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TL;DR: Finding Nurse Practitioner Preceptors in Colorado
- Colorado's clinical placement challenge is real: With a growing number of NP students and limited preceptor availability, securing clinical rotations in Colorado can take months of searching—but cities like Denver, Aurora, and Colorado Springs offer diverse opportunities across primary care, mental health, women's health, pediatrics, and family practice for those who know where to look.
- Full practice authority makes Colorado attractive for new graduates: After completing a 750-hour mentorship, nurse practitioners in Colorado can practice independently without physician oversight, making it an ideal state for building your career—but you need to complete your clinical hours with qualified, experienced preceptors first.
- Most NP programs offer minimal placement support: While some schools like the University of Colorado Anschutz provide structured assistance in the Denver metro area, most students are responsible for finding their own preceptors, navigating complex program requirements, and handling all documentation and paperwork on their own.
- Finding preceptors requires strategy and persistence: Success comes from understanding your program's requirements, perfecting your introduction, leveraging your professional network, researching potential clinical sites, and following up consistently—but this process can delay graduation if you're juggling full-time work and coursework.
- NPHub simplifies the entire clinical placement process: With 2,000+ vetted nurse practitioner preceptors in Colorado and experience working with 230+ NP programs nationwide, NPHub matches students with approved preceptors in 2-3 weeks, handles all coordination and compliance, and provides ongoing support throughout your rotation—so you can focus on gaining hands-on experience and building confidence instead of endless searching. Create your free account today.
Colorado may be famous for its breathtaking mountains, world-class skiing, and love of craft beer, but for nurse practitioner students, it's also known for something else... the clinical placement struggle.
With a growing number of NP students, limited preceptor availability, and a competitive job market, securing clinical rotations in Colorado can feel like trying to snag a last-minute lift ticket on a powder day, stressful, uncertain, and requiring a whole lot of persistence.
But don't lose hope! Colorado, including cities like Aurora, Denver, and Colorado Springs, is a hub for healthcare opportunities. With the right approach and support, NP students can connect with qualified preceptors in diverse settings, from bustling hospitals in Denver to rural sites serving underserved populations in the San Luis Valley. Whether you're interested in primary care, family practice, women's health, mental health, or pediatrics, experienced preceptors across Colorado are ready to help build confidence and clinical expertise in the next generation of nurse practitioners.
Running out of time to find a preceptor? Stop sending dozens of unanswered emails and let NPHub match you with vetted nurse practitioner preceptors in Colorado. Create your free account today and get access to:
- 2,000+ experienced preceptors across primary care, mental health, pediatrics, women's health, and family practice.
- Secure your clinical rotation in Colorado in just 2-3 weeks, no more delayed graduation.
- All paperwork handled for you, we coordinate everything from start to finish.
- Support throughout your entire rotation, you're never left on your own.
Join 8,000+ NP students who've secured their clinical placements stress-free. Get started now.
Let's break down everything you need to know about finding nurse practitioner preceptors in Colorado—so you can complete your clinical hours without the uphill battle.
Cracking the Code: Clinical Rotations in Colorado
Clinical rotations are the heart of NP training where you go from studying symptoms in a textbook to actually diagnosing and treating real patients. But in Colorado, finding a placement can feel like trying to schedule an appointment with a specialist slow, competitive, and full of hoops to jump through.
That said, the state offers plenty of strong options. The University of Colorado is a major training hub, with comprehensive residency and rotation programs in family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics. Meanwhile, Denver preceptors at institutions like Denver Health give NP students hands-on experience in community health, working with diverse patient populations and tackling public health issues head-on.
Colorado hospitals are known for their high standards and forward-thinking healthcare models. Whether you land a rotation in a major hospital or a rural clinic, the experience you gain here will set you up for success. The key? Knowing where to look and how to stand out.
Colorado stands out as a prime location for Nurse Practitioners, offering full practice authority meaning NPs can evaluate, diagnose, treat, and prescribe without physician oversight after completing a 750-hour mentorship with an APRN or physician. This level of autonomy is not available in all states, making Colorado an attractive choice for those looking to practice independently.
Residency training is also crucial for enhancing the competencies and advancing the careers of Nurse Practitioners in Colorado.
High Demand and Strong Job Growth
Colorado's nursing shortage is creating a growing need for NPs across the state. With a 5% gap between supply and demand, healthcare facilities are actively seeking skilled NPs to fill critical roles.
The job outlook is strong, with employment expected to increase by 43% between 2020 and 2030, adding an estimated 300 job openings per year. There is also a growing need for NPs in critical care settings due to the nursing shortage in Colorado.
Nurse Practitioner Salaries in Colorado
The average NP salary in Colorado is $121,990 (2023 data), slightly below the national average of $128,490. However, salaries vary significantly by setting and location, with NPs in hospitals and outpatient care centers earning the highest salaries.
NP Salaries by Industry in Colorado
- Outpatient care centers: $131,583
- Hospitals (medical & surgical): $130,038
- Physician offices: $120,480
- Colleges & universities: $118,246
- NPs working in critical care areas, such as intensive care units and emergency settings, can expect competitive salaries.
NP Salaries by Metro Area
- Boulder: $134,230
- Denver-Aurora-Lakewood: $123,320
- Colorado Springs: $121,040
- Fort Collins: $118,960
- Grand Junction: $115,280
- Pueblo: $115,210
- Greeley: $110,920
If you're planning to work in Aurora, Colorado, or Colorado Springs, you can expect competitive salaries with strong job stability.
NP Salaries in Rural Colorado
- Northwest Colorado nonmetropolitan area: $124,060
- Eastern & Southern Colorado nonmetropolitan area: $119,160
- Southwest Colorado nonmetropolitan area: $114,760
While Colorado's cost of living can be higher in urban areas, the ability to practice independently and the strong demand for NPs create significant earning potential and career stability.
Licensure and Regulatory Requirements
To practice as an NP in Colorado, the following are required:
- An active Registered Nurse (RN) license
- A graduate degree in a designated NP role
- National certification in an NP specialty
- Board certification to enhance qualifications and showcase commitment to maintaining high professional standards
The Colorado Board of Nursing oversees NP licensure, aligning continuing education (CE) requirements with national certification standards. One notable limitation is that NPs in Colorado cannot sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, but they do have the legal authority to function as primary care providers under state law.
Why Colorado is an Attractive State for NPs
Beyond the autonomy and job growth, Colorado offers a diverse range of practice settings from major healthcare institutions like the University of Colorado and Denver Health to rural clinics serving underserved populations. For NPs looking for independent practice, high demand, and competitive salaries, Colorado provides a strong foundation for career growth. Additionally, the state emphasizes the importance of clinical experience in various specialties, including infectious disease, highlighting the need for qualified preceptors with expertise in this field within the healthcare educational landscape.
But here's the challenge: while Colorado's opportunities for new graduates are exceptional, accessing those opportunities starts with completing your clinical hours with experienced preceptors who can help you build confidence and competence in your chosen specialty. The gap between eager NP students ready to gain hands-on experience and available preceptors willing to commit their time can delay your path to this thriving career. That's where NPHub makes the difference. Create your account and connect with approved, experienced nurse practitioner preceptors in Colorado who are committed to mentoring the next generation of clinicians so you can focus on preparing for your career, not chasing down placement after placement.
School Resources for Securing Clinical Rotations in Colorado
Finding a preceptor and securing a clinical rotation as a nurse practitioner student in Colorado can be a challenge. With competitive spots and strict requirements, the process can be overwhelming. Fortunately, some schools in Colorado, particularly the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and the University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, offer structured support to help students find high-quality placements.
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
The University of Colorado Anschutz handles clinical placements for students in the Denver metro area. Through partnerships with healthcare facilities such as UCHealth, Children's Hospital Colorado, and local clinics, the university matches students with preceptors who align with their career interests.
The University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences plays a crucial role in these placements, ensuring that students gain valuable experience in critical areas of pharmacy practice.
For students outside the Denver metro area, securing a preceptor is their responsibility, but the school provides guidance and resources to help navigate the process.
How the Placement Process Works
- The school pairs students with a preceptor working in their specialty. Those outside the Denver area must secure their own, with school support available.
- Students sign a clinical placement acknowledgment form to confirm the rotation.
- Once matched, students receive their schedule and site details, sometimes rotating through multiple locations in a semester.
Why School Resources Matter for NP Students
Unlike programs where students must secure preceptors on their own, structured placement support offers a smoother and more reliable clinical experience. With strong alumni connections and hospital partnerships, students gain access to reputable healthcare settings, ensuring they receive quality mentorship and hands-on experience. For those navigating the clinical placement process, using school resources can make the difference between a last-minute scramble and a well-organized rotation. Preparing for Your Clinical Rotation
How to Land a Preceptor without Losing Your Mind
Finding a preceptor for your clinical rotation isn't just about sending a few emails and hoping for the best. It takes strategy, persistence, and a little bit of finesse. The competition is real, but with the right approach, you can secure a quality preceptorship that aligns with your goals.
Know Your Program's Requirements
Before reaching out to potential preceptors, make sure you fully understand your program's clinical requirements. How many hours do you need? What specialties are accepted? Are there restrictions on preceptor credentials? Having these details sorted out ahead of time will save you from wasted efforts and last-minute headaches.
Good news: if navigating your program's requirements feels overwhelming, or you're uncertain about what documentation your school needs, NPHub has likely already worked with students from your university. We've helped NP students from over 230 different programs across the country, which means we're already familiar with most clinical placement requirements, approved preceptor qualifications, and the specific paperwork your faculty requires. Create your free account and let us handle the compliance details while matching you with qualified nurse practitioner preceptors in Colorado who meet your program's objectives—guaranteed placement, zero guesswork.
Perfect Your Introduction
First impressions matter. When contacting a potential preceptor, introduce yourself professionally and highlight your nursing experience, career goals, and eagerness to learn. Keep it concise but genuine. A well-crafted introduction can set you apart from the dozens of other students also looking for a spot.
Use Your Network
This is not the time to be shy. Tap into every connection you have—professors, classmates, colleagues, and even past preceptors. Many students find placements through word of mouth, so let people know you're looking. If you're working in healthcare already, ask coworkers if they know an NP willing to take on a student.
Do Your Research
Not all preceptors or clinical sites are the right fit. Look into potential preceptors' backgrounds to see if their experience aligns with your learning needs. If possible, talk to previous students who have worked with them. A great preceptor can make all the difference in your clinical education, so choose wisely.
Follow Up and Be Persistent
If you don't hear back after your first message, don't assume it's a no. People are busy, and sometimes they just forget to respond. A polite follow-up after a week or so can keep your request on their radar. Keep applying to multiple sites until you secure a spot—waiting on just one preceptor can leave you scrambling later.
Finding a preceptor can be frustrating, but with preparation and persistence, you can secure a placement that not only meets your program's requirements but also helps you grow as a nurse practitioner.
Find Preceptors Near You in Colorado
- Finding a Denver Nurse Practitioner Preceptor: What Every NP Student Should Know
- The Smart Way to Find a Colorado Springs Nurse Practitioner Preceptor
- Finding an Aurora Nurse Practitioner Preceptor: Step-by-Step for NP Students
Simplifying Clinical Placements with Services like NPHub
Finding a preceptor can be one of the most challenging parts of an NP program. Between high demand, limited availability, and program-specific requirements, the process can take months and cause unnecessary delays in graduation. Preceptor matching services like NPHub help streamline this process by connecting NP students with qualified, board-certified mentors in their area and specialty—whether you need guidance in primary care, mental health, women's health, pediatrics, family practice, or other clinical practice areas.
At NPHub, we've helped over 8,000 nurse practitioner students find experienced preceptors who provide hands-on experience and mentoring to build confidence and competence. With a network of 2,000+ active, vetted nurse practitioner preceptors in Colorado, including preceptors in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aurora, we provide a structured, reliable, and hassle-free way to complete your clinical rotations and secure the clinical hours you need to graduate on time.
If you're struggling to find a preceptor or feeling the pressure of approaching deadlines, we're here to help. Let NPHub take care of the hard part so you can focus on what truly matters—gaining clinical expertise, completing your training, and building the confidence you need for your career as a nurse practitioner. Get matched with your perfect preceptor today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finding Nurse Practitioner Preceptors in Colorado
How long does it typically take to find a nurse practitioner preceptor in Colorado?
On your own, finding a preceptor can take months, depending on your specialty, location, and availability. Many NP students send dozens of emails without receiving responses, which can delay graduation and increase stress. However, with a preceptor matching service like NPHub, qualified students can secure clinical placements in as little as 2-3 weeks. We handle all the outreach, paperwork, and coordination so you can focus on your coursework instead of chasing down contacts.
What specialties can I complete my clinical rotations in Colorado?
Colorado offers clinical placement opportunities across a wide range of specialties, including primary care, family practice, mental health, women's health, pediatrics, and more specialized areas like acute care and geriatrics. The availability of experienced preceptors varies by region, urban areas like Denver, Aurora, and Colorado Springs typically have more options, while rural sites may have fewer but equally valuable hands-on experience opportunities. NPHub's network includes vetted preceptors across all major specialties to match your program's requirements and career objectives.
Do I need to find my own preceptor, or does my NP program help with clinical placements?
It depends on your school. Some programs provide structured support and placement assistance for students in the Denver metro area. However, most NP programs nationwide offer limited or no support, leaving students responsible for finding their own preceptors, a process that can feel overwhelming when you're juggling full-time work, coursework, and personal commitments. If your school doesn't provide adequate placement support, using an agency like NPHub ensures you gain access to approved, qualified preceptors without the months of searching.
What qualifications should I look for in a preceptor?
Your preceptor should hold an active NP or physician license, have clinical expertise in your chosen specialty, and be willing to commit the time needed to provide meaningful mentoring and guidance. They should also meet your program's specific requirements regarding credentials, documentation, and the number of clinical hours they can supervise. Beyond qualifications, the best preceptors are engaged clinicians who communicate well, provide constructive feedback, and genuinely want to participate in teaching the next generation of nurse practitioners. NPHub rigorously vets all preceptors in our network to ensure they meet these standards and are prepared to help you build competence and confidence.
About the author
- NPHub Staff
At NPHub, we live and breathe clinical placements. Our team is made up of nurse practitioners, clinical coordinators, placement advisors, and former students who’ve been through the process themselves. We work directly with NP students across the country to help them secure high-quality preceptorships and graduate on time with confidence. - Last updated
December 17th, 2025 - Fact-checked by
NPHub Clinical Placement Experts & Student Support Team - Sources and references
- https://www.nursepractitionerlicense.com/nurse-practitioner-salary/colorado-nurse-practitioner-salary/
- https://nursing.cuanschutz.edu/academics/clinicals
- https://www.nphub.com/blog/finding-denver-np-preceptors-and-clinical-rotations
- https://www.nphub.com/blog/find-colorado-springs-nurse-practitioner-preceptor
- https://www.nphub.com/blog/finding-aurora-np-preceptor-and-clinical-rotations
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