University of Colorado Colorado Springs
The Vibe Check
UCCS offers a dynamic blend of academic rigor and outdoor adventure, nestled against the stunning backdrop of Pikes Peak. The campus feels modern and ambitious, with a diverse student body that balances serious study with easy access to hiking trails and downtown Colorado Springs. It’s a place where you’ll feel motivated by your peers but also supported by faculty who know your name.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UCCS excels in practical, career-focused programs, particularly in Business, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice. The faculty are known for being accessible and engaged, often bringing real-world experience into the classroom. Research opportunities are robust, especially in areas like business innovation, cybersecurity, and health sciences, often tied to local industry partnerships.
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
Life in Colorado Springs is dominated by the outdoors; students spend weekends hiking in Garden of the Gods, biking on the city’s extensive trail network, or driving up to Pikes Peak. For a more urban vibe, the downtown area offers a growing craft beer scene, local restaurants, and cultural events like the Colorado Springs Philharmonic. The city also hosts numerous fitness competitions and wellness events, reflecting the community's active lifestyle.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($54,659):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The UCCS campus is considered very safe, with a dedicated police department and well-lit pathways. Colorado Springs is generally a safe city, but students should always be aware of their surroundings, especially when exploring nearby natural areas.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Exceptional access to outdoor recreation and natural beauty
- ✓ Strong career-oriented programs with local industry ties
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for Colorado residents
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for many students
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are lower than national averages
- ✗ Campus life can feel commuter-heavy, with less of a traditional 'college town' atmosphere
- ✗ Limited on-campus housing can be a challenge for freshmen
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UCCS is known for its strong professional programs in Business, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice, as well as its unique location at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The university has a reputation for providing hands-on learning experiences and research opportunities that are directly tied to the needs of the local economy, particularly in defense, healthcare, and technology.
No, UCCS is not considered a selective school. With an acceptance rate of 96.57%, it is highly accessible. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1060-1220 and a GPA of around 3.0-3.8. The school uses a holistic review process, so strong grades and involvement can help offset slightly lower test scores.
Campus life at UCCS is a blend of academic focus and outdoor adventure. While it is primarily a commuter campus, there are over 150 student clubs and organizations, including many focused on outdoor activities, business, and engineering. Students often spend their free time exploring the nearby trails and parks, and the university hosts events to foster a sense of community.
Yes, for many students, UCCS offers a strong return on investment. The in-state tuition is very affordable, and the average net price is lower than many comparable institutions. Graduates see a median 10-year earnings of $54,659, which, combined with the lower cost of attendance, makes it a financially sound choice, especially for those pursuing high-demand fields like business and healthcare.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 12,444
- In-State Tuition $9,712
- Out-of-State $20,492
- Zip Code 80918
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
UCCS offers a strong financial value, especially for in-state students with an affordable tuition of $9,712. Even for out-of-state students, the tuition is competitive compared to other public universities, and the average net price of $16,433 is manageable. With a median 10-year earnings of $54,659, the return on investment is solid, particularly for graduates in top majors like Business and Health Professions.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.