Nursing

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

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.

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:

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.

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.