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Best Value Computer Science Colleges in Colorado

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Metropolitan State University of Denver delivers Computer Science graduates earning $72,790 annually at just $14,294 net cost, creating the strongest value proposition among Colorado's eight programs. While the Colorado School of Mines produces the highest-earning graduates at $78,971, its $29,240 price tag reflects the premium for specialized engineering focus. Colorado's aerospace giants like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace drive consistent demand for programming talent across the Front Range corridor.
8
Programs
$14,294 – $36,037
Net Price Range
$72,386
Avg. Program Earnings
56.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

8 Computer Science Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,294 $72,790 $10,780 29.9% 97.9%
2 $14,954 $63,005 $12,760 17.6%
3 $16,431 $67,240 $9,712 45.3% 84.8%
4 $21,480 $75,921 $16,430 75.0% 80.7%
5 $22,689 $74,200 $43,980 61.1% 76.1%
6 $29,240 $78,971 $21,186 79.4% 58.0%
7 $36,037 $74,576 $59,340 78.0% 77.7%
8 $20,332 $12,896 66.9% 90.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $21,746 cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Public universities like Metropolitan State ($14,294) and UC Colorado Springs ($16,431) benefit from state funding that keeps costs low for residents. Private institutions like University of Denver reach $36,037 due to higher tuition and fewer state subsidies, though graduation rates at private schools often exceed 60% compared to 30-45% at some public options.

How do Colorado Computer Science earnings compare to program costs?

Even the lowest-earning graduates at Colorado Technical University ($63,005) earn more than four times their $14,954 program cost within the first year. Colorado School of Mines graduates earning $78,971 recover their $29,240 investment in just over four months of work.

Does acceptance rate correlate with program value in Colorado?

Metropolitan State accepts 97.91% of applicants while producing graduates earning $72,790, proving selectivity doesn't determine earning potential. Colorado School of Mines, the most selective at 58% acceptance, does produce the highest earners at $78,971, but several accessible programs deliver strong returns.

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