Best Colleges & Universities Colorado
People go to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado for their world-class skiing resorts, hiking trails, and camping locations. Within its borders alone, Colorado hosts 11 national forests, 41 designated wilderness areas, and countless breathtaking landscapes.
To the average college student, these beautiful surroundings are not only beneficial in an academic sense but a mental and emotional one, as well.
The state hosts more than 100 colleges and universities, meaning there is plenty to choose from. Colorado is most known for its universities' research and engineering programs, which afford students the highest measure of comprehensive education and career preparedness.
The town of Colorado Springs even hosts one of America’s five highly prestigious military institutions, The United States Air Force Academy.
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.The state of Colorado encourages college attendance through its Pathway Program, which assists students entering and re-entering college, and streamlines the process of transferring credits to and between schools. The program even facilitates tests for students with no previous credits, which allows them to test out of and receive credits for certain classes.
If you want to pursue your education in a picturesque setting that facilitates both personal and professional growth, Colorado is the place for you.
Colleges in Colorado Fast Facts
- Fall enrollment (2017) = 360,236
- Degrees awarded in Connecticut (2016) = 89,611
- Median in-state public tuition (2016) = $6,765
- Median out-of-state tuition (2016) = $17,922
- Largest schools by the number of degrees awarded = 1. University of Colorado Boulder, 2. Colorado State University-Fort Collins, 3. Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Rankings
EDsmart assesses colleges in Colorado based on data that covers four main areas:
- Cost (average net price)
- Academic quality (graduation rate)
- Student satisfaction (retention rate)
- Salary After Attending (the median earnings of former students who received federal financial aid, at 10 years after entering the school) Source
All data was gathered from the US Dept of Education websites College Scorecard and College Navigator.
Each data point is ranked with equal weight. Schools received a weighted overall ranking score for each individual point mentioned above–100 being the highest score possible.
In the case of a tie in scoring, the average net price was the determining factor for which school received the higher rank–the lower the net price, the higher the ranking.
This ranking aims to help students assess the affordability and value of top colleges in Colorado so they can make informed decisions about which college to attend.
Best Colleges & Universities Colorado for 2020-2021
1. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Score: 100
Average Net Price: $15,446
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Salary After Attending: $68,500
The CU Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora is one of the foremost medical schools in the world. Since 1883, the university has acquired high praise for its specialized science, medicine, and healthcare programs. According to the U.S. News and World Report, it ranks #9 in Best Medical Schools: Primary Care and #7 among Family Medicine programs. The School of Medicine, College of Nursing, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, Colorado School of Public Health, and the Graduate School collectively offer more than 40 degree programs.
This medical campus is home to experienced specialists, practitioners, and researchers, all of whom actively assist students in their academic and professional journeys. A few of the degree programs available to Anschutz students are:
Doctorate of Medicine
Doctorate of Physical Therapy
Master's of Physician Assistant Studies
Master's of Medical Science in Anesthesiology
Master's of Science in Genetic Counseling
Master's of Science in Modern Human Anatomy
Doctorate of Dental Surgery
Doctorate of Public Health
Master's of Public Health
Doctorate of Philosophy
Education. (2019). The Regents of the University of Colorado. Retrieved from: https://www.cuanschutz.edu/education
CU Anschutz Medical Campus. (2019). The Regents of the University of Colorado. Retrieved from: https://www.cuanschutz.edu/
About CU Anschutz Medical Campus. (2019). The Regents of the University of Colorado. Retrieved from: https://www.cuanschutz.edu/about
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-health-schools/university-of-colorado-anschutz-medical-campus--107
2. University of Colorado – Colorado Springs
Score: 99.3
Average Net Price: $15,812
Retention Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Salary After Attending: $68,500
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs stands as a distinguished institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and fostering a vibrant learning environment. Students at UCCS benefit from a dedicated faculty comprising accomplished scholars and industry professionals who are passionate about imparting knowledge and preparing students for success in their chosen fields. By placing emphasis on innovation, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing holistic growth, UCCS empowers its students to emerge as versatile individuals armed with the essential skills and knowledge required to flourish in an ever-changing global panorama. A source of great pride for the university lies in its state-of-the-art facilities, avant-garde research prospects, and robust community collaborations that enrich the comprehensive educational journey.
Education. (2019). The Regents of the University of Colorado. Retrieved from: https://www.cuanschutz.edu/education
CU Anschutz Medical Campus. (2019). The Regents of the University of Colorado. Retrieved from: https://www.cuanschutz.edu/
About CU Anschutz Medical Campus. (2019). The Regents of the University of Colorado. Retrieved from: https://www.cuanschutz.edu/about
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-health-schools/university-of-colorado-anschutz-medical-campus--107
3. Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Score: 99.3
Average Net Price: $19,800
Retention Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $71,700
Colorado State University is a public school that has operated out of Fort Collins since 1870. Today the school runs over 150 degree programs, offering specialties in the fields of business, kinesiology and exercise science, human development, psychology, mechanical engineering, communications, and more. It also offers online graduate and undergraduate programs designed exclusively for remote students, enabling them to pursue their education anytime, anywhere. The U.S. News and World Report ranks Colorado State #153 among National Universities, as well as #168 among Best Value Schools in the country.
Virtual students can finish their bachelor's degrees in agricultural business, computer science, economics, human development and family studies, and more. Online master’s degrees include options in the agricultural sciences, arts and music, communications, engineering, health and human sciences, statistics, and more. Higher Education Leadership and Systems Engineering are the school's two online doctoral-level programs.
Online Ph.D. programs. (2019). Colorado State University. Retrieved from: https://www.online.colostate.edu/degrees/online-phd.dot
Online master’s programs. (2019). Colorado State University. Retrieved from: https://www.online.colostate.edu/degrees/graduate-degrees.dot
Online bachelor’s degrees. (2019). Colorado State University. Retrieved from: https://www.online.colostate.edu/degrees/undergraduate-degrees.dot
CSU Rams online. (2019). Colorado State University. Retrieved from: https://www.online.colostate.edu/
Colorado State University. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/colorado-state-university/
Colorado State University. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/colorado-state-university-1350
4. Colorado State University-Pueblo
Score: 97.3
Average Net Price: $12,556
Retention Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 39%
Salary After Attending: $58,900
The Colorado State University campus in Pueblo has been serving its community since 1933. Today, this accredited state university is home to approximately 4,000 students. The U.S. News and World Report places it at #93 in Regional Universities West, #48 in Top Public Schools, and #65 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. CSU-Pueblo students have over 70 different fields of study from which to choose. The most popular are nursing, business, sociology, kinesiology and exercise science, and communications.
CSU-Pueblo also features one of the most affordable high-quality virtual platforms in the nation. Remote students can earn bachelor’s degrees in construction management or nursing and master’s degrees in business administration or education. The online platform also offers a certificate in Construction Management.
CSU – Pueblo Online. (2019). Colorado State University-Pueblo. Retrieved from: https://www.csupueblo.edu/online/index.html
Colorado State University-Pueblo. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/colorado-state-university---pueblo/
Colorado State University-Pueblo. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/colorado-state-university-pueblo-1365
5. Trinidad State Junior College
Score: 96.8
Average Net Price: $10,806
Retention Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Salary After Attending: $51,900
Trinidad State Junior College was founded in 1925 as the first public community institution in the state of Colorado, and one of the first premier Gunsmithing Schools in America. Today, it operates campuses out of Trinidad and Alamosa and hosts just under 2,000 students in total. Though the school only offers degrees and certificates up to the associate's level, students are able to transfer their credits to a four-year college to complete their bachelor’s degrees if they so choose.
Trinidad offers 15 different fields of study to choose from. A few of the most popular programs include Liberal Arts and Humanities, Automotive Mechanics, Electrical Engineering Technician, Nursing Assistant, Nursing, and Mechanics and Repair. Additionally, Trinidad State Junior College offers over 100 fully-online courses that students can access from anywhere with a WiFi connection. As far as online degrees go, TSJC students can earn a fully online associate's degree or certificate in Occupational Safety and Health Technology.
Online offerings. (2019). Trinidad State Junior College. Retrieved from: http://trinidadstate.edu/online/index.html
General Information. (2019). Trinidad State Junior College. Retrieved from: http://www.trinidadstate.edu/general/index.html
Trinidad State Junior College. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/trinidad-state-junior-college/
Trinidad State Junior College. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/trinidad-state-junior-college-CC08731
6. Morgan Community College
Score: 95.8
Average Net Price: $8,205
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 36%
Salary After Attending: 52,700
Morgan Community College is a public community college that was founded in 1970. Today, it owns several campuses across the state of Colorado, in the cities of Fort Morgan, Burlington, Bennett, Limon, and Wray. Associate's are the highest available degrees, but credit transferring is made easy with the help of Morgan's student advisors and helpful faculty.
The school itself offers nine different fields of study in which to earn degrees or certificates. The majority of students pursue Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing Assistant, Agricultural Business, Nursing, or Automotive Mechanics. Morgan's global classroom platforms allow students to access their classes online anytime, and from anywhere with an internet connection. This school aims to provide students access to the best educational tools and resources, and distance learning is one of these essential tools.
Course delivery options. (2019). Morgan Community College. Retrieved from: https://www.morgancc.edu/programs/course-delivery-options/
Our goals. (2019). Morgan Community College. Retrieved from: https://www.morgancc.edu/about-mcc/our-goals/
Morgan community college. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/morgan-community-college/
Morgan community college. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/morgan-community-college-CC05596
7. Aims Community College
Score: 95.5
Average Net Price: $9,098
Retention Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $44,300
Aims Community College was established in 1967 in Greeley, Colorado operating as a public higher education institution for associate's degrees. The curricula is designed with students in mind, meaning the credit transfer process is simple and understandable. The U.S. News and World Report lists that 41% of Aims undergraduates receive tuition aid through grants or scholarships, making it one of the most affordable 2-year colleges in Colorado.
Aims offers over 200 different degrees and certificates for students to choose from. Most students graduate with degrees in the fields of Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing Assistant, Automotive Mechanics, Welding, or Emergency Medical Technician. The school's online platform accommodates even the busiest of students by offering one fully online Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts program. With the added convenience and flexibility of online learning, students can complete their general education courses and elective requirements on their own schedules.
A.A. degree requirements. (2018). Aims Community College. Retrieved from: https://www.aims.edu/online/aaDegreeRequirements.php
About. (2018). Aims Community College. Retrieved from: https://www.aims.edu/online/index.php
Aims Community College. (2018). Aims Community College. Retrieved from: https://www.aims.edu/
Aims Community College. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/aims-community-college/
8. Colorado Mesa University
Score: 94.8
Average Net Price: $18,840
Retention Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 37%
Salary After Attending: $58,600
Colorado Mesa University is a public school founded in 1925 in Grand Junction, Colorado. Today, it's home to over 10,600 students, ranking #95 in Regional Universities West, #50 in Top Public Schools, and #110 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, according to the U.S. News and World Report. CMU students have over 80 different associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees distance education options from which to choose. Because this university understands the difficulties of trying to balance education with other responsibilities, students are able to access high-quality online courses that accommodate their schedules.
Fully-online undergraduate programs currently include the Associate of Art with Social Science emphasis, the Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts with an Elementary Education licensure, Bachelor’s in Nursing, Radiologic Sciences, Sports Management, and the Bachelor of Business Administration in Management. Graduate programs currently include a Master’s in Nursing, Master’s in Sports Management, Master’s in Business Administration, and Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Online programs. (2019). Colorado Mesa University. Retrieved from: https://www.coloradomesa.edu/distance-education/programs.html
Distance education at CMU. (2019). Colorado Mesa University. Retrieved from: https://www.coloradomesa.edu/distance-education/index.html
Colorado Mesa University. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/colorado-mesa-university/
Colorado Mesa University. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/colorado-mesa-university-1358
9. Community College of Denver
Score: 94.3
Average Net Price: $6,866
Retention Rate: 55%
Graduation Rate: 11%
Salary After Attending: $66,800
The Community College of Denver opened its doors in 1967. Associate's are the highest achievable degrees, but students have access to credit-transfer options to assist them as they continue towards bachelor’s degrees and professional or graduate studies. As far as specialized programs go, CCD students have 13 different fields of study to choose from. The most popular are Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing Assistant, Early Childhood Education, Welding, and Management Sciences and Information Systems.
CCD also features many online courses for busy and remote students, as well as fully online degree and certificate programs. These include classes in accounting, art, biology, business administration, and more.
Pathway CDC online. (2019). Community College of Denver. Retrieved from: https://www.ccd.edu/pathways/ccd-online
Community college of Denver. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/community-college-of-denver/
Community college of Denver. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/community-college-of-denver-CC01960
10. Otero Junior College
Score: 94.3
Average Net Price: $10,679
Retention Rate: 52%
Graduation Rate: 39%
Salary After Attending: $56,900
Since its founding in 1941, Otero Junior College has operated as a public postsecondary educational institution committed to serving its local community of La Junta, Colorado, and the world at large. Because Otero's highest available degrees are at the associate's level, the school provides many credit-transfer resources, empowering students to further their education. OJC students also have the option to choose between 8 different fields of study, the most popular being Liberal Arts and Humanities, Agricultural Business, Nursing Assistant, Nursing, and Automotive Mechanics.
Ultimately, Otero seeks to help students prepare for bachelor’s programs and the career paths of their choosing. They offer Associate's degrees in Arts, Science, Applied Science, and General Studies, and they have several certificate programs.
Programs of study. (2019). Otero Junior College. Retrieved from: https://www.ojc.edu/academics/academicprograms/
Understanding degrees and certificates. (2019). Otero Junior College. Retrieved from: https://www.ojc.edu/academics/understanding/default.aspx
About OJC. (2019). Otero Junior College. Retrieved from: https://www.ojc.edu/about/
Otero Junior College. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/otero-junior-college-CC06564
Otero Junior College. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/otero-junior-college/
11. Metropolitan State University of Denver
Score: 94.3
Average Net Price: $16,204
Retention Rate: 64%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $66,200
The Metropolitan State University of Denver is a public institution that was founded in 1963 in Denver, Colorado. The U.S. News and World Report ranks it at #5 in Most Innovative Schools, #93 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, and #50 in Top Public Schools. Biology, Psychology, Criminal Justice and Safety Studies, Business, Liberal Arts and Humanities, Accounting, and Nursing are the most popular fields of study.
For remote students, the Metropolitan State University of Denver also features online and hybrid courses designed to accommodate even the busiest of schedules. A few of the university's current online courses are Fundamentals of Accounting, Introduction to Astronomy, General Biology, Introduction to Business, Gender and Communication, and Chemistry. MSU Denver operates in affiliation with some of the largest online quality assurance organizations, which means its courses are virtually unmatched in quality.
Online learning. (2019). MSU Denver. Retrieved from: https://msudenver.edu/online/onlinecourses/
Fall 2019 online classes - Online courses at MSU Denver. (2019). MSU Denver. Retrieved from: http://www.msudenver.edu/cgi-bin/schedules/fall/online.cgi
Metropolitan State University of Denver. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/metropolitan-state-university-of-denver/
Metropolitan State University of Denver. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/metropolitan-state-university-of-denver-1360
12. Red Rocks Community College
Score: 93.8
Average Net Price: $16,204
Retention Rate: 64%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $66,200
Red Rocks Community College is a public post-secondary institution that was founded in 1969, operating with campuses located in the cities of Lakewood and Arvada. The highest available degrees are at the associate's-level, but credits can easily transfer to a four-year college and apply to bachelor’s degrees. Students can choose from 16 fields of study, the most popular being Liberal Arts and Humanities, Business, Emergency Medical Technician, Accounting Technician, and Bookkeeping, Automotive Mechanics, Drafting and Design, and Fire Science and Fire Fighting. In 2019, this community college ranked 84 for the safest college campuses in the United States.
Red Rocks provides its students with fully-online and hybrid courses designed to accommodate even the busiest of schedules. A few of the online courses currently being offered are Introduction to Business, Introduction to Sociology, Accounting Principles, Dietary Nutrition, Medical Office Administration, Music Appreciation, Basic Anatomy and Physiology, Networking Fundamentals, Emergency Management, Introduction to Early Childhood Education, General Psychology, Introduction to Radiography, and many more.
Online fall 2019. (2019). RRCC. Retrieved from: https://www.rrcc.edu/sites/default/files/u118/Online%20Flyer%2020F_12.pdf
Red Rocks online. (2019). RRCC. Retrieved from: https://www.rrcc.edu/online-learning
Red Rocks community college. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/red-rocks-community-college-CC07109
Red Rocks community college. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/red-rocks-community-college/
13. Colorado Mountain College
Score: 93.5
Average Net Price: $6,690
Retention Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 28%
Salary After Attending: $53,500
Since its founding in 1967, Colorado Mountain College has been serving its community of Glenwood Springs, Colorado and offering associate's and bachelor’s degrees to students from all walks of life. This school is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable education, helping individual students succeed in their educational goals and pursue their dreams. CMC offers associate's degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and certificates, the most popular being Liberal Arts and Humanities, Emergency Medical Technician, Nursing Assistant, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Early Childhood Education, and Business. Students can pursue one of the five bachelor’s degrees that Colorado Mountain currently offers, including Nursing, Education, Business, Leadership and Management, and Sustainability.
In addition to its on-campus offerings, CMC also provides online learning through virtual format. A few of the online courses currently offered are Accounting Principles, Cultural Anthropology, Digital Photography, Introduction to Business, Introduction to Chemistry, Creative Writing, Principles of Macroeconomics, Music Appreciation, Introduction to Philosophy, and more.
Online learning classes – Summer 2019. (2019). Colorado Mountain College. Retrieved from: https://cmc-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/filebase/class-schedules/online-su19.pdf
Online learning. (2019). Colorado Mountain College. Retrieved from: https://coloradomtn.edu/online-learning/
Programs & degrees. (2019). Colorado Mountain College. Retrieved from: https://coloradomtn.edu/programs/
About us. (2019). Colorado Mountain College. Retrieved from: https://coloradomtn.edu/about-us/
Colorado Mountain College. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/colorado-mountain-college/
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14. Front Range Community College
Score: 93.5
Average Net Price: $9,713
Retention Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 25%
Salary After Attending: $54,700
Front Range Community College is a public post-secondary institution that opened in 1968 in the city of Westminster, Colorado. Though the highest-level degree students can pursue is an associate's, Front Range simplifies the credit-transfer process significantly so students can go on to attend a four-year college with relative ease. This college offers 16 different fields in which to earn a degree or certificate, the most popular being Liberal Arts and Humanities, Business, Welding, Automotive Mechanics, Emergency Medical Technician, and Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications, and Nursing Assistant.
Through its virtual platform, Front Range also provides over 350 online courses, comprising 28 fully online degrees and 17 certificates. Fully-online degrees cover the fields of anthropology, business, criminal justice, early childhood education, mathematics, Spanish, English, psychology, and more.
Online degrees and certificates. (2019). Front Range Community College. Retrieved from: https://www.frontrange.edu/programs-and-courses/online-learning/online-degrees-certificates
Front Range community college. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/front-range-community-college/
Front Range community college. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/front-range-community-college-CC02963
15. Adams State University
Score: 93.5
Average Net Price: $14,229
Retention Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 39%
Salary After Attending: $54,100
Adams State University was founded in 1921 in Alamosa, Colorado. Today, it hosts more than 3,700 students and offers 37 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in total. The most popular majors are in Liberal Arts and Humanities, Business, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Nursing. Adams offers one of the most affordable online Master's in Sports Psychology in the nation, along with a plethora of online education options designed to accommodate remote students.
Currently, Adams offers online programs in the fields of business, education administration and leadership, kinesiology, humanities, business administration, public administration, sociology, and more. Remote students also have the option of pursuing a comprehensive online paralegal certificate program that will prepare them for prosperous careers and lifelong success.
Academics at Adams State. (2019). Adams State University. Retrieved from: https://www.adams.edu/academics/
Impact on a large scale. (2019). Adams State University. Retrieved from: https://www.adams.edu/
Adams State University. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/adams-state-university-1345
Adams State University. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/adams-state-university/
16. Colorado Northwestern Community College
Score: 93.3
Average Net Price: $13,502
Retention Rate: 53%
Graduation Rate: 41%
Salary After Attending: $54,500
Colorado Northwestern Community College is a public institution that first opened to the public in 1962, committed to "enhance people’s lives by providing… accessible, affordable, quality education." Today, it maintains two campus locations in the cities of Rangely and Craig. Students have 15 study programs to choose from and 20 pathways in the Arts and Sciences.
This school's online platform provides additional convenience, flexibility, and personalized methods for remote students with busy schedules. Some of the online courses currently offered are Fundamentals of Accounting, Cultural Anthropology, Art Appreciation, and many more.
CCCOnline – Fall 2019 – Schedule. (2019). Colorado Northwestern Community College. Retrieved from: https://www.cncc.edu/images/schedules/2019/Online_Schedule_Fall_2019_3.pdf
Mission & Vision. (2019). Colorado Northwestern Community College. Retrieved from: https://www.cncc.edu/home/mission
Colorado Northwestern Community College. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/colorado-northwestern-community-college-CC01861
Colorado Northwestern Community College. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/colorado-northwestern-community-college/
17. Western Colorado University
Score: 93
Average Net Price: $17,200
Retention Rate: 67%
Graduation Rate: 49%
Salary After Attending: $33,600
Located deep in the heart of the Rocky Mountains' Gunnision Valley, Western Colorado University delivers a comprehensive liberal arts institution to over 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students at an affordable cost. The university’s tight-knit community ensures students receive personalized attention and gain real-world experience before graduation. Western offers countless hands-on learning opportunities and adventures, both in and outside of the classroom.
Western partners with the University of Colorado Boulder to run the Paul M. Rady School of Computer Science and Engineering, which offers two unique undergraduate engineering programs. Students are able to earn their degrees at CU Boulder while living on Western’s campus. Learn more at western.edu/rady.
According to the U.S. News and World Report, this university ranks #75 in Regional Universities West, #35 in Top Public Schools, and #104 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. Western Colorado University also offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate areas of study. The majority of students major in Business, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Biology, Psychology, Studio Arts, Sociology, and Environmental Science.
Western Colorado University. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/western-colorado-university/
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Future students. (2019). Western Colorado University. Retrieved from: https://www.western.edu/future-students
Academics. (2019). Western Colorado University. Retrieved from: https://www.western.edu/academics
18. Northeastern Junior College
Score: 91.5
Average Net Price: $11,484
Retention Rate: 61%
Graduation Rate: 30%
Salary After Attending: $34,600
In Sterling, Colorado, Northeastern Junior College first opened its doors to the public in 1941. Today, it is home to over 1,400 students and offers them associate's degrees and certificates in multiple fields. Northwestern also assists in the credit-transfer process, helping countless students on their way to four-year institutions and higher levels of education. The university offers degrees and certificates in 11 different fields of study, the most popular being Liberal Arts and Humanities, Automotive Mechanics, Business, Welding, and Instrumentation Technician.
A unique feature of NJC is that it offers students the option to live on campus, which is not something small colleges usually do. Northeastern Junior College also provides online courses in just about every subject. These virtual courses are accessible 24/7 so students can pursue their educations on their own schedules. Virtual courses cover the fields of accounting, statistics, economics, web page creation, and much more.
Northeastern junior college. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/northeastern-junior-college/
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Online classes. (2013). Northeastern Junior College. Retrieved from: http://www.njc.edu/Online-Classes
Living on campus. (2013). Northeastern Junior College. Retrieved from: http://www.njc.edu/Living-on-Campus
19. Fort Lewis College
Score: 91.5
Average Net Price: $16,922
Retention Rate: 60%
Graduation Rate: 46%
Salary After Attending: $40,900
Fort Lewis College is a public institution that has served the city of Durango, Colorado, and the surrounding community since 1911. Today, it's home to nearly 4,000 students, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in 44 different areas of study. Most Fort Lewis students pursue majors in Business, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Psychology, Biology, or Studio Arts. According to the U.S. News and World Report, it sits at #13 among Top Public Schools, #157 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, and #171 in National Liberal Arts Colleges.
Fort Lewis offers a variety of online courses and is in the process of constructing fully-online degree programs. One of its more distinctive features is that it provides free tuition to qualifying Native American students, and awards more bachelor’s degrees to Native Americans and Alaskan Natives than any other college in the country. Over 160 Native American tribes are represented on the Fort Lewis campus. Ultimately, the school itself aims to provide "professional education to a diverse student population, preparing global citizens to work in and contribute to a complex world."
Distance education at FLC. (2019). Fort Lewis College. Retrieved from: https://www.fortlewis.edu/teaching-learning-services/DistanceEducation/DistanceEducationatFLC.aspx
Mission & core values. (2019). Fort Lewis College. Retrieved from: https://www.fortlewis.edu/Home/About/MissionVisionCoreValues.aspx
Fort Lewis College. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/fort-lewis-college-1353
Fort Lewis College. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/fort-lewis-college/
20. Lamar Community College
Score: 91
Average Net Price: $9,459
Retention Rate: 53%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $18,900
Lamar Community College is a public post-secondary institution that was founded in 1937 in Lamar, Colorado. The highest achievable degrees are at the associate's level, but Lamar makes it easy to transfer credits to bachelor’s programs for continued education. Students may choose between nine different fields of study, the most popular being Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing, General Construction Trades, Animal Training, and Nursing Assistant.
Lamar Community College also features a variety of online courses that accommodate remote students, meaning LCC students can learn from anywhere in the world if needed. Some of the online courses this school is offering are Fundamentals of Accounting, Cultural Anthropology, Art Appreciation, Basic Anatomy and Physiology, Business Statistics, Introduction to Chemistry, Introduction to Computer Information Systems, Introduction to Archaeology, and much more.
All course listing. (2019). Colorado Community Colleges Online. Retrieved from: https://www.ccconline.org/category/all-course-listing/
Online learning. (2019). Lamar Community College. Retrieved from: https://lamarcc.edu/academics/online-learning-2/
Lamar community college. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/lamar-community-college/
Lamar community college. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/lamar-community-college-CC04473
21. Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Score: 91
Average Net Price: $15,658
Retention Rate: 41%
Graduation Rate: 25%
Salary After Attending: $71,500
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs started in 1965 in Colorado Springs. Today, it operates accredited undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs on campus and online. According to the U.S. News and World Report, it ranks #252 among Top Performers on Social Mobility, and #298 among National Universities.
At the Colorado Springs campus, some of the most popular fields of study are Business, Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration, Information Technology, Accounting, Healthcare Management, and Nursing. This school offers 17 doctoral degrees, 44 master’s degrees, 51 bachelor’s degrees, as well as three associate's level programs. Through CTU's virtual platform, remote students have the option to earn their degree from the comfort of their own home. Ultimately, Colorado Tech makes an excellent option for students with busy lives that require the flexibility of attending online classes wherever and whenever they choose.
Degree programs from Colorado Technical University. (2019). Colorado Technical University. Retrieved from: https://www.coloradotech.edu/degrees
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/colorado-technical-university---colorado-springs/
Colorado Technical University online programs. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/colorado-technical-university-126827
22. Pueblo Community College
Score: 90.8
Average Net Price: $11,677
Retention Rate: 47%
Graduation Rate: 20%
Salary After Attending: $60,500
Pueblo Community College is a public post-secondary institution that was established in 1933. Today, it maintains campuses in the cities of Pueblo, Canon City, Mancos, Durango, and Bayfield. Students have the choice between 15 different fields of study, and the college also offers 18 transfer degree options designed to accommodate students' individual goals. The more popular fields include Data Processing, Liberal Arts and Humanities, Information Science, Automotive Mechanics, Emergency Medical Technician, and Nursing.
Pueblo offers a few bachelor’s degree programs, as well as several associate's degrees. Currently, the bachelor’s options include the Bachelor of Applied Science and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The school also offers online bachelor’s degrees for those who require more flexibility in their schedule. These include the Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene, Bachelor’s in Radiologic Technology, Bachelor’s in Nursing, and the Bachelor’s in Respiratory Therapy. Nearly all of Pueblo's programs feature a variety of high-quality online courses that benefit students both in and out of the classroom.
Bachelor degrees at Pueblo community college. (2019). Pueblo Community College. Retrieved from: http://www.pueblocc.edu/Bachelor/
Pueblo community college. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/pueblo-community-college/
Pueblo community college. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/pueblo-community-college-CC06991
23. Community College of Aurora
Score: 87.8
Average Net Price: $16,488
Retention Rate: 57%
Graduation Rate: 17%
Salary After Attending: $47,300
The Community College of Aurora is a public school that was established in 1983. Today, the two-year institution offers students degrees and certificates in 11 different fields of study. The most popular fields are Liberal Arts and Humanities, Emergency Medical Technician, Office Management, Cinematography and Video Production, and Early Childhood Education. Ultimately, the Community College of Aurora prepares students to be successful in their future careers by offering top-notch instruction and comprehensive curricula.
Aurora's online platform assists remote students by providing them with the resources necessary to succeed. Currently, the online programs cover fields such as anthropology, business, criminal justice, economics, elementary education, English, history, psychology, Spanish, biology, and applied technology. Online certificates in Business, Computer, and Early Childhood Education are also made available to remote students.
Online degrees & certificates. (2019). Community College of Aurora. Retrieved from: https://www.ccaurora.edu/online
Why CCA? (2019). Community College of Aurora. Retrieved from: https://www.ccaurora.edu/why-cca
Community College of Aurora. (2019). U.S. News & World Report LP. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/community-college-of-aurora-CC01947
Community College of Aurora. (2019). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/community-college-of-aurora/
Further Reading: Cheapest Online Colleges Rankings
