- 1 In State School with Hybrid format
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.
Compare Colorado PNP Program Options
| 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.
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.
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.
Maryville University PNP Programs
St. Louis | $900 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / MSN to DNP / BSN to MSN / DNP
For Colorado nurses, Maryville University offers a fully online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner pathway that prepares graduates to care for infants, children, and adolescents in primary care settings. Colorado students can arrange clinical experiences in their own communities, so they do not need to travel to campus for hands-on learning. With several degree-entry options and six start dates per year, the program is built for flexibility and career advancement.
Purdue University PNP Programs
West Lafayette | $500 to $600 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / BSN to MSN
Purdue University provides Colorado nurses with a robust distance-friendly foundation in pediatric primary care across three distinct graduate tracks. Ranging in cost from $15,000 for certificates to $30,000 for doctoral degrees, the curriculum emphasizes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and healthcare systems. Colorado students complete 630 to 1,000+ preceptorship hours to master the care of infants, children, and adolescents in primary care settings.
Rasmussen University PNP Programs
Bloomington | $915 cpc | Certificate / BSN to MSN
Colorado nurses can pursue Rasmussen University’s Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner programs through fully online, competency-based study with local clinical placements. The MSN-NP option is intended for BSN-prepared RNs, and the Post-Graduate Certificate is for nurses who already hold graduate nursing degrees and want to add a pediatric specialty. Each track includes supervised pediatric practicums, a clinical practicum coordinator, and a one-weekend residency to support hands-on skill development.
Walden University Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
Minneapolis | $785 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / BSN to MSN
For Colorado residents, Walden’s online Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care pathways include DNP, MSN, and post-master’s options featuring advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and pediatric-specific practicums completed locally. Colorado nurses appreciate the program’s flexible duration of 1.5 to 3.25 years full-time, plus dedicated support for securing preceptors through Practicum Pledge®. The CCNE-accredited curriculum ensures Colorado students meet certification standards with tuition starting at around $35,690 for certificates.