Best
Private Colleges in Denver in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Denver, Colorado, combines foundational business knowledge with practical learning and access to a diverse economy. Typical courses include accounting, finance, marketing, management, business law, economics, and data analytics. Graduates commonly pursue careers as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, project managers, or operations supervisors. Denver-area options include the University of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and Regis University, each offering business programs with concentrations, formats, and opportunities for students.

Psychology

Studying a psychology program in Denver, CO offers coursework in research methods, statistics, cognitive psychology, human development, social behavior, and psychological disorders. Popular local options include the University of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and the University of Colorado Denver. Graduates with a bachelor's degree commonly pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, or human resources specialist. Advanced study and licensure are generally required to work independently as a psychologist.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Denver, CO offers access to a growing technology community and learning opportunities. Programs typically cover programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students may build projects, collaborate with employers, and explore internships. Popular Denver colleges offering computer science degrees include the University of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and the University of Colorado Denver. Graduates pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, or cybersecurity specialists.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Denver, CO combines classroom learning with supervised practice. Courses typically cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural counseling, group techniques, and clinical practicum. Popular local options include the University of Denver, Regis University, and the University of Colorado Denver. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, or career advisors, depending on degree level, state licensure requirements, and additional supervised experience or certification requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Denver, Colorado, combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, and mental health nursing. Students can explore programs at Regis University, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and Denver College of Nursing. Depending on degree and licensure, graduates work as registered nurses, practical nurses, nurse educators, case managers, or public health nurses in clinics, hospitals, schools, and facilities.

Best Colleges in Denver, CO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 21,063.5, compared with 49,143.6 at schools in the top 10% - more than twice as high at the top-ranked schools.
• An average of 99.0% of students receive financial aid, versus 82.0% at schools in the top 10%. This suggests aid is common across the ranking, though the average share receiving aid is higher overall than among top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 82.0%. Schools receive an average of 12,254 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 17,479.6. The median number of male applicants is 5,012.5, compared with 7,206.0 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,222.5 on the SAT and 27.0 on the ACT.
• Schools have an average of 4,205.25 enrolled students. Average enrollment includes 388.0 men and 572.0 women.
• The average graduation rate is 54.67%, compared with 73.0% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 52.0% for men and 65.0% for women.
• Among the institutions represented, 2 offer associate's degrees, 4 offer bachelor's degrees, 6 offer master's degrees, and 5 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 4 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, potential students should weigh total cost and financial aid together, and compare acceptance rates, applicant volume, and test scores with their own goals. They should also consider enrollment figures, degree offerings, and graduation rates - including the differences between overall and top-10% outcomes and between men's and women's median graduation rates.

How much does studying at a college in Denver, CO cost?

The average total cost of studying in Denver, CO, is reported as $28,998.50. Treat this as a broad planning figure, not a guaranteed price: your actual total will vary with the college, program, housing, enrollment, and financial aid. Denver students can compare options such as the University of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and the University of Colorado Denver, then use each school's net price calculator to estimate their own costs.

• Average total cost: $28,998.50
• Average tuition and fees: $34,198.25
• Average room and board: $17,486.50
• Average books and supplies: $1,040

The listed tuition, housing, and books averages exceed the reported total when combined. Confirm which expenses and time period each estimate covers before budgeting; the figures may reflect different calculations. Financial aid, commuting, and living with family may lower costs. Ask Denver colleges about grants and compare estimates; knowing your options can make a local degree feel exciting and achievable.

How long does it take to finish college in Denver, CO?

In Denver, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes about four years, while an associate degree commonly takes about two; some graduate and professional programs require additional study. Your timeline at CU Denver, MSU Denver, the University of Denver, or Community College of Denver depends on your major, course availability, transfer credits, and whether you study part-time. This gives you a starting point, not a deadline.

• To finish sooner, bring eligible AP, IB, or prior-college credits and confirm they apply to your degree plan.
• Summer courses, heavier course loads, and accelerated or competency-based options can shorten the schedule when offered and manageable.

Reported completion rates offer another perspective: the average graduation rate is 54.67%, compared with 73.0% for the top 10% of schools. The average is 50.67% for men and 56.67% for women. These figures show that finishing is not automatic, but planning and steady support can make your goal feel achievable.

Salary

After graduating from college in Denver, CO, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $64,607. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median salary of about $79,441, offering an encouraging benchmark as you plan your career.

Denver students can pursue degrees at institutions such as the University of Denver, the University of Colorado Denver, and Metropolitan State University of Denver. Your actual earnings will depend on factors such as your field, experience, and role, but these figures give you a helpful starting point for considering the possibilities after graduation.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Denver?

"Prettiest" is subjective, but the University of Denver is a strong local favorite for its tree-lined paths, landscaped grounds, and distinctive red-brick, Gothic-inspired architecture. The historic Evans Memorial Chapel adds a memorable focal point. If you can, visit in spring or fall, when the campus greenery and changing leaves make a stroll especially inviting.

What is the most selective college in Denver?

Among colleges within Denver, the University of Denver is generally a strong candidate for the most selective, based on its admissions profile and acceptance rates. Selectivity can shift from year to year, though, and figures may differ by program. Check the latest published admissions data as you compare schools - and remember that a selective admissions process doesn't determine whether a college is right for you.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Denver, CO Ranking in 2026-2027

The University of Denver is a private research university in Denver, Colorado, offering students an urban campus and broad academic options. With 11,499 enrolled students, it reports a 78% acceptance rate and a 76% graduation rate. The total study cost is $60,048, while median alumni salary is $53,628. For Denver-based applicants seeking a full university experience, its size and city location offer varied courses, campus activities, and access to internships and cultural opportunities throughout the metropolitan area and Colorado.

Regis University is a private Jesuit university in northwest Denver, giving local students a values-centered academic setting with undergraduate and graduate programs. It enrolls 4,372 students, has an 86% acceptance rate and a 61% graduation rate. Listed total study cost is $23,700, and median alumni salary is $75,585. For someone studying in Denver, CO, Regis combines a smaller community than a large research campus with access to city employers, health services, nonprofits, and the wider Front Range and community organizations.

Bel-Rea Institute of Animal Technology is a Denver-based specialized school focused on preparing students for animal-care and veterinary technology careers. Its enrollment is 139, making it a particularly small learning community for students who prefer focused training over a broad university environment. The listed graduation rate is 27%; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. Total study cost is $13,819, and median alumni salary is $43,609. Studying in Denver, CO, may suit applicants seeking hands-on animal-related education near clinics and animal-care employers locally.

Denver College of Nursing is a specialized nursing school in downtown Denver, Colorado, focused on education for future nurses rather than a wide range of majors. It enrolls 811 students. Its listed total study cost is $18,427, and median alumni salary is $81,094. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available in the supplied data. For Denver-area students committed to nursing, its city location can provide proximity to hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings for learning and career exploration during study.

Iliff School of Theology is a graduate theological school in Denver, Colorado, known for preparing students for religious leadership, scholarship, and service. Its urban setting connects study with the city's diverse communities and social concerns. The supplied data do not provide enrollment, graduation or acceptance rates, total study cost, or median alumni salary, so applicants should confirm current figures directly with the school. For Denver residents considering ministry or theological education, Iliff offers focused theological study beyond a general university.