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96.0%Acceptance
$6,938Tuition
8,047Students
60%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$56,880Earnings
#3 in WyomingPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About University of Wyoming

The University of Wyoming is the state's only four-year university, serving 8,047 students in the remote mountain town of Laramie. This public research university has built its reputation around engineering and energy research, reflecting Wyoming's role as a major energy producer. Notable graduates include former Vice President Dick Cheney and the late Senator Craig Thomas, both of whom shaped national politics.

The financial picture looks promising for most students. With an average net price of $11,779, families earning under $48,000 pay around $7,600 annually after aid. Graduates earn a median of $56,880 ten years after graduation, while carrying just $18,000 in debt with monthly payments of $191. The 95% acceptance rate means admission is accessible, though only 60% of students graduate within six years.

Wyoming's Cowboys and Cowgirls compete in Division I athletics with 417 student-athletes across 13 sports. The student body is 55% female and 78% white, with 55% coming from in-state. Students benefit from a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, though the 77% retention rate suggests the remote location and rigorous programs aren't for everyone. The Mountain West Conference provides competitive athletics in a state where the university serves as the primary path to higher education.

Academics & Faculty

The University of Wyoming is the state's only four-year university, making it the academic center for Wyoming's 580,000 residents. The school excels in engineering and energy research, reflecting the state's oil, gas, and coal industries. Students work closely with faculty in a 13:1 ratio, creating opportunities for undergraduate research and mentorship. However, the 60% four-year graduation rate suggests many students take longer to complete degrees, often due to work obligations or changing majors. The university's research focus means students can access advanced facilities and work alongside professors on real-world energy projects. Alumni like former Vice President Dick Cheney demonstrate the school's political science and public policy strengths.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio
13:1
Full-Time Faculty
99.1%
Graduation Rate (4-year)
60.3%
Graduation Rate (6-year)
59.8%
Retention Rate
77.5%
Median Earnings (10 years)
$56,880
Carnegie Classification
Doctoral University (R2)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
ProgramLevelMedian Earnings
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. Doctoral $125,611
Petroleum Engineering. Bachelor $73,949
Educational Administration and Supervision. Certificate $66,915
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. Bachelor $66,369
Business Administration, Management and Operations. Master $63,997
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. Bachelor $63,005
Computer Science. Bachelor $61,516
Mechanical Engineering. Bachelor $58,673
Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. Bachelor $58,402
Education, General. Master $57,318

View all 183 programs →

Campus Life

The University of Wyoming sits at 7,200 feet elevation in Laramie, a town of 32,000 that's 130 miles from Denver. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, so pack serious cold-weather gear for the long season from October through April. About 36% of the 8,047 students live on campus in residence halls that house 2,872 students total. The campus spreads across 785 acres with the iconic Old Main building anchoring the historic quad.

Weekend life revolves around Cowboy football and basketball games, plus outdoor adventures in the nearby Medicine Bow Mountains. Students hit the slopes at Snowy Range Ski Area or explore hiking trails when weather permits. The small-town setting means most social life happens on campus or at local spots downtown. Greek life involves about 10% of students. With Colorado State as the biggest rival, homecoming draws massive crowds. The isolation builds tight campus bonds, though some students transfer due to the remote location and harsh winters.
Setting
Town-Remote
Housing Capacity
2,872 beds
Calendar System
Semester
Study Abroad
Available
Founded
1886

Campus Safety (2023)

51 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
OffenseOn CampusResidentialNoncampusPublic Property
Rape 10 7 0 0
Stalking 11 3 0 0
Domestic Violence 6 5 0 0
Fondling 2 2 0 0
Motor Vehicle Theft 4 0 0 0
Burglary 1 0 0 0

Climate & Weather

January Avg
8°–33°F
July Avg
46°–80°F
Annual Precipitation
10.9"
Annual Snowfall
64.1"

Student Demographics

Wyoming draws students who want a close-knit university experience in America's least populous state. With 55% of students coming from in-state, the university serves as Wyoming's flagship institution while attracting out-of-state students seeking affordable education and outdoor recreation. The student body of 8,047 creates a small-town college atmosphere where nearly everyone knows each other. Women slightly outnumber men at 54%, though engineering and energy programs traditionally draw more male students. The 22% Pell Grant rate reflects Wyoming's working-class roots and the university's commitment to accessibility.
Men
46.3%
Women
53.8%
White
78.2%
Black
1.0%
Hispanic
9.4%
Asian
1.1%
In-State Students
54.9%
Pell Grant Recipients
22.2%

Location

Laramie sits at 7,200 feet elevation in southeastern Wyoming, 130 miles north of Denver. The university town has just 32,000 residents, making it one of the most remote college settings in the country. Students experience genuine Western culture in a place where rodeo matters and the nearest Starbucks is hours away. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer brings perfect hiking weather in the nearby Medicine Bow Mountains. Only 55% of students come from in-state, drawn by the authentic cowboy atmosphere and outdoor recreation opportunities. The campus serves as the cultural center for the entire region. Students considering colleges in Wyoming may also compare University of Wyoming with similar schools in the region.
Address
Laramie, Wyoming 82071
University of wyoming 1908 crop
University of wyoming 1908 crop
Uwyo panorama 02
Uwyo panorama 02
Wyoming Union
Wyoming Union

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years)
$56,880
Median Earnings (5 years)
$58,733
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
$44,200
Loan Repayment Rate
74.8%
Monthly Loan Payment
$191/mo
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at University of Wyoming?

University of Wyoming accepts 95.98% of applicants, making it highly accessible to prospective students. As Wyoming's only four-year university, it serves as the state's flagship institution for higher education. The high acceptance rate reflects the university's mission to provide educational opportunities to Wyoming residents and students nationwide.

How much does University of Wyoming cost after financial aid?

The average net price is $11,779, with students from families earning under $30,000 paying just $7,602 annually. Out-of-state tuition runs $22,718 while in-state students pay $6,938. Students graduate with a median debt of $18,000, which translates to monthly loan payments of $191.

What academic programs is University of Wyoming known for?

The university maintains a 13:1 student-faculty ratio across its programs, with particular strength in engineering and energy research. With 8,047 students enrolled, it offers comprehensive academic programs while maintaining small class sizes. The school's focus on energy research aligns with Wyoming's role as a major energy-producing state.

How successful are University of Wyoming graduates in finding jobs?

Graduates achieve a 95.8% employment rate, with median earnings of $56,880 ten years after graduation. The 59.80% six-year graduation rate reflects the challenges many students face in this remote mountain setting. Alumni include notable figures like former Vice President Dick Cheney and basketball innovator Kenny Sailors.

Where is University of Wyoming located and what is campus life like?

The campus sits in Laramie, a remote mountain town that shapes the entire college experience. Housing capacity serves 2,872 students, creating a tight-knit community atmosphere. The Cowboys and Cowgirls compete in NCAA Division I athletics with 417 total athletes participating across 13 varsity sports in the Mountain West Conference.

Is University of Wyoming the only major university in the state?

Yes, University of Wyoming serves as the state's sole four-year university, founded in 1886. This unique position means 54.92% of students come from in-state, creating strong ties to the local community. The university's motto "Mundo pro patria" reflects its commitment to serving both Wyoming and the broader world through education and research.