Best
Public Colleges in Colorado in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Colorado provides foundations in management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, business communication, and organizational behavior. Programs often include analytics, entrepreneurship, operations, and ethics, with internships connecting coursework to employers. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or financial associate. Popular colleges for this degree include the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, the University of Denver, and the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Colorado offers courses in cognitive psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills through labs, internships, and fieldwork, with opportunities at urban campuses. Popular choices include the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, University of Denver, and University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Graduates pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, research assistant, or outreach coordinator. Licensure needs graduate study.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Colorado combines core theory with hands-on projects and access to a technology sector. Typical courses include programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, systems administrators, or web developers. Popular choices include the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University in Fort Collins, the University of Denver, and the Colorado School of Mines in Golden.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Colorado offers preparation for supporting people through mental health challenges and life transitions. Coursework typically includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical work. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, career counselors, or substance-use counselors, depending on degree level and licensure. Colorado options also include the University of Denver, Colorado State University, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, and Regis University.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Colorado combines learning with hands-on clinical rotations in hospitals and community settings. Students study anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, nursing ethics, and community health. Graduates of associate or bachelor's programs may qualify for registered nurse licensure and work in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care, or public health. Options include the University of Colorado Anschutz, Regis University, Colorado State University Pueblo, University of Northern Colorado, and Colorado Mesa University.

Best Colleges in Colorado Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• Study costs: The total median cost of studying is 16,658.0, compared with 31,217.1 at schools in the top 10%.
• Financial aid and admissions: On average, 97.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 80.85% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 80.85%, and schools receive an average of 15,551.85 applicants; the top 10% average 33,758.2 applicants. The median number of applicants is 5,083.0 men and 6,463.0 women.
• Test scores and enrollment: Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,151.5 and 24.08, respectively. Average enrollment is 11,025.12 students, including an average of 998.0 men and 1,048.0 women.
• Graduation: The average graduation rate is 44.25%, while the average for top-10% schools is 71.9%. Median graduation rates are 36.0% for men and 44.5% for women.
• Degrees and school composition: The number of institutions offering associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees is 14, 25, 14, and 8, respectively. There are 25 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• What to consider: Compare the cost of attendance with financial aid availability, and consider admissions selectivity and applicant volume alongside SAT and ACT averages. Also weigh graduation outcomes, degree options, enrollment figures, and school composition according to your priorities; the averages and medians differ across these measures, so no single statistic captures every school.

How much does studying at a college in Colorado cost?

The average total cost of studying in Colorado is $20,056.79. Your own costs will depend on the college, program, housing choice, and personal spending, but this figure offers a useful starting point as you plan your degree. The reported average for tuition and fees is $9,153.75, while average room and board is $14,876.67 and books and supplies average $1,405.52. These figures are averages, so check the specific college's cost estimate before making a budget. At popular Colorado schools such as the University of Colorado Boulder and Colorado State University, compare tuition, housing, and course-material needs to understand what your studies may cost. Living at home, sharing housing, or buying used textbooks may help you manage expenses. Scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities can also make college more affordable. Although the price can feel daunting, careful planning can help you pursue a degree close to home and build an exciting future in Colorado.

How long does it take to finish college in Colorado?

In Colorado, earning an associate degree usually takes about two years, while a bachelor's degree typically takes four years. If you're studying at CU Boulder, Colorado State University in Fort Collins, or Metropolitan State University of Denver, your pace depends on course load, major requirements, and whether you attend year-round. Part-time study can extend the timeline, so planning ahead with an adviser can help you stay on track.

A degree is achievable, though not every student finishes on schedule: Colorado's average graduation rate is 44.25%, compared with 71.9% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 41.54% for men and 46.42% for women.

You may finish sooner by bringing in AP or IB credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing accelerated online courses. Before enrolling, ask whether prior learning or work experience can earn credit, and map your term carefully. These options can make progress feel manageable.

Salary

College graduates in Colorado have a median alumni salary of about $48,163; at schools in the top 10%, the median is about $53,993. These figures offer a useful benchmark, though your own earnings can vary based on your degree, experience, and career field.

Colorado students can pursue degrees at institutions such as the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, the University of Denver, and Colorado School of Mines. Comparing programs and career paths can help you find a route that fits your interests and earning goals.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Colorado?

There is no single official ranking of prestige, but the United States Air Force Academy is one of Colorado's most distinguished institutions, known for selective admissions, rigorous academics, and leadership training. For a traditional university experience, the University of Colorado Boulder is the state's best-known research university, while Colorado College is especially respected for undergraduate liberal arts.

Which city in Colorado has the best public schools?

Boulder is often a strong choice for families seeking highly regarded public schools, but there is no universally agreed-upon "best" city. School quality varies by neighborhood, grade level, and the ranking criteria used. Compare individual schools, district boundaries, and current performance data before choosing where to live; Boulder also offers a lively, student-friendly community.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Public Colleges Ranking in Colorado Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Denver, the University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus offers students access to Colorado's largest city and a major health-sciences campus. It enrolls 23,458 students, with a 75% acceptance rate and a 46% graduation rate. The listed total study cost is $28,368, while median alumni salary is $53,600. For Colorado residents seeking urban opportunities, the setting can connect classroom learning with healthcare, government, business, and cultural experiences, while the campus's broad student community supports varied academic interests and goals.

In Boulder, the University of Colorado Boulder combines a large university community with a setting near the foothills and Colorado's outdoor recreation. Enrollment is 39,233, and applicants face a 78% acceptance rate; its graduation rate is 74%. The listed total cost of studying is $41,212, and median alumni salary is $53,665. Students can explore a wide range of academic and campus activities while enjoying a college-town atmosphere, though they should weigh the higher listed cost against their budget and plans.

Golden's Colorado School of Mines is a specialized public university known for engineering, applied science, and earth-related fields, set against the Rocky Mountain foothills. It enrolls 7,951 students, has a 61% acceptance rate, and reports an 82% graduation rate. The listed total study cost is $42,840, the highest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $81,447, also highest. For Colorado students pursuing technical careers, its focused academics may be appealing, but compare costs and program fit before enrolling.

Greeley-based University of Northern Colorado offers a smaller public-university environment in northern Colorado, with access to the region's communities and outdoor attractions. Its enrollment is 8,824; the acceptance rate is 86%, and the graduation rate is 51%. Students are listed at a total study cost of $24,125, the lowest of these five institutions, and median alumni salary is $45,368. For Colorado applicants seeking a potentially more affordable option, compare its programs, campus experience, and likely expenses with career goals.

Situated in Colorado Springs, the University of Colorado Colorado Springs gives students a public university option in a Front Range city, with scenery nearby. It enrolls 11,153 students and has a 97% acceptance rate, while its graduation rate is 47%. The listed total study cost is $23,155, and median alumni salary is $48,938. For Colorado residents, the location offers access to local employers and outdoor recreation; compare degree offerings, commuting or housing needs, and net price when deciding if it fits.