Nursing AAS Degree

Otero’s Nursing Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program is designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge and clinical skills required to become registered nurses (RNs). The curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training in various healthcare settings, covering subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology, patient care, and medical ethics. The program prepares graduates to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), which is required to obtain licensure as an RN. With a focus on practical skills and real-world applications, the full 5 semester Nursing AAS degree allows students to quickly enter the workforce and make a positive impact in the healthcare industry.

Visit the Academic Catalog for Nursing AAS Curriculum & Admission Information

Practical Nursing Certificate (Exit Option)

An LPN, or Licensed Practical Nurse, is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or doctors. Their duties can vary depending on the setting, but some common tasks include; monitoring patients, administering medications, wound care, recordkeeping and assisting with medical procedures.

The Practical Nursing Certificate exit option is designed to provide education to prepare the student for practice as a licensed practical nurse. After successful completion of the first two semesters of the ADN RN program students may opt to take the optional Transition into Practical Nursing course and receive a Certificate of Practical Nursing. The curriculum follows the criteria for the Colorado Nursing Articulation Model and is specifically constructed to promote career mobility between Nursing educational levels.

Successful completion of the Practical Nursing Certificate requirements for graduation also entitles the graduate to submit an application to the State Board of Nursing for the State Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing.

Visit the Academic Catalog for Practical Nursing Certificate – Exit Option curriculum and admission information.

Earn your BSN degree today!

In partnership with Morgan Community College, Otero nursing graduates can now follow an accredited, high-quality, and affordable path to earning their Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. This program is specifically designed for the working nurse who has already earned an associate degree or diploma. 

• Minimal practicum hours
• Complete in 3 to 5 semesters
• Highly-qualified faculty dedicated to seeing students succeed
  Online
• Work on your time
• 7-week courses
• Flexible starts

Program Cost Savings

• $200* Cost per credit vs. $470 per credit for other BSN programs
• $15,200* savings compared to other regional BSN programs
• $6,100** total cost (NUR coursework) & your employer may cover it!

*In-state tuition, after applying the Colorado Opportunity Fund stipend and MCC scholarship.
**Based on 2021-2022 costs. Subject to change.

Find out more about the RN to BSN Program at MCC

NCLEX Professional Nursing Licensure

After you have successfully completed the Otero accredited nursing program and earned your degree, you will take the NCLEX exam (National Council Licensure Examination), a standardized exam that each state board of nursing uses to determine if a candidate is prepared for entry-level nursing practice.

PDF NCLEX-RN current pass, completion, & job placement rates

Current NCLEX Pass Rates

Graduate Achievements – Employment Rates

Technical Standards & Essential Requirements

1. Disability Related Information – Students are expected to participate fully in activities
   required by the Program. (See the Essential Skills and Functional Abilities for Nursing
   Students, shown below).
2. It is recommended that students requiring accommodation set up their initial appointment with
   the ADA coordinator prior to starting the Nursing Program. Students having a temporary
   medical condition that inhibits or restricts their activities while in the Program should also
   contact this department. Specific information regarding the accommodation process is outlined
   below.
3. Should a student become unable to participate fully in the Program’s activities, the student may
   be granted an Incomplete or be administratively withdrawn. Questions regarding a grade of
   Incomplete or an administrative withdrawal should be directed to the Nursing Department.
   Essential Skills and Functional Abilities for Nursing Students Individuals enrolled in the Otero College Nursing Program must be able to perform the essential skills as established by the Program. If a student believes that they cannot meet one or 26 more of the standards without accommodation, the student should request an ADA appointment with Frida Beyerl the Disability Services Specialist by calling 719-384-6963.

Please review the Technical Standards and Essential Requirements Policy for all requirements and standards.

Accreditation

The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program at Otero College on Otero’s main campus located in La Junta, Colorado is accredited by the: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the associate of applied science in nursing program is continuing accreditation with conditions.

Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Student Schedules

What is a Traditional Program Schedule?

In the Traditional program, students are in class or lab two days a week in addition to clinical two days a week. Most clinical experiences are during the week. The course of study will align with the same timeline as students taking the Non-traditional schedule program.

Who are Traditional Schedule Students?

Traditional Schedule students are typically students who do not have outside obligations, such as families or jobs, thus allowing them to attend class during the week days and complete their clinical experiences during the week.

What is a Non-traditional Course of Study?

In the Non-traditional program, students are in class or lab two evenings a week. Most clinical experiences are on the weekends. The course of study will align with the same timeline as students taking the Traditional schedule program.

Who are Non-traditional Schedule Students?

Non-traditional Schedule students are usually students who have families, jobs, or other obligations that take their time during the daytime hours. These students often find that coming to nursing school two evenings a week and doing their clinical experience on weekends allows them the flexibility to meet their other life obligations.

Nursing FAQ’s

How many nursing programs are there at Otero College?

There are three:

1. Nursing Assistant
2. Practical Nursing (LPN) exit option after year one of RN program (AAS in Nursing)
3. Associate Degree of Applied Science in Nursing (RN) Full-time and Part-time Program

How are the programs different?

The Nursing Assistant program provides the required training for theory, lab and clinical practice, to become a CNA (Certified Nurses Aide). It takes one semester or less.

The Practical Nursing Program provides the required training for theory, lab and clinical practice, to become an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). It takes two semesters of nursing courses and approximately 1 semester of pre-requisite courses.

The Associate Degree of Applied Science in Nursing Program provides the required education for theory, lab and clinical practice, to become an RN (Registered Nurse). It takes 4 semesters of nursing courses and approximately 1 semester of pre-requisite courses.

The LPN to RN Bridge Program prepares the LPN transition to RN Program and takes approximately 3 semesters.

How do I apply for the Nurse Aide Program?

Complete an application to Otero College and register for the two required courses (NUA 101 & NUA 170)

Have official transcripts sent to Otero College from all other colleges attended.

Make an appointment with Student Services Center to take the basic entrance exam if needed.

How do I apply for the Practical or Registered Nursing Program?

As of January 16, 2009 all applications will be completed on-line through the Otero Online Nursing Application.

You must complete the pre-requisite general education courses with a GPA of 2.5 or higher prior to applying on line. They are Human Anatomy & Physiology I, English Composition, Human Growth and Development, and Anatomy & Physiology II.

Can I apply for these programs anytime?

Admission selections continue each year until the program slots are filled or classes begin. Selection is based upon the date of application and completion of all admission criteria.

Does Otero give credit for having a Practical Nursing education and license?

Yes. According to the Colorado Nursing Articulation Model, if you have completed your Practical Nursing education and received your license in Colorado it would be equivalent to your first year of Otero’s ADN RN program courses. If you completed your Practical Nursing education in another state or at a technical college, contact the nursing Office for specific advanced credit allowed by the Articulation Model.

How much does the program cost?

Program Costs are subject to change from year to year. For the most complete list of costs please refer to the Nursing Student Manual.

Professional Licensure Disclosure

Students are advised to review the information on the Professional Licensure Disclosure page BEFORE beginning a program that leads to professional licensure with the intent to be licensed outside of the state of Colorado. Review the licensing information provided for the applicable program. While CCCS colleges endeavor to ensure this information is up to date, changes in licensure requirements of any state can change at any time. Contact the appropriate licensing agency in the U.S. states and territories where licensure is intended. This will enable you to obtain the most up-to-date information about licensure requirements and confirm the CCCS college program meets those requirements.