In this article, we’ve put together a list of the best engineering schools in Colorado that can provide you with the solid foundation of knowledge you need to start your career in the field. Each of these schools has a positive reputation and offers a variety of degrees in engineering where you can build the hands-on experience that will carry you toward academic excellence.
Finding a good school can be a challenge, but our Colorado engineering school rankings will hopefully help you find the best one for your needs. We’ve also included a list of the highest-paying jobs you can do after you’ve earned your engineering degree from one of these schools.
How to Choose a Good Engineering School in Colorado
To choose the best engineering schools in Colorado for you, you should consider each school’s accreditation, location, and specialization. While there are many more criteria you should also consider when picking the ideal school, the following factors are the most important. Here’s a more detailed explanation as to why:
Accreditation
The first thing you should consider before applying to an engineering school is its accreditation. Being accredited demonstrates that a school’s academic programs have been vetted by an external body that ensures quality standards across educational institutions. Attending an accredited school gives credibility to your education and qualifies you for numerous financial aid opportunities.
Location
A school’s location is important to consider for many reasons. First and foremost, if you can’t afford to live away from home, you should only consider programs outside of where you live if they offer an online program. If moving or living away from home is possible for you, picking a school in an engineering hub can give your career prospects a boost post-graduation.
Specialization
The third most important factor to consider when choosing a good engineering school is its specialization or concentration options. Depending on your interests, you may want to look for a school that can provide you with a specialized educational experience in a field of study such as geological engineering, mechanical engineering, or aerospace engineering sciences.
Colorado Engineering School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Engineering Programs in Colorado?
| Engineering School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Colorado, Boulder | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | 23 |
| Colorado School of Mines | Chemical Engineering | Chemical and Biological Engineering | 55 |
| Colorado State University, Fort Collins | Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering | Master of Science in Bioengineering | 79 |
| University of Colorado, Denver | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | 126 |
| University of Denver | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering | Master of Science in Electrical Engineering | 146 |
| University of Colorado, Colorado Springs | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | 152-200 |
| Colorado State University, Pueblo | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering | Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering | N/A |
| Colorado Technical University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Software Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Science – Software Engineering | N/A |
| University of Northern Colorado | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering | Master of Science in Sports and Exercise Science: Biomechanics | N/A |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | N/A |
Colorado Engineering Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Engineering Schools in Colorado
To rank the best engineering schools in Colorado, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best engineering program as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Engineering Schools in Colorado Explained
In the following section, we take a detailed look at the best engineering schools in Colorado, including information such as each school’s type, accreditation, acceptance rate, graduation rate, and national ranking. Many of these schools have a graduate school of engineering in addition to undergraduate engineering programs.
Best Undergraduate Engineering Schools in Colorado
The best undergraduate Engineering schools in Colorado offer a wide variety of degree programs for engineering students at the undergraduate level. In the following section, you can find a list of the best engineering schools for associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees.
Best Engineering Associate Degree Schools in Colorado
- Red Rocks Community College | Associate of Science in Engineering Graphics Technology: This program can equip you with the skills needed to work as a design drafter. Not only does this program focus on technical skills, but it also trains each student’s soft skills such as communication, leadership, and critical thinking.
- Pikes Peak Community College | Associate of Science in Engineering. This program allows you to build a foundation in the engineering field of your choice including Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering. The school is partnered with multiple universities to ease your transfer to a bachelor’s degree program postgraduation.
- Front Range Community College | Associate of Engineering Science in Mechanical Engineering. This two-year degree can help you transfer to a four-year university and earn your Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in just two additional years of study.
- DeVry University-Colorado | Associate Degree in Engineering Technology: The Associate in Engineering Technology program at DeVry University can provide you with a foundation in assessing, measuring, and deploying secured digital systems and devices through practical, hands-on experiences.
- Colorado Mesa University | Associate of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology: This program takes two years to complete when attending full-time and focuses on providing concrete mechanical engineering experience to its students. Graduates leave with a fundamental understanding of industrial processes.
Best Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Colorado
- University of Colorado at Boulder | Aerospace Engineering: This undergraduate aerospace engineering program’s curriculum is altered each year to keep up with new developments in the industry and incorporate new educational approaches. Students learn to build innovative technology for commercial aviation and defense applications.
- Colorado School of Mines | Petroleum Engineering: Students who graduate from the Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering program at the Colorado School of Mines are prepared to conduct safe and environmentally sound exploration, appraisal, development, and recovery of subterranean oil, gas, and other geothermal fluids.
- University of Denver | Mechanical Engineering: This mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree allows you to study areas such as bioengineering, composite materials, fatigue, atmospheric science, mechanisms, and non-destructive assessment alongside experienced teachers.
- University of Colorado at Colorado Spring| Electrical Engineering. Graduates of this Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering are equipped with the technical skills needed to work in the industry or pursue a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering.
- Colorado State University-Fort Collins | Civil Engineering. The civil engineering bachelor’s degree at CSU’s Fort Collins campus provides students with a strong foundation in physical sciences, mathematics, engineering, design, and management.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Graduate Schools for Engineering in Colorado
The best graduate schools for engineering in Colorado allow you to earn your master’s degree or PhD and can offer you a wide range of research opportunities supervised by experienced industry professionals. The following section contains a list of the best engineering schools offering master’s degree and PhD programs.
Best Schools for Master’s in Engineering in Colorado
- University of Colorado, Boulder | Master of Science in Civil Engineering. This program aims to develop its students into engineers who can recognize, avoid, and solve building, construction, and environmental issues. Students in this field can also take courses in the rapidly growing field of geoenvironmental engineering.
- Colorado State University, Fort Collins | Master of Science in Bioengineering. As a student in this program, you can build your skills by working on innovative medical technology design, regulatory approval, and healthcare product manufacturing projects.
- University of Denver | Master of Science in Mechatronic Systems Engineering. Advanced electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering concepts are the focus of the University of Denver’s Master of Science in Mechatronic Systems Engineering program.
- Colorado School of Mines | Masters of Science in Mining Engineering. The Colorado School of Mines’ mining engineering master’s degree is a top-rated, internationally recognized program offering practical research opportunities related to mining, subterranean construction, and tunneling.
- University of Colorado, Denver | Master of Science in Civil Engineering. The University of Colorado Denver’s Master of Science in Civil Engineering degree can be taken fully online and is designed to equip the next generation of engineers with the skills they need to work as specialists, managers, and leaders in an evolving industry.
Best PhD in Engineering Universities in Colorado
- University of Colorado, Boulder | PhD in Aerospace Engineering Science. CU Boulder is globally known for its research and education leadership in aerospace engineering, earth, and space sciences. The school is tied for 8th place among the best providers of aerospace engineering programs by US News & World Report.
- University of Colorado Denver | PhD in Engineering and Applied Science. This program simulates the current professional research environment to prepare students for the workforce. Students in this program can choose between four primary specialization options including mechanical, electrical, computer science, and civil engineering.
- University of Colorado Colorado Springs | PhD in Engineering- Computer Science. This PhD is awarded to students who have achieved mastery across broad range of fields of study. Students in this program have the opportunity to take part in the many professional activities led by the department.
- University of Denver | PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This program provides students with the opportunity to create a personalized study schedule based on their prior experience and research interests. The program also encourages students’ efforts to contribute to the progress of science, engineering, and technology.
- Colorado State University-Fort Collins | Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.) in Systems Engineering. This PhD program at Colorado State University can equip you with the vital practical abilities needed to tackle current challenges in the field of systems engineering. The program is available both on-campus and online.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Online PhD Programs
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Admission Requirements for Engineering Schools in Colorado
The basic admission requirements for engineering schools in Colorado are different for undergraduate and graduate students. The most common requirements for undergraduate students include having a high school diploma or its equivalent and submitting your official transcripts, SAT or ACT test scores, as well as at least one letter of recommendation.
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Engineering is a competitive major, and many schools have strict admission requirements. For graduate programs, a bachelor’s degree in a related area of discipline is a must, as well as an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Other graduate program requirements include your official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and GRE test scores, as well as interviews or essays.
Engineering Schools in Colorado: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- A high school diploma or its equivalent.
- Your official transcripts.
- Your SAT or ACT scores.
- Letters of recommendation, typically two.
- A high GPA.
Engineering Schools in Colorado: Graduate Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree in a related area of study.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Your official transcripts for all attended post-secondary institutions.
- Letters of recommendation, typically three.
- Your GRE score.
- An interview.
- A personal statement or essay.
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Engineering in Colorado?
No, it is not hard to get into an engineering school in Colorado as most universities in the state have an overall high acceptance rate, with some even having an open admission policy. That being said, a school with a high acceptance rate often has less worth in the job market compared to others. Below is the list of the easiest engineering schools in Colorado.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado for Engineering
- Front Range Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Front Range Community College offers certificate and associate degree programs that prepare students for employment or continuing education. The school has an open admission policy and offers a wide variety of engineering programs.
- Western Colorado University | Acceptance Rate: 89%. Western Colorado University is one of the easiest schools you can get into in Colorado for an engineering program. It has a high acceptance rate, is very affordable, and offers applied physics, pre-engineering, and mechanical engineering programs.
- University of Colorado, Boulder | Acceptance Rate: 84%. The University of Colorado Boulder is another school offering engineering programs with a high acceptance rate. Its engineering programs can be found in the areas of computer engineering, mechanical engineering, and aerospace engineering.
- Colorado State University | Acceptance Rate: 84%. Colorado State University is a leading public research university with a high acceptance rate of 84 percent and a straightforward application process. Some of its engineering programs include mechanical engineering and civil engineering.
- Colorado Mesa University | Acceptance Rate: 75%. Colorado Mesa University is a public university with a high acceptance rate offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its engineering programs can be found in the areas of civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer engineering.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Engineering in Colorado
The best online schools for engineering in Colorado allow students with other obligations to pursue their engineering studies without compromising their work-life balance. The table below highlights some of the best online engineering schools in Colorado, their top program, and their graduation rates, which have been sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Engineering Program |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado State University-Fort Collins | 72% | Doctor of Philosophy in Systems Engineering |
| University of Colorado Boulder | 69% | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering |
| Regis University | 59% | Master of Science in Software Engineering |
| University of Colorado Colorado Springs | 49% | Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering |
| Colorado Technical University | 24% | Master of Science in Computer Science with Cybersecurity Engineering |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Engineering in Colorado
The most affordable colleges for engineering in Colorado are the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado State University-Fort Collins, Fort Lewis College, Colorado State University-Pueblo, and the University of Colorado Boulder thanks to the scholarships they award or the tuition waivers they provide for certain students.
How to Attend the Top Engineering Schools in Colorado With Financial Aid
There are many avenues you can use to attend the top engineering schools in Colorado with financial aid. For federal grants or loans, you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or, as a Colorado resident, the Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA). Work-study programs and scholarships can also help you cover a significant portion of your tuition.
Best Engineering Scholarships for Colorado Students
- The American Council of Engineering Companies of Colorado (ACEC/CO) Scholarship | Amount: $30,000. The American Council of Engineering Companies of Colorado Scholarship Committee awards scholarships to full-time students who are US citizens enrolled in engineering or surveying programs in the state of Colorado.
- AIAA Lockheed Martin Marillyn Hewson Scholarship | Amount: $10,000. This scholarship is available to female university students and high school seniors who have been accepted into college or university to pursue science or engineering programs. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.50 and must demonstrate financial need.
- The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation scholarship | Amount: $5,000. This scholarship is available to Colorado residents who are students at an accredited college or university and have a minimum GPA of 3.5. Applicants must actively participate in community service for their community or school to qualify.
- Pinnacol Foundation scholarship | Amount: $4,700. The Pinnacol Foundation provides financial support to students between the ages of 16 and 25 whose parents were injured or killed under the employment of a Colorado-based employer. Students who apply for this scholarship must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
- First Generation Scholarship | Amount: $4,000. The University of Colorado Boulder awards this scholarship to undergraduate residents and non-residents demonstrating financial need. To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must complete their FAFSA and prove that neither of their parents has received a bachelor’s degree.
Colorado Employment Outlook for Engineering
The employment outlook for engineering jobs in Colorado is promising, as the state is one of the highest-paying states for engineers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which predicts a six percent growth for engineering jobs across all states. The Denver Post has also reported that Colorado has recovered 101.9 percent of the jobs lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Highest-Paying Engineering Careers in Colorado
| Engineering Job | Engineering Degree | Average Salary in Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $140,690 |
| Petroleum Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $140,240 |
| Computer Hardware Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $135,540 |
| Materials Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $107,410 |
| Mechanical Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $103,130 |
Best Engineering Jobs in Colorado Explained
The best engineering jobs in Colorado are in high demand and offer very lucrative salaries. These positions include aerospace engineers, petroleum engineers, computer hardware engineers, and mechanical engineers. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of their responsibilities, salaries, and job growth, as well as the best university program you can use to prepare.
Does It Matter What Engineering School in Colorado I Go To?
Yes, it does matter what school you go to in Colorado for engineering because some schools offer a higher-quality education than others. These schools have more experienced lecturers and better research facilities, providing you with better training. Earning a degree from a high-ranking school also makes you competitive in the industry, as many employers prioritize students from these schools.
Additional Reading About Engineering
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Best Engineering Schools in Colorado FAQ
The minimum number of transfer credit hours for engineering schools in Colorado varies from one school to another. While the University of Colorado Colorado Springs requires transfer students to have completed at least 13 credit hours, CU Boulder requires no minimum credit hour requirement.
Yes, most of the engineering schools in Colorado accept international applicants for their engineering programs. International students wanting to study in Colorado need to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to prove their proficiency in English.
The top three engineering schools in Colorado are the Colorado School of Mines, the University of Colorado Boulder, and Colorado State University-Fort Collins. These three schools are the highest-ranked in their state for engineering programs by US News & World Report.
You can apply for admission to an engineering school in Colorado by completing an online application through the school’s official website or contacting the admissions office. You may be required to pay an admission fee, depending on the school you are applying to.
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