University of Colorado Boulder

Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the University of Colorado Boulder stands as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation. As a prestigious "Public Ivy" and the flagship institution of the CU System, CU Boulder is renowned for its vibrant campus life, commitment to groundbreaking research, and a distinct spirit of discovery that permeates every aspect of the student experience. It's a place where ambitious minds converge to challenge limits and shape the future, all within the dynamic and inspiring setting of Boulder, Colorado.

With roots dating back to 1876, five months before Colorado even achieved statehood, CU Boulder has a rich and pioneering history. The doors first opened in 1877, welcoming a diverse group of students to both the college and its essential preparatory school. Over the decades, CU Boulder has been a leader in inclusivity, hiring its first female professor in 1878, its first African-American professor in 1956, and celebrating its first African American female graduate in 1918, reflecting a long-standing commitment to a diverse and equitable academic community.

Academically, CU Boulder is a powerhouse, classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" and a distinguished member of the Association of American Universities. Students benefit from an expansive curriculum with over 150 academic programs offered across nine colleges and schools. The university's research prowess is particularly stellar in space science; it holds the unique distinction as the only university globally to have sent instruments to all planets in the Solar System and receives the most NASA astrophysics technology grants among academic institutions. This robust research environment ensures students are at the cutting edge of scientific and scholarly exploration.

Beyond the classroom and lab, the CU Boulder experience is enriched by a thriving student body of over 38,808 and a legacy of exceptional achievement. Its alumni, faculty, and researchers boast an impressive roster of 12 Nobel Prize laureates, 10 Pulitzer Prize winners, a Turing Award laureate, and 20 astronauts. The Colorado Buffaloes ignite campus spirit, competing in 17 varsity sports within the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference and claiming 28 national championships, demonstrating a holistic commitment to excellence.