Colorado College logo

Colorado College

Colorado Springs, CO

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

2,139
Total Students
$68K
Tuition (In-State)
$68K
Tuition (Out-State)
$32K
Avg Net Price
20%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Graduation Rate
6-year
95%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Colorado College

Colorado College: A historic private liberal arts college nestled in Colorado Springs.

Colorado College, a distinguished private liberal arts institution nestled in the vibrant city of Colorado Springs, Colorado, offers a truly distinctive educational journey. Established in 1874, it has cultivated a reputation for academic excellence and a deep commitment to the liberal arts tradition. Students here benefit from a close-knit community and an immersive learning environment, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.

The college's rich history began with its founding in 1874 by Thomas Nelson Haskell, with land designated by U.S. Civil War veteran General William Jackson Palmer. Originally envisioned as a coeducational liberal arts college akin to Oberlin, it has evolved into a secular institution while maintaining its core focus on comprehensive education. Iconic landmarks like Cutler Hall, completed in 1880, and Shove Chapel, built in 1930, stand as testaments to its enduring legacy. It was even here, in 1893, that Katharine Lee Bates penned the timeless lyrics to "America the Beautiful."

Academically, Colorado College empowers its approximately 2,145 undergraduates through a robust curriculum featuring over 40 majors and 30 minors. This expansive offering ensures a breadth of study within its liberal arts framework. Beyond the classroom, students enjoy an active campus life on its 90-acre urban campus. The college prides itself on its strong athletic programs, with most varsity teams competing in NCAA Division III, alongside standout Division I teams in men's hockey and women's soccer, giving students opportunities for both scholarly and athletic pursuits in a picturesque Colorado setting.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1874, Colorado College has a rich history spanning over 150 years.
  • A private liberal arts college located on a 90-acre campus in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
  • Serves approximately 2,145 undergraduates, offering a close-knit learning community.
  • Boasts an impressive endowment of $989.7 million as of 2024.
  • Provides a comprehensive liberal arts education with over 40 majors and 30 minors.
  • Upholds the motto "Scientia et Disciplina" (Learning through Hard Work).
  • Most varsity sports compete in NCAA Division III, with men's hockey and women's soccer as Division I teams.

Timeline

1874
Founded by Thomas Nelson Haskell on land designated by General William Jackson Palmer.
1880
Cutler Hall, the college's first building, was completed.
1882
The first degrees were conferred.
1893
Katharine Lee Bates wrote "America the Beautiful" during her summer teaching position.
1907
The college became nonsectarian in its affiliation.
1930
Shove Chapel was erected by John Gray.
2024
The college's endowment reached $989.7 million.
2025
Manya Whitaker began her term as the college's 15th president.

Find Scholarships at Colorado College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search