If you have been on the lookout for accelerated nursing programs in Colorado, then this blog post is what you need. This article contains all you need to know about the 6 Accelerated Nursing Programs in Colorado. We have taken our time to explain in great detail what the program is all about and where you can find the best fit for you.
Before we take a dip on the subject matter, we need to understand or in our case take a review of what nursing is all about
Nursing is one of many healthcare professions that takes care of individuals, families, villages, or communities so they can attain and maintain optimal health, general wellness, and quality of life.
What sets Nurses apart from the rest of the other medical professionals, is their approach to patient care, training, practicing, and others, having been imbibed as day-to-day functions. It has also been in common knowledge that nurses make up the greater percentage of medical professionals in the healthcare environment, this is irrespective of the global shortage of qualified nurses.
Nurses in collaboration with doctors, physicians, therapists, patients’ families, and so on strive to achieve the logical goal of treating illnesses and recovering optimal health of patients. However, there is still some authority given to nurses that allow them to treat patients independently in some settings.
The career of nursing opens participants to become specialists in diverse fields of medicine, however, nursing is generally divided into the varied needs of the diverse patients that are being looked after. These categories include;
- Cardiac Nursing
- Orthopedic Nursing
- Palliative Nursing
- Perioperative Nursing
- Obstetrical Nursing
- Oncology Nursing
- Nursing Informatics
- Telenursing
- Radiology
- Emergency Nursing
Nurses are also known to work in various fields such as;
- Acute care hospitals
- Communities/public health centers
- Family/individual across their lifespan
- Neonatal
- Women’s health/gender-related
- Mental health
- School/colleges infirmaries
- Ambulatory settings
- Informatics i.e E-health
- Pediatrics
- Adult-gerontology… etc
For those who are still wondering what the use and benefits of pursuing a nursing career are. Well, it entails many benefits, ranging from financial breakthroughs to freedom of time. Also, there are other benefits such as;
- Nurses are highly sorted after in various parts of the world with those in countries highly concentrated leaving and getting employments in regions that have few.
- Because of the relative scarcity of nurses in the world presently, job security is assured as there are very few people seeking a lot of positions.
- Nursing as a career is quite a rewarding one, as it is personally fulfilling and matches personal goals set, hence it becomes a personally rewarding experience.
- The nursing career gives room for self-advancement and improvement, which gives rise to professional development.
- Being in the nursing field grants you access to international recognition and increases the chances of you getting employed abroad.
- Nurses enjoy flexible work hours as they are not always on call every minute instead they are used in shifts.
- It is a globally respected field
- If there is a need for a nurse to raise extra cash, he/she simply works overtime for extra hours.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an average registered nurse earns about $72,000 per year or around $35 per hour. This makes the career more interesting.
Accelerated programs are programs that allow students to hasten their proposed courses of study instead of undergoing the normal duration of regular study. This is like spending about 12 months in a course of study that on a norm should be about 36 months.
Accelerated nursing programs entail nursing degree options that fast-track the duration of the students to earn their bachelor’s in nursing (BSN) or Master’s in nursing (MSN) quicker than usual. These programs are designed in such a way to takes a lesser time to achieve the aim of becoming a nurse set by you.
If you are amongst the select few interested in embarking on this journey in the accelerated nursing program, you are strongly advised to act as an adhesive on this post till the last dot as we list and explain the various accelerated nursing programs.
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6 Accelerated Nursing Programs in Colorado
In this section, we will take an in-depth look at the different accelerated nursing programs found in Colorado, we will also be looking at their requirements, costs, duration, and many more.
Below is the list of the 6 accelerated nursing programs in Colorado, which include;
- Colorado State University – Pueblo, Pueblo
- Metropolitan State University of Denver, Denver
- Regis University, Denver
- University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
- University of Colorado – Denver, Aurora
- University of Northern Colorado, Greely
1. Colorado State University-Pueblo
The Colorado State University-Pueblo Nursing Program started offering a nursing program as far back as 1964, however, it got recognized as a school only as recently as 2017. The school has evolved down the years in many ways, using its innovative innovation, high-tech simulation lab settings such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, medical-surgical units, and a proficient faculty the students get a solid foundation to jolt their careers in nursing.
The CSU-Pueblo offers a 14-months ABSN program which is a fast-paced alternative for career changers, aspiring to get into the field of nursing as registered nurses. It is for students that have a non-nursing baccalaureate degree and have completed 14 credits of prerequisite nursing courses (fifty percent).
This pathway offers students an intense, challenging approach that enables them to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree in 14 months. During the Accelerated year, students take part in a reality-based curriculum that includes classroom, internet, and real-life clinical experience in state-of-the-art facilities.
Admission Requirements
Interested applicants into the school of nursing must;
- Applicants must complete 14 hours of (fifty percent) with a grade of C or higher on the prerequisite coursework.
- Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended must be included with prerequisite coursework highlighted.
- Accelerated pathway application in a single packet should be mailed with transcripts by applicants to:
Colorado State University-Pueblo
School of Nursing
Attn: Peggy Foley
Advisor/Counselor of Nursing
2200 Bonforte Blvd
Pueblo, CO 81001
Cost of Program
For this information please click HERE
For more information about the school and other requirements please click HERE.
2. Metropolitan State University of Denver
The Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Department of Nursing is located in line with downtown Denver on the Auraria Campus. One of the benefits of the campus’s proximity to the commercial and entertainment district is granting students a host of options available to them in terms of leisure as well as clinical experiences and internships.
Some of the prominent hospitals in Denver which are the best employers of graduates of the Metropolitan State University include the University Hospital, Children’s, Denver Health, Centura Health, and HealthOne.
This on-campus accelerated nursing program generally serves students who have maintained a high GPA while completing some or all of the required prerequisite courses and can transfer their credits to MSU Denver.
The Accelerated Nursing program of the MSU Denver is a very competitive Bachelor of Science program, as students who nurse ambitions to pursue the Accelerated Nursing program must have previously acquired a baccalaureate degree, successfully transferred, or completed prerequisite courses.
Program Requirements
- Must be a previous holder of a baccalaureate
- Take the HESI exam and demonstrate a 3.0 G.P.A. for prior and prerequisite coursework
- Complete an online application and select the Nursing (Undeclared) major. Note that all nursing students must begin their application as Nursing (Undeclared).
- Provide MSU Denver Admissions with official transcript(s) of BS.c or BA degree and all previous college-level courses.
Cost of Program
The estimated cost of the A-BSN program in MSU-Denver is approximately $45,500 which includes tuition, MSU Denver fees, health insurance, uniforms, books, and supplies.
For more information about the school, Click Here
3. Regis University
Regis College for Health Professionals has three schools including the Loretto Heights School of Nursing. Fortified with knowledge, aptitude, headship skills, integrity, and empathy, the graduates of Regis University are identified for their exceptional proficient abilities.
Its conducive environment and proficient facility work in the direction of indoctrinating Jesuit value-based education, by this means, preparing each of its students to pursue distinction through care in their nursing practice. Students are presented with a bevy of opportunities to hone their skills to near perfection and serve the community while participating in the many volunteer activities—which is just one of the many ways the university prepares each student.
If you are aiming for a wonderful and prosperous nursing career but you are a holder of a Bachelor’s that is in a non-nursing field, then this fast-paced Accelerated Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing of Regis University is apt for you.
The Accelerated nursing program offers students the opportunity to complete the Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree in one year, any student who holds a Bachelors in any other field is eligible to apply for this program. The focal point of the hands-on nursing program is health promotion and disease prevention. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and a variety of clinical experiences.
Program Requirements
The Accelerated BSN of the Regis University has a competitive admission process, and students are selected based on several factors such as;
- Current resume
- Previous health care and/or volunteer experience.
- Completing the online application through NursingCAS
- Official transcript from prior college(s) and institution
- Essay; an upload of a written proposal statement per the NursingCAS application instructions. You are to write a brief statement using your own words, expressing your motivation or desire to become a Nurse.
- Two professional and/or academic recommendations.
- All prerequisites must be completed before starting the program and can be transferred credit from your prior degree. At least 3 of the 4 science prerequisites must be completed by the application deadline.
Admission Criteria
- Minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 or above on a 4.0 scale.
- Grade of ‘C’ or better in all prerequisite courses required for the major in Nursing
- Applicants must have a previously earned baccalaureate and/or degree from a regionally accredited college or university and have completed all departmental and core requirements before the intended start term.
- Three of the following science courses must be completed by the application deadline and all four must be completed by the program start date: Human Anatomy (or Human Anatomy and Physiology I), Human Physiology (or Human Anatomy & Physiology II), Microbiology, Chemistry. All four science courses must include a lab component.
- Applicants must have the ability to meet all the requirements for licensure and the physical, psychological, and emotional standards established by the Colorado Nurse Practice Act and the State Board of Nursing.
- Applicants must have the ability to complete the American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) for health care professionals certification.
Cost of Program
The program cost is $900 per credit hour
For more information please click HERE
4. University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
An intrinsic part of the University of Colorado, the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Science located in Colorado Springs, presents spectacular views of Pike’s Peak-America’s Mountain.
Students are greeted with many opportunities to serve the community and gain unique hands-on experiences at its Center for Active Living, this comes aside from the thrill of adventure that the university location presents. Also, the interdisciplinary lessons that happen, promote a sense of thoughtfulness in all aspects of patient care, eventually leading to better health outcomes.
The Baccalaureate provides entry-level preparation for professional nursing practice, this 16-month nursing program is designed for individuals who hold a Bachelor’s degree in another field and wish to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN).
Outcomes of learning with the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
- To function in the beginning role of a baccalaureate generalist nurse in settings that cross all populations and environments.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the core nursing competencies of clinical/critical reasoning, patient safety, and quality improvement principles.
- Integrate research evidence with clinical expertise and patient value to facilitate clinical practice decisions.
- Implement the use of patient care technologies, information systems, and communication devices to support safe and effective patient care.
- Demonstrate basic knowledge of healthcare policy, finance, and regulatory environments.
- Maintain interprofessional collaboration and communication to improve healthcare outcomes.
- Demonstrate professionalism and its values (including altruism, autonomy, human dignity, social justice, and integrity) as a baccalaureate generalist nurse.
- Master the required core knowledge for baccalaureate generalist nursing practice.
Application Requirements
- The A-BSN option is a second-degree program, all general education courses, prerequisite courses, and the baccalaureate degree must be completed successfully by the end of the fall semester of the current application period.
- The cumulative GPA must be at least 2.5 to be considered for the Accelerated Option.
- Submit online a Transfer Student Application, Supplemental Application, and the Application fee.
- Official transcripts are required from each institution attended, including study abroad, and AP College results.
- Competitive scores of the HESI A2 Pre-Admission Assessment Exam are required to be considered for the Accelerated Option. Physics is not included in the exams.
- A currently certified background check must be completed according to the guidelines specified on the Accelerated webpage using the appropriate code.
- A personal interview may also be required.
Cost of Program
The cost of the program is $367 per credit hour
For this and any other information including how to apply, please click HERE
5. University of Colorado – Denver, Aurora
The University of Colorado’s College of Nursing has 120 years of expertise in educating more than a generation of nurses. It prepares leaders in clinical nursing, research, and community service to shape the future of healthcare.
Its affiliation and association with the Children’s Hospital Colorado, the University of Colorado Hospital, and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center expose students to high-quality health care, allowing them to practice alongside experienced nurses and gain a better understanding of the challenges that this profession entails.
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a fast-paced alternative to typical nursing programs, taking as little as 12 months to complete. Before beginning this program, you need to have completed your bachelor’s degree for at least a semester or quarter. After passing the NCLEX-RN, graduates can pursue advanced nursing degrees or work at Magnet-designated hospitals, community clinics, home care, or clinical research.
Admission Requirements
- Two-grade point averages are considered during the review application: prerequisite GPA and overall GPA. A minimum of 3.0 prerequisite GPA is required.
- A Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution must be earned before the start of the program. A bachelor’s degree awarded by a foreign institution must be evaluated as comparable to a U.S bachelor’s degree.
- Due to the rigor and intensity of the UCAN program, previous healthcare experience is a critical admissions requirement. It is preferred that applicants have direct patient care experience.
- All prerequisite coursework must be completed by the admissions deadline. A grade of ‘C’ or better is required for each prerequisite.
- Application fees
- Verified NursingCAS Application
- 500 Word Essay
- Three letters of reference (one Academic reference preferred)
- CV/Resume
- Transcripts
- Applicant interview
- CASPer Test.
- Clinical education requirements: all offers for admission are contingent upon meeting the following criteria, inability to meet these requirements may result in an offer of admission being rescinded.
- Negative drug screen
- Proof of American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
- Submission of immunization requirements
- Transfer credit requirements
- English language proficiency
Cost of Program
The cost of this program is no more than $12,000
For more information about this program, please click HERE
6. University of Northern Colorado, Greeley
The University of Northern Colorado’s nursing school is an academic unit. The school has stayed true to the university’s aim of educational excellence. To deliver the finest learning experience possible, it offers customized attention through small classrooms, motivating mentorship under the guidance of an expert faculty, and a culture of discovery through its ground-breaking research activity.
Its faculty has created a simulation kit in which students learn how to deal with patients from low-income families. This practice experience helps students extend their learning curve and prepares them for a variety of practice environments.
The full-time UNC Second-Degree Nursing Program in Colorado will prepare you for a job in the ever-growing nursing sector while also laying a solid foundation for graduate nursing programs. Every year in the summer, this program begins, and you will be thoroughly trained in classrooms and laboratories for the next 20 months. To gain clinical experience, you will work in and around the North-Eastern Colorado region at well-known hospitals, nursing homes, community clinics, and schools.
Admission Reqiurements
- GPA will be calculated using the most recent 45 semester hours of coursework and GPA from all of the completed nursing prerequisite courses.
- A grade of ‘C’ or higher is required in each of the prerequisite courses.
- All prerequisite courses must have been completed within 10 years of application.
- A 3.3 GPA or higher is required within your most recent 45 credits
- Admission scores will be based upon GPA, standardized letters of recommendation, HESI standardized test scores, and personal essay
- Priority points will be given for earned credits at UNC
Cost of Program
$22,593 is the cost of running this program with the UNC, this includes the cost of tuition, fees, insurance, and safety.
For more information, please click HERE
FAQ
How Many Students are in Class in a typical Denver University
On-campus programs: Most of the classrooms are smaller in size to those of other universities, as classes are scheduled per cohort of students, and students track through the program together in all didactic.
Online Programs: Online classes sizes in the RN to BSN and MSN programs are limited to 25 students, while some can have 20 students or fewer.
Are the Universities School of Nursing Programs Mentioned Above Approved?
Yes, they all are.
Can a Graduate with a Colorado License Work in Another State?
Yes, each state has different requirements for transferring or endorsement of licenses, so you should contact the state’s Board of Nursing in the state you are interested in.
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