University of Colorado Boulder

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57.7
College Consensus
AVERAGE: 69
37.7
Publisher Consensus
AVERAGE: 58.7
77.6
Student Consensus
AVERAGE: 76.9
Publisher Ratings
59.4
U.S. News - National Universities
48.8
Forbes
38.3
Washington Monthly National
4.3
Wall Street Journal
Student Reviews
85.2
Unigo
80.8
U.S. News - Reviews
75.3
Niche
73.8
Grad Reports
73.1
My Plan
Scores last updated on January 6, 2024
81%
Percent Admitted
50%
4-year Graduation Rate
39,585
Enrollment
18.0:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
$11,017
Average Undergraduate Students Aid
$13,106
In-State Tuition and Fees
$40,356
Out-of-State Tuition and Fees
= Average
Sector
Public, 4-year or above
Carnegie Classification
Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
Religious Affiliation
Not applicable

The University of Colorado Boulder is a public, 4-year school located in Boulder, CO. The school was founded in 1876, 5 months before the state of Colorado was admitted to the Union. The 780 acre campus features “Tuscan Vernacular Revival” architecture, unique among campus buildings. The style blends traditional materials with modern design for a distinct appearance. The campus boasts multiple large quads and open spaces – rare for an urban location – and tree-lined paths. The campus abuts the Boulder Creek with its trails and park-like atmosphere. Among many notable alumni are big band composer Glenn Miller, Apollo 13 astronaut Jack Swigert and Olympic gold medalist Bill Toomey.

Academic Programs

The University of Colorado Boulder is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission and offers Bachelor’s degrees, post-baccalaureate Certificates, Master’s degrees, post-masters Certificates and Doctorates in hundreds of fields. The University is comprised of ten colleges and schools: College of Arts and Sciences; Leeds School of Business; School of Education; College of Engineering and Applied Science; Graduate School; University of Colorado School of Law; College of Media, Communication and Information; College of Music; and Continuing Education and Professional Studies. Noted for Psychology, English, Music and Teacher Education, the largest programs on campus are in Business, Biology/Bio-Medical, Social Sciences and Engineering. Per the Mission Statement, “CU-Boulder recognizes the exceptional opportunities associated with its role as a research university, and values the unique strength and character research achievements bring to undergraduate education. It is keenly aware of its responsibility for educating the next generation of citizens and leaders, and for fostering the spirit of discovery through research. Indeed, CU-Boulder believes that its students, both graduate and undergraduate, benefit from the comprehensive mix of programs and research excellence that characterize a flagship university. Thus, CU-Boulder’s statutory mission is relevant today and will remain relevant tomorrow.”

Student Life

There are over 27,000 undergraduate students enrolled in the University of Colorado Boulder, many of whom live on campus among the 24 residence halls and living communities. The University sponsors a myriad clubs and student organizations, including club sports and intramurals. For the varsity athlete, the gold, black and silver Buffaloes, led by Ralphie and Chip, field teams in 9 sports and participate in NCAA Division I competition. The football team has a long-running rivalry with Colorado State culminating with the ‘Rocky Mountain Showdown’ at a neutral site each year. Students understand the stated Core Values (taken from Student Affairs): We are a collaborative team: – creating and embracing a welcoming, inclusive environment; committed to working together with mutual respect and a shared vision; where every individual is committed to excellence in everything we do; with a dedication to ethics and integrity; and continuously improving and leading through innovation.” The school’s Vision is grounded in its statutory mission as a national public research university, and through visionary “flagship initiatives,” will sustain quality and competitiveness in the academic environment.

Ready to start your journey?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

Ready to start your journey?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.