Colorado is making a concentrated effort to effectively utilize the state's master's-prepared nurses. Since the year 2000, Colorado has expanded the scope of practice for advanced practice nurses (APNs), while simultaneously increasing the credential requirements for APNS. To be recognized as an APN in Colorado, you must be a licensed RN in good standing, possess an MSN degree from an accredited school of nursing and pass a national certification exam.
The state has a particular need for certified registered nurses anesthetists (CRNAs). CRNAs are a crucial part of the operative team in many rural and critical access hospitals in Colorado. Healthcare experts in Colorado also predict a strong need for nurse practitioners who provide primary healthcare services. Like most states, Colorado is facing a looming physician shortage. Nurse practitioners are also increasingly working in acute care settings.
MSN programs for Colorado nurses include:
- University of Colorado - Denver. UC-Denver offers a wide variety of MSN programs, including nurse midwifery programs, a variety of nurse practitioner programs, an adult clinical nurse specialist program and a master's degree in pediatric nursing leadership and special needs. An online program in nursing informatics is also available.
- Aspen University. Aspen is an online university that offers an RN-to-MSN bridge program that gives ADN nurses the opportunity to conveniently earn a master's degree with a focus in either nursing education or nursing management. Clinical experience can be completed close to home, and full-time students can earn their MSN in about two years.
