Navigating Nursing Programs in Colorado Springs: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right college can feel overwhelming, especially when pursuing a career as vital and demanding as nursing. If helping people heal is your passion, you're on the right path. Nurses are an integral part of the healthcare system, making up the largest single group of healthcare professionals-four times as many as physicians in the United States. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of nursing programs in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas, helping you navigate your options and make informed decisions.

The Role of Registered Nurses

Registered Nurses (RNs) play a critical role in promoting health, preventing disease, and helping patients cope with illness. They serve as advocates and health educators for patients, families, and communities. In direct patient care, RNs observe, assess, and record symptoms, reactions, and progress. They assist physicians during treatments and examinations, administer medications, and aid in convalescence and rehabilitation.

To become an RN, you must pass the NCLEX examination, which is only open to graduates of accredited nursing programs at either the Associate's or Bachelor's (BSN) level. While both pathways lead to RN licensure, earning a BSN degree is strongly encouraged to be competitive and prepared for the demands of the workforce.

Understanding Different Nursing Licensure Levels

Colorado offers multiple pathways to a nursing career, each with its own educational requirements and scope of practice. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in choosing the right program for your goals.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

The first step in a nursing career is becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). This role involves providing basic care to patients under the supervision of RNs and LPNs. To become a CNA, you will need to take the exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide more advanced care than CNAs, including administering medications and assisting with medical procedures, all under the supervision of RNs or physicians. Some programs offer the option to pursue a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) credential. If you are considering becoming an LPN instead of an RN, connect with an academic advisor.

Registered Nurse (RN)

Registered Nurses (RNs) have the broadest scope of practice among licensed nurses. They assess patients, develop care plans, administer medications, educate patients and families, and supervise other healthcare staff. The Registered Nursing program is an Associate of Applied Science degree. To become an RN, you will need to pass the exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is increasingly becoming the standard for entry into professional nursing practice. BSN programs offer more in-depth education in areas such as leadership, critical thinking, and community health.

Colorado State University (CSU) and Nursing Options

It's important to note that Colorado State University in Fort Collins does not offer a traditional BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree. However, CSU Health Professions advisors work with students interested in pursuing nursing to explore their options.

Students already enrolled at CSU who are interested in earning a BSN degree have three main pathways:

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Transfer to a BSN-granting institution: This involves transferring to a university that offers a traditional four-year BSN program.
Complete nursing pre-requisites at CSU and then apply to nursing programs at BSN-granting institutions: This allows students to complete their general education and science coursework at CSU before transferring to a nursing program for the clinical portion of their education.
Earn a non-nursing bachelor’s degree while completing nursing pre-requisites, and then pursue an accelerated BSN program after graduation: This option is ideal for students who want to explore other academic interests while still preparing for a nursing career. Accelerated BSN programs are designed for students who already have a bachelor's degree in another field and can be completed in a shorter timeframe, typically 12-18 months.

Most traditional BSN programs require two years of coursework in sciences, math, composition, writing, and social sciences before students are admitted to their clinical program.

Colorado Mesa University (CMU) Nursing Programs

Colorado Mesa University (CMU) offers a unique opportunity for students interested in progressing through various levels of nursing licensure. Graduates of CMU nursing programs have the opportunity to sit for their board license exams.

Students who complete the Practical Nursing (PN) program have the opportunity to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). Completion of the Practical Nurse certificate allows students to progress to the Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN-BSN) program. The LPN-BSN option is available on both the main Grand Junction and the Montrose campuses.

During the spring and fall semesters, the Department of Health Sciences offers group advising sessions.

University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) Nursing Programs

At UCCS, they understand how vital finding the right college fit is to your academic success and personal growth. Their programs are designed to help students prepare for the job market or continuing education opportunities. UCCS ensures students get more than “just” a degree, offering innovative courses, hands-on learning experiences, a vibrant campus, and affordable tuition. Students consistently rank UCCS as one of the best universities in Colorado.

Founded as a nursing school at the base of Pikes Peak by a group of women in the Colorado Springs community in 1904, the Helen and Arthur E. The Nursing Department equips students for fulfilling careers in the diverse healthcare industry.

UCCS earned its tenth straight Gold Military Friendly® designation in the 2025 rankings and reached an all-time best #2 nationally among large public institutions. They were also named a Top-10 Military Spouse Friendly® school, highlighting their deep commitment to supporting service members, spouses, and families.

RN-to-BSN Program at UCCS

UCCS offers an RN-to-BSN program designed for registered nurses who want to advance their education and career opportunities.

Amanda, an RN-to-BSN student, shares her experience: "As a rural resident, I receive rural scholarship funding and enjoy the small-school environment combined with University-level education." Amanda participates in the dual enrollment RN to BSN at UCCS and does her clinical work at Fort Morgan Community College.

Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSc) at UCCS

The UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSc) is a two-year graduate program designed to provide students with applied learning experience in preparation for a career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). The program curriculum is built on a competency-based education framework. Students will have access to the Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center, containing expansive classrooms and a teaching kitchen.

Additional Considerations

Military-Friendly Schools

For service members, veterans, and their families, choosing a military-friendly school is essential. UCCS earned its tenth straight Gold Military Friendly® designation in the 2025 rankings and reached an all-time best #2 nationally among large public institutions. UCCS was also named a Top-10 Military Spouse Friendly® school, highlighting their deep commitment to supporting service members, spouses, and families.

Student Stories and Experiences

Hearing from current students and alumni can provide valuable insights into the nursing programs at various colleges.

Luis, a UCCS student, shares his story: “Where I am today goes back to the [UCCS] Nutrition Club. I was connected to a clinical nutrition volunteer position, at Penrose Hospital. I worked with hospital dieticians, performing in-patient assessments for patients with heart disease.”

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