Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs offer a fast-track path for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to enter the nursing profession. Typically completed in 12 to 24 months, these programs combine intensive coursework with clinical training to prepare students for RN licensure.
Colorado’s respected universities and major healthcare systems, including UCHealth, Centura Health, and Children’s Hospital Colorado, make it a strong place to pursue an ABSN. With demand for nurses across both urban and rural communities, graduates are well-positioned to step into rewarding nursing careers.
What Is an ABSN Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into the nursing field without completing a traditional four-year program. By leveraging prior academic credits, these programs streamline the BSN curriculum into an intensive format that can be completed in 12 to 24 months.
Students in ABSN programs complete a combination of classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical rotations in settings such as hospitals, community health centers, and specialty clinics. Coursework typically covers pharmacology, health assessment, nursing ethics, and population health, while clinical experiences prepare graduates to provide safe, evidence-based care.
If you’re comparing your options, you might explore affordable ABSN programs to identify lower-cost pathways, or review best accelerated BSN programs for schools with strong academic reputations.
Upon completing an accredited ABSN program, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure test required to become a registered nurse in Colorado and across the United States.
Why Choose an ABSN Program in Colorado?
Colorado offers several advantages for students pursuing an Accelerated BSN, making it an appealing destination for career changers entering nursing.
Strong Demand for Nurses
The state continues to face a growing need for registered nurses, fueled by population growth, an aging workforce, and healthcare shortages in both metropolitan and rural regions. This demand translates into steady job opportunities for new graduates.
Respected Nursing Schools
Colorado is home to well-regarded universities that provide accredited ABSN pathways. These programs emphasize both academic rigor and practical training, preparing students for success on the NCLEX-RN and in the workplace.
Diverse Clinical Opportunities
Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations at leading health systems such as UCHealth, Centura Health, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and SCL Health. These placements expose students to a wide range of patient populations and care settings, from urban hospitals to community clinics.
Competitive RN Salaries
Registered nurses in Colorado earn wages above the national average, making the state financially attractive for new graduates. With both strong pay and high demand, Colorado offers a compelling environment to begin a nursing career.
Notable ABSN Programs in Colorado
Colorado is home to several universities that offer Accelerated BSN pathways designed for students making a career change into nursing. These programs vary in format and location but share the same goal: to provide rigorous academic instruction paired with hands-on clinical training that prepares graduates for RN licensure. Below is an overview of institutions in the state that feature ABSN programs, each offering unique strengths and opportunities.
| Institution | Location | Program |
| Colorado State University-Pueblo | Pueblo | Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Accelerated Pathway |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver | Accelerated Nursing Option, B.S.N. |
| Regis University | Denver | Accelerated BSN |
| University of Colorado-Anschutz | Aurora | Bachelor of Science, Accelerated Path (UCAN) |
| University of Colorado-Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs | Accelerated BSN Program |
| University of Northern Colorado | Greeley | BSN – 2nd Degree |
Accreditation and Licensing Considerations
Before applying to an Accelerated BSN program in Colorado, it’s important to understand how accreditation and licensing affect your path to becoming a registered nurse.
Importance of Accreditation
Accreditation ensures a program meets national standards for nursing education. In Colorado, ABSN programs are typically accredited by one of two organizations:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Graduating from an accredited program is essential for:
- Eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam
- Access to federal financial aid
- Meeting employer requirements for BSN-prepared nurses
Colorado State Board of Nursing
The Colorado State Board of Nursing regulates licensure for registered nurses. To obtain a license, graduates must:
- Complete an accredited nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN
- Submit an application and background check to the Board
The Board also oversees ongoing nursing standards and monitors programs within the state.
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Colorado is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses licensed in the state to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This portability offers valuable flexibility for graduates who may want to work across state lines.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Accelerated BSN programs in Colorado is competitive, as these programs are designed to prepare students for the fast-paced and demanding nature of professional nursing. While requirements vary by institution, most schools share a similar set of criteria.
Typical ABSN Admission Criteria
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree
Applicants must hold a completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in a field other than nursing. - Prerequisite Coursework
Many programs require specific science and math courses completed within the past 5–10 years. Common prerequisites include:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Statistics
- Nutrition
- Developmental or Lifespan Psychology
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Minimum GPA
Most programs require a 3.0 cumulative GPA or higher. Some schools also consider prerequisite GPA separately to ensure strength in science-based coursework. - Application Materials
A typical ABSN application package includes:
- Résumé or CV highlighting academic, professional, and volunteer experience
- Personal statement or essay describing motivation for nursing and career goals
- Letters of recommendation from academic instructors, employers, or healthcare professionals
- Résumé or CV highlighting academic, professional, and volunteer experience
- Healthcare or Volunteer Experience
While not always mandatory, relevant experience in clinical or community health settings can strengthen an application and may be preferred by some programs.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Accelerated BSN programs in Colorado are a major investment, but with strong career prospects and competitive salaries for registered nurses, they can offer an excellent return. Understanding both tuition ranges and available financial aid will help you plan effectively.
Tuition Ranges for Colorado ABSN Programs
The cost of an ABSN program in Colorado generally falls between $30,000 and $70,000, depending on the school, program length, and format. Public universities may offer more affordable tuition for in-state residents, while private institutions often fall at the higher end of the range.
Students should also budget for additional expenses such as:
- Lab and clinical fees
- Textbooks and online learning resources
- Uniforms and nursing equipment (e.g., stethoscopes, kits)
- Health screenings, immunizations, and background checks
- NCLEX-RN exam and state licensure application fees
Financial Aid Options
- Federal and State Aid
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to determine eligibility for federal loans and grants. Colorado residents may also qualify for state-based aid such as the Colorado Opportunity Fund (COF). - Nursing-Specific Scholarships and Grants
Local and national organizations, including the Colorado Nurses Foundation and hospital-based foundations, offer scholarships for nursing students. - Employer Tuition Assistance
Healthcare systems such as UCHealth and Centura Health may provide tuition reimbursement or loan repayment support for employees pursuing nursing education. - Loan Forgiveness Programs
Nurses working in shortage areas or nonprofit facilities may qualify for programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program or state-based loan repayment initiatives focused on rural healthcare.
Career Outlook for ABSN Graduates in Colorado
Graduates of Colorado ABSN programs step into a healthcare workforce where demand for registered nurses remains strong. While detailed state-level projections for Colorado are limited, national data offers a reliable benchmark for career planning.
Salary Expectations
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses was $93,600 as of May 2024. The top 10% of RNs nationwide earned more than $135,000 annually, while the lowest 10% earned about $66,000. Colorado wages typically trend close to or slightly above the national average, especially in urban centers like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs, though pay can be lower in rural areas.
Job Growth and Demand
The BLS projects 6% employment growth for registered nurses between 2023 and 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth represents nearly 197,200 new jobs nationwide over the decade, with about 194,500 annual openings expected due to retirements and workforce turnover. For Colorado, this suggests continued demand, particularly in major hospital systems and underserved rural communities where access to healthcare professionals is limited.
Major Employers and Work Settings
ABSN graduates in Colorado can find opportunities in a variety of environments, including:
- Large Health Systems – UCHealth, Centura Health, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and SCL Health are among the state’s leading employers.
- Community Clinics and Rural Health Centers – meeting care needs outside metropolitan areas.
- Schools and Public Health Departments – focusing on prevention, wellness, and education.
- Long-Term and Home Health Care – growing sectors as the population ages.
With strong salary potential, solid job growth, and varied employment options, Colorado offers ABSN graduates a favorable landscape to begin their nursing careers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
Selecting the right Accelerated BSN program in Colorado involves balancing academic quality, clinical opportunities, and personal considerations. Here are several key factors to keep in mind as you evaluate your options:
Check Accreditation and NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
Confirm that the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN and approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing. Reviewing a school’s recent NCLEX-RN pass rates provides insight into how well it prepares students for licensure.
Evaluate Clinical Placement Opportunities
Hands-on training is central to ABSN programs. Look into the clinical partnerships each school maintains—whether with major hospital systems like UCHealth and Centura Health or with community clinics and rural health providers. These placements can shape both your education and your employment prospects after graduation.
Compare Program Length and Format
Most ABSN programs in Colorado can be completed in 12 to 24 months, with some offering hybrid models that combine online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals. Consider how the program’s structure fits with your learning style and life circumstances.
Weigh Costs and Financial Aid
Look beyond tuition to consider the total cost of attendance, including fees, supplies, and exam expenses. Factor in available financial aid, scholarships, and potential employer tuition assistance, especially if you plan to work for a healthcare system after graduation.
Consider Location and Cohort Start Dates
Some programs admit only once a year, while others offer multiple start dates. Proximity to your home—or to the clinical sites you’ll rotate through—can also impact your experience and convenience.
FAQ: ABSN Programs in Colorado
Are there online or hybrid ABSN programs in Colorado?
Yes. While no ABSN program can be fully online due to the clinical requirements, several Colorado schools offer hybrid formats. These combine online coursework with in-person labs and clinical placements in healthcare facilities.
How long do programs take to complete?
Most Accelerated BSN programs in Colorado can be completed in 12 to 24 months, depending on the school and whether the program follows an intensive year-round schedule or a semester-based model.
Do schools accept prior credits?
Yes. Since ABSN programs are for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree, most general education credits transfer. However, you may need to complete science prerequisites such as anatomy, microbiology, or chemistry if they weren’t part of your first degree.
Are there accelerated 12-month ABSN options?
Some Colorado programs can be completed in as little as 12 months, but these are highly intensive and require full-time study. Students should be prepared for a rigorous pace that leaves little room for outside work.
Can students realistically work while enrolled?
Because of the demanding pace of ABSN programs, most schools discourage working while enrolled. Students in longer programs (18–24 months) may find limited part-time work possible, but balancing employment with coursework and clinicals is challenging.