Nurse Practitioner Schools
Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Denver, Colorado
Get your Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Denver, Colorado - online & campus-based options available.
Contact a school today for more info.
Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Denver, Colorado
Aspiring to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Denver, Colorado offers a rewarding career path in the healthcare industry. Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who provide primary, acute, and specialty healthcare services. They are equipped with the skills to diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and manage patient care. Specialties within the NP field include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, among others. To embark on this journey, NPs must complete rigorous educational programs and certification processes.
About Denver
Denver, Colorado, known as the Mile-High City, is famous for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled against the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers a blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Key landmarks include the Denver Art Museum and the historic Larimer Square. For more about Denver, visit Denver’s official website.
Nurse Practitioner Programs in Denver, Colorado
Denver hosts several reputable institutions offering Nurse Practitioner programs. Here are some options:
- University of Colorado Denver
Located in the Anschutz Medical Campus, the University of Colorado Denver offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). For more details, visit the University of Colorado Denver NP Programs. Regis University
Situated in the North Denver neighborhood, Regis University’s Loretto Heights School of Nursing provides an MSN and DNP program with various NP specializations, including Family Nurse Practitioner. The program emphasizes clinical experience and holistic care. Learn more at Regis University.Denver College of Nursing (Nearby)
Although primarily focused on undergraduate nursing degrees, the Denver College of Nursing offers pathways for further education and partnerships with graduate programs for NP studies. Check out their offerings at Denver College of Nursing.
For those willing to travel a bit further, Colorado State University in Fort Collins (approximately 65 miles from Denver) offers an NP program with diverse specialization options for advanced nursing practice.
Nurse Practitioner Employment Opportunities in Denver
Denver’s healthcare sector is robust, providing numerous employment opportunities for Nurse Practitioners. Here are some notable facilities:
- Denver Health
Located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, Denver Health is a comprehensive healthcare system providing a wide range of services and is a key teaching hospital in the region. Explore careers at Denver Health Careers. UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital
Situated on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, UCHealth is a leading academic hospital offering cutting-edge medical care and research opportunities. Visit UCHealth Careers.National Jewish Health
Known for respiratory care and research, National Jewish Health is located in the North Capitol Hill neighborhood. Career opportunities can be found at National Jewish Health Careers.
Prerequisites for Nurse Practitioner Programs
To enroll in a Nurse Practitioner program, candidates typically need:
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree
- An active Registered Nurse (RN) license
- Relevant clinical experience (often 1-2 years as an RN)
- A competitive GPA, usually above 3.0
- Completion of any required entrance exams or interviews
Nurse Practitioner Certification Requirements in Colorado
In Colorado, NPs must meet the following requirements:
- Complete a graduate-level APRN program accredited by a recognized nursing body.
- Obtain national certification through organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
- Hold a valid RN license and apply for an APRN license through the Colorado Board of Nursing.
Licensure Requirements
To practice as an NP in Colorado, candidates must:
- Hold a valid RN license, either through examination or endorsement.
- Apply for an APRN license with the Colorado Board of Nursing.
- Complete prescriptive authority requirements, including 750 hours of supervised practice.
Licensure Reciprocity
Colorado is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs from other NLC states to practice in Colorado without additional licensure. For NPs from non-compact states, a state-specific licensure process must be followed.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Nurse Practitioner in Denver, Colorado, offers a fulfilling opportunity to make a significant impact in healthcare. With a variety of educational paths and abundant employment opportunities, now is the ideal time to advance your nursing career. Contact a school today to begin your journey toward becoming a Nurse Practitioner.