Key Takeaways
- Denver offers high-quality ADN, BSN, accelerated BSN, and RN-to-BSN pathways with strong clinical partnerships and competitive NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- Top programs include University of Colorado Anschutz, Regis University, Denver College of Nursing, and MSU Denver.
- NCLEX pass rates, accreditation status, tuition, and clinical access are the most important differentiators.
- Colorado’s nursing job outlook remains strong, with continued RN demand across major Denver healthcare systems.
Why Choose Denver for Registered Nursing Programs?
Denver, Colorado is one of the strongest healthcare employment markets in the Mountain West. Major hospital systems such as UCHealth, Denver Health, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and Centura Health create consistent demand for practice-ready registered nurses.
According to labor data trends in Colorado, registered nurses in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area earn competitive salaries compared to national averages. Employment growth projections continue to outpace many other professions, particularly in specialty care, acute care, and outpatient services.
For students, this translates into:
- Extensive clinical placement options
- Strong hospital-to-hire pipelines
- Access to specialty rotations not available in smaller markets
- Opportunities for graduate study and advanced practice roles
Top Registered Nursing Programs in Denver, Colorado (2026)
SchoolProgram TypesAccreditationClinical StrengthBest ForUniversity of Colorado AnschutzBSN, Accelerated BSN, MSNCCNETier-1 academic medical centerHigh-achieving studentsRegis UniversityTraditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-BSNCCNEStrong Denver hospital networkCareer switchersDenver College of NursingADN, BSNACEN (ADN)Focused clinical immersionFast-track entryMSU DenverTraditional BSN, RN-BSNCCNEUrban and community healthAffordable public option
1. University of Colorado College of Nursing – Anschutz Medical Campus
The University of Colorado Anschutz is widely recognized as the premier nursing institution in the state. Located on a major academic medical campus, students train alongside physicians, researchers, and specialty providers.
Why it stands out:
- Consistently high NCLEX-RN pass performance
- Access to advanced simulation centers
- Clinical rotations at nationally ranked hospitals
- Direct pathways to MSN, DNP, and PhD programs
This program is competitive and best suited for academically strong applicants seeking long-term career advancement.
2. Regis University Loretto Heights School of Nursing
Regis University is one of Denver’s most respected private nursing schools. Its accelerated BSN program is especially popular among second-degree students.
Strengths:
- Accelerated BSN completion in as few as 12 to 18 months
- Multiple start dates
- Strong Denver hospital partnerships
- Emphasis on ethics and community health
Regis is ideal for career changers who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want a structured, fast entry into nursing.
3. Denver College of Nursing
Denver College of Nursing focuses exclusively on healthcare education. It offers both Associate Degree in Nursing and BSN tracks.
Advantages:
- Year-round enrollment options
- Smaller cohort sizes
- Career-focused curriculum
- Practical, hands-on clinical emphasis
This school is often chosen by students seeking a streamlined, direct-entry approach into RN licensure.
4. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)
MSU Denver offers a respected and affordable public BSN program. Located in downtown Denver, it emphasizes serving diverse and urban communities.
Key highlights:
- Competitive tuition for Colorado residents
- Strong community health focus
- RN-to-BSN option for licensed nurses
- Solid reputation among local healthcare employers
This program is a strong option for cost-conscious students seeking a traditional public university experience.
ADN vs. BSN in Denver: Which Path Is Right for You?
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Typically 2 years
- Offered at Denver College of Nursing and community colleges
- Lower upfront tuition
- Can lead directly to NCLEX-RN
Best for students who prioritize speed and affordability. Many ADN graduates later complete an RN-to-BSN bridge.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- 4-year traditional or accelerated format
- Preferred by major Denver hospitals
- Greater access to leadership roles
Most large healthcare employers in the Denver metro area either prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses.
Admission Requirements and Prerequisites
While requirements vary, most Denver RN programs require:
- Completion of prerequisite sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology
- Minimum GPA between 2.8 and 3.5
- TEAS or equivalent entrance exam
- Background check and immunizations
Accelerated programs often require a prior bachelor’s degree and a higher GPA threshold.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rates and Accreditation
Accreditation protects your eligibility for licensure and financial aid. Look for:
- CCNE accreditation for BSN programs
- ACEN accreditation for ADN programs
- Approval by the Colorado Board of Nursing
NCLEX-RN pass rates are a critical metric. Competitive Denver programs consistently perform at or above state averages. Applicants should request the most recent annual pass-rate report directly from each institution.
Tuition and Financial Aid Comparison
Estimated tuition ranges:
- Public BSN (in-state): Lower overall tuition investment
- Private BSN or accelerated programs: Higher tuition, shorter timeline
- ADN programs: Most affordable entry point
Students should explore:
- Colorado state grants
- HRSA nursing scholarships
- Hospital tuition reimbursement partnerships
- Loan forgiveness programs for underserved areas
Clinical Placement and Career Support
Top Denver nursing programs maintain partnerships with:
- UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital
- Denver Health Medical Center
- Children’s Hospital Colorado
- Porter Adventist Hospital
Strong programs offer:
- Dedicated clinical coordinators
- Simulation labs with high-fidelity equipment
- Resume workshops and mock interviews
- Employer networking events
Many graduates secure employment within months of licensure due to existing hospital-clinical pipelines.
Career Outlook for Registered Nurses in Denver
Denver’s healthcare sector continues to expand due to population growth and increasing demand for specialized services. Registered nurses can pursue roles in:
- Acute care and trauma centers
- Pediatrics and neonatal care
- Oncology and specialty medicine
- Public health and community clinics
- Advanced practice nursing with MSN progression
Experienced RNs often advance into nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or leadership positions after completing graduate study at institutions like CU Anschutz.
How to Choose the Best RN Program for You
Use this selection framework:
- Career Goal: Hospital leadership or quick workforce entry?
- Budget: Compare full-program cost, not per-credit pricing.
- Schedule: Accelerated, traditional, or bridge format?
- NCLEX Performance: Request most recent data.
- Clinical Access: Where will you train?
The best registered nursing program in Denver is the one that aligns with your timeline, financial plan, and long-term career vision.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Programs in Denver
What types of RN programs can you find in Denver?
In Denver, you can choose from ADN, traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, and RN-to-BSN programs. Major options include CU Anschutz, Regis University, Denver College of Nursing, and MSU Denver, each serving different timelines and career goals.
How do you choose between an ADN and a BSN in Denver?
Pick an ADN if you want lower upfront tuition and a faster route to the NCLEX-RN. Choose a BSN if you want more job options at large Denver hospitals, better access to leadership roles, and an easier path to graduate nursing programs later on.
What admission requirements do Denver RN programs usually have?
Most Denver nursing programs ask for core science prerequisites, a GPA around 2.8 to 3.5, a TEAS or similar entrance exam, plus a background check and required immunizations. Accelerated BSN programs also expect a prior bachelor’s degree and a stronger GPA.
Why do NCLEX pass rates and accreditation matter in Denver?
Accreditation from CCNE or ACEN and approval by the Colorado Board of Nursing help protect your licensure eligibility and financial aid. Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates show that a program prepares you well to become a licensed RN in Colorado.
What kind of clinical and job opportunities can you expect in Denver?
You can gain clinical experience at large systems such as UCHealth, Denver Health, and Children’s Hospital Colorado. Many students move into roles in acute care, pediatrics, specialty units, or community health, with steady RN demand across the Denver metro area.
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