Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
The Vibe Check
CTU Colorado Springs has a practical, career-focused vibe that caters to a diverse student body, including many working adults and military-affiliated students. The atmosphere is less about traditional campus quad gatherings and more about direct application of skills in the classroom. It feels like a hub for self-starters looking to advance their careers through flexible, accelerated programs.
Academics & Majors
The university's academic strengths lie in its career-aligned programs in Business & Marketing, Health Professions, Computer Science, and Criminal Justice. CTU utilizes a flexible learning model with online and on-campus options, emphasizing practical application over theoretical research. While not a research-intensive institution, it provides hands-on learning opportunities designed to build immediately applicable professional skills.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs offers a unique blend of urban amenities and stunning natural beauty, with easy access to Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods for hiking and outdoor adventures. Students can explore the vibrant downtown area with its craft breweries, coffee shops, and local restaurants. The city also hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year, providing a balanced lifestyle for those who enjoy both city life and the outdoors.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($37,180):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a well-developed urban area with standard campus security measures in place. As with any city, students should remain aware of their surroundings, but the area is generally considered safe for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Flexible online and on-campus programs cater to working adults and military students.
- ✓ A wide range of career-focused degrees in high-demand fields like tech and healthcare.
- ✓ High accessibility with a significant Pell Grant population and an open admissions policy.
- ✓ Military-friendly reputation with dedicated support services for service members.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are significantly lower than the national average.
- ✗ Median post-graduation earnings are below the national average for bachelor's degree holders.
- ✗ The large, primarily online student body may lead to a less traditional campus community feel.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
CTU Colorado Springs is primarily known for its flexible online degree programs and career-focused education, particularly in business, information technology, criminal justice, and health sciences. It has a strong reputation for being military-friendly, offering extensive support and resources for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. The university's focus is on practical skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace.
No, Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs has an open admissions policy, making it accessible to most applicants. The acceptance rate is generally high, as the university focuses on providing educational opportunities to a diverse range of students, including those with varying academic backgrounds. The admissions process typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and the university considers work and life experience as part of its holistic review.
Campus life at CTU is highly non-traditional, with a large percentage of students enrolled online or in hybrid programs. The student body is diverse in age and background, with many working professionals balancing their studies with career and family commitments. The campus itself is modern and functional, with a focus on providing the resources needed for academic success rather than a classic residential college experience.
The value of a CTU degree depends heavily on the student's career goals and financial situation. With a relatively low average net price and a high percentage of students receiving Pell Grants, it is an affordable option for many. However, the 10-year median earnings of $37,180 are modest, so the return on investment is likely best for those who use the degree to gain a specific credential for career advancement rather than as a guaranteed path to a high starting salary.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 44,635
- In-State Tuition $12,760
- Zip Code 80907
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $14,954 and a Pell Grant rate of 68.3%, CTU is accessible to students with financial need. The 10-year median earnings of $37,180 are modest and below the national average for bachelor's degree holders, suggesting that the return on investment is more aligned with career advancement than immediate high earnings. The value proposition is strongest for students who leverage the flexible programs to upskill while maintaining current employment.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.