Overview
Founded in 1912 and later consolidated with the University of Colorado system, CU Denver evolved into a comprehensive urban research institution serving nontraditional and working students in the heart of downtown Denver. It shares a campus with the Auraria Higher Education Center alongside Metropolitan State University of Denver and Community College of Denver, giving it a distinctive multi-institutional urban setting. CU Denver has built a reputation for programs in business, engineering, public affairs, architecture, and health-related fields, with strong connections to Denver's growing tech, government, and healthcare sectors.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Denver, Colorado |
| Founded | 1912 |
| Total students | 14,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 77% |
| Graduation rate | 52% |
| Average starting salary | $54,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $11,500 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $32,500 |
| Room & board | $14,000 |
| Average financial aid | $12,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 70% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1010-1220 |
| ACT range | 19-26 |
| Average GPA | 3.45 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Business
- Engineering & Applied Science
- Public Affairs
- Architecture & Planning
- Nursing
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.