Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs Online in Colorado
- 2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Colorado
- Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
- Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus
- General Admissions Requirements
- Colorado NP License and Certification Requirements
- List of NP Programs in Colorado

After your first few years of nursing, there may come a point where you start to consider your options for advancing your career. One way that many RNs decide to do this is by becoming a nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners in Colorado often practice independently, similarly to physicians, and often specialize in specific areas such as cardiology or neurology. You can also look forward to higher-paying salaries and more job security, especially in areas like Denver or Fort Collins. Jump to program listings.
2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Colorado
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, CO - Public 4-Year - coloradomesa.edu
BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing (MSN)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Elevate your nursing career with Colorado Mesa University's transformative MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program. Designed for ambitious nurses seeking advanced practice roles, this flexible online program prepares you to deliver comprehensive primary care across all life stages. With 49 credit hours, the curriculum integrates specialized clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice. Ideal for working professionals, the program offers immersive learning experiences and clinical practicums, positioning graduates for expanded healthcare responsibilities and potential doctoral pathways.
- 49 total credit hours
- Online flexible format
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- RN licensure prerequisite
- Lifespan primary care focus
- Clinical practicum included
- Advanced nursing preparation
- Three-year program structure
- DNP pathway option
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner MSN program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive primary care for adult and older adult populations. Designed for working nurses, this 46-credit online program offers flexibility while developing specialized clinical expertise. Graduates gain advanced knowledge in health assessment, pharmacology, and patient care across rural and underserved communities. With a focus on primary care, students complete 750 clinical hours and learn to address complex health needs of adults and seniors. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, and offers pathways to doctoral education.
- 46 total credit hours
- Online program format
- 750 clinical hours required
- BSN degree prerequisite
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- Prepares for advanced practice
- Rural healthcare focus
- Primary care concentration
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado Mesa University's Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver high-quality primary care with exceptional clinical expertise. This flexible online program requires 74 semester hours and includes 1000 clinical practice hours, enabling students to develop critical leadership skills while maintaining current employment. Designed for registered nurses with a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, health policy, and comprehensive patient care across diverse populations.
- Online hybrid program format
- 74 semester credit hours
- 1000 clinical practice hours
- Bachelor's in nursing required
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Focuses on primary care
- Advanced practice preparation
- Leadership skill development
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Rural health experiences
Regis University
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - regis.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (Neonatal Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University's Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Master's program prepares advanced practice nurses to manage complex healthcare needs of high-risk newborns and infants. Students develop critical clinical expertise through comprehensive coursework and 630 clinical hours in level III neonatal intensive care units. Graduates are eligible for national certification and equipped to collaborate with neonatologists in providing specialized infant care.
- Hybrid program format
- 630 clinical hours required
- Advanced practice nursing specialty
- Level III NICU clinical experiences
- National certification preparation
- Minimum 43 semester hours
- Advanced physiology coursework
- Professional integration focus
- Comprehensive assessment training
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis University's Post-Graduate Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner offers advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to specialize in comprehensive family healthcare. This remote program prepares nurses for expanded clinical roles through rigorous coursework covering health promotion, disease prevention, and advanced patient care. Designed for nurses with a master's degree and minimum two years experience, the program provides 36 credit hours of intensive training. Graduates become eligible for national certification examinations, positioning themselves for high-demand healthcare roles with competitive median salaries and projected career growth.
- Remote online learning format
- 36 total credit hours
- Advanced clinical assessment focus
- CCNE accredited program
- Requires master's nursing degree
- Minimum two years nursing experience
- Prepares for certification exams
- Clinical hours in diverse settings
- Leadership and ethics training
- Health policy curriculum included
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis University's Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to address critical mental health service shortages. This comprehensive program equips students with essential skills in psychiatric assessment, psychotherapy, and pharmacological management. Designed for practicing nurses, the curriculum spans 26-36 credit hours and can be completed online with flexible scheduling. Graduates become eligible for national certification and can obtain prescriptive authority, positioning themselves for high-demand healthcare roles with significant professional growth potential.
- Online program format
- 26-36 total credit hours
- National certification eligible
- Advanced practice nursing
- Psychopharmacology focus
- Professional integration curriculum
- CCNE accredited program
- Colorado practice authority
- Leadership skills development
- Evidence-based practice training
MSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University's Post-BSN to DNP program offers nurses a comprehensive pathway to advanced practice and leadership. This innovative dual-degree program allows students to earn both a Master of Science in Nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice, with a specialized Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. Students complete 74-79 credit hours over four to five years, gaining advanced clinical skills and population-focused research expertise. The flexible hybrid format enables working nurses to advance their education, with competitive tuition rates and comprehensive clinical training. Graduates are prepared to lead healthcare transformation, improve patient outcomes, and pursue national certification.
- Dual MS and DNP degree
- Family Nurse Practitioner focus
- 74-79 total credit hours
- Hybrid on-campus/online format
- 4-5 year program completion
- Master's: $965/credit hour
- Doctoral: $1,018/credit hour
- 1000 total clinical hours
- High national certification pass rates
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
MSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP (Rural and Underserved Communities (FNP))
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University's Post-BSN to DNP program offers nurses a comprehensive pathway to advanced practice and leadership. This dual-degree program combines a Master of Science in Nursing with a Doctor of Nursing Practice, preparing healthcare professionals to tackle complex patient care challenges. Students can specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner tracks, including a unique Rural and Underserved Communities focus. The flexible hybrid format allows working nurses to advance their education, with coursework spanning 4-5 years and options for part-time study. Total program cost ranges from $71,810 to $80,420, with competitive tuition rates and potential financial aid opportunities.
- Dual MS and DNP degree
- Hybrid learning format
- 74-79 total credit hours
- Rural FNP concentration option
- High national certification rates
- AACN-CCNE accredited program
- Clinical hours: 1000 total
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
- Optional part-time progression
- Leadership and clinical focus
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu
BSN to MSN - Nursing M.S.—Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado offers a specialized Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program focusing on Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) concentration. This hybrid online program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for complex adult and geriatric patients in acute care settings. Students benefit from a flexible learning format with competitive tuition at $734 per credit hour, applicable for all students regardless of residency status. The program emphasizes advanced clinical skills, scholarly research, and leadership development, positioning graduates to excel in high-intensity healthcare environments.
- Hybrid online program format
- $734 per credit flat tuition
- Post-Bachelor's DNP pathway
- Specialized AGACNP concentration
- No additional student fees
MSN to DNP - Nursing DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration offers working nurses an advanced practice pathway to transform healthcare. This rigorous five-year, part-time program prepares clinical experts with critical thinking and leadership skills to advocate for patient care across diverse populations. Graduates earn the terminal nursing degree, qualifying for national certification and potentially increasing their salary to a median of $121,610. The program combines online and hybrid learning, requiring 84 credit hours and 1,125 clinical hours, with a competitive tuition rate of $734 per credit hour.
- 5-year part-time doctoral program
- 84 total credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- 765 clinical practice hours
- No GRE required
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- One year clinical experience
- $734 per credit hour
- Colorado RN license needed
- Minimum 1,125 clinical hours
BSN to DNP - Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner (Post-Bachelor's DNP) (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado offers a hybrid Nursing DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration, designed for BSN nurses seeking a practice-focused doctorate. This part-time, five-year program prepares graduates for primary care roles, focusing on health promotion and disease management across the lifespan, especially for underserved populations. With a tuition rate of $734 per credit hour, the program combines online and in-person learning, including clinical simulations and practicum hours. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited institution, a 3.0 GPA, one year of clinical experience, and a current RN license. No GRE is required, making it accessible for working professionals.
- Hybrid delivery format.
- 84 credit hours required.
- 5 years part-time completion.
- $734 per credit hour.
- No GRE required.
- 1,125 clinical hours minimum.
- BSN to DNP pathway.
- Focus on underserved populations.
- Post-master's certificate option.
- Clinical simulations included.
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu
BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty track. This rigorous program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide holistic, patient-centered primary care for individuals across the lifespan. Students gain advanced clinical skills to treat physiological and psychological health, prevent, assess, and manage acute and chronic illnesses. Ranked among the top nursing graduate programs nationally, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and leadership development.
- 630 total clinical hours
- Comprehensive FNP curriculum
- Advanced clinical training
- Didactic and clinical credits
- National certification preparation
- Primary care focus
- 42 total didactic credits
- Lifespan patient care approach
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Denver's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to provide exceptional care to complex adult and geriatric patients in acute care settings. This comprehensive program blends rigorous clinical training with advanced healthcare leadership, offering students 1,170 clinical hours and a robust curriculum focused on evidence-based practice, advanced pathophysiology, and clinical diagnostics. Graduates develop expertise in managing intricate patient cases, implementing quality improvement strategies, and leading interprofessional healthcare teams.
- Hybrid program format
- 1,170 total clinical hours
- Advanced clinical assessment skills
- Leadership and innovation focus
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO - Public 4-Year - uccs.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Elevate your nursing career with UCCS's comprehensive online Master of Science in Nursing Practice. This innovative program prepares professional nurses for advanced practice roles in primary care and behavioral health settings. Designed for baccalaureate-prepared nurses, the curriculum blends evidence-based practices, ethical principles, and culturally sensitive care. Students gain advanced clinical skills across specialties like Family Nurse Practitioner, with flexible online learning and practicum hours tailored to your location. Rigorous coursework, including advanced health assessment and clinical pharmacotherapeutics, equips graduates for national certification and prescriptive authority.
- 100% Online Program
- 47 Total Credits
- 630 Clinical Contact Hours
- CCNE Accredited
- Three Specialty Tracks
- No Campus Visits Required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Rolling Admission Cycle
- National Certification Preparation
- Accepts 12 Transfer Credits
BSN to DNP - Post-BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Post-BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs specializes in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). This online program prepares nurses for leadership roles in improving healthcare systems, focusing on psychiatric mental health. It requires 70 credits, maintaining a B grade or better. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, and an unrestricted RN license. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and quality improvement, culminating in a DNP project. It's designed for those aiming to advance their nursing practice with a focus on mental health.
- Online program delivery.
- 70 total credits required.
- Focus on Psychiatric Mental Health.
- BSN GPA of 3.0 or higher needed.
- Unrestricted RN license required.
- Evidence-based practice focus.
- Leadership in healthcare systems.
- Quality improvement project finale.
- Prepares for PMHNP roles.
- Accredited nursing program.
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO - Private 4-year - coloradotech.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Technical University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles. It includes 68 credits and 630 clinical hours. Courses cover topics like pathophysiology, pharmacology, and patient assessment. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It requires a BSN degree and an active RN license. Admission needs a 3.0 GPA. Costs vary, and financial aid may be available. Classes start every five weeks. This program helps nurses advance their careers in primary care.
- 68 program credits.
- Online delivery format.
- 630 clinical hours required.
- 5-week course length.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Requires BSN degree.
- Active RN license needed.
- 3.0 GPA for admission.
- One year nursing experience.
- Prepares for certification exam.
Colorado State University Pueblo
Pueblo, CO - Public 4-Year - csupueblo.edu
Graduate Certificate - Nursing: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Post Masters Certification
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Elevate your nursing career with CSU Pueblo's Post Masters Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification. This specialized program transforms experienced nurses into advanced mental health professionals, preparing them to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care across patient lifespans. Designed for MS, MSN, or doctorate-prepared nurses, the individualized curriculum ensures a targeted learning path. Graduates become eligible for national certification, with a strong track record of exam success and professional placement. The program demands a 3.0 GPA, active nursing license, and offers comprehensive clinical training with 585 dedicated clinical hours.
- Post Masters Certification
- Individualized Study Plan
- 585 Clinical Training Hours
- Evidence-Based Mental Health Care
- National Certification Eligible
- 3.0 GPA Requirement
- Active RN License Needed
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado State University Pueblo's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers advanced nursing professionals an intensive program to transform healthcare delivery. Students develop advanced clinical skills, evidence-based practice competencies, and leadership capabilities through a rigorous curriculum that prepares them to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care across the lifespan. The hybrid program emphasizes scholarly inquiry, interprofessional collaboration, and systemic healthcare improvements, enabling graduates to address complex health challenges effectively and advocate for patient populations.
- Hybrid DNP program format
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
- Evidence-based practice integration
- Leadership development curriculum
- Patient-centered care approach
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration, Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado State University Pueblo's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver expert mental health care across patient lifespans. This innovative hybrid program equips nurses with comprehensive skills in evidence-based practice, developing advanced clinical expertise through rigorous coursework and extensive 1,320 total practicum hours. Graduates become highly qualified mental health professionals eligible for national certification, capable of addressing complex psychiatric healthcare needs in diverse settings.
- Hybrid delivery method
- 1,320 total practicum hours
- Prepares for national certification
- 87 total program credits
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- 4-year comprehensive program
- Advanced evidence-based curriculum
- Comprehensive mental health focus
- Flexible admission pathways
BSN to DNP - BSN-DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado State University Pueblo's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care across patient lifespans. The innovative hybrid program equips graduates to provide evidence-based, patient-centered psychiatric care and qualify for national certification. Students develop advanced clinical skills through extensive practicum experiences, learning to transform healthcare systems and address complex mental health challenges with expert knowledge.
- Hybrid DNP program delivery
- Bachelor's degree with 3.0 GPA
- Advanced psychiatric nursing focus
- 540-780 practicum hours
- Prepares for certification exam
- Evidence-based healthcare approach
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
- 87 total program credits
- Advanced clinical practice preparation
Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
If you’ve already made the decision to start your nurse practitioner career, there are hundreds of nurse practitioner programs to choose from. Depending on your specific situation, you may be more drawn to the quicker and cheaper nurse practitioner programs available in Colorado. Here are a few of the fastest and most affordable NP programs in the state.
What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?
After you get your Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN), the quickest (and cheapest) way to get licensed as a nurse practitioner is to enroll in a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) program as opposed to going for your Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) which can take 2-4 years longer. MSN degrees on the other hand can take as little as a year to complete through new strides in online learning or summer classes.
| NP Program | Length | Online/Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Denver College of Nursing | 15 – 18 Months | Online |
| Colorado Christian University | 21 Months | Online |
| Regis University | 1-2 Years | Online or Campus |
What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?
As mentioned MSN programs are not only the quickest route to becoming a nurse practitioner, it’s also typically the cheapest. On average, most MSN programs cost between $20,000 and $$60,000. Of course, this will depend on which school you attend, technology fees, room and board, the price of your textbooks, and the cost of living in the area where your school is based. Here are a few of the most affordable MSN programs available in Colorado.
| School Name | Tuition Range | Estimated Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado State University, Pueblo | $13,000 – $30,000 | 49 Credits |
| University of Colorado, Colorado Springs | $16,000 – $19,000 | 48 Credits |
| University of Northern Colorado | $30,000 – $40,000 | 58 Credits |
Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
In nursing school, it’s generally well-known that the best way to specialize in a particular area is to invest in a graduate degree. Nurse practitioner programs come in a wide variety of specialized curriculums so you can not only gain the independence and pay you deserve, but you can also narrow your focus on a field that you’re passionate about. Take a look at these specialized nurse practitioner programs in Colorado.
| School Name | NP Specialty | Credits Required |
|---|---|---|
| University of Northern Colorado | Family Nurse Practitioner | 58 Credits |
| University of Colorado | Adult-Gerontology | 47 Credits |
| Colorado Technical University | Family Nurse Practitioner | 48 – 68 Credits |
Find out more about popular NP specialty programs: Acute Care (ACNP), Adult Gerontology (AGNP), Family (FNP), Pediatric (PNP), Psychiatric (PHMNP), Women’s Health (WHNP).
Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus
While MSN and DNP programs are the most common routes for nurse practitioner education, there are several accelerated and bridge program opportunities available online and in-person, depending on the degree level you currently hold. Take a look at your options below.
MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs
As mentioned, MSN programs are a great option if you already have a BSN and you want to become a nurse practitioner as fast and as affordably as possible. These programs take about two years to complete. Here are a few examples in Colorado:
- Colorado Technical University – Colorado Springs, CO
- University of Colorado – Boulder, CO
RN to NP Programs
RN to NP programs are also known as RN to MSN or ADN to MSN programs. These bridge programs are typically geared toward registered nurses who are licensed and have graduated with an associate’s degree in nursing as a way to combine both BSN and MSN programs into one short and effective program that draws on the RN’s experience and associate’s level education. There is currently only one RN to NP program available in Colorado – Regis University‘s RN to MSN located in Denver, CO.
DNP Nurse Practioner Programs
DNP programs take about 4 to six years to complete following an MSN program. They are the highest level of NP program that you can complete and will come with a multitude of benefits, including higher pay and more flexibility in your practice. Here are a few DNP programs available in Colorado:
- University of Colorado – Boulder, CO
- University of Northern Colorado – Greeley, CO
Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs
Post-master nurse practitioner certificate programs are not degree programs and they will only be available to fully licensed nurse practitioners who have graduated from a graduate degree program in nursing. However, they are highly valuable to students who want to specialize in multiple areas of practice. Here are a few to choose from in Colorado:
- University of Colorado, Colorado Springs – Colorado Springs, CO
- University of Northern Colorado – Greeley, CO
Accelerated, Direct & Master’s Entry (MENP/MEPN) to Nursing Practice
Accelerated MSNs, direct-entry MSNs, and Master’s entry MSNs are types of MSN programs that allow students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field to get their MSN in a shorter amount of time than if they had gone through the both a BSN and MSN program individually. There is currently one accelerated MSN program that is available in Colorado; Regis University located in Denver, CO.
General Admissions Requirements
As we’ve gone over previously, NP programs come in many varieties. This means that not every NP program will have the same admissions requirements, as students are enrolling at different degree levels. In general, however, you can expect to need a minimum of:
- BSN from an accredited school
- Transcripts from all colleges attended
- Minimum grade point average (often 3.0 or above, but varies by school/program)
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Essay or statement of purpose outlining career goals
- Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- Resume or CV
Colorado NP License and Certification Requirements
The minimum requirements for getting licensed as an NP in Colorado are to graduate from an NP program with a nursing degree and to have a valid RN license in your state. Applicants must submit proof of these qualifications, complete the application form, and pay an application fee of approximately $500. Detailed instructions on how to apply for NP licensure/certification in Colorado are available here.
Certification in most nurse practitioner specialties is obtainable through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Candidates must typically hold a valid RN license and have graduated from a master’s or doctoral-level nursing program in the relevant specialty.
As of 2024, certified NPs in Colorado enjoy full practice authority, allowing them to operate independently without the need for physician oversight. Additional resources can be found through the Colorado Nurses Association (CNA).
List of NP Programs in Colorado
Colorado Springs, CO
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 47 Total Credits
- 630 Clinical Contact Hours
- CCNE Accredited
- Three Specialty Tracks
- No Campus Visits Required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Rolling Admission Cycle
Denver, CO
Regis University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 48 total credit hours
- Two learning pathways available
- $965 per credit hour
- Two-year program design
- 630 clinical hours required
- Classes once per week
- Northwest Denver campus
- CCNE accredited program
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- 26-36 total credit hours
- National certification eligible
- Advanced practice nursing
- Psychopharmacology focus
- Professional integration curriculum
- CCNE accredited program
- Colorado practice authority
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Remote online learning format
- 36 total credit hours
- Advanced clinical assessment focus
- CCNE accredited program
- Requires master's nursing degree
- Minimum two years nursing experience
- Prepares for certification exams
- Clinical hours in diverse settings
- MSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Dual MS and DNP degree
- Family Nurse Practitioner focus
- 74-79 total credit hours
- Hybrid on-campus/online format
- 4-5 year program completion
- Master's: $965/credit hour
- Doctoral: $1,018/credit hour
- 1000 total clinical hours
- MSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Rural and Underserved Communities (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Dual MS and DNP degree
- Hybrid learning format
- 74-79 total credit hours
- Rural FNP concentration option
- High national certification rates
- AACN-CCNE accredited program
- Clinical hours: 1000 total
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
- BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Ranked top 10 graduate nursing program
- 630 total clinical hours
- Comprehensive FNP curriculum
- Advanced clinical training
- Didactic and clinical credits
- National certification preparation
- Primary care focus
- 42 total didactic credits
Grand Junction, CO
Colorado Mesa University
- BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Primary Care - Online Learning - Website
- 46 total credit hours
- Online program format
- 750 clinical hours required
- BSN degree prerequisite
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- Prepares for advanced practice
- Rural healthcare focus
- Primary care concentration
- BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing (MSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 49 total credit hours
- Online flexible format
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- RN licensure prerequisite
- Lifespan primary care focus
- Clinical practicum included
- Advanced nursing preparation
- Three-year program structure
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online hybrid program format
- 74 semester credit hours
- 1000 clinical practice hours
- Bachelor's in nursing required
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Focuses on primary care
- Advanced practice preparation
- Leadership skill development
Greeley, CO
University of Northern Colorado
- BSN to MSN - Nursing M.S.—Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online program format
- $734 per credit flat tuition
- Post-Bachelor's DNP pathway
- Specialized AGACNP concentration
- No additional student fees
- MSN to DNP - Nursing DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 5-year part-time doctoral program
- 84 total credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- 765 clinical practice hours
- No GRE required
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- One year clinical experience
- $734 per credit hour
Pueblo, CO
Colorado State University Pueblo
- BSN to MSN - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Post Masters Certification
Campus Based - Website
- Post-Masters Certification Program
- 585 Total Clinical Hours
- Individualized Study Plan
- Evidence-Based Care Focus
- Prepares for Certification Exam
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- 16 Postgraduate Credit Hours
- Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Post Masters Certification Program
- 585 Total Clinical Hours
- Advanced Nursing Practice Focus
- Dual Certification Opportunity
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- 16 Postgraduate Credit Hours
- Active RN License Mandatory
- Interprofessional Collaboration Emphasis
- Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse Practitioner, Post-Masters Certificate
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care - Campus Based - Website
- Post-Masters Certification Program
- Dual Nurse Practitioner Certification
- 585 Clinical Practice Hours
- 3.0 GPA Minimum Requirement
- Advanced Evidence-Based Practice
- Comprehensive Patient Care Focus
- Interprofessional Collaboration Training
- Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse Practitioner, Post-Masters Certificate
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- Post-Masters Nursing Certification
- Evidence-based Patient Care
- Comprehensive Clinical Training
- National Certification Eligibility
- 585 Total Clinical Hours
- 47 Total Credit Hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Graduate Certificate - Nursing: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Post Masters Certification
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post Masters Certification
- Individualized Study Plan
- 585 Clinical Training Hours
- Evidence-Based Mental Health Care
- National Certification Eligible
- 3.0 GPA Requirement
- Active RN License Needed
- MSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration, Doctor of Nursing Practice
Campus Based - Website
- 83 total program credits
- 1,320 total practicum hours
- Requires 3.0 GPA minimum
- Concurrent Master's degree awarded
- Prepares for national certification exam
- Advanced clinical training focus
- Leadership and scholarly skills development
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid DNP program format
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
- Evidence-based practice integration
- Leadership development curriculum
- Patient-centered care approach
- MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration, Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid delivery method
- 1,320 total practicum hours
- Prepares for national certification
- 87 total program credits
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- 4-year comprehensive program
- Advanced evidence-based curriculum
- Comprehensive mental health focus
