Nursing is both an art and a science. It requires an interest and aptitude for
science, well developed analytical skills, technical expertise, compassion, and
the ability to provide human comfort and kindness. Nurses play a vital role in
the health and safety of our community.

Nationally, there is a high demand for nurses, and in Colorado the nursing workforce shortage is predicted to exceed 30 percent by 2020. Thus, there are many nursing opportunities for those who are qualified and interested. A career in nursing provides great flexibility and the chance to balance work with the other things of importance in your life.

Colorado Northwestern offers 2 nursing programs: Nurse Aid Training, and Professional Nursing (RN). Each program is designed to meet the interests and educational requirements of students at different levels.

The professional nursing program is fully approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing and meets the standards of the Colorado Articulation Model which facilitates a progression from LPN to RN-associates to RN-bachelors degree. The program also is in the process of seeking accreditation by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission.  

Associate Degree Curriculum Disqualifying Offenses Estimated Program Expenses Anticipated Personal Expenses Minimum Functional Abilities Required Online Application Form

Beginning fall 2009 CNCC will offer a new state-wide common curriculum for a 4 semester associate degree of applied science in nursing. Upon graduation the student will be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensing Examination, Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN), to obtain state licensure.

Potential nursing students must pass the entrance exam within three attempts  to be placed on the competitive wait list. To take this 3 hour TEAS test call Darby McDermott at 970-824-1104 or email at darby.mcdermott@cncc.edu  to set up an appointment. It will be given at the Bell Tower Building at 50 College Drive in Craig, Colorado. The cost for this test is $35.00 and must be paid in advance at the bookstore. 

Nursing students are required to submit to an extensive criminal background check including fingerprinting and a drug screen as a condition of their acceptance. Failure to meet the criteria for a criminal background check will prevent acceptance into the program. See the link to your right for the list of disqualifying offenses.

Nursing students are required to meet certain minimum functional abilities in order to succeed in this course of study. See link to your right. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request for persons with disabilities. If you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to participate at CNCC, please notify Gene Bilodeau at 970-824-1103.

The State of Colorado mandates that incoming students to Colorado’s state-supported institutions of higher education take an assessment test of basic skills (Accuplacer).

Students are only admitted once a year in the fall. Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria are now being placed on a waiting list at www.cccs.edu according to the date and time the application was received.

At the end of the first year, there is an option for students to take a summer semester to obtain a certificate in practical nursing which will allow them to apply to take the LPN licensing exam.

This program also allows the licensed practical nurse to complete educational requirements for a degree in professional nursing.

CCCS Program Information

The Nurse Aide Training Program provides education, training and skills specifically performed under the supervision of a licensed health care professional. Areas of training include communication, infection control, safety and emergency procedures, promoting residents’ rights, basic nursing skills, personal care skills, recognition of mental health and social service needs, and basic restorative services. Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be eligible to take the state examination to become certified.

Program Overview

Upcoming Classes The dates and times for the next nurse aide class is January 29 through Feb 27th. With 3 days of clinical dates on March 5,6,7 OR 12,13,14th. The days are Friday evenings from 5:00pm-10:00pm and Saturday s from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Please contact Darby at 970-824-1104 for information packet.