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Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, COPublic
Explore All 8 Colleges At Colorado State University$10,299
Tuition/yr
93%
Grad rate
58.4
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best data analytics degree programs: Colorado State University..., U of Colorado Boulder, Metropolitan State Univer...
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $8,400 to $58,032/year
U of Colorado Denver/Ansc... offers the most affordable option at $9,096/yr
Data Analytics degree programs available: 7 master's, 1 doctoral in Colorado
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
3 online data analytics degree programs in Colorado
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Major employers: Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin, Ping Identity
Tech hubs in Denver and Boulder
Hakia Research 2026
Data Analytics degree programs near 31+ cities across Colorado
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Colorado Data Analytics programs
We rank 11 accredited data analytics programs in Colorado using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Data Analytics Degree Programs in Colorado Worth It?
Answer
$121,440
Yes. The best data analytics degree programs in Colorado deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $121,440 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $21,123/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Analytics Degree Rankings in Colorado
Compare the top-ranked Data Analytics programs in Colorado by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Programs in Colorado
3
Programs ranked
$11,026
Avg tuition/yr
90%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Colorado ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with 3 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Colorado State University..., U of Colorado Boulder, Metropolitan State Univer..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Colorado data analytics programs earn a median salary of $103,224, 5% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $8,868 to $13,910 annually, with an average of $11,026/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 90%, with the highest reaching 93%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Colorado's leading technology employers. For students seeking data analytics degrees in Colorado, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$13,910
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad rate
54.9
Hakia Score
Best Master's Data Analytics Programs in Colorado
7
Programs ranked
$22,874
Avg tuition/yr
88%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Colorado offers 7 master's degree programs in data analytics, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Colorado Denver/Ansc..., Regis, Colorado State University..., combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Colorado earn a median salary of $121,440, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $22,874/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Colorado's data analytics schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, COPublic
$9,096
Tuition/yr
95%
Grad rate
83.8
Hakia Score
#4
$13,910
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad rate
61.1
Hakia Score
#5
$18,390
Tuition/yr
79%
Grad rate
54.7
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Colorado State University-Fort Collins | Fort Collins, CO | Public | $10,299 | 93% | 57.0 |
| #7 | University of Denver | Denver, CO | Private | $58,032 | — | 39.2 |
Best Doctoral Data Analytics Programs in Colorado
1
Programs ranked
$10,299
Avg tuition/yr
93%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Colorado is home to 1 doctoral programs in data analytics, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Colorado State University... are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Colorado PhD holders earning a median of $151,800, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Colorado programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing data analytics degrees in Colorado, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, COPublic
$10,299
Tuition/yr
93%
Grad rate
76.6
Hakia Score
Data Analytics Degree Costs & Tuition in Colorado
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $21,123/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $52,808/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,281/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $126,740 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $31,684 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Analytics Students in Colorado
Most students don't pay sticker price. Between federal aid, state grants, scholarships, and employer programs, a data analytics degree in Colorado costs less than the published tuition. But you have to know what's available and hit the deadlines.
FAFSA first.
File the FAFSA as soon as it opens (October 1). Pell Grants go up to $7,395/year (2024-25) and don't need to be repaid. Federal Direct Loans have better terms than private loans. Work-study gives you part-time hours that fit your class schedule.
Colorado state aid: The Colorado state grants and other state programs offer grant money for Colorado residents at public universities. You'll need financial need and decent grades to qualify. Some states also have loan forgiveness for grads who stay and work in-state.
Tech scholarships: Google, Microsoft, and NSF all offer data analytics scholarships. Many target underrepresented groups in computing. Worth applying even if you think you won't get them.
Merit scholarships: Most Colorado universities have automatic merit awards based on GPA and test scores, from $1,000/year up to full tuition. Check each school's scholarship grid on their financial aid page. Your stats might be worth more at one school than another.
Employer tuition programs: Amazon's Career Choice covers up to $5,250/year. Starbucks, UPS, Walmart, and others have similar programs for part-time employees. If you're working, check what your employer offers before borrowing.
Other ways to cut costs: AP/CLEP exams let you skip courses ($3,000+ saved per course). Two years at community college first (associate's programs). Summer enrollment to graduate in three years. Living off-campus or at home. See our affordable Data Analytics programs for the cheapest options.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator, Colorado
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data analytics degree in Colorado. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data analytics degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+854%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,580,373
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$122,727
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,615,781
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Denver, CO)$135,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.7%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Data Analytics Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Colorado metro areas
Denver$134K
Boulder$128K
Colorado Springs$121K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Denver | $134K |
| Boulder | $128K |
| Colorado Springs | $121K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Data Analytics Graduates in Colorado
Find data analytics jobs in Colorado. These major employers across Colorado metro areas are actively hiring data analytics degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Analytics Jobs in Denver/Boulder
CODenver/Boulder is a growing tech hub with aerospace heritage, outdoor lifestyle appeal, and a thriving startup ecosystem.
Nearby cities: Boulder, Westminster, Broomfield, Englewood, Littleton
Google
Search/Cloud/AI
Amazon
E-commerce/Cloud
Microsoft
Enterprise Software
Meta
Social/VR/AI
Apple
Consumer Electronics
Oracle
Enterprise Software
Lockheed Martin
Defense/Aerospace
Ball Aerospace
Aerospace
Arrow Electronics
Electronics Distribution
DISH Network
Telecommunications
Palantir
Data Analytics
Guild Education
EdTech
Ibotta
Fintech/Rewards
SendGrid (Twilio)
Communications API
Transfer Pathways for Data Analytics Degrees in Colorado
Two years at community college, then transfer. You save $31,684+ and end up with the same bachelor's degree as someone who started at the four-year school. It's one of the smartest plays for a data analytics degree in Colorado. See associate's programs to get started.
How 2+2 works: Get your Associate of Science (AS) at a community college, then transfer into a bachelor's program. Most Colorado community colleges have pre-engineering or pre-CS tracks designed to line up with university requirements, so you don't waste credits. See our best Data Analytics bachelor's programs for top transfer destinations.
Transfer agreements: the state transfer system ensures core courses transfer between public institutions in Colorado. Many community colleges have guaranteed admission agreements with state universities. Keep a 3.0+ GPA and you're guaranteed a spot in the data analytics program.
Don't waste credits.
Talk to an advisor and follow the transfer guide for your target university from day one. Get Calculus I & II and intro Computer Programming done at the community college. Competitive programs want a 3.5+ GPA for transfer.
Cost: Community college in Colorado averages $5,281/year. Pell Grants and state aid can cover that entirely for eligible students. Some people finish their first two years debt-free, then only borrow for the university portion. See our affordable Data Analytics programs for cheap bachelor's completion options.
Why Pursue a Data Analytics Degree in Colorado?
Colorado has 8 accredited data analytics programs across 6 public and 2 private institutions, including 6 ABET-accredited programs. That covers everything from research flagships like Colorado State University-Fort Collins to career-focused regional schools. Jump to rankings: Bachelor's Programs | Master's Programs | Online Options | Most Affordable.
The money is real. Data Analytics graduates in Colorado earn a median of $121,440, comparable to the national average (BLS OEWS). Entry-level roles start around $78,936, and experienced engineers hit $176,088+. The state's job market is growing at +22% through 2034, concentrated in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs. Compare programs in our best Data Analytics bachelor's programs.
In-state tuition averages $21,123/year at public universities, saving you $126,740 over four years compared to out-of-state rates. Community colleges start under $5,281/year with transfer pathways to four-year schools. See our affordable Data Analytics programs for the cheapest options.
Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin, Ping Identity, Guild Education all hire out of Colorado schools, and many run internship pipelines straight into full-time roles. Some offer tuition reimbursement too. See our Data Analytics career outcomes guide for salary and employment data. Also check out programs in Utah and Arizona.
Data Analytics Job Growth in Colorado
15%
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for data analytics occupations in Colorado through 2024-2034. The median salary stands at $121,440 with 8 accredited programs statewide.
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook
Data Analytics Job Market & Salary Data in Colorado
Software developers in Colorado earn a median of $121,440 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with 15% projected growth through 2034. The BLS projects about 129,200 annual openings nationwide for software development roles. For more compensation data, see our software developer salary guide.
Most of that growth is in Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, and Cybersecurity, with Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin hiring heavily.
By experience level: Entry-level data analytics roles in Colorado start at $78,936 (BLS data). Mid-career pays about $121,440. Senior engineers and tech leads hit $176,088+. AI/ML, cloud architecture, and cybersecurity roles often pay 20-40% above those numbers.
Who's hiring: Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin, plus Ping Identity, Guild Education all recruit from Colorado schools. Expect competitive comp, signing bonuses, and relocation packages. Check LinkedIn, Indeed, and Built In for current listings.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Colorado$78,936$176,088
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Data Analytics Programs in Colorado
Online Programs
3 available in Colorado
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$19,011/yr$21,123/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Data Analytics Programs in Other States
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Utah
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $7,400
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Nebraska
- Total Programs
- 6
- Median Tuition
- $8,100
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Kansas
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $10,000
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Oklahoma
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $6,500
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 64
- Median Tuition
- $11,800
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 16
- Median Tuition
- $11,500
Data Analytics Degree Programs in Colorado: FAQ
What are the best data analytics degree programs in Colorado?
The best data analytics degree programs in Colorado based on our methodology are: 1) Colorado State University-Fort Collins (93% graduation rate), 2) University of Colorado Boulder, and 3) Metropolitan State University of Denver. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Colorado offers 8 total accredited programs across 6 public and 2 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 3 bachelor's programs.
How much do data analytics degree programs cost in Colorado?
Data Analytics degree program costs in Colorado vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $21,123/year, while private institutions average $46,471/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,281/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $84,492 at public schools to $185,882 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can data analytics degree graduates earn in Colorado?
Data Analytics professionals in Colorado earn a median salary of $121,440, which is 5% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $78,936, while senior roles exceed $176,088. Salaries vary by metro area: Denver ($133,584), Boulder ($127,512) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online data analytics degree programs in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado offers 3 accredited online Data Analytics programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus and Colorado School of Mines. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire data analytics degree graduates in Colorado?
Major Data Analytics employers in Colorado include Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin, Ping Identity, Guild Education. The Denver and Boulder metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Colorado universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Colorado's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a data analytics degree program worth it in Colorado?
A data analytics degree program in Colorado offers strong ROI with a $121,440 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $21,123/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($137,227), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do data analytics degree programs take in Colorado?
Standard completion times for data analytics degree programs in Colorado are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Colorado community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Colorado university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for data analytics degree students in Colorado?
Colorado data analytics degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Colorado state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Colorado's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Colorado salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.