Top 3 Data Science Programs in Colorado 2025
University of Colorado Boulder
502 Data Science graduates annually, 87% graduation rate
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
214 Data Science graduates annually, 89% graduation rate
Colorado School of Mines
222 Data Science graduates annually, 79% graduation rate
- 1.Colorado has 20+ accredited data science and analytics bachelor's programs across public universities and private colleges
- 2.Colorado School of Mines ranks #1 in Colorado with 84% graduation rate and unique engineering-focused data science approach
- 3.CU Boulder offers top research opportunities at $13,910 in-state tuition with strong computer science integration
- 4.Colorado data scientists earn median $109,820 annually—slightly above the national median (BLS Colorado 2024)
- 5.Denver-Boulder tech corridor provides 400+ employers including Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, and growing startups
Data Science Education in Colorado
Colorado offers a growing selection of data science programs that leverage the state's strengths in aerospace, energy, and technology. From the engineering excellence of Colorado School of Mines to the research prowess of CU Boulder, Colorado universities combine traditional academic rigor with practical applications in industries like energy extraction, environmental science, and space technology.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national data science bachelor's rankings. Students considering costs should review our most affordable data science programs guide. Career-focused students should explore our data scientist salary guide for Colorado-specific compensation data and our data science curriculum guide for course planning.
Colorado's tech sector is rapidly expanding beyond traditional aerospace and energy companies. The Denver-Boulder corridor now hosts major employers like Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, and growing fintech and healthtech startups. Students can also explore data science bootcamps for accelerated learning paths or AWS certifications to complement their degree.
Colorado Data Science Program 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% | — | 75.5 |
| 3 | Colorado School of Mines | Golden, CO | Public | $18,390 | 79% | — | 71 |
| 4 | University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus | Denver, CO | Public | $9,096 | 95% | — | 60.3 |
| 5 | United States Air Force Academy | USAF Academy, CO | Public | $0 | — | — | 59.9 |
| 6 | Colorado College | Colorado Springs, CO | Private | $67,458 | — | — | 53.4 |
| 7 | Colorado State University-Fort Collins | Fort Collins, CO | Public | $10,299 | 93% | — | 50.5 |
| 8 | University of Denver | Denver, CO | Private | $58,032 | — | — | 46.4 |
| 9 | University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs, CO | Public | $8,738 | — | — | 44.7 |
| 10 | Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver, CO | Public | $8,868 | — | — | 43.7 |
| 11 | Colorado Christian University | Lakewood, CO | Private | $26,668 | — | — | 43.3 |
| 12 | Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction, CO | Public | $8,592 | — | — | 41.4 |
| 13 | Regis University | Denver, CO | Private | $41,990 | — | — | 40.7 |
| 14 | Western Colorado University | Gunnison, CO | Public | $7,128 | — | — | 36.9 |
Top 5 Data Science Programs in Colorado: Side-by-Side
| School | CU Boulder | Colorado Technical... | United States Air Force... | Colorado School of Mines | Colorado State University... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $13,910 | $12,100 | $0 | $18,390 | $10,299 |
| Graduation Rate | 87% | 89% | N/A% | 79% | 93% |
| Annual Graduates | 502 | 114 | 75 | 80 | 30 |
| Acceptance Rate | 83% | N/A | 14% | 60% | 90% |
| Type | Public | For-Profit | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 80.6/100 | 69.0/100 | 62.9/100 | 61.2/100 | 50.5/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Science in Colorado
Colorado offers 9 bachelor's-level data 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 data science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Colorado
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 CU Boulder | $13,910 | 87% | 502 | 80.6 |
| #2 Colorado Technical... | $12,100 | 89% | 214 | 75.5 |
| #3 Colorado School of Mines | $18,390 | 79% | 222 | 71.0 |
Top Data Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Colorado
For graduate study, Colorado offers 8 master's-level data science programs. Leading institutions include Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado School of Mines. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Colorado reaching $157,872 or more.
Top 3 Data Science Master's Programs in Colorado
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Colorado Technical... | $12,100 | 89% | 114 | 69.0 |
| #2 CU Boulder | $13,910 | 87% | 162 | 80.6 |
| #3 Colorado School of Mines | $18,390 | 79% | 80 | 61.2 |
Most Affordable Data Science Colleges in Colorado
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable data science programs in Colorado are at University of Colorado Colorado Springs ($8,738/year), Metropolitan State University of Denver ($8,868/year), University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus ($9,096/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Colorado's competitive tech salaries.
At University of Colorado Colorado Springs, a 4-year degree costs approximately $34,952 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $85,008, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years.
Most Affordable Data Science Programs in Colorado (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Colorado Colorado... | $8,738 | $34,952 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 Metropolitan State... | $8,868 | $35,472 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 U of Colorado Denver/Ansc... | $9,096 | $36,384 | 0.7 years | Public |
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $13,910 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 87% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 502 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 80.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 87% graduation rate
- 502 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 80.6 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (87%), program size (502 graduates), state salary outcomes ($121,440), and selectivity (83% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers both undergraduate BA and graduate MS options with strong interdisciplinary focus, hands-on experience through LISA collaborations with researchers across campus and community, and federal agency-funded research opportunities in diverse areas from math biology to data analysis.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
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)
- • Data Science Graduates: 114 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 69.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 114 data science graduates annually
- For-Profit institution
- Overall score: 69.0 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 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.
United States Air Force Academy
USAF Academy, CO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $0 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 75 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 14%
- • Ranking Score: 62.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 75 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 62.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 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.
Why Choose This Program
The United States Air Force Academy's data science major is interdisciplinary, built with core classes from management, math, computer science and philosophy departments, and is designed to prepare future Air and Space force leaders for an increasingly data-driven world. The program was created to address the critical importance of data science in winning future conflicts and appeals to cadets who want a technical degree but may struggle in advanced math courses.
Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: 13.9%
Colorado School of Mines
Golden, CO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $18,390 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 79% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 80 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 60%
- • Ranking Score: 61.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 79% graduation rate
- 80 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 61.2 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (79%), program size (80 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 offers a Master of Data Science program with a unique 3 X 3 + 1 design that balances statistics, computer science, and domain-specific applications, preparing graduates for data science careers in industry or government. The program emphasizes teamwork, creative problem solving, and professional development while providing flexible, individualized coursework tailored to each candidate's background and goals.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH530 INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICAL METHODS or MATH335
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 92% Bachelor's Grads, 92% Master's Grads positive outcomes for 2023-2024
- Top Employers: Lockheed Martin
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,299 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 30 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 90%
- • Ranking Score: 50.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 30 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.5 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (30 graduates), state salary outcomes ($121,440), and selectivity (90% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze large datasets to extract insights and build predictive models for business decision-making in Colorado's energy, aerospace, and tech sectors
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Develop data platforms, analytics tools, and machine learning systems for Colorado's growing tech companies and established aerospace firms
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Design and implement machine learning systems for energy optimization, aerospace applications, and emerging AI startups in the Denver-Boulder corridor
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2041Create reports and visualizations to support business operations across Colorado's diverse industries including healthcare, finance, and government
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2051Develop dashboards and analytics solutions for Colorado companies seeking to optimize operations and customer insights
Colorado University Systems and Data Science Options
Colorado's higher education landscape offers data science programs across multiple university systems, each with distinct strengths and student populations.
University of Colorado System: The CU system includes three campuses offering data science programs. CU Boulder leads with its research-intensive program, while CU Denver provides urban campus opportunities with direct access to Denver's business district. CU Colorado Springs offers a smaller campus environment with growing tech programs.
Colorado State University System: CSU Fort Collins anchors the system with strong agricultural and environmental data science applications. CSU Pueblo offers more affordable options serving southern Colorado, though with lower graduation rates requiring careful consideration.
Colorado School of Mines: As a specialized engineering institution, Mines offers the most unique data science program in Colorado, focusing on applications in energy, mining, and environmental sciences. This specialization provides distinct career advantages in Colorado's traditional industries.
Private Institutions: Universities like University of Denver and Colorado College offer smaller class sizes and personalized attention, though at significantly higher tuition costs. These programs often emphasize business applications and liberal arts integration.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Colorado
Data Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Massachusetts
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- Applied data science focused on energy, environmental, or aerospace industries
- Access to both outdoor recreation and growing tech opportunities
- Affordable in-state tuition at quality public institutions
- Smaller program sizes with strong faculty relationships
- Career opportunities in traditional Colorado industries plus emerging tech
- Mountain lifestyle with four-season recreation access
- Larger tech ecosystem with more startup opportunities (California, Texas)
- Financial services and fintech focus (New York)
- Major corporate headquarters for data science roles (Washington, Illinois)
- Lower cost of living with strong programs (North Carolina, Georgia)
- More diverse industry applications beyond energy/aerospace
- Larger alumni networks in major tech companies
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Data Science Programs
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data 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 data science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Data Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
2023 graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional characteristics
May 2024 occupational employment and wage estimates for Colorado
Federal data on college costs, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings
State-specific higher education data and transfer agreements
STEM education and workforce statistics
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.