Home > Programs > Nursing > States > Colorado


Colorado Nursing At a Glance

MetricDetail
Median Nursing Salary$113,082
National ComparisonColorado salaries are approximately 2.7% higher than the national average for nursing
Primary Licensing BodyColorado Board of Nursing
Accreditation RequiredInstitutional + Regional

Earning an online nursing degree in Colorado offers a flexible path to a high-demand career. Colorado salaries are approximately 2.7% higher than the national average for nursing roles. Whether you’re looking for an affordable in-state option or a top-ranked national program, Colorado students have access to a variety of accredited online choices that balance quality and cost.


Top Online Nursing Schools in Colorado

The following schools offer accredited online nursing programs and are ranked based on affordability, graduation rates, and student outcomes in Colorado.

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only -- always confirm details directly with each school.

#1

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 97%
Graduation rate 44%
Tuition
In‑state$9,712
Out‑of‑state$20,492
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 12

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

Concorde Career College-Aurora

Aurora, CO In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 100%
Graduation rate 70%
TuitionContact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 16

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#3

Aims Community College

Greeley, CO In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 35%
Tuition
In‑state$2,090
Out‑of‑state$11,306
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 44

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#4

Colorado Mountain College

Glenwood Springs, CO In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 26%
Tuition
In‑state$2,700
Out‑of‑state$12,540
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 32

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#5

Arapahoe Community College

Littleton, CO In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 27%
Tuition
In‑state$4,308
Out‑of‑state$16,542
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 33

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard


Career Outlook and Salaries in Colorado

Nursing professionals in Colorado experience a dynamic job market with competitive wages. Below are the median annual salaries for key roles in the field, based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for Colorado.

OccupationMedian Annual Salary (Colorado)
Registered Nurse$96,520
Licensed Practical Nurse$67,480
Nurse Anesthetist$207,120
Nurse Midwife$132,670
Nurse Practitioner$129,750
Nursing Assistant$44,950

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.


Why Pursue an Online Nursing Degree in Colorado?

Choosing a program in Colorado can provide several advantages:

  • In-State Tuition: Many public universities in Colorado offer lower tuition rates for residents, even for online programs.
  • Local Networking: Attending a school within your state can make it easier to connect with local employers and professional organizations.
  • Licensing Alignment: Local nursing programs are designed to meet Colorado Board of Nursing requirements, facilitating your path to RN or APRN licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online nursing programs in Colorado accredited?

Yes, the programs listed above are accredited by recognized regional or national agencies. For Colorado, this includes accreditation from agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring your degree meets high academic standards.

How does Nursing pay in Colorado compare to other states?

Colorado salaries are approximately 2.7% higher than the national average for nursing roles. This makes Colorado a strong choice for students looking to maximize their ROI after graduation.

What is the primary licensing board for nursing in Colorado?

The Colorado Board of Nursing oversees professional standards and licensure for the field in Colorado. Most accredited programs are designed to align with their specific requirements.


Browse Other States