Colorado offers a strong in-state option for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) training through the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, which provides both primary care and acute care pathways at the MSN, DNP, and certificate levels.
Students in Colorado can choose between primary care (PC-PNP) and acute care (AC-PNP) tracks, with hybrid-online delivery and limited required campus visits in Aurora.
Because CU Anschutz offers both MSN and DNP entry points, most Colorado nurses can complete their PNP training in-state. Online programs may still be useful for those seeking different pacing, start dates, or fully remote formats.
Quick Comparison: Colorado PNP Programs
| School | Est. Tuition (Resident) | Format | Key Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU Anschutz | $37K–$60K+ | Hybrid | MSN, DNP, Certificate (PC + AC) |
| Maryville University | ~$42K | 100% Online | MSN, DNP, Certificate |
| Walden University | ~$45K | Online | MSN, DNP, Certificate |
| Rasmussen University | ~$51K | Online | MSN, Certificate |
Best PNP Programs in Colorado
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
CU Anschutz offers one of the most comprehensive PNP program structures in the region, with six total tracks across two specialties:
Primary Care PNP (PC-PNP):
- MSN
- BSN-to-DNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate
Acute Care PNP (AC-PNP):
- MSN
- BSN-to-DNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate
All programs use a hybrid-online format with limited in-person intensives in Aurora.
Primary Care vs Acute Care (Key Difference)
- Primary Care PNP focuses on preventive care, well-child visits, and chronic condition management
- Acute Care PNP focuses on serious illness, hospital-based care, and complex pediatric conditions
MSN Programs
- MSN PC-PNP: ~$37,647 | ~2.5 years
- MSN AC-PNP: ~$40,050 | ~3 years
The primary care track requires about 540 clinical hours, while the acute care track includes 585 hours across five practicum rotations.
Clinical placements:
- arranged for Denver-area students
- self-arranged (with support) for students outside the metro area
Students may need to travel within Colorado or complete rural placements.
BSN-to-DNP Programs
- BS-DNP PC-PNP: ~$58,473 | ~4 years
- BS-DNP AC-PNP: ~$60,876 | ~5 years
These programs combine MSN-level training with doctoral coursework and include:
- up to 1,080–1,125 total clinical hours
- a multi-phase DNP project
- eligibility to sit for certification exams before completing the doctorate
Post-Graduate Certificate Programs
- PC-PNP Certificate: ~$15,219
- AC-PNP Certificate: ~$15,219
These tracks are designed for MSN-prepared nurses adding a pediatric specialty and typically take about 1.5 years to complete.
Standout Features
- #1-ranked DNP program in Colorado (U.S. News & World Report 2026)
- clinical partnerships with Children’s Hospital Colorado
- both primary care and acute care pathways at every level
- strong access to clinical placements within the Denver metro area
Choosing a PNP Program in Colorado
Choose CU Anschutz if you want a highly structured program with local clinical placements and both primary care and acute care pathways.
Choose an online program if you need:
- a fully remote format with no campus visits
- more flexible pacing or start dates
- an alternative admissions pathway
Additional Online PNP Programs to Consider
Even though Colorado has strong in-state options, some nurses still compare online programs for added flexibility or scheduling options.
- Choose Maryville University if you want six annual start dates, no campus visits, and a faster MSN timeline.
- Choose Walden University if you need flexible pacing with structured clinical placement support.
- Choose Rasmussen University if you prefer a competency-based format with guided practicum coordination.
PNP Program Availability in Colorado
Colorado offers more PNP options than most states, with CU Anschutz providing multiple pathways across both primary care and acute care specialties.
Because all tracks are concentrated within one institution, students benefit from:
- consistent program structure
- shared faculty and clinical systems
- access to major pediatric healthcare partners
However, students outside the Denver metro area may need to:
- arrange their own clinical placements
- travel for certain clinical or campus requirements
Certificate Programs
CU Anschutz offers both primary care and acute care PNP certificate pathways, making it one of the more flexible in-state options for MSN-prepared nurses adding a pediatric specialty.
| School | Track | Est. Tuition | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU Anschutz | PC-PNP Certificate | ~$15.2K | ~1.5 years |
| CU Anschutz | AC-PNP Certificate | ~$15.2K | ~1.5 years |
If you prefer a fully online certificate with no campus visits, national programs may offer additional flexibility:
- Choose Maryville University if you want a fully online primary care PNP certificate with local clinical placements.
- Choose Rasmussen University if you prefer a structured, competency-based certificate format with guided practicum support.
Before applying, confirm that the program supports clinical placement in Colorado and meets state licensure requirements.