Colorado offers a wide range of choices for students seeking college-level education and training in the state. The state has the United States Air Force Academy near Colorado Springs; one of the five US military academies and a major contributor to US Military defense and readiness. The state has leading public universities; such as the University of Colorado and the Colorado State University system. There are also well-established private schools such as Regis University, the Colorado College, and the University of Denver. The Colorado School of Mines is one of several Colorado schools with nationally-ranked science and engineering specializations.
How Much Can You Make by Having a Degree?
There is a direct relationship between educational achievement and median annual salary. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that its surveys of wages across the US demonstrate that higher education levels produce higher median annual incomes. The College Board reported results of a 2015 study of adults aged 35-44. In the study group, only 2% of workers with no high school diploma earned $100,000 per year or more; just 5% of high school graduates earned $100,000; 25% of full-time employed bachelor degree holders aged 34-44 earned $100,000 or more.
BLS estimates that earnings without college degrees sit around $712 per week for a high school graduate; the earnings rise to $1,173 per week with a bachelor’s degree. Over the course of a lifetime, the bachelor’s degree adds about $1 million to the total of lifetime earnings when compared to a high school graduate. Educational achievement translates into higher earnings and to greater opportunities. Workers with college degrees can often change jobs, add occupations, and get further training.
Education Level & National Average Median Compensation
NO FORMAL EDUCATION | HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA | ASSOCIATE DEGREE | BACHELOR’S DEGREE | MASTER’S DEGREE | DOCTORAL DEGREE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$36,816* | $46,748* | $55,016* | $77,636* | $90,324* | $109,668* |
Featured Online Programs
Most Popular Degrees and Careers in Colorado
The Colorado economy is diverse; the major economic sectors include tourism, finance, energy production, and mining. The economy enjoys a low unemployment rate and a steady population growth. Most of the population resides in the major Colorado cities which are also the location of the large colleges and universities. Many students select business-related majors. For some students, a business major is a logical step towards a life-goal of a career in business. For other students, the idea is to get a high paying job, and business majors do well in graduate success and high salaries.
The trends among employers in Colorado and elsewhere helps them look beyond the label of the major field of study to select applicants that offer attitudes, work habits, and intellectual strengths that may not have a surface relationship to business. For example, communications are a key skill set for success. The ability to listen attentively and exchange ideas in written and verbal forms is not strictly a product of business courses.
Top Business Management Careers and Salaries
- Accounting
- Business
- Business Administrator
- Business Manager
- Economist
- Entrepreneur
- Financial Analyst
- Hospitality Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- International Business Manager
- Learn more about additional business careers in Colorado
- Marketing Manager
- Operations Manager
- Organizational Leader
- Project Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Accountant | 37,180 | $51,600 |
Chief Executive Officer | 570 | $155,400 |
Financial Manager | 7,480 | $92,400 |
Logistics Professional | 3,500 | $51,400 |
Marketing Managers | 3,800 | $65,900 |
Top Computer Science Careers and Salaries
- Computer Engineer
- Computer Information Technologist
- Computer Programmer
- Computer Scientist
- Cybersecurity
- Database Administrator
- Database Management
- Software Engineer
- Web Development
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
---|---|---|
Information Security Analysts | 3,980 | $72,700 |
Math Science | 680 | $77,600 |
Mathematicians | 60 | $70,700 |
Network Systems Admins | 12,580 | $60,100 |
Operations Research Analyst | 780 | $78,800 |
Top Education Careers and Salaries
- Early Childhood Administrator
- Early Childhood Education Teacher
- General Education Teacher
- Secondary School Teacher
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Bus. Teachers Postsecondary | 1,630 | $45,000 |
Computer Science Teachers | 550 | $60,100 |
Economics Teachers | 300 | $48,200 |
Environmental Science Teachers | 130 | $60,000 |
Political Science Teachers | 300 | $47,500 |
Top Healthcare Careers and Salaries
- Gerontology Nurse or Physician
- Healthcare administrator
- Healthcare manager
- Nurse
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
---|---|---|
Health Specialties Teachers | 5,830 | $42,600 |
Occupational Therapists | 3,340 | $88,000 |
Optometrists | 880 | $108,300 |
Orthodontists | 5,990 | $191,800 |
Pharmacists | 5,150 | $115,200 |
Top Legal Careers and Salaries
- Corrections and Case Managers
- Criminal Justice Professional
- Cybersecurity
- Forensic Science Technician
- Law Enforcement
Top Occupations With the Highest Forecasted Growth Rate
Occupation | Growth Rate | Salary | 2024 Job Estimate |
---|---|---|---|
Language Translator | +68% | $67,510 | 2,410 |
Miner | +65% | $47,000 | 2,700 |
Personal Care Assistant | +62% | $24,000 | 32,110 |
Information security Analyst | +53% | $102,300 | 2,320 |
Physician Assistant | +50% | $100,100 | 3,180 |
Surgical Technician | +45% | $49,720 | 2,150 |
Nurse Practitioner | +43% | $107,600 | 2,990 |
Operations analyst | +41% | $87,300 | 1,240 |
Top 15 Best Associate Degree Programs in Colorado
Colorado Christian University
Score: 83.15
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,266
- Out-of-State:$39,266
- Net Price: $23,313
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 8,964
- Undergrad Students: 7,602
- Graduate Students: 1,362
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado Mountain College
Score: 73.9
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,100
- Out-of-State:$12,540
- Net Price: $6,092
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 43%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 5,184
- Undergrad Students: 5,184
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $55,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Community College of Aurora
Score: 66.74
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,030
- Out-of-State:$15,680
- Net Price: $7,340
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 25%
- Total Enrollment: 8,343
- Undergrad Students: 8,343
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,700
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Red Rocks Community College
Score: 65.93
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,707
- Out-of-State:$16,947
- Net Price: $9,807
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 6,470
- Undergrad Students: 6,375
- Graduate Students: 95
- Grads Salary: $38,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Lamar Community College
Score: 65.77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,422
- Out-of-State:$7,052
- Net Price: $10,605
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 668
- Undergrad Students: 668
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,200
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Trinidad State Junior College
Score: 65.04
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,468
- Out-of-State:$7,100
- Net Price: $12,220
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Total Enrollment: 1,505
- Undergrad Students: 1,505
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $33,600
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Aims Community College
Score: 64.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,170
- Out-of-State:$11,306
- Net Price: $7,859
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 7,178
- Undergrad Students: 7,178
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,500
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Northeastern Junior College
Score: 64
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,582
- Out-of-State:$8,045
- Net Price: $14,209
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 1,446
- Undergrad Students: 1,446
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $33,100
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Front Range Community College
Score: 62.8
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,740
- Out-of-State:$16,974
- Net Price: $9,186
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 19,449
- Undergrad Students: 19,449
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $44,500
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Otero Junior College
Score: 62.38
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,418
- Out-of-State:$7,048
- Net Price: $11,498
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 56%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 999
- Undergrad Students: 999
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,700
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Arapahoe Community College
Score: 61.68
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,308
- Out-of-State:$16,542
- Net Price: $9,691
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 52%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 12,636
- Undergrad Students: 12,636
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $46,400
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Colorado Northwestern Community College
Score: 61.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,454
- Out-of-State:$7,084
- Net Price: $13,323
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 37%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 1,179
- Undergrad Students: 1,179
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $44,200
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Morgan Community College
Score: 57.96
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,127
- Out-of-State:$16,360
- Net Price: $9,912
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Total Enrollment: 1,462
- Undergrad Students: 1,462
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,900
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Community College of Denver
Score: 55.47
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,902
- Out-of-State:$17,136
- Net Price: $9,633
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 18%
- Total Enrollment: 7,292
- Undergrad Students: 7,292
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Pikes Peak State College
Score: 52.9
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,302
- Out-of-State:$16,534
- Net Price: $9,629
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Total Enrollment: 11,899
- Undergrad Students: 11,899
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,100
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in Colorado
United States Air Force Academy
Score: 85
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: N/A
- Out-of-State:N/A
- Net Price: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 100%
- Total Enrollment: 4,085
- Undergrad Students: 4,085
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $121,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
Colorado School of Mines
Score: 68.72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,186
- Out-of-State:$44,376
- Net Price: $29,425
- Acceptance Rate: 58%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 82%
- Total Enrollment: 7,403
- Undergrad Students: 5,714
- Graduate Students: 1,689
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Colorado College
Score: 68.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $67,932
- Out-of-State:$67,932
- Net Price: $33,178
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 2,203
- Undergrad Students: 2,180
- Graduate Students: 23
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Regis University
Score: 66.47
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,980
- Out-of-State:$43,980
- Net Price: $26,377
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,668
- Undergrad Students: 2,398
- Graduate Students: 2,270
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of Colorado Boulder
Score: 65.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,430
- Out-of-State:$41,943
- Net Price: $21,836
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 39,585
- Undergrad Students: 31,034
- Graduate Students: 8,551
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Score: 65.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,896
- Out-of-State:$33,751
- Net Price: $16,926
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 33,403
- Undergrad Students: 25,777
- Graduate Students: 7,626
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Denver
Score: 60.17
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,340
- Out-of-State:$59,340
- Net Price: $42,423
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 13,734
- Undergrad Students: 6,151
- Graduate Students: 7,583
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
University of Colorado Denver
Score: 59.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,017
- Out-of-State:$28,209
- Net Price: $16,079
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 23,744
- Undergrad Students: 14,055
- Graduate Students: 9,689
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Northern Colorado
Score: 58.54
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,010
- Out-of-State:$26,204
- Net Price: $18,310
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 9,380
- Undergrad Students: 6,728
- Graduate Students: 2,652
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Colorado Christian University
Score: 57.24
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,266
- Out-of-State:$39,266
- Net Price: $23,313
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 8,964
- Undergrad Students: 7,602
- Graduate Students: 1,362
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Score: 57.07
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,712
- Out-of-State:$20,492
- Net Price: $16,990
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 11,431
- Undergrad Students: 9,540
- Graduate Students: 1,891
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Colorado Mesa University
Score: 55.71
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,712
- Out-of-State:$24,312
- Net Price: $15,085
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 8,905
- Undergrad Students: 8,681
- Graduate Students: 224
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Western Colorado University
Score: 54.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,083
- Out-of-State:$23,683
- Net Price: $16,672
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 3,548
- Undergrad Students: 3,095
- Graduate Students: 453
- Grads Salary: $60,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Score: 53.72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,780
- Out-of-State:$29,503
- Net Price: $14,805
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 16,995
- Undergrad Students: 15,848
- Graduate Students: 1,147
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado State University Pueblo
Score: 53.35
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,401
- Out-of-State:$17,242
- Net Price: $13,033
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 6,617
- Undergrad Students: 4,772
- Graduate Students: 1,845
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Fort Lewis College
Score: 52.75
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,670
- Out-of-State:$20,798
- Net Price: $15,685
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 3,400
- Undergrad Students: 3,308
- Graduate Students: 92
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Adams State University
Score: 50.09
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,776
- Out-of-State:$21,848
- Net Price: $13,224
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 57%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Total Enrollment: 2,854
- Undergrad Students: 1,588
- Graduate Students: 1,266
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Colorado Mountain College
Score: 48.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,100
- Out-of-State:$12,540
- Net Price: $6,092
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 43%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 5,184
- Undergrad Students: 5,184
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $55,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Red Rocks Community College
Score: 46.8
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,707
- Out-of-State:$16,947
- Net Price: $9,807
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 6,470
- Undergrad Students: 6,375
- Graduate Students: 95
- Grads Salary: $38,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Colorado Technical University
Score: 44.89
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,760
- Out-of-State:$12,760
- Net Price: $16,106
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 46%
- Graduation Rate: 20%
- Total Enrollment: 24,808
- Undergrad Students: 22,393
- Graduate Students: 2,415
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 31:1
Naropa University
Score: 44.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $34,600
- Out-of-State:$34,600
- Net Price: $28,145
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 1,065
- Undergrad Students: 343
- Graduate Students: 722
- Grads Salary: $59,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Arapahoe Community College
Score: 42.8
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,308
- Out-of-State:$16,542
- Net Price: $9,691
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 52%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 12,636
- Undergrad Students: 12,636
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $46,400
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Community College of Denver
Score: 39.07
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,902
- Out-of-State:$17,136
- Net Price: $9,633
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 18%
- Total Enrollment: 7,292
- Undergrad Students: 7,292
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Pikes Peak State College
Score: 37.84
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,302
- Out-of-State:$16,534
- Net Price: $9,629
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Total Enrollment: 11,899
- Undergrad Students: 11,899
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,100
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Pueblo Community College
Score: 35.98
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,883
- Out-of-State:$17,116
- Net Price: $10,994
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 33%
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Total Enrollment: 6,481
- Undergrad Students: 6,481
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Top 15 Best Master's Programs in Colorado
Colorado School of Mines
Score: 83.32
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,186
- Out-of-State:$44,376
- Net Price: $29,425
- Acceptance Rate: 58%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 82%
- Total Enrollment: 7,403
- Undergrad Students: 5,714
- Graduate Students: 1,689
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Colorado College
Score: 81.77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $67,932
- Out-of-State:$67,932
- Net Price: $33,178
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 2,203
- Undergrad Students: 2,180
- Graduate Students: 23
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Regis University
Score: 81.54
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,980
- Out-of-State:$43,980
- Net Price: $26,377
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,668
- Undergrad Students: 2,398
- Graduate Students: 2,270
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Score: 79.82
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,896
- Out-of-State:$33,751
- Net Price: $16,926
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 33,403
- Undergrad Students: 25,777
- Graduate Students: 7,626
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Colorado Boulder
Score: 79.79
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,430
- Out-of-State:$41,943
- Net Price: $21,836
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 39,585
- Undergrad Students: 31,034
- Graduate Students: 8,551
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
University of Colorado Denver
Score: 73.27
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,017
- Out-of-State:$28,209
- Net Price: $16,079
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 23,744
- Undergrad Students: 14,055
- Graduate Students: 9,689
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Denver
Score: 72.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,340
- Out-of-State:$59,340
- Net Price: $42,423
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 13,734
- Undergrad Students: 6,151
- Graduate Students: 7,583
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
University of Northern Colorado
Score: 71.36
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,010
- Out-of-State:$26,204
- Net Price: $18,310
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 9,380
- Undergrad Students: 6,728
- Graduate Students: 2,652
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Score: 70.24
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,712
- Out-of-State:$20,492
- Net Price: $16,990
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 11,431
- Undergrad Students: 9,540
- Graduate Students: 1,891
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Colorado Christian University
Score: 69.69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,266
- Out-of-State:$39,266
- Net Price: $23,313
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 8,964
- Undergrad Students: 7,602
- Graduate Students: 1,362
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado Mesa University
Score: 68.28
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,712
- Out-of-State:$24,312
- Net Price: $15,085
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 8,905
- Undergrad Students: 8,681
- Graduate Students: 224
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Score: 66.77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,780
- Out-of-State:$29,503
- Net Price: $14,805
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 16,995
- Undergrad Students: 15,848
- Graduate Students: 1,147
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado State University Pueblo
Score: 65.87
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,401
- Out-of-State:$17,242
- Net Price: $13,033
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 6,617
- Undergrad Students: 4,772
- Graduate Students: 1,845
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Western Colorado University
Score: 65.7
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,083
- Out-of-State:$23,683
- Net Price: $16,672
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 3,548
- Undergrad Students: 3,095
- Graduate Students: 453
- Grads Salary: $60,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Fort Lewis College
Score: 64.94
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,670
- Out-of-State:$20,798
- Net Price: $15,685
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 3,400
- Undergrad Students: 3,308
- Graduate Students: 92
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Cost of Colorado College Education & Salaries
The in-state costs of college tuition in Colorado averaged about $12,200 for 2018. The Colorado average was lower than the national average by more than $1,700. The University of Colorado at Boulder is a model of low-cost education at about $10,000 per year. In contrast, Colorado College charges more than $53,000 for all students.
Public schools must charge different rates for in-state students whose tax payments support the school and out-of-state students that do not pay into the state system. The costs of out-of-state tuition usually reflect the market value of the educational services. With the higher costs to out-of-state students, public schools maintain strong appeal because they remain far less expensive than many private institutions. Private schools do not charge tiered rates; they do not get the type of taxpayer support that public schools receive.
Colorado ranks low on measures that depend on student need. The population of Colorado ranks above the national averages in income and per-capita income. It ranks in the top one-third in student loans which is a measure of need that is average and not severe. About 65% of Colorado FAFSA applicants get some type of federal financial assistance.
Tuition Cost Analysis - In-state vs. National
Average Tuition & Fees at 4 Year Public Schools
In-State Tuition - $9,349
National Average – $9,580
Out-of-State – $30,140
National Average – $27,437
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid
National – 67% of students get grants or scholarships
Colorado - 49% of students get grants and scholarships
Financial Aid | Received Federal Grants | Average $ per Recipient |
---|---|---|
Colorado | 36% | 37.7% |
Nationally | $10,550 | $10,927 |
* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a postsecondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.
Potential Scholarships for Students
Scholarships and grants advance the cause of education for individuals and groups without adding to their long-term debt. Student debt is a major concern in the US, and grants and scholarships impact student financing at the critical times of need and reduce the need to borrow or use other types of repayable student assistance. The federal government offers the federal student loan program, and it can provide assistance that can make education feasible. The federal government also offers grants and scholarships including the Pell Grant program which aids needy students and does not require repayment.
The state of Colorado offers scholarships and grants based upon need, academic achievement, and family resources. The types of aid include work-study programs that help students work and attend school. The Colorado needs-based awards include the Colorado Student Grant for qualified students with demonstrated need.
https://highered.colorado.gov/Finance/FinancialAid/TypesofStateAidAvailable.htmlBSS
Burg Simpson Scholarship
Amount: $1,000 (9 Awards), $2,500 (1 Award)
Deadline: February 1
https://www.burgsimpson.com/community-involvement/
The application due date is February 1, 2019. The scholarship program awards ten scholarships per year. One award is for $2,500, and nine additional wards will be $1,000 each. The goals of the program are to award financial assistance to deserving students and to raise awareness of the importance of the system of civil trial by jury. The 1,500-word essay topics discuss trial by jury and the threats to that system from restrictive legislation and other limits.
Eligible applicants must be a graduating high school senior enrolled in an accredited Colorado school. Applicants must present an essay on the assigned scholarship topic. The essay must match the detailed content requirements, demonstrate critical and creative thinking, and advance the importance of trial by jury and access to the judicial system.
PCFS
Partner Colorado Foundation Scholarships
Amount: $1,000+
Deadline: March 31
https://www.partnercoloradocu.org/about/foundations/partner-colorado-foundation
The Partner Colorado Credit Union seeks to assist students with a demonstrated level of financial need. Through the Partner Colorado Foundation, the credit union offers scholarships to high school seniors, college undergraduates, or graduate students. The initial selection standard is the student’s need; other criteria include academic achievement and community involvement. The eligibility requirements are that you be between 17 and 40, enrolled full-time in college, and have a principal residence in the state of Colorado. Award winners must maintain a 2.0 GPA or better.
PFS
Pinnacol Foundation Scholarship for children of injured or fatally injured workers
Amount: $4,500
Deadline: February 15
https://www.pinnacol.com/foundation/apply-scholarship
The Pinnacol foundation awards scholarships to children of parents that have sustained a compensable workplace injury. The awards can be up to $4,500 for tuition and other costs of education. Qualified students will have a 2.0 GPA or higher, be between the ages of 16 and 25, and have a High School diploma or GED. Students may use these funds at two-year, four-year, or trade schools.
DSP
Daniels Scholarship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline: November 30
https://www.danielsfund.org/scholarships/daniels-scholarship-program/overview
The application period runs from September 30 through November 30 preceding each school year. Eligible students must reside in Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, and Utah. The awards are unique amounts that depend on the official Expected Family Contribution. The program provides a laptop computer, career counseling, and mentor opportunities. Winning students may also access the Daniels online student resources and enrichment workshops.
Eligible applicants must be graduating high school seniors with a minimum 17 ACT score or 840 on the SAT. The program standards seek applicants that demonstrate community service and leadership potential. The eligible academic goals are to pursue a four-year degree at any accredited school, college, or university in the US. Award winners must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
ACS
ACEC Colorado Scholarship & Education Foundation
Amount: Varies (Total of $30,000 in a year)
Deadline: January 25
http://acec-co.associationsonline.com/site_page.cfm?pk_association_webpage_menu=7534&pk_association_webpage=14997
The program seeks to award a student that demonstrates an awareness of the consulting engineering profession. The application requirements include an interview; applicants must be enrolled in a program towards a bachelor’s degree in engineering or land surveying at an Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET)-accredited institution. They must be in entering the third, fourth, or fifth year of study in the Fall semester of 2019.
CUCFS
Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Scholarships
Amount: $5,000 (10 Awards)
Deadline: Varies
http://www.cuofcofoundation.org/general-scholarships
The Credit Union Colorado Foundation works within a partnership with Happel Associates to provide scholarships to Colorado students. Eligible students must reside within the state and be active in their communities. Students must attend or be enrolled to attend an accredited college or university. Eligible recipients must attend full-time as defined by taking at least 12 semester hours of courses per semester. They must be high school seniors a with a 3.5 GPA or first-year college students with a 3.5 GPA. Renewal is not automatic, and winning students must re-apply for subsequent years.
VCSS
Volunteerism/Community Service Scholarship
Amount: $1,500 (16 Awards)
Deadline: January 30
https://www.coloradocouncil.org/scholarship
A council of volunteer organizations sponsors this scholarship program. The program awards 16 scholarships in the amount of $1,500 each. The goal of the scholarship is to assist deserving students that have provided exemplary levels of volunteer activity. Applicants must be US citizens, a graduating high school senior, or a college student. Qualified applicants must have been residents of Colorado for the two years prior to their application and enrolled in a member institution. The selection criteria emphasize contributions to the community and service to others.
CMS
Colorado Masons Scholarship
Amount: Up to $7,000
Deadline: March 15
http://www.cmbfa.org/scholarships/
This scholarship offers up to $7,000 for a renewable scholarship that can cover up to four years of college education. Eligible students must be graduating high school seniors that intend to enroll in a Colorado accredited college or university. The program criteria emphasize need, character, leadership, and maturity. The scholarship can be renewed up to a total of $28,000. The application processes interviews with Lodge committees to qualify and rate applicants.
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