Colorado Registered Nursing Schools and Training Programs (RN Schools)

A registered nurse (RN), regardless of work setting or specialty, provides health care to patients who are ill or injured. Specialty can determine where an RN works. Most registered nurses work with patients in hospitals, but some work in nursing care facilities, government agencies and educational services.

Registered Nursing Schools in Colorado

To become a registered nurse, there are three typical educational paths--a bachelor's degree (BSN), an associate degree (ADN) or a diploma. Many schools also have accelerated BSN programs for those who already have a bachelor's degree in another field, but want to switch to a career in nursing. All registered nursing programs provide classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Registered nursing programs usually offer courses in health law and ethics, emergency medicine, anatomy, behavioral sciences and human physiology. There are many registered nursing schools in Colorado, both online and campus-based, that can help you earn an ADN or BSN, but there are fewer options when it comes to diploma programs. Once you've earned your diploma or degree from an approved nursing program, you'll need to pass the National Council Licensure Exam, or NCLEX-RN. Other requirements, including continuing education credits, may be necessary so be sure to contact your state's board of nursing for more information. RN schools in Colorado can provide the education and training you need to become an RN.

Registered Nursing Salaries in Colorado

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RN employment is expected to increase by 22 percent between 2008 and 2018. Registered nurses make up the largest segment of the healthcare workforce. In 2008, there were 2.6 million registered nursing jobs in the U.S. and over 41,700 RNs in Colorado. As of May 2009, registered nurses in Colorado earned an hourly median wage of $31.74 ($66,010 per year). In Colorado, registered nurses earned the highest median salary in Boulder, the Denver metropolitan area and Greeley, while most RNs can be found in the Denver area, Colorado Springs and Boulder.

To start your career today, get more information from one of the following Colorado RN schools.

Fast Facts for Registered Nurses in Colorado

• Cities with highest percentage of jobs relative to population: Pueblo, Fort Collins and Colorado Springs
• Cities with lowest percentage of jobs relative to population: Greeley, Grand Junction and Boulder
• Cities with the highest absolute number of jobs: Denver, Colorado Springs and Fort Collins

Salaries for Registered Nurses in Colorado

• Metro areas with the highest median salaries: Boulder, Denver and Greeley