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Colorado Mesa University

Grand Junction, CO

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

"Empowering the Mind Through Heart"

Public university
Type
9,785
Total Students
9,473
Undergrad
312
Graduate
$70M
Endowment
(2025)
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: John Marshall

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

About Colorado Mesa University

Colorado Mesa University: Western Colorado's premier institution, fostering growth and empowerment.

Nestled in Grand Junction, Colorado Mesa University (CMU) stands as the largest public university in western Colorado, a vibrant hub of learning guided by its motto, "Empowering the Mind Through Heart." With a rich array of over 100 undergraduate and 11 postgraduate programs across 14 academic departments, CMU offers diverse opportunities for intellectual growth and career preparation.

The university's history is a testament to its enduring commitment to education in the region. Established in 1925 as Grand Junction Junior College to address the growing need for local higher education, the institution expanded significantly over the decades. It underwent several transformations, including becoming Mesa College, then Mesa State College, reflecting its broadening academic offerings, before proudly attaining university status in 2011 as Colorado Mesa University.

Today, CMU boasts a bustling main campus spanning 141 acres in Grand Junction, complemented by branch campuses like CMU Tech and a regional campus in Montrose. The university fosters a dynamic student experience, not just academically, but also through its robust athletic programs. As the Mavericks, CMU's NCAA Division II teams compete fiercely in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, having secured an impressive 70 regular season titles.

With nearly 10,000 students, Colorado Mesa University provides a welcoming yet expansive environment where students can pursue their passions, engage in a spirited campus community, and prepare for successful futures.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1925, evolving from a junior college to a comprehensive university in 2011.
  • Largest university in Western Colorado, serving 9,785 students in Fall 2024.
  • Offers over 100 undergraduate and 11 postgraduate programs across 14 academic departments.
  • Home to the NCAA Division II Mavericks, boasting 70 RMAC regular season titles.
  • Main campus spans 141 acres in Grand Junction, with additional branch campuses in Montrose and Clifton.
  • Operates with an endowment of $70 million (as of 2025).
  • Guided by the inspiring motto: "Empowering the Mind Through Heart."

Timeline

1925
Established as Grand Junction Junior College.
1932
Renamed Grand Junction State Junior College.
1937
Renamed Mesa County Junior College.
1940
Renamed Mesa College.
1974
Began offering bachelor's degrees.
1988
Renamed Mesa State College to reflect growing programs.
2011
Achieved university status, adopting the name Colorado Mesa University.

Leadership

John Marshall
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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