Quick Summary
Since 1912, University of Colorado Denver has been one of United States's prominent public research universitys, based in Denver. Ranked #420-430 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 14747 students including 7% from outside United States. Known for strengths in Nursing, Architecture, Business Administration, it maintains an acceptance rate of 75%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
Located in the heart of Denver, offering direct access to career opportunities and a diverse, research-intensive academic environment.
Subject Strengths
NursingArchitectureBusiness AdministrationPublic HealthUrban Planning
Founded1912
TypePublic Research University
Total Students14747
Intl Students7%
Faculty Ratio17
CampusUrban
Campus Size126 acres
Affiliated HospitalsUniversity of Colorado Hospital, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver Health
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (HLC)
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#420-430
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#401-500
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#401-500
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Certificates
Programs
Clinical Psychology, Computer Science and Information Systems, Education and Human Development, Engineering and Applied Science
PhD Programs
RN to BS in Nursing, MBA, MA in Education, BA in Communication
Online Programs
Center for Bioengineering, Center for Geotechnical Engineering, Center for Sustainable Urban Infrastructure
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate75%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL79
Min GPA3
GREOptional for most programs
GMATOptional for most business programs
SAT1050-1250
ACT21-27
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · July 31
SPRINGApplication Deadline · November 1
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Submit transcripts early and highlight professional experience for graduate applications. Personal statements should focus on urban engagement.
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Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$26,850/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$18,450/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$25,200/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$50
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$45,350/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailablePresidential Scholarship, International Admissions Scholarship, Lynx Scholarship
Avg Scholarship$5,000
Financial AidFederal Pell Grants, Work-Study, CU Denver Institutional Grants
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Certificates programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Biology | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Psychology | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Business | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Nursing | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Digital Media | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Civil Engineering | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$56,200
Average Salary After Graduation
88%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections with downtown Denver industries and government agencies.
Industry Connections
Lockheed MartinDaVitaXcel EnergyHealthOneBall Corporation
Notable Alumni
Rick Alden, Inga Stephens Pratt, Carlos Páez Vilaró
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Lola & Rob Salazar Student Wellness Center, Club Sports, Outdoor Adventure Center
Student Clubs
120+ Student Organizations
Library Resources
Auraria Library (shared resources across three institutions)
Exchange Programs
Global Study Abroad programs available in 30+ countries
Summer Programs
Summer Bridge Program, Intensive English Center sessions