Program Overview

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Introduction to the UCHealth/CU Nursing Employee Pathway

The UCHealth/CU Nursing Employee Pathway is a unique educational pathway designed for UCHealth employees, offering a substantially reduced tuition cost to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. This pathway is made possible through the UCHealth Ascend Career Program.

Program Overview

The program begins at the Community College of Aurora, where students complete two years of prerequisites while maintaining eligibility requirements under the Ascend Career Program. Students then seamlessly transition to CU Anschutz Nursing at the prestigious CU Anschutz Campus for their final two years. This flexible pathway allows students to advance their careers while continuing to work and earn within UCHealth facilities.

Ideal Candidates

This program is ideal for UCHealth employees eligible for the Ascend Career Program who prefer a smaller class size and a steady-paced nursing education. Participants can work at UCHealth while completing prerequisites and the CU Nursing program, with nursing clinicals scheduled on evenings and weekends.

Program Format

• The program is delivered in a combination of in-person and online formats. Prerequisite courses can be taken in-person or online at the Community College of Aurora, while CU Anschutz Nursing courses are in-person.
• The average time to complete the program is 4 years, with up to two years of prerequisite work at the Community College of Aurora followed by two years at CU Anschutz Nursing.

Exam Preparation

Upon completion of the program, students can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become licensed nurses.

Clinical Placements

All clinical experiences are conducted at UCHealth, with clinical rotations designed to be held on weekends for greater flexibility for working adult learners.

Faculty and Facilities

The program boasts expert faculty dedicated to student success, many of whom are recognized locally and nationally for their excellence in nursing, education, and research. Students also have access to a state-of-the-art simulation lab to practice real-life scenarios in a safe and inclusive environment.

Program Outcomes and Accreditation

The nursing program has a notable 96.67% NCLEX pass rate and is ranked as the #1 nursing bachelor's program in Colorado. The program is accredited, ensuring it meets the highest standards of nursing education.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, public health agencies, and outpatient clinics. They are qualified to treat patients, administer medications, perform assessments, and document patient information.

Application and Admission

• The application process involves checking the requirements, starting the application through NursingCAS, and submitting it by the deadline.
• Deadlines for prerequisites, program start, application opening, and application deadline are provided in a detailed timeline.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes a range of courses such as Patient-Centered Health Assessment, Pathophysiology for Nurses, Pharmacology for Nurses, and more, totaling 66 credits. The program outcomes are designed to integrate evolving knowledge from nursing and other healthcare disciplines, provide collaborative person-centered care, and incorporate evidence-based practice.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees vary based on residency status, with estimated costs provided for Colorado residents, Western state residents, and non-residents. Additional expenses include matriculation fees, other fees, books and supplies, and health insurance.

Conclusion

The UCHealth/CU Nursing Employee Pathway offers a unique opportunity for UCHealth employees to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing while continuing their employment. With its flexible format, expert faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, this program is designed to support students in achieving their nursing career goals.