Best
Value Colleges in Colorado in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Colorado combines foundational coursework in accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and organizational behavior with opportunities for internships and projects. Students may specialize in areas such as entrepreneurship, human resources, or analytics. Popular Colorado options include the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, the University of Denver, and the University of Colorado Denver. Graduates commonly pursue roles as financial analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, or business analysts.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Colorado offers a mix of scientific and applied learning. Typical courses include developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, statistics, research methods, abnormal psychology, and social behavior. Popular options include the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, the University of Denver, and the University of Colorado Denver. Graduates may pursue roles as research assistants, behavioral technicians, case managers, human resources coordinators, or community support workers. Clinical practice requires graduate education and licensure in Colorado.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Colorado combines programming fundamentals with opportunities to explore the state's technology and research communities. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and computer networks. Students can study at the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, Colorado School of Mines, or the University of Denver. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or IT project managers across industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Colorado combines classroom learning with supervised fieldwork and state licensure preparation. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and clinical techniques. Popular choices include the University of Colorado Denver, Colorado State University, the University of Northern Colorado, and the University of Denver. Graduates may pursue work as school counselors, mental health counselors, career counselors, or rehabilitation counselors in schools, clinics, agencies, and community settings.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Colorado combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Students typically study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and community health. Popular options include the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Regis University, Colorado State University Pueblo, and Colorado Mesa University. Graduates may qualify for licensure as registered nurses and pursue hospital bedside care, clinic nursing, public health, or long-term care roles.

Best Colleges in Colorado Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 18,240.0, compared with 38,156.8 at schools in the top 10%, so students should weigh cost carefully when comparing colleges.
• An average of 98.5% of students receive financial aid, versus 80.7% at top 10% schools. Students should consider both the cost of attendance and the availability of aid.
• The average acceptance rate is 80.7%. Schools receive an average of 11,781.95 applicants, compared with 20,753.9 at top 10% schools; the median number of male applicants is 3,749.0 and the median number of female applicants is 3,513.5.
• Average test scores are 1,161.64 on the SAT and 24.47 on the ACT. Students can use these figures alongside acceptance rates when assessing admissions fit.
• The average number of enrolled students is 8,960.34. Average enrollment is 701.05 men and 798.21 women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.46%, while the average for top 10% schools is 79.0%. The median graduation rate is 37.0% for men and 46.0% for women, making graduation outcomes an important factor to compare.
• There are 22 institutions offering associate's degrees, 38 offering bachelor's degrees, 28 offering master's degrees, and 15 offering doctor's degrees. Students should check that a college offers the degree level they want.
• There are 38 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a future college, compare total cost and financial aid with admissions measures, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median study costs and higher average graduation rates, while the overall average financial-aid rate is higher than the rate at those schools; students should decide which of these factors best fits their priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Colorado cost?

The average total cost of studying in Colorado is $22,464.14. This offers a useful benchmark as you compare schools, though your actual degree cost will depend on your college, program, residency status, and how long you study.

Tuition and fees average $17,169.53, while room and board average $15,026.83 and books and supplies average $1,325.79. These figures help you plan beyond tuition: housing, meals, and course materials can shape your budget just as much. The reported average total cost is a broad statewide estimate, so check each institution's current cost of attendance and financial-aid options before deciding.

Colorado campuses include the University of Colorado Boulder and Colorado State University in Fort Collins, as well as the University of Denver. Compare choices, location, and net price after grants and scholarships; a lower sticker price is not the lowest out-of-pocket option. Building a budget can make pursuing your degree feel manageable and exciting.

How long does it take to finish college in Colorado?

In Colorado, plan on about four years for a full-time bachelor's degree and roughly two years for an associate degree. At CU Boulder, CSU, or another Colorado college, your timeline can vary with your major, course availability, work commitments, and whether you study part time. A delayed course sequence or changing majors may add semesters, so an adviser can help you stay on track.

The average graduation rate reported for Colorado is 47.46%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 79.0%. Rates are 42.74% for men and 50.2% for women. These figures offer context, not a guarantee for any one campus, so compare college-specific outcomes and ask what academic, financial, and advising support is available.

You may be able to finish faster by:

• Applying AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits toward your degree.
• Taking summer courses or a heavier course load, if manageable.
• Transferring completed credits and using online or accelerated classes where offered.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Colorado have a median alumni salary of $47,791. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is $60,208.50.

These figures offer a useful benchmark if you're considering popular Colorado options such as the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, or the Colorado School of Mines. They are alumni salary medians, not guaranteed starting salaries; your earnings can vary depending on your degree, career, experience, and the school you attend.

People also ask

What college in Colorado has the lowest tuition?

Colorado Mountain College is often one of the least expensive choices for Colorado residents, but there isn't one definitive statewide "lowest" without specifying residency, campus district, program, and fees. Community-college tuition can vary substantially based on where you live. Compare the current per-credit tuition and total fees at CMC and nearby community colleges before deciding.

What are Tier 1 schools in Colorado?

"Tier 1" can mean different things. If you mean universities in the top Carnegie research category, commonly called R1, Colorado institutions include the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, Colorado School of Mines, the University of Colorado Denver, the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, and the University of Denver. R1 status describes research activity, not whether a school is the best fit for you.

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

Located in Denver, the University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus gives Colorado students access to an urban learning environment and a major health-sciences campus. It enrolls 23,458 students, offering a sizable academic community. The graduation rate is 46%, while the acceptance rate is 75%, useful context when considering admission and completion. Reported total study cost is $28,368, and median alumni salary is $53,600. For in-state students weighing city opportunities, healthcare connections, and affordability, compare program-specific costs and outcomes before applying.

The University of Colorado Boulder combines a mountain setting with a large research university experience. In Boulder, Colorado students can explore academics alongside outdoor recreation and a lively college town. Enrollment is 39,233, with a 74% graduation rate and 78% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $41,212, and median alumni salary is $53,665. These figures help prospective students compare costs and outcomes; review residency rates, program offerings, and financial aid to estimate your Colorado education expenses before choosing a campus.

Colorado School of Mines in Golden is a university with a strong engineering focus, appealing to students drawn to technical fields and Colorado's outdoor lifestyle. Its 7,951 enrolled students form a smaller community than the state's largest campuses. The school reports an 82% graduation rate and 61% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $42,840, while median alumni salary is $81,447. For prospective Colorado students, these outcomes may inform financial investment and career comparisons; investigate specific majors, aid, and personal expenses.

University of Colorado Colorado Springs offers a campus experience in Colorado's second-largest city, with access to mountain scenery and employers. It enrolls 11,153 students, providing a mid-sized setting for study. Its graduation rate is 47%, and its acceptance rate is 97%. Total study cost is $23,155, while median alumni salary is $48,938. For Colorado residents comparing affordability and access, these figures make UCCS worth exploring; check your intended program's requirements, available aid, and living expenses before deciding where to enroll.

The University of Northern Colorado, based in Greeley, provides a campus-centered option for students seeking a Colorado education outside the Denver metro area. Its enrollment is 8,824, making it a smaller community. The graduation rate is 51%, and the acceptance rate is 86%. Total study cost is $24,125; median alumni salary is $45,368. Students considering UNC can weigh its smaller scale and location against cost and outcome measures, compare program choices, financial aid, housing, and commuting needs before a decision.