Colorado is known not only for its scenic landscapes but also for its high-quality higher education institutions, including a variety of private colleges and universities. These schools provide a broad range of academic programs, from liberal arts education to specialized professional training, and they often emphasize small class sizes, close-knit communities, and personalized learning experiences.
Colorado College
Colorado College, located in Colorado Springs, is one of the most prestigious private liberal arts colleges in the state. Known for its unique “Block Plan” and strong focus on undergraduate education, Colorado College offers an intellectually rigorous academic environment where students can deeply engage with their subjects in a dynamic and fast-paced setting.
Overview
- Location: Colorado Springs, CO
- Founded: 1874
- Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 students
- Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational
Academic Programs
Colorado College offers more than 80 majors, minors, and specialized programs across a wide range of disciplines, with a focus on liberal arts education.
- Popular Majors:
- Environmental Science
- Economics
- Political Science
- Biology
- English
- Special Programs:
- Block Plan: The college operates on a unique academic calendar where students take one class at a time for three and a half weeks, allowing for in-depth study and experiential learning.
- Interdisciplinary Studies: Colorado College encourages students to explore connections between disciplines and to design personalized majors.
Block Plan Learning Model
The Block Plan is central to the Colorado College experience. By focusing on one subject at a time, students can immerse themselves fully in their coursework, whether it’s a laboratory science or an international study course.
- Experiential Learning: Many courses involve field trips, research projects, or internships that take advantage of Colorado’s rich natural environment and strong local partnerships.
Campus Life
Colorado College fosters a vibrant campus culture that balances academics with extracurricular activities and outdoor adventures.
- Outdoor Education Program: The school is well-known for its outdoor culture, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, rock climbing, and more through the Ahlberg Outdoor Education Center.
- Student Organizations: The college offers more than 100 student-run clubs and organizations, from academic societies to cultural groups.
- Athletics: NCAA Division III, Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference, with strong programs in soccer, lacrosse, and track and field.
Notable Alumni
- Ken Salazar: Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior.
- Lynne Cheney: Author and former Second Lady of the United States.
University of Denver
The University of Denver (DU) is a private research university located in the heart of Denver. As one of Colorado’s largest private universities, DU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, with a particular emphasis on global engagement, leadership, and hands-on learning.
Overview
- Location: Denver, CO
- Founded: 1864
- Enrollment: Approximately 12,000 students (undergraduate and graduate)
- Religious Affiliation: Historically Methodist, now non-denominational
Academic Programs
DU provides a broad spectrum of academic programs across its 10 schools and colleges, offering undergraduate degrees, graduate programs, and professional certifications.
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Business Administration (Daniels College of Business)
- International Studies (Josef Korbel School of International Studies)
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Music (Lamont School of Music)
- Graduate and Professional Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Arts in International Relations
- Juris Doctor (JD)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
Experiential Learning and Global Focus
DU emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research, and community partnerships, as well as a global outlook.
- Study Abroad: The Cherrington Global Scholars program allows DU students to study abroad without paying additional tuition, and over 70% of students participate in study abroad programs.
- Internships and Research: DU provides extensive opportunities for students to engage in internships and research, both locally and internationally.
Campus Life
DU offers a lively campus environment with many opportunities for student involvement and community engagement.
- Student Organizations: DU has more than 120 student organizations, including cultural clubs, academic societies, and service organizations.
- Greek Life: About 20% of the student body participates in fraternities and sororities.
- Athletics: NCAA Division I, Summit League, with strong programs in ice hockey, skiing, and basketball.
Notable Alumni
- Condoleezza Rice: Former U.S. Secretary of State.
- Pete Coors: Chairman of the Coors Brewing Company.
Regis University
Regis University, located in Denver, is a private Jesuit university with a focus on liberal arts education, leadership, and service. With its emphasis on ethical leadership and social justice, Regis offers students a values-based education that prepares them for careers in service-oriented professions like healthcare, education, and public service.
Overview
- Location: Denver, CO
- Founded: 1877
- Enrollment: Approximately 6,900 students (undergraduate and graduate)
- Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic (Jesuit)
Academic Programs
Regis offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on ethics, leadership, and social justice.
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Education
- Health and Exercise Science
- Criminology
- Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
Jesuit Values and Service
Regis University’s Jesuit tradition emphasizes service to others, leadership, and social responsibility. Students are encouraged to integrate these values into their academic and professional lives.
- Service Learning: Regis incorporates service-learning components into many of its courses, encouraging students to engage in community service and civic engagement.
- Jesuit Leadership Track: The university offers leadership programs that focus on ethical decision-making, social justice, and servant leadership.
Campus Life
Regis University provides a community-focused campus experience with many opportunities for involvement and personal growth.
- Student Organizations: Students can participate in more than 50 clubs, ranging from academic groups to cultural organizations.
- Campus Ministry: Regis offers opportunities for spiritual development through retreats, service projects, and regular liturgical services.
- Athletics: NCAA Division II, Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, with strong programs in soccer, volleyball, and basketball.
Notable Alumni
- Bill Murray: Actor and comedian (attended, but did not graduate).
- Daniel Thornton: Former Governor of Colorado.
Naropa University
Naropa University is a private, Buddhist-inspired institution located in Boulder, Colorado. Naropa is unique among U.S. colleges for its emphasis on contemplative education, integrating Eastern philosophies and mindfulness practices into its academic programs. The university is known for its creative arts programs and its focus on personal and spiritual development.
Overview
- Location: Boulder, CO
- Founded: 1974
- Enrollment: Approximately 1,000 students
- Religious Affiliation: Buddhist-inspired, but non-sectarian
Academic Programs
Naropa offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields such as psychology, creative writing, and religious studies, all infused with contemplative practice.
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Contemplative Psychology
- Creative Writing and Literature
- Environmental Studies
- Music
- Yoga Studies
- Graduate Programs:
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Master of Arts in Contemplative Psychotherapy
- Master of Divinity (Buddhist Chaplaincy)
- Master of Arts in Transpersonal Psychology
Contemplative Education
Naropa’s contemplative approach combines rigorous academics with mindfulness and meditation practices to foster personal and spiritual growth.
- Meditation Practice: Meditation and mindfulness are integrated into both the academic curriculum and the daily life of the university, encouraging students to develop self-awareness and compassion.
- Creative Arts Focus: Naropa is known for its vibrant arts programs, including creative writing, music, and visual arts, where students explore creativity as a contemplative practice.
Campus Life
Naropa provides a unique campus environment where students are encouraged to develop their personal and spiritual lives alongside their academic pursuits.
- Mindfulness-Based Activities: Students engage in yoga, meditation sessions, and other contemplative practices both on and off-campus.
- Student Organizations: Naropa has a number of student-led groups focused on meditation, social justice, and environmental activism.
- Arts and Cultural Events: The university regularly hosts performances, readings, and exhibitions that highlight student work in the creative arts.
Notable Alumni
- Allen Ginsberg: Influential poet and co-founder of Naropa’s Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics.
- Anne Waldman: Renowned poet and co-founder of the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics.
Colorado Christian University
Colorado Christian University (CCU), located in Lakewood, is a private Christian university that emphasizes a Christ-centered approach to higher education. CCU provides students with a solid foundation in the liberal arts, as well as professional programs designed to prepare them for leadership roles in fields such as business, education, and ministry.
Overview
- Location: Lakewood, CO
- Founded: 1914
- Enrollment: Approximately 8,500 students (including online students)
- Religious Affiliation: Christian (Evangelical)
Academic Programs
CCU offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on integrating faith and learning.
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Biblical Studies
- Communication
- Elementary Education
- Graduate Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Arts in Counseling
- Master of Arts in Theology
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Christ-Centered Education
At the heart of CCU’s mission is a commitment to Christian values, and the university integrates faith into all aspects of its academic programs and student life.
- Biblical Worldview: All CCU programs emphasize a biblical worldview, encouraging students to think critically about their faith and its application in professional and personal life.
- Spiritual Formation: CCU fosters spiritual development through daily prayer, chapel services, and opportunities for mission trips and service projects.
Campus Life
CCU offers a supportive and spiritually focused campus environment with numerous opportunities for students to engage in faith-based activities and community service.
- Chapel Services: Students attend regular chapel services, which feature worship, guest speakers, and opportunities for spiritual reflection.
- Student Organizations: CCU students can participate in more than 50 student organizations, including faith-based groups, academic clubs, and service organizations.
- Athletics: NCAA Division II, Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, with teams in basketball, soccer, and cross country.
Notable Alumni
- William L. Armstrong: Former U.S. Senator from Colorado and president of CCU.
- Phil Wickham: Christian singer and songwriter.
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
The Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD) is a private college specializing in fine arts, design, and digital media. Located in Lakewood, Colorado, RMCAD offers programs that prepare students for creative careers in fields like animation, graphic design, and interior design. The college is known for its strong emphasis on innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning.
Overview
- Location: Lakewood, CO
- Founded: 1963
- Enrollment: Approximately 1,000 students
- Religious Affiliation: None
Academic Programs
RMCAD offers a variety of degree programs in the creative arts, focusing on both traditional art forms and cutting-edge digital media.
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Animation
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Fine Arts
- Interior Design
- Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts in Design Strategy + Innovation
Hands-On Learning and Creativity
RMCAD emphasizes practical, hands-on learning, providing students with the tools and skills they need to succeed in the competitive world of art and design.
- Portfolio Development: Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to build professional portfolios that showcase their skills and creativity, making them competitive in the job market.
- Industry Partnerships: RMCAD maintains partnerships with creative industries, offering students internship and networking opportunities in animation studios, design firms, and galleries.
Campus Life
RMCAD provides a dynamic and collaborative environment where students can explore their creative passions and connect with other artists.
- Studio Spaces: Students have access to state-of-the-art studios and workshops for painting, sculpture, digital media, and more.
- Exhibitions and Galleries: RMCAD regularly hosts student exhibitions, allowing students to showcase their work to the public and potential employers.
- Clubs and Organizations: Creative clubs and professional organizations, such as the Animation Club and the Graphic Design Association, provide opportunities for networking and collaboration.
Notable Alumni
- Rian Johnson: Film director and screenwriter (attended, but did not graduate).
- David Uhl: Noted painter and motorcycle artist.