Colorado State University-Fort Collins
2025 USNews Best Colleges Ranking: 148(↑3) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
School Characteristics: Private (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: Not applicable
School Chief: Rick Miranda (President)
Website: colostate.edu/; Phone: 9704911101
Location: 102 Administration Building, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-0100
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Important Facts
Analysis of Trends in Key Educational Metrics at Colorado State University
The data from Colorado State University (CSU) provides valuable insights into several key areas that are crucial for both prospective students and stakeholders in the higher education sector. Notably, tuition, graduation rates, and student retention stand out as significant indicators of institutional health and student satisfaction.
One of the most prominent trends is the steady increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, in-state tuition rose from $9,313 to $13,009, representing an increase of approximately 40%. The out-of-state tuition experienced an even more dramatic rise, escalating from $25,166 to $33,765, or around 34%. This trend reflects a broader national phenomenon where rising tuition costs may impact students' decisions about attending college, particularly for out-of-state students who may not see the return on investment as favorable.
In contrast, graduation rates show a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved from 35.3% in 2014 to 46.7% in 2024. This growth, alongside a consistent upward trend in the 150% graduation rate (from 63.5% to 69.1%), suggests that CSU is enhancing its academic support structures and student services, fostering a more conducive environment for timely graduation.
Retention rates have also remained relatively stable, averaging around 86% in recent years. This stability in retention indicates that once students enroll at CSU, they are generally satisfied with their experience, which could be attributed to the supportive campus culture or effective academic advising systems. However, the slight drop to 81.8% in 2018 raises concerns about potential external factors affecting student satisfaction and engagement during that period.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has varied slightly, reflecting broader trends in educational funding and resource allocation. While the ratio showed a high of 18:1 in 2016 and 2017, it has since balanced out to around 17:1, suggesting a commitment to maintaining quality education through manageable class sizes.
Overall, CSU's data presents a mixed yet optimistic picture of the university's commitment to providing quality education amidst increasing financial pressures and changing demographics in higher education.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduation Trends in 2023 at Colorado State University-Fort Collins
The graduation data from Colorado State University-Fort Collins for 2023 presents intriguing insights into various academic disciplines. Notably, the Veterinary Medicine program, with a significant 148 doctorate-level graduates, stands out as a leader in producing advanced professionals in the field. The global demand for veterinary services, particularly in improving animal health and welfare, may explain the popularity and robustness of this program.
In contrast, programs within the Business Administration and Management category exhibited no bachelor's degree awards, though they produced a considerable number of master's degrees, indicating a strong emphasis on advanced qualifications among students. This trend aligns with the growing importance that employers place on master’s degrees, especially in competitive fields.
The Liberal Arts and Sciences program displayed a moderate output with 72 bachelor's graduates and 3 international students. This suggests a steady interest in liberal education amidst a broader discourse on the necessity of diverse skill sets in an increasingly specialized job market. Equestrian/Equine Studies also reported a respectable number of bachelor graduates (70), reflecting a unique niche and the cultural importance of equestrian fields within Colorado.
However, it is worth noting that various specialized programs reported zero graduates, including anthropological, landscape architecture, ethnic studies, and others. This lack of graduation in certain fields raises questions about student engagement and the perceived value of these disciplines in today’s job landscape. Overall, these figures indicate a complex educational environment where traditional fields are vying for relevance alongside emerging and established professional domains. As industries evolve, universities will need to align their curricula with workforce demands to optimize student outcomes and employability.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Ranking and Admission
Trends in Admissions and Rankings at Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Colorado State University-Fort Collins has shown a significant pattern in its admissions statistics and academic rankings over the years. As of 2025, the university is ranked 148th according to US News, indicating a slight improvement from the previous year. This ranking reflects a broader trend of fluctuating performance, with the institution experiencing declines in the rankings during the late 2010s, reaching a low of 166th in 2020. The acceptance rates, particularly for male and female applicants, paint a picture of a competitive admissions landscape. For instance, the acceptance rate for males has varied from about 67.7% in 2010 to 88.8% in 2024. Similarly, the female acceptance rate was initially higher, starting at 75.9% in 2010 and peaking at 91.9% in 2023. These figures suggest that Colorado State University is increasingly attracting a larger pool of applicants, which may contribute to the high rejection numbers seen in recent years. In 2023, for example, the institution denied over 3,000 male applicants and more than 2,000 female applicants, while also deferring a significant number of students. Moreover, the total enrollment numbers indicate consistent interest in attending Colorado State University, with figures hovering just above 5,000 in recent years. This suggests that despite the rising acceptance rates, the institution remains a preferred choice for many students. As higher education institutions continue to navigate post-pandemic challenges, the ability of Colorado State University to maintain or improve its ranking while fostering a diverse cohort of students will be crucial for its future success.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Colorado State University-Fort Collins
The data from Colorado State University-Fort Collins over the years reflects significant changes in the admission test scores and the number of applicants submitting these scores. Notably, there is an observable trend of fluctuating acceptance rates for standardized test submissions, predominantly SAT scores, illustrating changes in the university's admission policies and applicant behavior.
From 2007 to 2015, there was a marked decline in the number of SAT submissions. For instance, in 2007, 42% of applicants submitted SAT scores, which sharply dropped to 23% by 2015. This decline reflects a broader trend in higher education, as institutions have increasingly moved towards test-optional policies, allowing students more flexibility in their application process. However, following 2015, the submission rates bounced back, reflecting a possible shift in applicant preferences or a re-emphasis on standardized testing by the institution. By 2020, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores climbed back to 80%, suggesting a renewed confidence in these assessments or institutional encouragement to present scores.
In terms of score ranges, there have been slight improvements in the 25th and 75th percentile scores over the years, indicating that while fewer students may be submitting scores, those who do tend to perform better. The rise in the mid-range scores of SAT reading and math, reaching as high as 650 by 2023, indicates a more competitive applicant pool as the university aims to attract high-achieving students. The proportion of applicants submitting scores and their corresponding performance may hint at the evolving landscape of college admissions, emphasizing the importance of academic readiness and consistency in performance metrics.
Overall, the data indicates a dynamic landscape in standardized testing among applicants to Colorado State University, providing insights into shifting practices and student choices in the realm of higher education.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Students Diversity
Demographics of Colorado State University-Fort Collins in 2024
The enrollment statistics for Colorado State University-Fort Collins in 2024 present a comprehensive picture of the student body composition. The most significant cohort consists of first-year undergraduate students, numbering 5,293. Interestingly, this group has a higher percentage of female students, accounting for 56.2%, compared to 43.8% male students. This trend of more females entering university is increasingly common in higher education institutions across the United States.
Next in size are the continuing undergraduate students, with 18,345 enrolled. Similar to the first-year students, the continuing students also exhibit a slight gender imbalance, with women making up 54.3% of this population. This consistent pattern across undergraduate levels indicates a growing inclination among women to pursue higher education, potentially reflecting broader social and economic shifts that encourage female academic participation.
The transfer student demographic shows a smaller population of 1,510, with a nearly equal distribution of genders—48.4% male and 51.6% female. In contrast, the graduate student population, consisting of 7,666 individuals, shows a notable predominance of females at 57.6%, which could suggest that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, a trend noted in higher education studies.
The ethnic breakdown of these student groups reveals a considerable number of white students among all categories. While the specific data for all subcategories is not fully published, the existing figures highlight a trend of demographic composition that underscores the importance of diversity initiatives within educational frameworks. Overall, these statistics reflect significant shifts in the demographics of higher education, indicating not only increased participation from both genders but also underscoring the necessity for ongoing discussions about diversity and inclusivity within academic settings.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Students Age Distribution
Age Distribution at Colorado State University-Fort Collins
The age distribution data from Colorado State University-Fort Collins reveals noteworthy insights into the student body composition. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-24 age range, aligning with trends seen in universities across the United States. For instance, those aged 18-19 represent approximately 34% of the total female population, showcasing the influx of new, younger students as they transition from high school to higher education.
As students progress into their early twenties, the number of undergraduate males remains robust, peaking at 20-21 years, indicating that this age group constitutes a significant portion of the overall student demographic. Interestingly, the traditional age bracket of college students (18-24 years) captures nearly 66% of all male undergraduates and over 70% of female undergraduates, illustrating a strong reliance on this age group by the university.
The data also highlight the presence of non-traditional students, particularly among those aged 25 and older. While this group is smaller, it serves as an essential reminder of the diverse backgrounds and experiences that older students bring to campus life.
Furthermore, the presence of graduate students aged 25-29 and 30-34 underscores the increasing trend for individuals to pursue advanced degrees later in life, reflecting changing societal norms around education and professional development. Overall, these statistics portray a dynamic educational environment at Colorado State University, characterized by a significant younger population supplemented by an essential older demographic.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins International Students Trends
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Colorado State University
The data from Colorado State University-Fort Collins illustrates significant trends in the enrollment of international students over the years. Starting from 2005, the number of undergraduate international students has generally increased, peaking at 1016 in 2019, translating to 3.91% of the undergraduate population. However, following this peak, there has been a noticeable decline, with only 596 international undergraduates reported in 2023, representing 2.31% of the total undergraduate body.
Conversely, the graduate international student population shows a different trajectory. In 2005, there were 640 international graduate students, which fluctuated over the years but has seen a significant increase to 1211 by 2024. This growth indicates a rising interest or demand for graduate programs among international students, as evidenced by a steady increase in their percentage, culminating in 15.80% in 2024.
These patterns reflect broader trends in higher education, where undergraduate enrollment has become increasingly competitive and might be influenced by external factors such as visa regulations, geopolitical issues, and the overall attractiveness of the institution. The steady rise in graduate enrollment could suggest that international students are shifting their focus towards advanced studies, perhaps seeking specialized knowledge or the advanced degree necessary for global job markets.
Overall, while undergraduate international enrollment is facing challenges, graduate student presence continues to robustly grow, showcasing the evolving nature of educational pursuits among international students at Colorado State University.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable nearby schools to Colorado State University-Fort Collins:
University of Colorado Boulder - Ranked 98 in 2025, this comprehensive university is known for its outstanding research programs and vibrant campus life.
Colorado School of Mines - With a ranking of 76, this university specializes in engineering and applied sciences, particularly in the fields of geology, mining, and energy.
University of Denver - Ranked 121, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its commitment to research and service.
United States Air Force Academy - This prestigious institution ranks 8th and offers a unique education combining academic and military training.
Colorado College - Ranked 29, this liberal arts college is known for its innovative Block Plan that allows students to immerse themselves in one subject at a time.
These institutions present excellent opportunities for academic collaboration and student exchange in the vibrant educational landscape of Colorado.
Campus Safety
Analysis of Campus Crime Trends at Colorado State University-Fort Collins
The campus crime statistics from Colorado State University-Fort Collins over the past decade show a significant decline in the number of criminal incidents per 1,000 students. In 2013, the crime rate stood at 24.74 incidents per 1,000 students; however, this rate dropped to just 9.78 incidents per 1,000 students by 2023. This decline is commendable, reflecting the university's efforts to enhance campus safety and security.
A closer examination of specific crime categories indicates improvements across various types of offenses. Drug-related arrests, alcohol-related arrests, and firearm incidents appear to have diminished significantly over these years. For instance, data reveal that the trend in firearm arrests has decreased, with the latest year showing a minimal number of incidents reported, suggesting a successful emphasis on responsible ownership and usage.
Despite the positive trend, it is essential for campus authorities to remain vigilant and continue implementing measures to enhance student safety. The substantial drop in crime rates could be attributed to increased awareness programs, better reporting mechanisms, and community engagement initiatives. It is vital to maintain these efforts as campus environments can change and personal safety remains a priority.
In summary, while the data offers a reassuring view of the declining crime rates at Colorado State University-Fort Collins, ongoing focus on safety measures will ensure that these positive trends continue, fostering a secure educational environment for all students. For more detailed information on how to calculate crime rates, please refer to this resource: Crime Rate Calculation.
Reference
- Colorado State University-Fort Collins Official Website
- USNews Best Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Important Facts Trends
Colorado State University-Fort Collins degrees/majors
Colorado State University-Fort Collins major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,846-$99,929 | |||
Accounting. | $68,206 | |||
Restaurant/Food Services Management. | $41,688 | |||
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $32,958-$60,234 | |||
Biomedical Sciences, General. | $32,958-$60,234 | |||
Biochemistry. | $38,484 | |||
Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology. | - | |||
Microbiology, General. | $39,701-$41,682 | |||
Zoology/Animal Biology. | $27,741 | |||
Wildlife Biology. | $27,741 | |||
Pathology/Experimental Pathology. | - | |||
Toxicology. | $36,729 | |||
Biotechnology. | $40,141 | |||
Ecology. | $35,322-$61,064 | |||
Environmental Biology. | $35,322-$61,064 | |||
Neuroscience. | $27,413 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Engineering, General. | $93,602 | |||
Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. | - | |||
Chemical Engineering. | $62,468 | |||
Civil Engineering, General. | $73,326-$79,034 | |||
Computer Engineering, General. | - | |||
Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $78,038 | |||
Engineering Science. | - | |||
Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering. | $66,109 | |||
Mechanical Engineering. | $60,720-$93,386 | |||
Systems Engineering. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Agriculture, General. | $57,773 | |||
Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | $51,292 | |||
Agricultural Economics. | $51,292 | |||
Equestrian/Equine Studies. | $31,881 | |||
Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General. | $51,005 | |||
Animal Sciences, General. | $36,111 | |||
Brewing Science. | - | |||
Horticultural Science. | $36,980 | |||
Plant Protection and Integrated Pest Management. | $36,980 | |||
Range Science and Management. | $36,980 | |||
Soil Science and Agronomy, General. | $46,287 | |||
Veterinary Medicine. | $94,962 | |||
Veterinary Sciences/Veterinary Clinical Sciences, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Anthropology, General. | $27,178 | |||
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | $48,462 | |||
Geography. | - | |||
Political Science and Government, General. | $36,324 | |||
Sociology, General. | $37,335 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General. | - | |||
Business Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences. | - | |||
Human Development and Family Studies, General. | $36,214 | |||
Apparel and Textile Marketing Management. | $34,852 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Psychology, General. | $37,121-$73,537 | |||
Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | $67,559 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. | $33,161 | |||
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $35,326 | |||
Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $35,326 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $38,731 | |||
Communication and Media Studies, Other. | $38,731 | |||
Journalism. | $36,352 | |||
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $78,856 | |||
Information Science/Studies. | $67,827-$97,641 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dance, General. | - | |||
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $28,172 | |||
Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $30,143 | |||
Music, General. | $38,277-$54,680 | |||
Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General. | $44,475 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Natural Resources/Conservation, General. | $34,346-$58,561 | |||
Environmental Science. | $34,346-$58,561 | |||
Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, General. | $43,262 | |||
Water, Wetlands, and Marine Resources Management. | $43,262 | |||
Environmental/Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism. | $43,262 | |||
Forestry, General. | $37,539 | |||
Forest Sciences and Biology. | $37,539 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Construction Engineering Technology/Technician. | $78,423 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Public Administration. | - | |||
Social Work. | $38,134-$51,716 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General. | - | |||
Chemistry, General. | $42,660-$85,131 | |||
Geology/Earth Science, General. | $41,158 | |||
Physics, General. | $51,927 | |||
Materials Science. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Biological and Physical Sciences. | $60,746 | |||
Natural Sciences. | - | |||
Nutrition Sciences. | $32,785-$60,252 | |||
International/Globalization Studies. | $28,919 | |||
Sustainability Studies. | - | |||
Data Science, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | $53,447-$111,285 | |||
Educational Administration and Supervision, Other. | $53,447-$111,285 | |||
Student Counseling and Personnel Services, Other. | $53,422 | |||
Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching. | - | |||
Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - | |||
Agricultural Teacher Education. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics, General. | $47,835 | |||
Statistics, General. | $88,707 | |||
Applied Statistics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
English Language and Literature, General. | $27,549 | |||
Creative Writing. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | - | |||
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling. | - | |||
Environmental Health. | $52,540 | |||
Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $67,142 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
History, General. | $36,272-$42,244 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $34,540 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Interior Architecture. | $45,774 | |||
Landscape Architecture. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Philosophy. | $27,810 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ethnic Studies. | - | |||
Women's Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Fire Services Administration. | - |
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
World University Ranking
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
Colorado State University-Fort Collins Varsity Athletes
NCAA Division I-FBS | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 125 | 124 |
Football | 114 | - |
Basketball | 16 | 16 |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 29 |
Soccer | - | 24 |
Softball | - | 22 |
Golf | 8 | 9 |
Volleyball | - | 15 |
Tennis | - | 8 |
NCAA Division I-FBS | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 130 | 115 |
Football | 114 | - |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 30 |
Basketball | 15 | 13 |
Soccer | - | 28 |
Softball | - | 24 |
Golf | 9 | 9 |
Volleyball | - | 17 |
Tennis | - | 8 |
NCAA Division I-FBS | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
All Track Combined | 133 | 122 |
Football | 113 | - |
Swimming and Diving | - | 31 |
Basketball | 13 | 16 |
Soccer | - | 26 |
Softball | - | 22 |
Golf | 10 | 7 |
Volleyball | - | 17 |
Tennis | - | 8 |
Colorado State University (CSU) is a prominent public research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. Established in 1870, CSU has evolved into a major institution of higher education known for its commitment to teaching, research, and community engagement. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Know Knowledge," reflecting a dedication to academic excellence and fostering innovation. CSU places a strong emphasis on sustainability, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility, which are integral to both its academic programs and campus life.
The campus, beautifully situated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offers access to a plethora of outdoor activities that enhance the student experience. CSU features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, research centers, and recreational amenities, which support a vibrant academic community. The university is known for its strong agriculture, engineering, and veterinary medicine programs, attracting students from all over the globe. Additionally, the university prides itself on a diverse student body and inclusive campus culture, promoting well-rounded student engagement through various clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. Graduates of CSU enjoy a high employment rate, aided by strong industry connections and practical learning opportunities provided through internships and research projects. With a rich tradition of academic excellence and a focus on real-world impact, Colorado State University continues to shape the future of its students and the communities they serve.