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Colorado School of Mines

Golden, CO

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“Nil sine numine (Latin)”("Nothing without God's will.")

1874
Founded
Public research university
Type
5,801
Total Students
6,371
Undergrad
1,876
Graduate
$421M
Endowment
(2024)
$21K
Tuition (In-State)
$44K
Tuition (Out-State)
$29K
Avg Net Price
60%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Graduation Rate
6-year
93%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Paul C. Johnson

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

About Colorado School of Mines

A global leader in applied science and engineering, solving the world's grand challenges.

Colorado School of Mines stands as a premier public research university, dedicated to engineering, applied science, and the responsible stewardship of Earth's resources. Located in Golden, Colorado, Mines is globally recognized for its focused approach to creating innovative solutions for technical challenges facing society, particularly in areas like energy, environment, and materials science. Its specialized curriculum and cutting-edge research opportunities make it a top destination for students passionate about making a tangible impact.

The institution's deep roots trace back to 1873, initially emerging from Bishop George M. Randall's vision for higher education in the burgeoning Colorado territory. What began as an Episcopal Church-affiliated School of Mines quickly transitioned to a state institution in 1874, solidifying its commitment to public service and technical training in a region shaped by mining. Over the decades, it evolved from an assaying certificate program to a comprehensive four-year university, continuously adapting its curriculum to meet industrial and societal needs.

Mines fosters a vibrant academic environment where hands-on learning and cutting-edge research thrive. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities like the CoorsTek Center for Applied Science and Engineering and access to advanced computing resources, including the "Ra" supercomputer, managed by the Golden Energy Computing Organization. The university's strong community is reflected in traditions like the "M" on Mount Zion, a symbol of student legacy, and its commitment to developing pioneering minds, exemplified by its first female graduate in Civil Engineering, Florence Caldwell, in 1898. Mines prepares graduates to become leaders and innovators, equipped with the skills to address complex global challenges with the motto, "Nil sine numine."

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1874, it has been a state institution since Colorado attained statehood in 1876.
  • ✦A leading public research university specializing in engineering, applied science, and resource stewardship.
  • ✦Manages a significant endowment of $0.4 billion.
  • ✦Hosts a diverse student body of 8,247, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
  • ✦Home to the CoorsTek Center for Applied Science and Engineering, opened in 2017, and the "Ra" supercomputer, enhancing research and innovation.
  • ✦Pioneered inclusive education with its first female graduate, Florence Caldwell, in Civil Engineering in 1898.
  • ✦Host of the annual international Oil Shale Symposium since 1964, a key global conference.

Timeline

1866
Bishop George M. Randall begins planning for a university including a school of mines in the Colorado territory.
1873
The School of Mines opens under the auspices of the Episcopal Church in Golden, Colorado.
1874
The School of Mines is acquired by the Colorado territory, becoming a state institution (officially in 1876).
1894
Engineering Hall, the oldest building on campus, is completed.
1898
Florence Caldwell becomes the first female graduate, earning a Civil Engineering Degree.
1905
Guggenheim Hall, now the administration building, is constructed with a donation from Simon Guggenheim.
1919
Students construct the large 'M' out of rocks on Mount Zion for a senior thesis.
1964
The Colorado School of Mines begins hosting the annual international oil shale symposium.
2008
The supercomputer "Ra" is installed in the Center for Technology and Learning Media (CTLM).
2017
The CoorsTek Center for Applied Science and Engineering opens to students.
🏛️
152 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Paul C. Johnson
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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