Best Colorado LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026
Colorado’s LPN to RN bridge programs are designed to transition nurses into advanced practice roles. Coursework often includes adult health, pediatrics, and mental health nursing, while clinical rotations provide applied training. Upon completion, students are eligible to pursue RN licensure and expanded professional opportunities.
2026 Best LPN to RN Programs in Colorado
Trinidad State College
Trinidad, CO - Public 4-Year - trinidadstate.edu
Associate - LPN to ADN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Trinidad State College's LPN to ADN program offers a direct route for licensed practical nurses to advance to registered nurse status through an Associate Degree in Nursing. This campus-based program includes a specialized bridging course, allowing LPNs to join the second-level cohort and integrate seamlessly into rigorous coursework and clinical training. It prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and diverse healthcare settings, with options for simultaneous BSN enrollment. The program is nationally accredited, military-friendly, and emphasizes comprehensive skills development without a specified concentration. No entrance exams like ACT or SAT are required for this associate-level program.
- LPN to ADN transition program
- Nationally accredited nursing program
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Dual BSN enrollment option
- Clinical experiences in regional facilities
- Prerequisite courses required
- Point-based admission criteria
- Comprehensive nursing skills training
Front Range Community College
Westminster, CO - Public 4-Year - frontrange.edu
Associate - LPN-to-ADN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Front Range Community College's LPN-to-ADN Bridge Program in Westminster, CO, offers a three-semester accelerated path for LPNs to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. The curriculum integrates science and art with extensive hands-on clinical training in the Denver metro area, focusing on holistic, person-centered care to prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission requires a current LPN license and specific prerequisites, with financial aid and academic advising available. Accredited by ACEN, this program is ideal for those seeking to advance their nursing careers efficiently.
- Three-semester advanced placement program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Holistic, person-centered care focus.
- Current LPN license required.
- Financial aid available.
- Academic advising support.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Located in Westminster, CO.
Morgan Community College
Fort Morgan, CO - Public 4-Year - morgancc.edu
Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Morgan Community College in Fort Morgan, CO, offers a competitive LPN to RN Bridge Program starting each summer for licensed practical nurses holding an active, unencumbered license. This campus-based program allows students to complete the second year of an Associate Degree in Nursing, focusing on evidence-based, patient-centered care in diverse healthcare settings. Accredited by ACEN, it prepares graduates for leadership roles with an emphasis on critical thinking, quality measures, and safe nursing practices, without requiring entrance exams as it builds on prior LPN education.
- Campus-based program.
- Requires active LPN license.
- Competitive admission process.
- Summer start each year.
- Completes second ADN year.
- No minimum student number.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Focuses on patient-centered care.
- Prepares for diverse healthcare settings.
- Emphasizes critical thinking.
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, CO - Public 4-Year - coloradomesa.edu
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado Mesa University's LPN to BSN program is an on-campus pathway in Grand Junction and Montrose for LPNs aiming to become registered nurses. It features selective admission, requiring demonstrated college-level proficiency but no ACT or SAT exam, as it's a bachelor's-level program. Accredited by CCNE, the curriculum blends nursing theory, practice, and liberal arts, enhancing career opportunities and preparing for RN licensure and potential graduate studies. Designed for working professionals, it offers structured advancement in a supportive campus environment.
- On-campus, in-person program
- Selective admission requirements
- Campus locations: Grand Junction, Montrose
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Accredited by CCNE
- Integrates nursing theory, practice
- Career ladder advancement opportunity
Otero College
La Junta, CO - Public 2-Year - otero.edu
Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Otero College's LPN to RN Bridge Program offers a strategic and flexible pathway for licensed practical nurses to advance to registered nursing roles. Designed for working professionals, it can be completed in about three semesters with options for traditional or non-traditional schedules. The curriculum, aligned with the Colorado Nursing Articulation Model, includes minimal practicum hours and provides advanced credit for LPN licensure. Experienced faculty guide students through preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam, ensuring a seamless transition without requiring an entrance exam like ACT or SAT, as it's a bridge program focused on career advancement and accreditation standards.
- Flexible traditional/non-traditional schedules
- Accredited nursing program
- Three semester bridge program
- Advanced credit for LPN license
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
Colorado LPN to RN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Colorado LPNs moving into an RN role typically enter either an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge. Admission is competitive and varies by school, but applicants can expect the following common requirements:
- Active, unencumbered LPN license recognized in Colorado
- Completion of prerequisite college courses with minimum grades, often including Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs, Microbiology, English Composition, General Psychology, Human Growth and Development, Nutrition, and college-level Math
- Current BLS for Healthcare Providers certification
- Health and safety clearances for clinicals, such as immunizations, TB screening, drug screen, and background check
- Entrance testing or evaluations, such as TEAS or HESI, depending on the program
- Transcripts showing recent prerequisite completion, and minimum overall or science GPA set by the program
Programs often grant advanced standing to working LPNs through transition coursework or standardized exams. Some schools prefer or require recent LPN work experience to demonstrate current clinical competence and ease reentry into supervised clinical practice.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN to RN curricula build on your practical nursing foundation and prepare you for independent RN practice and leadership at the bedside. Expect a structured sequence of theory, skills lab, and supervised clinical rotations focused on:
- LPN to RN transition, professional role, and clinical judgment
- Health assessment, pathophysiology, and advanced pharmacology
- Adult medical surgical nursing across acute and chronic conditions
- Maternal newborn, pediatrics, and mental health nursing
- Population health, informatics, quality, and leadership
- Evidence based practice and preparation for the NCLEX-RN
Accreditation and state approval matter in Colorado. To be eligible for RN licensure, you must graduate from a Colorado Board of Nursing approved RN program and pass the NCLEX-RN. National programmatic accreditation by ACEN or CCNE supports credit transfer, access to federal financial aid, employer recognition, and future graduate study. You can verify program approval and licensure steps on the Colorado Board of Nursing website for Colorado Board of Nursing.
LPN to RN Schools and Classes
Across Colorado, bridge options are offered by community and technical colleges, as well as public and private universities. Most LPN to ADN pathways emphasize efficient progression to RN practice, while LPN to BSN options add broader coursework in leadership and public health that supports long term career growth.
Typical courses include transition to professional nursing, comprehensive health assessment, complex adult medical surgical nursing, maternal child, pediatrics, psychiatric mental health, gerontology, community and public health, leadership and management, and nursing research or evidence based practice. Skills are developed in high fidelity simulation labs and reinforced through clinical placements in hospitals, long term care, outpatient and community settings throughout Colorado.
Career Outlook
Colorado RNs work in large urban hospitals, community hospitals, critical access facilities, long term care, home health and hospice, ambulatory surgery, primary care and specialty clinics, schools, behavioral health, and public health. Scheduling often includes 8 or 12 hour shifts, days, nights, weekends, and holidays, with opportunities for full time, part time, and per diem roles to support different work life needs.
Across the state, demand for RNs is steady in metro areas and persistent in rural and frontier counties, where generalist skills are valued. Compared with LPN practice, RNs in Colorado have a broader scope that includes comprehensive assessment and nursing diagnosis, development of care plans, independent patient education, delegation and supervision of nursing tasks, and management of higher acuity patients. These differences open doors to more diverse clinical roles, specialty certifications, and advancement into charge, educator, case management, and leadership positions.
LPN to RN Program Length
- Full time bridge: Commonly 12 to 18 months for LPN to ADN after completing prerequisites, or approximately 5 to 7 semesters for LPN to BSN. Includes daytime labs and clinicals with some evening or weekend rotations.
- Part time bridge: Often 18 to 30 months for LPN to ADN, longer for LPN to BSN. Coursework is spread over more terms with reduced credit loads.
- Evening and weekend formats: Available at select institutions to accommodate working LPNs. Didactic may be offered in the evening or online, while clinicals occur on evenings or weekends as site availability allows.
Actual timelines depend on prerequisite completion, advanced standing awarded, clinical site availability, and whether summer terms are used.
2026 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Colorado
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Trinidad State College |
|
|
| Colorado Mesa University |
|
|
| Otero College |
|
|
Tuition and Costs
Costs vary by institution type, residency, and how many credits you still need after advanced standing is applied:
- LPN to ADN in public community colleges: In state tuition for remaining nursing and support credits commonly totals about the mid four figures to low five figures before fees.
- LPN to BSN in public universities: In state tuition for upper division nursing credits typically ranges from the mid to upper five figures across the full program, with the bridge portion representing a subset of that total.
- Private institutions: Tuition is generally higher than public options.
Plan for additional expenses such as application and testing fees, background check and drug screen, immunizations and titers, BLS certification, uniforms and shoes, skills and lab fees, clinical on boarding costs, textbooks and online resources, health insurance if required, transportation to clinicals, and NCLEX and initial licensure fees after graduation. Housing costs vary widely in Colorado, with higher rents in the Denver and mountain regions and comparatively lower costs in many southern and eastern communities. Students often reduce expenses by living with roommates or commuting from home.
2026 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Colorado
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Front Range Community College |
|
|
| Community College of Denver |
|
|
| Morgan Community College |
|
|
Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?
Colorado bridge programs commonly use hybrid delivery. Didactic courses may be offered online or in a blended format, while skills labs and all direct patient care clinical hours occur in person at approved facilities under faculty supervision. Fully online prelicensure RN programs are not feasible because hands on clinical experiences are required for graduation and licensure eligibility. If you consider an online or out of state program that places students in Colorado clinical sites, confirm the program’s Colorado authorization and Board approval status to ensure you will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN after graduation.
LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in Colorado
NCLEX-RN Exam Information
Graduates of LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge programs must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed in Colorado. Apply for licensure by examination with the Colorado Board of Nursing, then register for the exam through the official NCLEX website. The Board will issue an Authorization to Test after confirming your eligibility.
- Eligibility generally includes completion of an approved RN program, with an official transcript sent directly from the school showing degree and graduation date.
- A fingerprint-based Colorado Bureau of Investigation and FBI criminal background check is required.
- Applicants must complete the Board’s lawful presence affidavit and submit a secure and verifiable ID, as required by Colorado law.
- International graduates typically need a credentials evaluation and proof of English proficiency, as directed by the Board.
RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Colorado licenses RNs by endorsement if you hold an active RN license in another U.S. state or territory. Endorsement applicants submit license verification, a fingerprint-based background check, and required disclosures. Colorado does not maintain separate one-to-one reciprocity agreements outside the Nurse Licensure Compact, it uses the endorsement process for non-compact states.
Colorado is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. Eligible Colorado residents may be issued a multistate RN license that permits practice in all other compact states. If you permanently move to Colorado from another compact state, you must apply for a Colorado license by endorsement and designate Colorado as your primary state of residence. If you live in another compact state and hold that state’s multistate license, you may practice in Colorado under compact privilege without obtaining a separate Colorado license.
Licensure Requirements
The Colorado Board of Nursing, within the Department of Regulatory Agencies, regulates RN licensure and practice. For initial RN licensure by examination, applicants typically must:
- Graduate from an approved RN program and pass the NCLEX-RN.
- Complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
- Submit the lawful presence affidavit and secure and verifiable identification.
- Answer professional fitness and disciplinary history questions.
- Create and maintain a Healthcare Professions Profile as required under Colorado law, updating it when information changes.
For licensure by endorsement, the Board requires verification of your existing RN license, completion of the background check and disclosures, and compliance with Colorado identification and eligibility requirements. Internationally educated applicants may need a credentials evaluation and English proficiency documentation.
License Renewal
Colorado RN licenses renew on a biennial cycle. RNs must meet the Board’s Continuing Competency requirements each renewal period and attest to completion during renewal. Colorado uses a competency model rather than a fixed hour requirement.
- Meet Continuing Competency by either maintaining an active, nationally recognized nursing certification that is relevant to your practice, or completing the Board’s Reflective Self-Assessment, creating a Learning Plan with goals, and completing learning activities that address those goals. Keep documentation in case of audit.
- Complete all competency activities within the current two-year licensure period and retain records as directed by the Board.
- Renew during the window set by the Board for your cycle. A short late-renewal period with additional fees may be available under Board rules.
- Update your Healthcare Professions Profile within required timeframes when information changes.
Average LPN State Salary in Colorado
$68,570
2024 LPN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Typically 12 to 18 months, often structured as a three-semester or one-year-and-six-month program.
Credential Awarded:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Program Focus:
This pathway concentrates on providing the core clinical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for entry-level registered nursing practice in various healthcare settings. The curriculum is designed to build upon the existing knowledge of LPNs, focusing on patient-centered, evidence-based care.
Average In-State Tuition in Colorado:
Tuition varies by institution. For example, specific program costs can be found on college websites, but a general estimate for an associate-level program at a community college in Colorado is typically lower than a four-year university.
Best For:
LPNs who want the quickest route to becoming an RN, those who are budget-conscious, and individuals who wish to enter the RN workforce sooner.
School Types:
Community colleges are the primary providers of LPN to ADN bridge programs in Colorado.
LPN to BSN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Generally 2 to 4 years, depending on the specific program structure and the number of transferable credits from the LPN's previous education.
Credential Awarded:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure as a registered nurse.
Program Focus:
This comprehensive program provides a broader education, including nursing theory, research, leadership, and public health. It is designed to prepare nurses for a wider range of roles and for future graduate studies.
Average In-State Tuition in Colorado:
Tuition is generally higher than ADN programs. For instance, at Colorado Mesa University for the 2024-2025 academic year, the estimated cost for in-state tuition for the 41 credits in the LPN to BSN program is approximately $12,895, with additional fees.
Best For:
LPNs aiming for leadership and management positions, those interested in specialized areas of nursing, and individuals who plan to pursue advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
School Types:
Universities and some community colleges now offer this pathway, with some programs being the first of their kind in the Colorado Community College System.
Choose LPN→ADN If:
- Faster Completion Time: The shorter program duration allows for a quicker transition to the role of a registered nurse.
- Lower Cost: Community college tuition for an ADN program is typically more affordable than university tuition for a BSN, reducing the financial burden on students.
- Quicker Entry into the RN Workforce: Graduates can enter the nursing workforce as RNs sooner, gaining valuable experience and earning a higher salary than as an LPN.
- Option for Future Advancement: After obtaining an ADN and working as an RN, nurses can choose to complete an RN to BSN bridge program, often with flexible online options designed for working professionals.
Choose LPN→BSN If:
- Expanded Career Opportunities: A BSN is often a requirement for leadership, research, and specialized nursing roles. The demand for BSN-prepared nurses is growing, particularly in hospital settings.
- Higher Earning Potential: Nurses with a BSN generally have a higher earning potential compared to those with an ADN. The median annual wage for RNs was reported as $86,900 in May 2023.
- Foundation for Advanced Education: A BSN is the necessary stepping stone for pursuing graduate-level nursing education, such as becoming a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse anesthetist.
- Enhanced Knowledge and Skills: The BSN curriculum provides a deeper understanding of nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and leadership, preparing graduates for the complexities of modern healthcare.
List of LPN to RN Programs in Colorado
Colorado Springs, CO
Pikes Peak State College
- Associate - Nursing: LPN Advanced Placement Option, AAS
Campus Based - Website
- Advanced placement for LPNs
- Pathway to Registered Nurse
- Requires valid Colorado LPN license
- Associate of Applied Science degree
- Career advancement opportunity
Denver, CO
Community College of Denver
- Associate - LPN-BSN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- First LPN-BSN bridge program in Colorado
- Maximizes transfer credits
- 120 total credit hours
- Emphasizes leadership skills
- Eligible for federal financial aid
- Projected 6% job growth
- Median RN salary $86,900
- Client-centered care approach
- Bachelor's - LPN-BSN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- First LPN-BSN bridge program in Colorado
- 120 total credit program
- Maximizes practical nursing credits
- Develops leadership skills
- Supports career advancement
- Federal financial aid eligible
- Employment growth projected 6%
- Median RN salary $86,900 annually
Fort Morgan, CO
Morgan Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Requires active LPN license.
- Competitive admission process.
- Summer start each year.
- Completes second ADN year.
- No minimum student number.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Focuses on patient-centered care.
Grand Junction, CO
Colorado Mesa University
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Campus Based - Website
- On-campus, in-person program
- Selective admission requirements
- Campus locations: Grand Junction, Montrose
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Accredited by CCNE
- Integrates nursing theory, practice
- Career ladder advancement opportunity
La Junta, CO
Otero College
- Associate - LPN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- Flexible traditional/non-traditional schedules
- Accredited nursing program
- Three semester bridge program
- Advanced credit for LPN license
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
Littleton, CO
Arapahoe Community College
- Associate - AAS Nursing PN to RN Option
Campus Based - Website
- For licensed Practical Nurses.
- Prepares for RN licensure in Colorado.
- Requires current Colorado LPN license.
- Includes advanced nursing courses.
- Clinical compliance required.
- Transition course for LPNs.
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN post-graduation.
- Focus on practical and theoretical skills.
Trinidad, CO
Trinidad State College
- Associate - LPN to ADN
Campus Based - Website
- LPN to ADN transition program
- Nationally accredited nursing program
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Dual BSN enrollment option
- Clinical experiences in regional facilities
- Prerequisite courses required
- Point-based admission criteria
- Comprehensive nursing skills training
Westminster, CO
Front Range Community College
- Associate - LPN-to-ADN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- Three-semester advanced placement program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Holistic, person-centered care focus.
- Current LPN license required.
- Financial aid available.
- Academic advising support.
Related Articles
- Finding Your Place as an LPN
- Choosing the Right LPN/LVN Bridge Program: Pathways for Advancement
- Pain Management Nursing Careers with BSN
- Culture of LPNs and RNs in Team Nursing
- How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant
- Leadership Opportunities for LPNs
- LPN Role During a Code Blue
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vs Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)