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Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“"Changemakers Wanted" On Seal: "Excellence in Teaching and Learning"”

1965
Founded
Public university
Type
18,336
Total Students
17,111
Undergrad
1,225
Graduate
$26M
Endowment
(2024)
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver's urban changemaker, offering accessible education and driving diversity.

Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) stands as a vibrant public university nestled in the heart of downtown Denver, Colorado. Sharing the dynamic Auraria Campus, MSU Denver is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to providing accessible and affordable higher education. True to its motto, "Changemakers Wanted," the university consistently maintains some of the lowest tuition rates among Colorado's four-year institutions, ensuring that a quality education remains within reach for a diverse student body.

Established in 1965 as an "opportunity school," MSU Denver was founded on the principle of broad accessibility. This foundational commitment to inclusion has been a hallmark of its history. Notably, MSU Denver made national headlines by becoming the first university to passionately advocate for and successfully implement in-state tuition rates for DREAMers under the ASSET bill, signed in the university's Jordan Student Success Building lobby. This pioneering action underscores its role as a leader in educational equity and social progress.

With a robust enrollment of 18,336 students, MSU Denver fosters a rich and diverse learning environment, with nearly 54% of its student body identifying as students of color. This vibrant mix of perspectives, combined with its urban campus location adjacent to major Denver thoroughfares, offers an engaging and experiential student journey. The university's dedication, as reflected in its seal's motto, "Excellence in Teaching and Learning," ensures that students are prepared to thrive and make meaningful contributions as the changemakers of tomorrow.

Key Highlights

  • ✦A public university founded in 1965 with a mission of accessibility and affordability.
  • ✦One of Colorado's most affordable four-year colleges, committed to low tuition rates.
  • ✦Remarkably diverse student body, with nearly 54% of students identifying as students of color.
  • ✦Pioneered in-state tuition for DREAMers in Colorado, making national headlines for its advocacy.
  • ✦Total enrollment of 18,336 students as of Fall 2025.
  • ✦Located on the vibrant Auraria Campus in the heart of downtown Denver, Colorado.
  • ✦Embraces the motto "Changemakers Wanted," fostering a spirit of innovation and social impact.

Timeline

1965
Founded as Metropolitan State College
1990
Renamed Metropolitan State College of Denver
2012
Jordan Student Success Building opened to students (Spring semester)
2012
Renamed Metropolitan State University of Denver
2012
Became the first university to advocate for and provide in-state tuition for DREAMers under the ASSET bill, signed at the university
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Matthew S. Makley
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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