Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs In Colorado
- 2026 Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Colorado
- What Family Nurse Practitioners Do in Colorado
- MSN vs DNP vs Post-Master's Certificate: Colorado Pathways Explained
- Comparison Table: Colorado FNP Educational Pathways
- Online, Hybrid, and Campus Program Formats in Colorado
- Clinical Training Examples in Colorado
- Colorado Licensure Requirements for Family Nurse Practitioners
- Why Colorado Is an Excellent State for FNP Careers
- How To Choose the Right FNP Program in Colorado
- FAQs
- Latest Articles & Guides

The scenic state of Colorado is one of the most favorable places for Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) training. With strong healthcare systems across Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Aurora, and rural mountain communities, FNPs are essential providers delivering primary care across the lifespan. Colorado also grants full practice authority, allowing qualified nurse practitioners to practice independently and even open their own clinics.
Whether you're pursuing an MSN, DNP, or post-master's certificate, Colorado offers flexible online, hybrid, and campus FNP programs that prepare nurses to deliver high-quality primary care in urban and rural environments.
This article will cover:
- The differences between MSN, DNP, and post-master's FNP programs
- How Colorado programs structure online, hybrid, and campus learning
- Where students commonly complete clinical rotations across Colorado
- How to meet Colorado's APRN licensure and certification requirements
- Tips for choosing the right FNP program based on your career goals
2026 Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Colorado
Regis University
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - regis.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University's Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares passionate nurses to provide comprehensive primary care across all life stages. The program offers flexible learning pathways, including traditional on-campus and remote synchronized online formats. With 48 credit hours and a two-year completion timeline, students develop advanced clinical skills while maintaining professional work commitments. Graduates benefit from high national certification pass rates and comprehensive clinical experiences encompassing pediatrics, adult, women's, and family health contexts.
- 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
- May program start date
- Application deadline March 1st
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis University offers a Post-Graduate Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner designed for nurses with an M.S. in Nursing. This online program focuses on advanced clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for family care across the lifespan. The curriculum includes 36 credit hours with clinical experiences in various healthcare settings. Applicants need a nursing master's degree from an accredited program, at least two years of nursing experience, and must complete the NursingCAS application. The program prepares graduates for certification exams from AANP and ANCC. Tuition information is available on the university's website.
- Post-Graduate Certificate program.
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- Online delivery format.
- 36 credit hours total.
- Clinical hours required.
- Advanced clinical assessment skills.
- Diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Health promotion focus.
- Disease prevention curriculum.
- Acute illness management.
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
BSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University in Denver, CO, offers a Post-BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, blending master's and doctoral studies into one seamless journey. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles with a focus on primary care across the lifespan. It combines classroom instruction, web-based learning, and clinical hours, totaling 1000. Admission requires a BSN, a minimum GPA of 2.75, and professional experience. Tuition is $1,055 per credit hour for master's courses and $1,108 for doctoral courses. Graduates are ready for national certification, with Regis boasting high pass rates.
- Family Nurse Practitioner focus.
- 74-79 credit hours total.
- Combines MS and DNP degrees.
- $1,055-$1,108 per credit hour.
- 1000 clinical hours required.
- On-campus and online options.
- High national certification pass rates.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
- 2 years professional experience recommended.
- Rolling admissions for FNP.
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu
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.
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
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
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.
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
Colorado State University Pueblo
Pueblo, CO - Public 4-Year - csupueblo.edu
Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado State University Pueblo offers a Post-Master's Certificate in Adult/Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse Practitioner. This program prepares nurses for dual certification in both acute care and family practice across the lifespan. It requires a master's degree in nursing with a 3.0 GPA, active RN license, and prerequisites in statistics, chemistry, and microbiology. The curriculum includes 47 credits and 585 clinical hours, focusing on evidence-based practice and patient-centered care in various settings.
- Post-Master's Certificate program.
- Dual AGACNP/FNP certification.
- 47 credit hours required.
- 585 clinical hours needed.
- Campus-based program delivery.
- Master's in nursing required.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Active RN license needed.
- Prerequisites include statistics.
- Chemistry prerequisite required.
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
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
What Family Nurse Practitioners Do in Colorado
Family Nurse Practitioners provide primary care to patients of all ages, from infants to older adults, making them especially valuable in Colorado's diverse healthcare landscape.
Common responsibilities include:
- Diagnosing and treating acute and chronic conditions
- Performing physical exams and preventive screenings
- Prescribing medications and managing treatment plans
- Providing pediatric, adult, and geriatric care
- Managing chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, and hypertension
Common Colorado FNP Work Settings
- Primary care clinics in Denver, Aurora, Boulder, and Colorado Springs
- Community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs)
- Rural clinics in mountain and Western Slope communities
- Urgent care and outpatient specialty clinics
- Public health departments and school-based clinics
Explore nurse practitioner schools in Colorado.
MSN vs DNP vs Post-Master's Certificate: Colorado Pathways Explained
Colorado FNP programs typically offer multiple educational entry points depending on your background.
MSN-FNP Programs
Best for BSN-prepared nurses seeking the fastest route into advanced practice.
Typical features:
- Graduate-level training in primary care across the lifespan
- Clinical experience requirements (often 600+ hours)
- Eligibility to pursue national FNP certification
Some Colorado MSN-FNP programs include approximately 630 clinical hours arranged with approved healthcare providers, ensuring hands-on experience treating patients.
DNP-FNP Programs
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) prepares nurses for leadership and advanced clinical roles. DNP programs emphasize evidence-based care, healthcare systems improvement, and advanced clinical decision-making.
Benefits of the DNP pathway:
- Advanced leadership and clinical skills
- Preparation for leadership roles in healthcare systems
- Strong foundation for quality improvement and population health
Some Colorado programs allow students to earn both MSN and DNP credentials through integrated pathways.
Post-Master's FNP Certificate Programs
These programs are ideal for MSN-prepared nurses transitioning into family practice.
Typical features include:
- Focused FNP coursework and clinical training
- Approximately 600+ clinical hours
- Eligibility for national FNP certification exams
Post-master's certificate programs build on prior graduate education and prepare nurses for certification and advanced practice roles.
Comparison Table: Colorado FNP Educational Pathways
| Pathway | Best For | Typical Length | Career Outcome |
| MSN | BSN-prepared nurses | 2–3 years | Entry into FNP practice |
| BSN to DNP | Nurses seeking doctoral preparation | 3–4 years | Advanced clinical and leadership roles |
| Post-Master's FNP Certificate | MSN-prepared nurses adding FNP specialty | 1–2 years | New FNP certification eligibility |
| Post-MSN DNP | Certified NPs seeking doctoral degree | 1–2+ years | Leadership, academic, or system-level roles |
Online, Hybrid, and Campus Program Formats in Colorado
Colorado programs offer flexible formats to accommodate working nurses.
Online Programs
Fully online programs deliver coursework through:
- Virtual lectures and discussions
- Simulation-based learning
- Remote assignments and case studies
Students complete required clinical hours locally with approved preceptors.
Hybrid Programs
Hybrid programs combine:
- Online coursework
- Periodic on-campus intensive sessions
- Hands-on simulation training
Hybrid formats are common in Colorado, especially at major academic medical centers.
Campus-Based Programs
Campus programs offer:
- In-person lectures and labs
- Faculty-guided clinical placements
- Access to advanced simulation facilities
These programs often partner closely with Colorado health systems.
Clinical Training Examples in Colorado
Clinical experiences are one of the most important components of FNP education. Many Colorado programs require 600–1,100 clinical hours, depending on the degree level.
Common Clinical Rotation Settings in Colorado Include:
Major Health Systems
- UCHealth clinics and hospitals (Denver, Aurora, Colorado Springs)
- Children's Hospital Colorado primary care clinics
- Denver Health outpatient clinics
Community and Rural Clinics
- Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs)
- Mountain and rural health clinics across Western Colorado
- Indian Health Service clinics
Specialty and Outpatient Clinics
- Family medicine practices
- Internal medicine clinics
- Urgent care centers
- Women's health clinics
Many programs actively assist students with clinical placements or coordinate preceptor relationships aligned with their career goals.
Clinical Placement Tip: Ask programs whether they place students directly or require students to find their own preceptors; this can significantly affect your training experience.
Colorado Licensure Requirements for Family Nurse Practitioners
To practice as an FNP in Colorado, graduates must meet APRN licensure requirements.
Key Requirements Include:
- Active Colorado RN license
- Graduate degree from an accredited FNP program
- National FNP certification
- Completion of background check and application
Colorado requires graduate education and national certification before granting advanced practice recognition.
Colorado also requires APRNs to maintain national certification to retain licensure.
Why Colorado Is an Excellent State for FNP Careers
Colorado offers strong career opportunities due to:
- Full practice authority
- High demand for primary care providers
- Rapid population growth
- Significant rural healthcare needs
FNPs play a critical role in expanding healthcare access across Colorado's urban and rural communities.
How To Choose the Right FNP Program in Colorado
When comparing programs, consider the following factors:
Program Format
- Online vs hybrid vs campus options
- Scheduling flexibility
Clinical Placement Support
- School-provided placements vs student-arranged
Degree Level
- MSN for faster entry into practice
- DNP for leadership and advanced career opportunities
Geographic Access
- Clinical opportunities near your location
FAQs
Q: How Many Clinical Hours Are Required for Colorado FNP Programs?
A: Most programs require approximately 600–1,100 clinical hours, depending on degree level and certification pathway.
Q: Do Colorado FNP Programs Help with Clinical Placement?
A: Some programs arrange placements, while others assist students in identifying preceptors. Always confirm placement policies before enrolling.
Q: Can FNPs Practice Independently in Colorado?
A: Yes. Colorado is a full practice authority state, allowing nurse practitioners to practice independently after meeting licensure requirements.
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