Colorado Colleges & Universities

Explore Colorado's diverse higher education landscape, from world-renowned research universities to specialized colleges nestled in the Rocky Mountains.

Major Colorado Universities

Discover the flagship institutions that make Colorado a premier destination for higher education.

Public Research University
University of Colorado Boulder

Flagship campus known for engineering, business, and research with stunning mountain views.

35,000+
Students
81%
Acceptance Rate

Key Strengths:

Top aerospace engineering
Business programs
Research opportunities
Beautiful campus
Public Research University
Colorado State University

Premier land-grant university with strong programs in STEM and agriculture.

33,000+
Students
87%
Acceptance Rate

Key Strengths:

Veterinary medicine
Engineering
Agriculture
Environmental science
Public Urban University
University of Colorado Denver

Urban campus offering professional and graduate programs in downtown Denver.

18,000+
Students
75%
Acceptance Rate

Key Strengths:

Business school
Medical programs
Urban campus
Professional programs
Public STEM University
Colorado School of Mines

Elite STEM university specializing in engineering, mining, and applied sciences.

6,000+
Students
53%
Acceptance Rate

Key Strengths:

Engineering excellence
Mining/geology
High job placement
Research focus

Types of Colorado Higher Education Institutions

15+
Research Universities

Major institutions offering extensive research opportunities and graduate programs

Examples:

  • University of Colorado system
  • Colorado State University
  • Colorado School of Mines
25+
Liberal Arts Colleges

Small, private institutions focusing on undergraduate education and close faculty relationships

Examples:

  • Colorado College
  • Regis University
  • University of Denver
40+
Community Colleges

Two-year institutions offering affordable education and transfer pathways

Examples:

  • Front Range Community College
  • Red Rocks Community College
  • Colorado Mountain College
20+
Specialized Schools

Institutions focusing on specific fields like art, music, or technical training

Examples:

  • Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design
  • Colorado Technical University
  • Art Institute of Colorado

What Makes Colorado Colleges Special

Mountain Campus Settings

Study in breathtaking locations with Rocky Mountain views and easy access to outdoor recreation.

Research Opportunities

Participate in cutting-edge research across aerospace, environmental science, and renewable energy.

Outdoor Learning

Experience unique outdoor education programs and environmental field studies in natural settings.

Continue Your Colorado College Planning Journey

Now that you've explored Colorado's colleges, let's dive into financial aid and scholarship opportunities.