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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

Experience a distinctive liberal arts education amidst the beauty of Colorado Springs.

Colorado College, a distinguished private liberal arts institution in Colorado Springs, Colorado, stands out for its immersive approach to education. Established in 1874, it cultivates a vibrant academic environment for approximately 2,145 undergraduates, offering over 40 majors and 30 minors. Its commitment to a broad liberal arts curriculum encourages deep intellectual exploration, making it a unique destination for ambitious students seeking a rigorous and engaging educational journey.

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 in the tradition of Oberlin, it has evolved from its early Presbyterian connections to become a secular institution since 1907, while retaining its core focus on comprehensive learning. Significant early milestones include the completion of Cutler Hall in 1880 and the conferral of its first degrees in 1882. Notably, the inspiring anthem "America the Beautiful" was penned by Katharine Lee Bates during her summer teaching position here in 1893.

Colorado College is renowned for its academic rigor, preparing students for diverse paths through its extensive array of programs. The campus, spanning 90 acres in an urban setting, offers a dynamic backdrop for both study and recreation in the heart of Colorado Springs. Beyond academics, students engage in a lively campus culture, supported by an impressive endowment of nearly $1 billion. The college's athletic teams, the Tigers, predominantly compete in NCAA Division III, fostering a strong sense of community and school spirit, with men's hockey and women's soccer competing in Division I.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1874, offering over 150 years of rich history and educational excellence.
  • ✦A private liberal arts college providing over 40 majors and 30 minors.
  • ✦Serves approximately 2,145 undergraduates on its 90-acre campus in Colorado Springs.
  • ✦Boasts an impressive $989.7 million endowment as of 2024, supporting its academic mission.
  • ✦Known as the place where Katharine Lee Bates wrote "America the Beautiful" in 1893.
  • ✦Embraces the motto "Scientia et Disciplina," Latin for "Learning through Hard Work."
  • ✦Most athletic teams compete in NCAA Division III, with men's hockey and women's soccer in Division I.

Timeline

1874
Founded by Thomas Nelson Haskell and officially established.
1880
Cutler Hall, the college's first building, is completed.
1882
The first degrees are conferred by Colorado College.
1893
Katharine Lee Bates writes "America the Beautiful" during her summer teaching position.
1907
The college becomes nonsectarian, shifting from its early religious affiliation.
1930
Shove Chapel is erected to meet the religious needs of the students.
2024
Endowment reaches $989.7 million.
2025
Manya Whitaker begins her term as the college's 15th president on July 1.

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