Nurse Practitioner Schools

nurse-groups-head-shots-05

Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Centennial, Colorado

Get your Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Centennial, Colorado - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Centennial, Colorado

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced clinical training and education. NPs play a crucial role in healthcare, providing high-level patient care, diagnosing illnesses, and prescribing medications. Various NP specialties exist, including family practice, pediatrics, and acute care, allowing for diverse career paths. In Centennial, Colorado, aspiring NPs can pursue these specialties through accredited programs and fulfill state-specific certification and licensure requirements.

About Centennial

Centennial is a vibrant city located in Arapahoe County, Colorado. Known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and excellent recreational facilities, Centennial offers a high quality of life. The city’s proximity to Denver provides residents with access to a bustling urban environment while maintaining a suburban feel. For more information about Centennial, visit the City of Centennial’s official website.

Nurse Practitioner Programs in Centennial, Colorado

While Centennial itself does not have any NP programs, nearby cities offer excellent educational opportunities:

  1. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus – Located in Aurora, about 15 miles from Centennial, this institution offers a comprehensive Nurse Practitioner program with various specialties, including family nurse practitioner (FNP) and adult-gerontology.

  2. Regis University – Situated in Denver, approximately 20 miles from Centennial, Regis University provides an NP program focusing on family practice, designed to equip students with the skills needed for primary healthcare provision.

  3. Metropolitan State University of Denver – This university is located in Denver, about 20 miles from Centennial, and offers an NP program specializing in adult-gerontology and family practice.

Nurse Practitioner Employment Opportunities in Centennial

Centennial and the surrounding area host numerous healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for NPs:

  1. Centura Health – With locations throughout the Denver metropolitan area, Centura Health is a major healthcare provider. Explore career opportunities on their employment page.

  2. UCHealth – This expansive healthcare system operates several facilities near Centennial, including the UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital. Visit their careers page for job openings.

  3. Children’s Hospital Colorado – Located in Aurora, this renowned facility offers specialized pediatric care. Learn more about their job opportunities on the Children’s Hospital Colorado careers page.

Prerequisites for Nurse Practitioner Programs

Before enrolling in an NP program, candidates typically need to meet these prerequisites:

  • Education: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is usually required.
  • RN Licensure: Must hold a current registered nurse (RN) license.
  • Work Experience: Some programs require clinical nursing experience.
  • GPA Requirements: Generally, a minimum GPA is required, often around 3.0.
  • Entrance Exams or Interviews: Some programs may require GRE scores or conduct interviews.

Nurse Practitioner Certification Requirements in Colorado

To practice as an NP in Colorado, you must:

  • Obtain RN Licensure through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). More information is available on the DORA Licensing page.
  • Advanced Practice Registration requires a graduate degree in an NP role and national certification in a specific specialty. Apply through the Colorado Board of Nursing.
  • Prescriptive Authority (RXN) involves completing 750 hours of prescriptive experience. Apply for RXN through the Colorado Board of Nursing.

Licensure Requirements

For state-specific licensure, NPs in Colorado must:

  • Complete the Advanced Practice Registration process, including national certification and clinical verification.
  • Apply for prescriptive authority separately if needed.

Licensure Reciprocity

Colorado is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing for multi-state licensure. NPs licensed in other compact states can practice in Colorado without additional licensure. Non-compact state licensees must apply for Colorado licensure through DORA.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Nurse Practitioner in Centennial, Colorado, is a rewarding journey. With the right education and determination, you can achieve your goal of becoming a healthcare leader. Contact local schools today to learn more about their programs and start your path toward becoming an NP.