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Small Colleges in Colorado

38 schools in Colorado. See our methodology.

Colorado College stands out among small institutions with an acceptance rate of just 16.3%, making it one of the most selective schools in the state while maintaining an 86% graduation rate. The small college market spans from specialized technical training at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Broomfield, where graduates earn $59,093 annually, to affordable community colleges like Colorado Mountain College at just $6,342 net cost. These 38 institutions serve varied career paths in Colorado's growing aerospace and technology sectors. Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace actively recruit from local programs, while the Colorado Opportunity Fund provides stipends to reduce student costs. Community colleges dominate the small school category, offering pathways to four-year degrees and direct workforce entry. Graduation rates vary significantly, from 20% to 86%, often reflecting different student populations and mission focuses. Net costs range from under $7,000 at several community colleges to over $30,000 at private institutions, though earnings potential varies considerably by program type and industry connections.
38
Schools
$18,578
Avg. Net Price
$45,865
Avg. Earnings
51.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Small Colleges in Colorado

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 321 $30,922 68.8%
2 2,139 $31,678 86.0% 16.3%
3 825 $13,224 53.6%
4 1,168 $11,197 55.7%
5 306 $23,382 68.5%
6 161 $24,961 60.8% 49.6%
7 619 $7,161 46.1%
8 4,281 $9,356 37.4%
9 406 $10,328 41.4%
10 3,182 $9,535 35.1%
11 642 $11,329 36.7%
12 3,293 $11,063 37.5%
13 3,346 $7,466 28.6%
14 2,821 $6,342 25.9%
15 2,599 $22,689 61.1% 76.1%
16 215 $42,287 20.0% 64.7%
17 500 $12,316 25.6%
18 1,104 $32,060 69.4%
19 108 $22,635 81.8% 77.8%
20 1,653 $16,773 50.7% 91.9%
21 4,124 88.1% 16.2%
22 1,878 $28,037 36.5%
23 3,070 $17,339 43.1% 91.0%
24 30 $10,030 66.7%
25 3,028 $12,948 38.0% 98.8%
26 339 $24,909 66.5%
27 764 $21,821 64.2%
28 1,239 $14,173 31.6% 99.2%
29 816 $22,051 44.9%
30 1,160 $16,656 54.6%
31 336
32 949
33 196 $16,547 69.0% 99.3%
34 25 $24,273 64.7% 100.0%
35 212
36 368 $28,862 45.9% 100.0%
37 290 $18,729 54.7%
38 1

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Colorado College different from other small colleges in the state?

Colorado College accepts only 16.3% of applicants, making it highly selective compared to most small Colorado institutions. With 2,139 students and an 86% graduation rate, it represents the premium liberal arts option. Graduates earn $65,222 annually, reflecting strong career outcomes that justify the $31,678 net cost.

How affordable are Colorado's smallest colleges?

Net costs range from $6,342 at Colorado Mountain College to $42,287 at the highest-priced institutions. Community colleges typically cost under $12,000, while specialized programs like IBMC College run $23,382. The Colorado Opportunity Fund provides additional stipends to qualifying residents, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

Do small colleges in Colorado lead to good career outcomes?

Graduates earn between $34,432 and $77,602 annually depending on their program. Specialized technical schools like Spartan College produce graduates earning $59,093, while community college alumni typically earn $36,000-$46,000. Colorado's aerospace and technology industries provide strong employment opportunities for skilled graduates.

Is it easier to get into small colleges in Colorado?

Most small Colorado colleges have high acceptance rates, with many community colleges practicing open admission. However, Colorado College accepts just 16.3% of applicants, while Bel-Rea Institute accepts 49.55%. Specialized programs often have specific prerequisites rather than competitive admissions processes.

What types of programs do these small colleges offer?

Programs range from liberal arts at Colorado College to specialized training in aeronautics, animal technology, and healthcare. Community colleges provide transfer pathways and workforce certificates. Institutions like IBMC College focus on medical fields, while Spartan College specializes in aerospace technology, matching Colorado's industry needs.

How do graduation rates compare among small Colorado colleges?

Graduation rates span from 20% to 86%, with Colorado College leading at 86% and specialized schools like Spartan College achieving 68.8%. Community colleges typically graduate 25-55% of students, reflecting varied student goals including transfer intentions and part-time enrollment patterns common in these institutions.

Related

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.