Skip to main content
Colorado State University Global stands out with the highest earnings potential at $60,041 despite charging just $14,099 net cost, making it an strong value among Colorado's 15 Business Administration programs. The state's aerospace and tech industries, anchored by employers like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace, create strong demand for business graduates who can manage complex operations and projects. Public universities dominate the affordability market, with Colorado Mountain College offering the lowest net cost at $6,342, while private institutions like University of Denver reach $36,037. The earnings gap spans from $33,281 to $60,041, reflecting varied career paths from local business management to corporate leadership roles. Colorado's Opportunity Fund further reduces costs for in-state students, making these programs particularly attractive for residents seeking management careers in the state's growing economy.
15
Programs
$6,342 – $36,037
Net Price Range
$45,186
Avg. Program Earnings
48.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

15 Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,342 $40,456 $2,700 25.9%
2 $14,099 $60,041 $8,400 96.9%
3 $14,294 $44,691 $10,780 29.9% 97.9%
4 $14,954 $46,608 $12,760 17.6%
5 $15,331 $42,682 $9,712 41.5% 81.8%
6 $21,480 $54,671 $16,430 75.0% 80.7%
7 $18,457 $45,665 $12,010 51.3% 78.5%
8 $16,431 $40,521 $9,712 45.3% 84.8%
9 $19,133 $46,910 $10,017 47.4% 74.6%
10 $20,332 $45,305 $12,896 66.9% 90.8%
11 $16,773 $33,281 $11,083 50.7% 91.9%
12 $22,689 $43,319 $43,980 61.1% 76.1%
13 $25,458 $41,193 $39,266 55.3%
14 $36,037 $47,260 $59,340 78.0% 77.7%
15 $14,173 $9,776 31.6% 99.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Colorado State University Global such a strong value for business students?

CSU Global delivers the highest earnings at $60,041 while maintaining a net cost of just $14,099, creating the best return on investment among all Colorado business programs. The university accepts 96.88% of applicants and focuses on working professionals, which aligns well with Colorado's tech and aerospace job market. Students graduate with $24,495 in debt, which is manageable given the strong earning potential.

How do graduation rates vary among Colorado's business programs?

Graduation rates range dramatically from 17.60% at Colorado Technical University to 78% at University of Denver. Public flagship universities like CU Boulder achieve 75% graduation rates while charging $21,480 net cost. Mid-tier options like Colorado State University-Fort Collins maintain solid 66.90% graduation rates at $20,332, offering a balance between affordability and completion success.

Does attending a private university guarantee higher earnings in Colorado?

Private universities don't necessarily deliver higher earnings despite their premium pricing. University of Denver charges $36,037 but produces graduates earning $47,260, while public CSU Global costs $14,099 and delivers $60,041 in earnings. Colorado Christian University costs $25,458 with graduates earning just $41,193, demonstrating that public options often provide better financial outcomes.

Where can students find the most affordable business programs without sacrificing career prospects?

Colorado Mountain College offers the lowest cost at $6,342 net with graduates earning $40,456, though the 25.90% graduation rate requires careful consideration. Metropolitan State University of Denver provides better completion rates at 29.90% for just $14,294, while Colorado Mesa University delivers 41.50% graduation rates and $42,682 earnings for $15,331. These options leverage Colorado's business-friendly environment while keeping debt manageable.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.