Overview
Founded in 1874, Colorado School of Mines began as a training school for miners and engineers during the Colorado mining boom and has evolved into a nationally recognized public research university specializing in engineering, science, and applied technology. Mines is particularly renowned for its programs in petroleum engineering, mining engineering, geology, and geophysics, though it has expanded into computer science, robotics, and renewable energy research. The institution maintains a rigorous academic reputation, consistently ranking among the top STEM-focused universities in the nation.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Golden, Colorado |
| Founded | 1874 |
| Total students | 7,200 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 62% |
| Graduation rate | 78% |
| Average starting salary | $74,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $21,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $40,000 |
| Room & board | $14,500 |
| Average financial aid | $18,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 70% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1280-1460 |
| ACT range | 27-32 |
| Average GPA | 3.85 |
| Regular deadline | January 15 |
Top Programs
- Petroleum Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Geological Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mechanical Engineering
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.