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Colorado State University Pueblo charges just $12,948 annually for Natural Resources Conservation and Research, making it the most affordable option among 11 programs statewide. This stark contrast with private institutions like University of Denver at $36,037 reflects Colorado's strong public university system. The state's aerospace industry through companies like Ball Aerospace creates demand for environmental specialists who understand resource management around sensitive facilities. Graduates earn between $23,745 and $41,565, with Western Colorado University achieving a 50.7% graduation rate despite its mountain location in Gunnison.
11
Programs
$12,948 – $36,037
Net Price Range
$32,775
Avg. Program Earnings
56.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Natural Resources Conservation and Research Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,948 $9,401 38.0% 98.8%
2 $14,294 $10,780 29.9% 97.9%
3 $15,331 $9,712 41.5% 81.8%
4 $16,773 $11,083 50.7% 91.9%
5 $17,339 $9,670 43.1% 91.0%
6 $20,332 $12,896 66.9% 90.8%
7 $21,480 $16,430 75.0% 80.7%
8 $22,689 $43,980 61.1% 76.1%
9 $28,862 $34,600 45.9% 100.0%
10 $31,678 $67,932 86.0% 16.3%
11 $36,037 $59,340 78.0% 77.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive cost difference between Colorado's public and private conservation programs?

Public universities like Colorado State University Pueblo cost $12,948 while private schools like University of Denver reach $36,037. The Colorado Opportunity Fund provides tuition stipends to in-state students, further reducing costs at public institutions.

How do earnings compare across different Colorado conservation programs?

University of Denver graduates earn $41,565 annually, the highest in the state for this field. Fort Lewis College graduates start at $23,745, creating an $17,820 earnings gap that may reflect regional job markets and program focus.

Where can students find the best graduation rates for natural resources programs?

Colorado College leads with 86% graduation rates but costs $31,678 annually. University of Colorado Boulder offers a more accessible option with 75% graduation rates at $21,480 net cost.

Does acceptance rate affect program quality at Colorado conservation schools?

Colorado College accepts only 16.3% of applicants and achieves 86% graduation rates. Meanwhile, Colorado State University Pueblo accepts 98.79% but graduates just 38% of students, suggesting selectivity may correlate with completion.

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