Start Your Career In Healthcare
The nursing profession is not only foundational to medical facilities, but also helps shape the health of communities. As a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) you will work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to advocate and provide direct care to individuals in need. Nurses are tasked with a number of responsibilities that include: documenting or recording important patient information, communicating effectively with supervisors and medical staff, evaluating information to determine compliance with health regulations, interpreting the meaning of diagnoses to patients, resolving conflicts and handling complaints, administering medications, modifying patient treatment plans and more. The nursing profession is a challenging job that requires hard work and dedication, but it is also one of the most satisfying jobs that you will find. As a nurse you can truly make a difference in people’s lives.
At Otero you will develop the skills necessary for employment in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The curriculum follows the criteria for the Colorado Nursing Articulation Model and is specifically constructed to promote career mobility between nursing educational levels.
Nursing AAS Degree vs. Practical Nurse Certificate
Otero College offers a Practical Nurse certificate exit option for students who have completed the first year of the nursing program, allowing them to test for their LPN. The full 5 semester Nursing – Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree prepares students to take the RN exam.
Visit the Academic Catalog
For Nursing AAS Curriculum & Admission Information
Visit the Academic Catalog
For Practical Nursing Certificate Curriculum & 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
$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.
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.
NCLEX-RN current pass, completion, & job placement rates
Current NCLEX Pass Rates
| Year | Number of Graduates | First Time NCLEX-RN Pass Rates | Combined NCLEX-RN Pass Rates* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 81 | 93% | 100% |
| 2021 | 71 | 65% | 84% |
| 2022 | 74 | 54% | 94% |
| 2023 | 54 | TBD | 88% |
| *These pass rates are reviewed by our accrediting body and are comprised of first-time NCLEX-RN passers and repeaters. | |||
The Otero Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program and the LPN exit option are approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing and the Colorado Community College System. Our AAS-Nursing is also fully accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN)
Colorado Board of Nursing
1560 Broadway, Suite 1350
Denver, CO 80202
dora_nursingboard@state.co.us
(303) 894-2430
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
USA
(404) 975-5000
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.
How many nursing programs are there at Otero College?
There are three:
- Nursing Assistant
- Practical Nursing (LPN) exit option after year one of RN program (AAS in Nursing)
- 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.
Program Information
Courses Offered:
In Person
Program Length:
3-8 semesters
Award/Program Credits:
68.5 (AAS)
52 (PN Certificate)