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Application Process

Accepting applications for April 2024 BSN and ADN, RN to BSN, and MSN programs for those qualified. Please contact Admissions at 303-292-0015 for more information.

Application Process

The College offers three degree programs, a Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN). 

Please click on the desired program name below for more detailed program information. For more information on the application process for each program, please scroll down.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Completion Option

This program is for the student that has already met the prerequisite requirements for the BSN completion program and consists of seven quarters (21 months) of nursing courses with both didactic and clinical components built on a foundation of general education courses transferred in from other accredited institutions. This is a ground program.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing RN to BSN Option

This program option is for the registered nurse who desires to continue education in nursing at the Bachelor degree level. This option is delivered through distance education (online). The program option consists of both didactic and experiential learning assignments in specific courses in as little as 15 months of study. This is a 100% online program.  

Associate Degree in Nursing Program

This program is for the student that has already met the prerequisite requirements for the ADN completion program and consists of six quarters (18 months) of nursing courses with both didactic and clinical components built on a foundation of general education courses transferred in from other accredited institutions. This is a ground program. 

Master's Degree in Nursing Program

The MSN Degree Program is designed to prepare Baccalaureate Nursing graduates for post-licensure education. Graduates of the program will earn a Master of Science in Nursing degree with a focus in nursing education and leadership. The MSN program consists of a total of 56 quarter credit hours, which can be completed in as little as 15-18 months. The curriculum design includes core courses that would allow students to pursue a post-graduate certificate. This is a 100% online program.

Admissions Advisor

Each applicant for admission is assigned an admissions advisor who directs the applicant through the steps of the admissions process; provides information on curriculum, policies, procedures, and services; and assists the applicant in the admissions process.

Admissions Interview

Applicants, if accepted for an interview, should be prepared to discuss their career goals, applicable experience, and education background during the admissions interview. All ADN and BSN DENVER CAMPUS ground program conditionally accepted applicants are required to set up an interview. For the Denver Campus this interview will be scheduled via email beginning six weeks after the application deadline for a cohort start. For the Houston Campus this interview will be scheduled after the student is notified by email that they have been conditionally accepted. Students that need to take the entrance exam will advised on how and when to set the test up when contacted to set up the required interview. 

Admission decisions are based on the applicant’s fulfillment of these requirements, a review of the applicant’s previous educational records, and a review of the applicant’s medical work and volunteer experience. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the Denver College of Nursing receives all required documentation. All records received become the property of the Denver College of Nursing.

Application Review and Acceptance

Successful applicants will be accepted through a ranked point system by the Admissions Committee and will be notified of acceptance when all admissions requirements are met. If needed, all applicants must adhere to the current Denver College of Nursing wait list policy. Applicants who are not accepted will receive a full refund of any amounts paid with the exception of the non-refundable application fee. Enrollments may be accepted until the Orientation date; no enrollments are accepted after the Orientation date.

Notification Process for BSN Completion and ADN Program

For the Denver Campus applicants will be notified via email approximately six weeks after the closing date of the application deadline. For the Houston Campus applicants will be notified via email once they have been conditionally admitted. Applicants that are chosen to continue the application process must set up an appointment within ten days of being contacted by DCN with their assigned Admission Advisor. Applicants that are chosen to continue the application process are not automatically accepted into the program. Applicants must meet all application requirements (successful passing score on entrance examination, etc.) before being accepted. Please make sure your email account will accept any email from a denvercollegeofnursing.edu address to ensure that you will receive your notifications. 

Applicants applying with the 56 or more semester credits of prerequisites are required to take the HESI A2 entrance exam. Instructions for setting up and taking the test will be emailed to students that have been accepted for an interview. Students that have already earned a prior Bachelor’s degree do not have to take the HESI A2 exam.

For ADN and for BSN Completion DENVER:    

  • January Start Date, application open July 1st
  • April Start Date, application open October 1st
  • July Start Date, application open January 1st
  • October Start Date, application open April 1st

Note: Background checks and Immunization records DO NOT have to be included in the initial application package. Deadlines for these items will be discussed with an admission advisor during the chosen applicants’ interview.

For BSN Houston Campus:
Applications will be accepted throughout the year. To start the program all materials must be received, and the student accepted at least 30 days prior to the start of a term. Term starts are the first week of the following months: January, April, July, October.