Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Colorado 2025
University of Colorado Boulder
483 Computer Science graduates annually, 87% graduation rate
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
214 Computer Science graduates annually, 89% graduation rate
Colorado School of Mines
222 Computer Science graduates annually, 79% graduation rate
- 1.Colorado has 25+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across public research universities, regional campuses, and private colleges
- 2.University of Colorado Boulder ranks #1 in Colorado with strong research focus and 72% graduation rate at affordable in-state tuition
- 3.Colorado School of Mines offers elite STEM education with 82% graduation rate and exceptional career placement in engineering and tech
- 4.Colorado software developers earn median $118,450 annually—higher than national median but with lower cost of living than coastal states
- 5.Denver-Boulder metro area hosts 45,000+ software developer jobs with major employers including IBM, Oracle, Lockheed Martin, and growing startup ecosystem
Computer Science Education Landscape in Colorado
Colorado offers an attractive combination of quality computer science programs, growing tech opportunities, and exceptional quality of life. The state's universities range from research powerhouses like UC Boulder to specialized STEM institutions like Colorado School of Mines, providing options for students seeking different educational approaches.
The Denver-Boulder corridor has emerged as a significant tech hub, attracting companies from aerospace giants to innovative startups. Students benefit from internship opportunities, research collaborations, and post-graduation employment in one of the fastest-growing tech markets in the country.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national computer science rankings. Students considering cost-effective options should review our most affordable CS programs guide. Career-focused students can explore our software engineer salary guide for detailed compensation insights.
Colorado Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder, CO | Public | $13,910 | 87% | — | 80.6 |
| 2 | Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs, CO | For-Profit | $12,100 | 89% | — | 75.9 |
| 3 | Colorado School of Mines | Golden, CO | Public | $18,390 | 79% | — | 71.4 |
| 4 | Colorado State University-Fort Collins | Fort Collins, CO | Public | $10,299 | 93% | — | 67.7 |
| 5 | University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus | Denver, CO | Public | $9,096 | 95% | — | 60.6 |
| 6 | United States Air Force Academy | USAF Academy, CO | Public | $0 | — | — | 60.2 |
| 7 | Colorado College | Colorado Springs, CO | Private | $67,458 | — | — | 53.6 |
| 8 | University of Denver | Denver, CO | Private | $58,032 | — | — | 47.9 |
| 9 | University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs, CO | Public | $8,738 | — | — | 45 |
| 10 | Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver, CO | Public | $8,868 | — | — | 43.8 |
| 11 | Colorado Christian University | Lakewood, CO | Private | $26,668 | — | — | 43.4 |
| 12 | Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction, CO | Public | $8,592 | — | — | 41.5 |
| 13 | Regis University | Denver, CO | Private | $41,990 | — | — | 40.9 |
| 14 | Western Colorado University | Gunnison, CO | Public | $7,128 | — | — | 37.1 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Colorado: Side-by-Side
| School | CU Boulder | Colorado School of Mines | Colorado Technical... | Colorado State University... | United States Air Force... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $13,910 | $18,390 | $12,100 | $10,299 | $0 |
| Graduation Rate | 87% | 79% | 89% | 93% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 483 | 222 | 114 | 200 | 75 |
| Acceptance Rate | 83% | 60% | N/A | 90% | 14% |
| Type | Public | Public | For-Profit | Public | Public |
| Score | 80.6/100 | 71.4/100 | 69.3/100 | 67.7/100 | 63.2/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Colorado
Colorado offers 14 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs, Colorado School of Mines. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $85,008 in the Colorado market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Colorado
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 CU Boulder | $13,910 | 87% | 483 | 80.6 |
| #2 Colorado Technical... | $12,100 | 89% | 214 | 75.9 |
| #3 Colorado School of Mines | $18,390 | 79% | 222 | 71.4 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Colorado
For graduate study, Colorado offers 8 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Colorado reaching $157,872 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Colorado
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Colorado Technical... | $12,100 | 89% | 114 | 69.3 |
| #2 CU Boulder | $13,910 | 87% | 162 | 80.6 |
| #3 U of Colorado Denver/Ansc... | $9,096 | 95% | 73 | 61.4 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Colorado
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Colorado are at Western Colorado University ($7,128/year), Colorado Mesa University ($8,592/year), University of Colorado Colorado Springs ($8,738/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Colorado's competitive tech salaries.
At Western Colorado University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $28,512 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $85,008, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.6 years.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Colorado (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Western Colorado | $7,128 | $28,512 | 0.6 years | Public |
| #2 Colorado Mesa | $8,592 | $34,368 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 U of Colorado Colorado... | $8,738 | $34,952 | 0.7 years | Public |
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $13,910 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 87% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 483 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 80.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 87% graduation rate
- 483 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 80.6 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (87%), program size (483 graduates), state salary outcomes ($121,440), and selectivity (83% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The BS program takes an engineering approach to computer science with emphasis on computing at all levels from circuits to large application systems. Students complete a year-long senior capstone project with options for software design, entrepreneurial ventures, or original research, providing real-world experience and professional connections.
Program Details
- Credits: 58 required hours for Computer Science coursework
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Colorado School of Mines
Golden, CO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $18,390 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 79% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 222 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 60%
- • Ranking Score: 71.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 79% graduation rate
- 222 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 71.4 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (79%), program size (222 graduates), state salary outcomes ($121,440), and selectivity (60% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Colorado School of Mines CS is the fastest growing department at the university with exceptional industry partnerships through C-MAPP that provide both scholarships and real-world engagement. The program offers six distinct emphasis areas including unique tracks like Space and Robotics, combined with ample undergraduate research opportunities and a bridge program for fast-tracking master's degrees.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •4 years of college-prep or advanced math
- •trigonometry or pre-calculus at a minimum
- •3 years of lab science
- •either physics or chemistry at a minimum
- •4 years of English
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 92% Bachelor's Grads positive outcomes for 2023-2024
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO • For-Profit
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,100 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 114 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 69.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 114 computer science graduates annually
- For-Profit institution
- Overall score: 69.3 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (89%), program size (114 graduates), state salary outcomes ($121,440), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,299 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 200 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 90%
- • Ranking Score: 67.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 200 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.7 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (200 graduates), state salary outcomes ($121,440), and selectivity (90% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
United States Air Force Academy
USAF Academy, CO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $0 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 75 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 14%
- • Ranking Score: 63.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 75 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 63.2 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (75 graduates), state salary outcomes ($121,440), and selectivity (14% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop applications, systems, and websites for Colorado's growing tech industry
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze large datasets for Denver's finance, healthcare, and energy companies
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect digital infrastructure for aerospace, government, and tech companies
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1221Develop artificial intelligence solutions for Colorado's innovative tech startups
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1254Streamline development and deployment processes for cloud-native companies
Colorado University Systems and CS Education
Colorado's higher education landscape includes several distinct systems serving different student populations and educational goals. Understanding these systems helps students choose programs that align with their academic and career objectives.
The University of Colorado system includes four campuses: Boulder (flagship research university), Denver (urban campus with professional programs), Colorado Springs (mid-size comprehensive university), and the health sciences campus. Boulder offers the most comprehensive CS research program, while Denver focuses on applied computing with strong industry connections.
Colorado State University system encompasses Fort Collins (main campus) and Pueblo. The Fort Collins campus provides a traditional research university experience with growing CS program strength, while Pueblo serves southern Colorado with more regional focus.
Specialized institutions like Colorado School of Mines offer intensive STEM education with exceptional career outcomes but highly selective admission. Private universities such as University of Denver and Colorado College provide smaller class sizes and personalized attention at higher tuition costs.
Students considering Colorado should also explore related programs in artificial intelligence and data science programs which offer complementary career paths in the growing Colorado tech sector.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Colorado
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Florida
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to a growing tech ecosystem in Denver-Boulder corridor
- Balance between quality education and outdoor recreation opportunities
- Moderate cost of living compared to California and Washington
- Strong job market in aerospace, energy tech, and startups
- Beautiful campus settings with mountain views
- Growing venture capital and startup funding environment
- Access to the largest tech companies (California, Washington)
- Maximum number of program options (California, Texas, New York)
- Lower tuition costs (some Midwest and Southern states)
- Specialized programs in emerging fields (may require coastal schools)
- Maximum diversity of internship opportunities
- Established tech industry networking (Silicon Valley, Seattle)
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado CS Programs
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Resources for Colorado CS Students
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduate rates, enrollment, and institutional data for 2023
Colorado employment and wage data for computer occupations, May 2024
State higher education data and transfer agreements
Research funding and graduate program rankings
25+
Colorado CS Programs
$75,000
Median Starting Salary
$12,500
Average In-State Tuition
24%
Tech Job Growth Rate
450+
Major Employers
1,200+
Annual CS Graduates
Next Steps for Colorado CS Applicants
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements for your target schools, focusing on math prerequisites and application deadlines. Most Colorado CS programs require 4 years of math through calculus.
Plan Your Residency Status
If you're from out-of-state, understand Colorado's 12-month residency requirement and plan accordingly. Consider community college pathways to establish residency while completing prerequisites.
Visit Campus and Connect
Schedule campus visits to UC Boulder, CSU, or Mines during the academic year. Attend information sessions, meet with CS faculty, and explore the surrounding tech communities in Denver and Boulder.
Prepare Strong Applications
Build a compelling application showcasing your passion for computer science through projects, competitions, or relevant work experience. Colorado schools value both academic achievement and practical interest.
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.