Best Online Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Colorado

Last Updated/Verified: Jan 8, 2026
Best Online FNP Programs in Colorado

Colorado’s healthcare landscape is expanding rapidly to meet the needs of its growing population, from the Denver metro area to mountain communities and the Western Slope. With nurse practitioners playing an increasingly vital role in primary care, particularly in rural and underserved areas, Family Nurse Practitioners are in high demand across the state.

Colorado’s full practice authority for nurse practitioners, established in 2010, allows FNPs to practice independently without physician oversight, making the state one of the most attractive for advanced practice nurses. Combined with competitive salaries and diverse practice settings, pursuing your FNP in Colorado positions you for a rewarding career.

In this article, you’ll learn:

  • The top online FNP programs available to Colorado residents (MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificates)
  • Key factors to consider when choosing an online program in Colorado
  • Clinical placement requirements and costs
  • Career outlook and salary expectations for FNPs in Colorado

2026 Best Online Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Colorado

#1

Regis University

Denver, CO - Private 4-year - regis.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Regis University's Post-Graduate Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner offers advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to specialize in comprehensive family healthcare. This remote program prepares nurses for expanded clinical roles through rigorous coursework covering health promotion, disease prevention, and advanced patient care. Designed for nurses with a master's degree and minimum two years experience, the program provides 36 credit hours of intensive training. Graduates become eligible for national certification examinations, positioning themselves for high-demand healthcare roles with competitive median salaries and projected career growth.

  • Remote online learning format
  • 36 total credit hours
  • Advanced clinical assessment focus
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Requires master's nursing degree
  • Minimum two years nursing experience
  • Prepares for certification exams
  • Clinical hours in diverse settings
  • Leadership and ethics training
  • Health policy curriculum included

MSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Regis University's Post-BSN to DNP program offers nurses a comprehensive pathway to advanced practice and leadership. This innovative dual-degree program allows students to earn both a Master of Science in Nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice, with a specialized Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. Students complete 74-79 credit hours over four to five years, gaining advanced clinical skills and population-focused research expertise. The flexible hybrid format enables working nurses to advance their education, with competitive tuition rates and comprehensive clinical training. Graduates are prepared to lead healthcare transformation, improve patient outcomes, and pursue national certification.

  • Dual MS and DNP degree
  • Family Nurse Practitioner focus
  • 74-79 total credit hours
  • Hybrid on-campus/online format
  • 4-5 year program completion
  • Master's: $965/credit hour
  • Doctoral: $1,018/credit hour
  • 1000 total clinical hours
  • High national certification pass rates
  • Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA

MSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP

Concentration: Rural and Underserved Communities (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Regis University's Post-BSN to DNP program offers nurses a comprehensive pathway to advanced practice and leadership. This dual-degree program combines a Master of Science in Nursing with a Doctor of Nursing Practice, preparing healthcare professionals to tackle complex patient care challenges. Students can specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner tracks, including a unique Rural and Underserved Communities focus. The flexible hybrid format allows working nurses to advance their education, with coursework spanning 4-5 years and options for part-time study. Total program cost ranges from $71,810 to $80,420, with competitive tuition rates and potential financial aid opportunities.

  • Dual MS and DNP degree
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 74-79 total credit hours
  • Rural FNP concentration option
  • High national certification rates
  • AACN-CCNE accredited program
  • Clinical hours: 1000 total
  • Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
  • Optional part-time progression
  • Leadership and clinical focus
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu

MSN to DNP - Nursing DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Northern Colorado's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration offers working nurses an advanced practice pathway to transform healthcare. This rigorous five-year, part-time program prepares clinical experts with critical thinking and leadership skills to advocate for patient care across diverse populations. Graduates earn the terminal nursing degree, qualifying for national certification and potentially increasing their salary to a median of $121,610. The program combines online and hybrid learning, requiring 84 credit hours and 1,125 clinical hours, with a competitive tuition rate of $734 per credit hour.

  • 5-year part-time doctoral program
  • 84 total credit hours
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 765 clinical practice hours
  • No GRE required
  • 3.0 minimum GPA
  • One year clinical experience
  • $734 per credit hour
  • Colorado RN license needed
  • Minimum 1,125 clinical hours

BSN to DNP - Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner (Post-Bachelor's DNP)

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Northern Colorado offers a hybrid Nursing DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration, designed for BSN nurses seeking a practice-focused doctorate. This part-time, five-year program prepares graduates for primary care roles, focusing on health promotion and disease management across the lifespan, especially for underserved populations. With a tuition rate of $734 per credit hour, the program combines online and in-person learning, including clinical simulations and practicum hours. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited institution, a 3.0 GPA, one year of clinical experience, and a current RN license. No GRE is required, making it accessible for working professionals.

  • Hybrid delivery format.
  • 84 credit hours required.
  • 5 years part-time completion.
  • $734 per credit hour.
  • No GRE required.
  • 1,125 clinical hours minimum.
  • BSN to DNP pathway.
  • Focus on underserved populations.
  • Post-master's certificate option.
  • Clinical simulations included.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO - Private 4-year - coloradotech.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Colorado Technical University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles. It includes 68 credits and 630 clinical hours. Courses cover topics like pathophysiology, pharmacology, and patient assessment. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It requires a BSN degree and an active RN license. Admission needs a 3.0 GPA. Costs vary, and financial aid may be available. Classes start every five weeks. This program helps nurses advance their careers in primary care.

  • 68 program credits.
  • Online delivery format.
  • 630 clinical hours required.
  • 5-week course length.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Requires BSN degree.
  • Active RN license needed.
  • 3.0 GPA for admission.
  • One year nursing experience.
  • Prepares for certification exam.
#4

Colorado Mesa University

Grand Junction, CO - Public 4-Year - coloradomesa.edu

BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing (MSN)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Elevate your nursing career with Colorado Mesa University's transformative MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program. Designed for ambitious nurses seeking advanced practice roles, this flexible online program prepares you to deliver comprehensive primary care across all life stages. With 49 credit hours, the curriculum integrates specialized clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice. Ideal for working professionals, the program offers immersive learning experiences and clinical practicums, positioning graduates for expanded healthcare responsibilities and potential doctoral pathways.

  • 49 total credit hours
  • Online flexible format
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • RN licensure prerequisite
  • Lifespan primary care focus
  • Clinical practicum included
  • Advanced nursing preparation
  • Three-year program structure
  • DNP pathway option
  • Interprofessional collaboration emphasis

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Colorado Mesa University's Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver high-quality primary care with exceptional clinical expertise. This flexible online program requires 74 semester hours and includes 1000 clinical practice hours, enabling students to develop critical leadership skills while maintaining current employment. Designed for registered nurses with a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, health policy, and comprehensive patient care across diverse populations.

  • Online hybrid program format
  • 74 semester credit hours
  • 1000 clinical practice hours
  • Bachelor's in nursing required
  • 3.0 minimum GPA
  • Focuses on primary care
  • Advanced practice preparation
  • Leadership skill development
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Rural health experiences
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu

BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty track. This rigorous program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide holistic, patient-centered primary care for individuals across the lifespan. Students gain advanced clinical skills to treat physiological and psychological health, prevent, assess, and manage acute and chronic illnesses. Ranked among the top nursing graduate programs nationally, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and leadership development.

  • 630 total clinical hours
  • Comprehensive FNP curriculum
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Didactic and clinical credits
  • National certification preparation
  • Primary care focus
  • 42 total didactic credits
  • Lifespan patient care approach
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
*Analysis based on: NCES IPEDS 2024 survey data.

Understanding FNP Education Pathways in Colorado

Family Nurse Practitioners provide comprehensive primary care across the lifespan. Colorado offers three educational pathways:

MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner

  • For RNs with a BSN seeking first advanced practice certification
  • Typically 2-3 years of part-time online study
  • Entry-level pathway to advanced practice

DNP with FNP Specialty

  • Terminal degree combining clinical practice with leadership
  • BSN to DNP programs: 3-4 years
  • Increasingly preferred by major Colorado health systems like UCHealth and SCL Health

Post-Master’s FNP Certificate

  • For nurses who already hold an MSN in another specialty
  • Typically 1-2 years to complete
  • Popular among Adult-Gerontology NPs wanting family practice scope

Colorado Advantage: Colorado’s full practice authority means FNP graduates can open their own practices, prescribe medications without restrictions, and practice in rural areas without physician oversight—freedoms not available in many states.

Explore nurse practitioner schools in Colorado.

What to Look for in an Online FNP Program

Accreditation Status

Verify that any program you’re considering holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The Colorado Board of Nursing requires graduation from an accredited program for APRN licensure.

Clinical Hour Requirements and Placement Support

FNP programs require 500-700 clinical hours for MSN programs and 1,000+ hours for DNP programs. For Colorado students, consider:

  • Clinical Placement Assistance: Does the program help arrange preceptors?
  • Geographic Flexibility: Can you complete clinical hours near your Colorado location?
  • Population Diversity: Ensure rotations include pediatrics, women’s health, geriatrics, and adult primary care

Program Format and Flexibility

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous: Most online programs use primarily asynchronous formats, allowing you to complete coursework around nursing shifts.

Intensive On-Campus Sessions: Many programs require brief on-campus visits for skills labs. Verify whether the program offers these at Colorado locations or requires travel out of state.

Part-Time Options: Full-time programs typically take 2 years for MSN, while part-time tracks extend to 3 years.

Cost and Financial Considerations

Online FNP program costs for Colorado students vary significantly:

Program TypeTypical Total Cost RangeTime to Complete
MSN FNP$30,000 – $70,0002-3 years
BSN to DNP FNP$50,000 – $100,0003-4 years
Post-Master’s Certificate$18,000 – $40,0001-2 years

Financial Aid for Colorado Students:

Cost-Saving Tip: Colorado residents attending Colorado public universities may qualify for in-state tuition, significantly reducing costs. Some Colorado health systems offer loan repayment for FNPs who commit to working in rural or underserved areas.

Clinical Training in Colorado Healthcare Settings

Colorado offers diverse clinical environments for FNP students:

Major Urban Healthcare Systems:

Community Health Centers:

Rural and Mountain Communities:

  • Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in underserved areas

Students typically complete rotations across multiple settings. Many Colorado health systems actively precept FNP students and recruit graduates, particularly for rural and mountain community placements.

Certification and Licensure Requirements in Colorado

After completing your FNP program, you must obtain national certification and Colorado APRN licensure:

Step 1: National Certification Pass the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam from either:

Step 2: Colorado APRN Licensure Apply through the Colorado Board of Nursing for APRN recognition. Requirements include:

  • Current Colorado RN license
  • Graduation from accredited FNP program
  • National FNP certification
  • Prescriptive authority (automatically included with Colorado APRN licensure)

Step 3: DEA Registration Obtain DEA registration for prescribing controlled substances.

Colorado Practice Note: Colorado is a full practice authority state, meaning FNPs can practice, diagnose, treat, and prescribe independently without physician oversight. This autonomy makes Colorado particularly attractive for FNP practice.

Career Outlook and Salaries for FNPs in Colorado

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 45% growth for nurse practitioners nationally through 2032, with Colorado experiencing strong demand due to population growth.

Average FNP Salaries in Colorado (2024):

  • Entry-level FNPs: $105,000 – $120,000
  • Mid-career FNPs: $120,000 – $140,000
  • Experienced FNPs: $140,000 – $160,000+
  • Rural/underserved areas: $145,000 – $170,000 (with incentives)

Salary Variations by Colorado Region:

Metro Area/RegionAverage FNP SalaryCost of Living Factor
Denver Metro$125,000 – $145,000High
Boulder$130,000 – $150,000Very High
Colorado Springs$115,000 – $135,000Moderate
Fort Collins$120,000 – $140,000Moderate-High
Mountain/Rural Areas$130,000 – $160,000Variable

Higher salaries are typically found in rural and mountain communities, private practice ownership, urgent care, and specialty practices. Colorado’s full practice authority enables FNPs to open their own independent practices.

Choosing Between MSN, DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates

Choose MSN FNP if:

  • You have a BSN and want the fastest route to practice
  • You’re primarily interested in direct patient care
  • Cost and time efficiency are top priorities

Choose DNP FNP if:

  • You aspire to leadership, education, or policy roles
  • You work for a health system that values doctoral degrees
  • You’re comfortable with a longer, more intensive program

Choose Post-Master’s Certificate if:

  • You already hold an MSN in another NP specialty
  • You want to expand your scope to family practice
  • You want the most time-efficient pathway to FNP certification

Colorado Trend: While MSN-prepared FNPs remain highly employable, major health systems increasingly prefer DNP preparation for leadership positions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I complete an online FNP program while working full-time in Colorado?

Yes, most students work at least part-time throughout their programs. Asynchronous coursework allows you to study around nursing shifts. However, clinical rotations may require schedule adjustments. Many Colorado health systems offer flexible scheduling or educational leaves. Plan to potentially reduce to part-time work during clinical-intensive semesters.

What if I can’t find my own preceptor in Colorado?

Start early – at least 3-6 months before rotations begin. Network through your current employer, join Colorado nursing professional groups, and contact community health centers and rural hospitals (which often have more willing preceptors). Consider completing rotations in less saturated areas like the Western Slope, San Luis Valley, or smaller mountain communities. Some programs provide placement assistance.

Do out-of-state online programs qualify me for Colorado APRN licensure?

Yes, as long as the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN and meets Colorado Board of Nursing requirements. Ensure you can obtain appropriate Colorado preceptors and that clinical hours meet state standards. Check the Colorado Board of Nursing website to verify a specific program’s acceptability before enrolling.

How does Colorado’s full practice authority benefit FNP graduates?

Colorado’s full practice authority means FNPs can practice independently from day one—no physician oversight or collaboration agreements required. This allows new FNPs to open their own practices, work in rural areas without physician availability concerns, and make autonomous clinical decisions. It typically translates to higher salaries and more practice opportunities, particularly in underserved areas.

What are the best areas in Colorado for new FNP graduates to find jobs?

Rural and mountain communities (San Luis Valley, Western Slope, mountain resort towns) often offer higher salaries and sign-on bonuses. Community health centers throughout the state actively recruit FNPs. Growing suburban areas along the Front Range (Castle Rock, Longmont, Loveland) have expanding healthcare needs. Consider Colorado Health Service Corps programs offering loan repayment for working in designated shortage areas.

Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC
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