Overview
Founded in 1965 as a branch campus of the University of Colorado system, UCCS has grown from a small commuter college into a full-fledged research university serving the Pikes Peak region. It has built a strong reputation in fields tied to the region's economy, including aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, and space studies, benefiting from proximity to military installations like Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. The university has expanded rapidly in enrollment and facilities over the past two decades, achieving status as a doctoral research institution.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Colorado Springs, Colorado |
| Founded | 1965 |
| Total students | 12,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 17:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 94% |
| Graduation rate | 55% |
| Average starting salary | $56,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $10,500 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $29,500 |
| Room & board | $13,000 |
| Average financial aid | $9,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 75% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 990-1220 |
| ACT range | 19-25 |
| Average GPA | 3.45 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Aerospace Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Nursing
- Space Studies
- Business Administration
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.