DEEPCOLLEGES · OPS · v3.3 SCHOOLS·INDEXED 120 SOURCES IPEDS · CDS · SCORECARD LAST·SYNC 2026.04.29

Best Colleges in Colorado: Ranked by Value & Outcomes

Ranked by graduate outcomes and value — not prestige.

Top Colleges in Colorado

#1
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO · Public
89.6%
accept
$60,543
Salary (10yr)
#2
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO · Public
83.3%
accept
$69,738
Salary (10yr)

FAQs about colleges in Colorado

How many colleges are in Colorado ranked on this page?
This guide ranks 2 colleges in Colorado by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.
What is the hardest college to get into in Colorado?
University of Colorado Boulder has the lowest acceptance rate among Colorado colleges on this list at 83.3%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.
Which Colorado college has the highest graduate salary?
University of Colorado Boulder graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Colorado colleges on this list, at $69,738. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.
Should I stay in Colorado for college?
In-state public colleges in Colorado typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Colorado charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.
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Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.