPN program designed to move students into the workforce efficiently. It is known locally for strong hands-on training and smaller cohort sizes.
Highlights:
- Skills-based lab training with simulation technology
- Daytime program structure
- Strong focus on clinical readiness
- Affordable tuition compared to many private institutions
This option is particularly attractive for students seeking a structured, full-time daytime schedule.
3. Concorde Career College (Aurora Campus)
Location: Aurora, CO
Program Length: About 13 months
Credential Awarded: Diploma in Practical Nursing
Concorde Career College offers a fast-track private institution option. While tuition is higher than public colleges, students benefit from accelerated scheduling and career services support.
Highlights:
- Accelerated timeline
- Industry-current simulation labs
- Career placement assistance
- Flexible start dates throughout the year
Students should carefully compare tuition costs and financial aid packages before enrolling in private institutions.
4. Emily Griffith Technical College (Nearby Option)
Location: Denver, CO (within commuting distance)
Program Length: Approximately 1 year
Credential Awarded: Practical Nursing Certificate
Though located in Denver, Emily Griffith serves many Aurora residents. It has a long-standing reputation in workforce education and offers healthcare-focused technical training.
Highlights:
- Strong employer relationships
- Clear pathway toward advanced nursing degrees
- Structured admissions process
Side-by-Side Comparison of Aurora LPN Programs
SchoolLengthEstimated Tuition RangePublic or PrivateFormatCommunity College of Aurora3 Semesters$6,000–$9,000 (In-State)PublicDay ProgramPickens Technical College12 Months$8,000–$12,000Public/TechnicalDay ProgramConcorde Career College13 Months$20,000–$30,000PrivateAcceleratedEmily Griffith Technical College12 Months$10,000–$14,000PublicDay Program
Note: Tuition estimates vary based on residency status, fees, and program updates. Always confirm directly with the institution.
Admission Requirements for Aurora LPN Programs
Most Practical Nursing programs in Aurora share similar entry standards:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA requirements
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology
- Entrance exam such as TEAS
- Background check and drug screening
- Immunizations and CPR certification
Competitive programs may use a point-based admission system that prioritizes academic performance and healthcare experience.
NCLEX-PN Pass Rates and Accreditation
Choosing an accredited program is essential. Look for schools approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing. Graduation from an approved program qualifies you to take the NCLEX-PN, the national licensure exam required to practice.
When evaluating schools, ask:
- What is the most recent NCLEX-PN pass rate?
- How many exam attempts are typically required by graduates?
- What support is provided for remediation?
Programs with consistently strong pass rates demonstrate effective curriculum design and exam preparation.
Class Schedules and Learning Formats
Most Aurora LPN programs offer full-time daytime schedules due to clinical requirements. Some institutions provide hybrid coursework where lectures are partially online but labs and clinical rotations remain in-person.
If you are balancing work or family responsibilities, speak with admissions advisors about schedule flexibility before enrolling.
Clinical Training Opportunities in the Aurora Area
Hands-on training is a cornerstone of every LPN program. Students in Aurora typically complete clinical rotations in:
- Long-term care facilities
- Rehabilitation centers
- Medical-surgical hospital units
- Outpatient clinics
The presence of major healthcare networks in the Denver–Aurora metro region enhances exposure to diverse patient populations and real-world nursing environments.
Career Outlook and Salary for LPNs in Aurora, CO
The average annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in the Aurora region ranges from $58,000 to $63,000, depending on experience and practice setting. Entry-level salaries typically begin around $52,000, with growth potential in specialized or supervisory roles.
High-demand employment settings include:
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Home healthcare services
- Hospitals
- Outpatient specialty clinics
Many LPNs later enroll in bridge programs such as LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN pathways, significantly increasing earning potential.
How to Choose the Right Practical Nursing Program
Selecting the best LPN program in Aurora requires more than comparing tuition. Use this checklist:
- Confirm state approval and accreditation status
- Review recent NCLEX-PN pass rates
- Calculate total program cost including supplies and exam fees
- Visit campus and skills labs if possible
- Ask about job placement rates
- Evaluate commute time to clinical sites
Public colleges often provide the strongest value proposition, while private institutions may offer faster timelines and additional career services.
Application Timeline and Planning Tips
Most programs admit students once or twice per year. Begin preparing at least six months in advance. Steps include completing prerequisites, taking entrance exams, gathering transcripts, and submitting financial aid applications.
Applying early improves your chances of securing a seat, particularly in competitive public programs with limited cohort sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions about LPN Programs in Aurora, Colorado
How long does it take to become an LPN in Aurora, Colorado?
Most Aurora-area LPN programs take about 12 to 18 months of full-time study. Community colleges usually follow a 3‑semester format, while technical and career schools often run 1‑year or 13‑month programs.
How much does an LPN program cost in Aurora?
Tuition at public schools like the Community College of Aurora or Pickens Technical College typically ranges from about $6,000 to $12,000 for in‑state students. Private options such as Concorde Career College can cost around $20,000 to $30,000 for the full program, not including supplies and fees.
What are the basic admission requirements for Aurora LPN programs?
You usually need a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA, prerequisite courses like anatomy and physiology, an entrance exam such as TEAS, a background check, drug screening, required immunizations, and current CPR certification. Some programs also use a point system that rewards higher grades and healthcare experience.
What do LPNs earn in the Aurora, Colorado area?
LPNs in the Aurora region typically earn about $58,000 to $63,000 per year, depending on experience, shift, and setting. New graduates often start near $52,000 and can increase their pay by gaining experience or moving into specialized roles.
Are Aurora LPN programs accredited and approved for NCLEX-PN?
You should choose a program that is approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing. Graduating from a state‑approved practical nursing program makes you eligible to take the NCLEX‑PN licensure exam. Always confirm current approval and ask each school about its recent NCLEX‑PN pass rates and support for exam preparation.
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