Best Colleges in Colorado (2023 Rankings)

As the academic landscape evolves, the pursuit of knowledge continues to thrive in the picturesque expanse of Colorado. The year 2023 unveils a fresh array of excellence in education across the state. 

Here, we present the crème de la crème of Colorado's educational institutions, each bearing unique strengths, programs, and opportunities that shape the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and creators. In no particular order, discover the best colleges that Colorado has to offer in this year's rankings!

University of Denver

Located in the golden heart of the Rocky Mountains, the University of Denver is a gem of higher education in Colorado. With a student population representing various corners of America and beyond, this private research university prides itself on a diverse community. The school's commitment to sustainability shines through its academic programs, including renowned graduate degrees in fields like business, law, and international studies. 

A low student-to-faculty ratio (10:1) fosters close-knit relationships. From on-campus Greek life to extracurricular clubs, the active student body thrives both academically and socially.

The Stats

• National ranking: 128
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 5,700 undergraduate students
• Location: North-central Colorado in Denver, a large residential area
• Acceptance rate: 61%
• 4-year graduation rate: 67%

University of Colorado Boulder

Resting in the breathtaking Rocky Mountain region, the University of Colorado Boulder stands as a vibrant hub of learning and innovation. As a leading public institution, CU Boulder is famed for its top-notch engineering and science programs, especially its pioneering work in Earth and space sciences. 

With a dynamic student body hailing from over 100 countries, this comprehensive research university offers a global perspective. And affordable in-state tuition for Colorado residents is only $12,466.

The Stats

• National ranking: 182
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 30,300 undergraduate students
• Location: North-central Colorado in Boulder, a residential city area
• Acceptance rate: 84%
• 4-year graduation rate: 50%

Colorado State University, Fort Collins

With a wallet-friendly in-state tuition of $11,814, Colorado State University (CSU) is a dynamic public university that has witnessed an enrollment surge in the past decade. 

As a Carnegie Class 1 research institution, CSU offers more than 150 degree programs across eight colleges. Students can explore areas of study like business, engineering, education, and the renowned College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. 

The Stats

• National ranking: 291
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 24,700 undergraduate students
• Location: Northern Colorado in Fort Collins, a residential city area
• Acceptance rate: 84%
• 4-year graduation rate: 47%

Colorado College

Tucked into the captivating landscape of Colorado Springs, Colorado College is a beacon of academic excellence. With a tuition of $60,864 for in-state and out-of-state students, the unique Block Plan this college offers sets it apart.

Faculty exchanges with Harvard University enhance its liberal arts college prowess. Through hands-on experiences like student-run dance workshops, sociopolitical studies abroad, and literary retreats, the college fosters holistic growth.

The Stats

• National ranking: 115
• Size: Four-year, small-sized university with approximately 2,000 undergraduate students
• Location: Central Colorado in Colorado Springs, a large city area
• Acceptance rate: 14%
• 4-year graduation rate: 82%

Colorado School of Mines

Located in the picturesque city of Golden, the Colorado School of Mines is a haven for science enthusiasts. Mines is renowned as one of the top colleges in Colorado for public engineering and applied sciences fields of study.

The annual Winter Classic caters to cold-weather sports fans. Research blooms at centers like Renewable Energy Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, while the Geological Mines Museum unveils treasures like moon rocks, gemstones, and dinosaur tracks.

The Stats

• National ranking: 184
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 5,200 undergraduate students
• Location: Central Colorado in Golden, a large suburban area
• Acceptance rate: 55%
• 4-year graduation rate: 65%

Metropolitan State University of Denver

The Metropolitan State University of Denver shines for offering accessible education in the heart of Denver. MSU Denver is one of Colorado's top four-year colleges to embrace all aspiring learners. This large public university prides itself on offering a diverse array of degree programs, from literature and philosophy to healthcare and brewing science. 

Unconventional paths like creating your own degree await. With a commitment to innovation and hands-on learning, MSU Denver ensures affordable education while fostering a community where access and diversity thrive.

The Stats

• National ranking: >600
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 17,900 undergraduate students
• Location: Central Colorado in Denver, a large city/urban area
• Acceptance rate: 83%
• 4-year graduation rate: 11%

Regis University

Rooted in Denver, Regis University is a private Jesuit Catholic institution known for its veteran-focused education. With campuses in Northwest Denver, Thornton, and Greenwood Village, the Center for the Study of War Experience's oral history interviews cement its commitment to veterans. 

Accelerated FastForward bachelor's-to-master's degrees catapult learners into graduate programs and the workforce with a head start.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 3,100 undergraduate students
• Location: Central Colorado in Denver, a large city/urban area
• Acceptance rate: 78%
• 4-year graduation rate: 56%

Colorado Christian University

Embracing its founding year of 1914, Colorado Christian University (CCU) radiates as the flagship Christian institution in the Rocky Mountain realm. Rooted in grace and truth, CCU shapes students to champion transformation worldwide through Christ-centered higher education. Guided by a non-denominational Statement of Faith, CCU stands strong, exemplifying the marriage of faith and education.

The College of Adult and Graduate Studies (CCU Online) extends globally, offering online degrees for adult learners, including everything from associate degrees to doctoral degrees.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 6,600 undergraduate students
• Location: Central Colorado in Lakewood, a midsized city/urban area
• Acceptance rate: No data
• 4-year graduation rate: 54%

University of Northern Colorado

Located in charming Greeley, just 50 miles northeast of Denver, the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) thrives as a hub of academic excellence and inclusivity. Boasting a spectrum of more than 100 bachelor's degree programs and many master's degree programs, UNC's offerings span education, health sciences, business, humanities, and the arts. 

Recognized for top-tier teacher preparation and health programs, UNC champions cultural inclusivity as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). The Marcus Garvey Center for Black Cultural Education and the Cesar Chavez Cultural Center uplift African American and Latinx students, while additional cultural centers honor Native American and Asian Pacific cultures.

The Stats

• National ranking: >600
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 8,400 undergraduate students
• Location: Northeast Colorado in Greeley, a residential city area
• Acceptance rate: 88%
• 4-year graduation rate: 33%

Colorado Mountain College

Tucked into the stunning landscapes of Colorado, Colorado Mountain College oozes sustainable education. As the sole institution in the state to receive the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon for Schools Postsecondary Sustainability Award, CMC is a trailblazer in environmental consciousness. 

With a remarkable student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1, this institution offers an intimate learning environment akin to a private college. Serving a diverse student body, including over 25% Latino students, CMC is designated a Hispanic Serving Institution, paving the way for grant funding that benefits all learners. 

From certificates to associate and bachelor's degrees, CMC's innovative offerings make it a powerhouse of learning in the heart of the Rockies.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 5,300 undergraduate students
• Location: Northwest Colorado in Glenwood Springs, a remote town
• Acceptance rate: No data

Honorable mentions

• University of Colorado Denver. Consider this school to attend Colorado's sole public urban research university.
• Western Colorado University. In the Rocky Mountains, Western Colorado University has an expansive outdoor research laboratory.
• Fort Lewis College. Adventure on with this college's blend of education and adventure.
• University of Colorado Colorado Springs. UCCS boasts 20% military-affiliated students, Gold Military and Spouse Friendly.
• Colorado State University Pueblo. Part of the public CSU system, attend CSU Pueblo for an affordable education at a small school.
• United States Air Force Academy. Go here to start a career in the U.S. Air and Space Forces.
• Colorado Mesa University. Enjoy the Outdoor Program for fun activities.
• Adams State University. Looking for diversity? Adams was Colorado's inaugural Hispanic Serving Institution.

College Rover can help you discover your path in the Rocky Mountain State

In the vibrant landscape of the Rocky Mountain State, the diverse array of top colleges beckons. From the University of Denver's innovative block plan to the Colorado School of Mines' scientific prowess, each institution has its unique strengths.

If you're ready to embark on this exciting journey of education, let College Rover be your compass. With College Rover, you can easily navigate through various schools, programs, financial aid options, and more.

College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.