| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Type: Private Liberal Arts College
Founded: 1874
Motto: "Scientia et Disciplina" (Knowledge and Discipline)
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
Campus Size: 90 acres
Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 undergraduate students
Colors: Black and Gold
Mascot: Prowler the Tiger
Athletics: NCAA Division III (except Division I for men’s hockey and women’s soccer)
Block Plan Curriculum:
Students take one course at a time, completing it in an immersive 3.5-week block. This allows for focused learning and experiential opportunities like fieldwork, research, and off-campus study.
Stunning Location:
Situated near the Rocky Mountains, CC’s campus offers breathtaking views and access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing.
Sustainability Leader:
Colorado College is committed to environmental sustainability and became one of the first colleges to achieve carbon neutrality.
Small Class Sizes:
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, CC emphasizes close relationships between students and professors.
Colorado College offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations across a wide range of disciplines.
Academic Divisions:
Natural Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science.
Social Sciences: Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, Sociology.
Humanities: English, Philosophy, History, Classics.
Interdisciplinary Programs: Southwest Studies, Feminist and Gender Studies, Asian Studies.
Fine Arts: Art, Music, Theater, Dance.
Notable Programs:
Environmental Studies
Southwest Studies (unique to Colorado College)
Creative Writing
International Political Economy
Film and Media Studies
Colorado College is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 14–16%. The college evaluates applicants holistically, focusing on academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and personal essays.
Early Decision I and II
Early Action
Regular Decision
High School Transcripts: Emphasis on a rigorous course load.
Standardized Tests: Test-optional policy (students may submit SAT/ACT scores).
Personal Essay: Required as part of the Common Application or Coalition Application.
Supplemental Essay: Explains why the applicant is interested in CC’s unique Block Plan.
Recommendations: Letters from a teacher and counselor.
Expense |
Cost (2024–2025, USD) |
|---|---|
|
Tuition |
$67,300 |
|
Room and Board |
$15,000 |
|
Fees |
$474 |
|
Total Estimated Cost |
~$82,774 |
Financial Aid: Colorado College is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students.
Merit Scholarships: Awards are available for exceptional academic, artistic, or leadership achievements.
Housing and Dining:
All first-year and sophomore students live on campus, fostering a tight-knit community.
Dining services offer diverse, sustainable food options.
Clubs and Organizations:
Over 120 student organizations, including academic clubs, outdoor adventure groups, and cultural organizations.
Popular groups include the Outdoor Recreation Club, student government, and music ensembles.
Athletics and Recreation:
Division III sports for most teams, with competitive Division I programs in men’s hockey and women’s soccer.
Access to fitness centers, climbing walls, and outdoor recreation programs.
Traditions:
Events like Winterfest, the Big Idea pitch competition, and the CC Block Break adventure trips create lasting memories.
Colorado College has an impressive alumni network that includes leaders in various fields:
Lynne Cheney: Former Second Lady of the United States.
Abigail Washburn: Grammy Award-winning musician.
James Heckman: Nobel Prize-winning economist.
Ken Salazar: Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior.
Division |
Majors Offered |
Minors/Concentrations Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
Natural Sciences |
- Biology |
- Environmental Issues |
|
|
- Mathematics |
|
|
Social Sciences |
- Anthropology |
- Political Economy |
|
|
- International Political Economy |
|
|
Humanities |
- English |
- Medieval and Renaissance Studies |
|
|
- Religion |
|
|
Interdisciplinary |
- Feminist and Gender Studies |
- Asian Studies |
|
|
- International Relations |
|
|
Fine Arts |
- Art (Studio Art and Art History) |
- Creative Writing |
|
|
|
|
|
Other Notable Programs |
- Education (Teacher Preparation and Licensure) |
- Linguistics |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Natural Sciences |
|
|
|
Biology |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Chemistry and Biochemistry |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Physics |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Mathematics |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Molecular Biology |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Organismal Biology and Ecology |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Social Sciences |
|
|
|
Anthropology |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Economics |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Political Science |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Psychology |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Sociology |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
International Political Economy |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Humanities |
|
|
|
English |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Philosophy |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
History |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Classics |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Comparative Literature |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Religion |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Interdisciplinary Studies |
|
|
|
Feminist and Gender Studies |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Southwest Studies |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Environmental Studies |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Race, Ethnicity, and Migration Studies |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
International Relations |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Asian Studies |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Fine Arts |
|
|
|
Art (Studio Art and Art History) |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Music |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Theater and Dance |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
|
Film and Media Studies |
4 Years |
$67,300 |
Innovative Block Plan:
Students take one course at a time in 3.5-week blocks, allowing for immersive learning, field trips, and focused study.
Diverse and Inclusive Community:
Students from 60+ countries enrich campus life with cultural perspectives and global viewpoints.
Stunning Location:
Located in Colorado Springs at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the campus offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventure opportunities.
Small Class Sizes:
A 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention and meaningful interactions with professors.
Financial Aid for International Students:
CC is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, including international applicants.
Application Form:
Apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
Academic Transcripts:
Official high school transcripts or equivalent, translated into English if necessary.
Standardized Test Scores:
Colorado College is test-optional, but international students may submit SAT/ACT scores to strengthen their application:
Typical SAT range: 1360–1480
Typical ACT range: 31–34
English Proficiency Test Scores:
Required for non-native English speakers:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 100
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 120
Essay and Supplemental Question:
A personal essay as part of the Common Application or Coalition Application.
A supplemental essay explaining why the applicant is interested in the Block Plan and Colorado College.
Letters of Recommendation:
One from a teacher and one from a school counselor.
Application Plan |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification |
Binding/Non-Binding |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 1 |
Mid-December |
Binding |
|
Early Action |
November 1 |
Mid-December |
Non-Binding |
|
Early Decision II |
January 15 |
Mid-February |
Binding |
|
Regular Decision |
January 15 |
Late March |
Non-Binding |
1. Choose Your Application Platform
Colorado College accepts applications through:
Common Application
Coalition Application
2. Submit Required Documents
Completed Application Form:
Includes personal information, academic history, and extracurricular activities.
High School Transcripts:
Official transcripts showing grades through the most recent completed term.
A strong academic record with a rigorous course load (AP, IB, or Honors classes) is highly valued.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
Colorado College is test-optional; SAT/ACT scores are not required but can be submitted to enhance your application.
Middle 50% ranges (if submitted):
SAT: 1360–1480
ACT: 31–34
Personal Essay:
Required as part of the Common or Coalition Application.
This essay gives insight into your character, interests, and motivations.
Supplemental Essay:
A specific question about Colorado College’s Block Plan and how it aligns with your academic interests and learning style.
Letters of Recommendation:
One letter from a teacher who can speak to your academic abilities.
One letter from a counselor or school official.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
Required for non-native English speakers:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120.
Fee: $60 (non-refundable).
Fee Waivers: Available for students with financial need.
Applicants are encouraged to schedule an interview (virtual or in-person).
Interviews allow the admissions team to learn more about you and give you an opportunity to ask questions about CC.
Need-Based Aid:
CC meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students.
Submit the FAFSA (U.S. students) and the CSS Profile (all applicants seeking aid).
Merit-Based Scholarships:
All applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships, which range from $10,000 to full tuition.
Application Plan |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification |
Binding/Non-Binding |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 1 |
Mid-December |
Binding |
|
Early Action |
November 1 |
Mid-December |
Non-Binding |
|
Early Decision II |
January 15 |
Mid-February |
Binding |
|
Regular Decision |
January 15 |
Late March |
Non-Binding |
Colorado College follows a holistic admissions process, considering academic achievements, personal attributes, extracurricular involvement, and alignment with the college’s Block Plan.
1. Academic Requirements
High School Diploma or Equivalent:
Completion of secondary education with a strong academic record.
Course Rigor:
Applicants are expected to have pursued a challenging curriculum, such as:
Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Honors or advanced-level courses.
2. GPA Requirements
Colorado College does not specify a minimum GPA, but most successful applicants have a high school GPA of 3.8–4.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
3. Standardized Test Scores (Optional)
Colorado College is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.
If submitted:
SAT: Typical range: 1360–1480 (middle 50%).
ACT: Typical range: 31–34 (middle 50%).
4. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120.
Exemptions: Students who studied in English-speaking schools or programs may be exempt.
5. Essays
Personal Essay:
Required as part of the Common or Coalition Application. This essay should highlight your experiences, goals, and personal qualities.
Supplemental Essay:
Applicants must write an essay about how Colorado College’s Block Plan fits their academic and personal interests.
6. Letters of Recommendation
Two Letters Required:
One from a teacher who knows your academic abilities.
One from a school counselor or administrator.
7. Extracurricular Activities and Leadership
Active participation in clubs, sports, arts, volunteer work, or leadership roles is highly valued.
Ranking Organization |
Ranking/Category |
Position |
|---|---|---|
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Liberal Arts Colleges |
Top 25 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Teaching |
Top 10 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Most Innovative Schools |
Top 10 |
|
QS World University Ranking |
Global Ranking (if applicable) |
Not Ranked |
|
QS World University Ranking |
Focus on Liberal Arts Institutions |
Not Applicable |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Renewability |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
- Awarded to students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership, or talent. |
$10,000–$50,000 per year |
Renewable for up to 4 years, subject to academic performance. |
|
Colorado College Grant |
- Need-based aid for students demonstrating financial need. |
(up to full tuition) |
Renewable annually, based on demonstrated need. |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
- Exceptional academic performance and leadership potential. |
$30,000–$50,000 per year |
Renewable for 4 years. |
|
Keller Venture Grants |
- For students pursuing unique academic or experiential learning projects. |
$1,000–$4,000 (one-time grant) |
Non-renewable (project-based). |
|
El Pomar Scholarship |
- For Colorado residents with strong academic achievements and leadership contributions. |
N/A |
Renewable annually. |
|
Stroud Scholars Program |
- For high-achieving first-generation or underrepresented Colorado high school students. |
Up to full tuition and fees |
Renewable with satisfactory academic progress. |
|
Leadership Scholarships |
- Recognizes students with outstanding leadership experience in school or community. |
$10,000–$25,000 per year |
Renewable for 4 years. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
- Awarded to international students with financial need and strong academic credentials. |
(up to full tuition) |
Renewable annually, based on financial need. |
|
Federal and State Grants |
- Available for U.S. citizens and permanent residents with demonstrated need. |
N/A |
Renewable annually, based on FAFSA results. |
Category |
Details |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
- Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. |
N/A |
|
Campus Size |
- Spans 90 acres with historic and modern buildings, open spaces, and green areas. |
N/A |
|
First-Year Housing |
- All first-year students live in residence halls. |
Included in room & board costs. |
|
Upperclassman Housing |
- Sophomores, juniors, and seniors have access to suite-style or apartment-style housing. |
Included in room & board costs. |
|
Room and Board Costs |
- Housing and meal plan are required for first- and second-year students. |
$15,000 per year |
|
Dining Facilities |
- The main dining hall, Rastall Café, serves diverse cuisine, including vegetarian and vegan options. |
Included in room & board costs. |
|
Special Housing Options |
- Themed Housing: Offers housing for students with shared interests (e.g., outdoor education, arts, or global learning). |
Included in room & board costs. |
|
Utilities and Internet |
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi, heating, electricity, and water are included in housing costs. |
Included |
|
Laundry Facilities |
- Laundry rooms are available in all residence halls, free of charge. |
Included |
|
Safety and Security |
- 24/7 campus security with ID card access to residence halls. |
Included |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
- Limited off-campus housing options; most students live on campus due to the residential requirement for first- and second-year students. |
($8,000–$12,000/year) |
1. Campus Community
Residential Campus:
Over 90% of students live on campus, fostering a strong sense of community.
The residential experience emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and shared learning.
Close-Knit Environment:
Small class sizes and shared living spaces allow students to form meaningful connections with peers and professors.
2. Academics and Intellectual Life
Block Plan Culture:
Students take one course at a time, immersing themselves in a single subject for 3.5 weeks.
This structure encourages collaboration, hands-on learning, and creative approaches to problem-solving.
Field Trips and Experiential Learning:
Classes often include field trips or off-campus experiences, leveraging CC's proximity to natural and cultural landmarks.
3. Clubs and Organizations
Over 120 Student Organizations:
Cultural and Identity Groups: Black Student Union, Asian Student Union, SOMOS (Latinx group).
Academic and Professional Clubs: Pre-Health Society, Investment Club, and CC Science Outreach.
Creative and Performing Arts: Theater groups, a cappella ensembles, and creative writing workshops.
Special Interest Groups: Gaming Club, Sustainability Council, and Outdoor Recreation Club.
Volunteer Opportunities: Students participate in community service through groups like the CC Volunteer Action Corps.
4. Athletics and Outdoor Recreation
Varsity Sports:
Competes in NCAA Division III for most sports, with Division I programs in men’s ice hockey and women’s soccer.
Intramural and Club Sports:
Popular activities include ultimate frisbee, rugby, climbing, and skiing.
Outdoor Education Programs:
The Outdoor Education Center organizes trips for hiking, skiing, rock climbing, and more.
Students can access gear rentals and participate in wilderness training programs.
5. Cultural and Artistic Life
Performing Arts:
Students can participate in music ensembles, theater productions, and dance performances.
Art Exhibitions:
The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College features student and professional art exhibitions.
Campus Events:
Regularly scheduled activities include poetry readings, film screenings, and guest lectures.
6. Traditions and Events
Winter Fest:
Celebrates the winter season with skiing, snowboarding, and campus-wide festivities.
Spring Concert:
A major music event featuring live performances by well-known artists.
Block Break Adventures:
After each 3.5-week block, students enjoy a 4-day break. Many use this time for travel, outdoor activities, or relaxation.
7. Dining and Social Spaces
Dining Options:
The main dining hall, Rastall Café, offers diverse meal options, including vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-friendly choices.
Additional spots like Benji’s Café and The Preserve provide casual dining and hangout spaces.
Social Hubs:
The Worner Campus Center serves as the heart of student life, hosting events, club meetings, and student services.
8. Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives
Eco-Friendly Practices:
CC is a leader in sustainability, with LEED-certified buildings, a campus-wide recycling program, and renewable energy initiatives.
Student-Led Sustainability Groups:
Organizations like the Sustainability Council and EnAct (Environmental Action) promote green initiatives on campus.
9. Support Services
Career Center:
Helps students with internships, resume building, and job placement.
Offers resources for graduate school applications and fellowship opportunities.
Mental Health and Wellness:
Free counseling services and wellness workshops are available to all students.
Advising and Peer Support:
Academic advisors and peer mentors help students navigate the challenges of the Block Plan.
10. Location and Outdoor Activities
Proximity to Nature:
Located near Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the Rocky Mountains, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Activities include skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Nearby Cities:
Close to Denver and Boulder, providing access to cultural events, shopping, and nightlife.
Employment and Graduate School Rate:
Over 90% of graduates are employed, pursuing graduate studies, or engaged in professional experiences (such as fellowships or service programs) within 6–12 months of graduation.
Top Employers:
Graduates secure positions at leading organizations across various sectors, including:
Amazon
Deloitte
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Peace Corps
U.S. Department of State
Graduate School Admission:
Many alumni pursue advanced degrees at prestigious institutions, such as:
Harvard University
Stanford University
University of Chicago
Columbia University
Oxford University
Colorado College graduates have high acceptance rates into competitive medical schools and law schools.
The Career Center at Colorado College plays a key role in helping students prepare for their careers or graduate studies:
1. Career Counseling and Advising
One-on-one career advising sessions to explore career paths, set goals, and develop job search strategies.
2. Internship Opportunities
Over 80% of students complete at least one internship during their time at CC, often funded by grants.
Internships are available in various fields, such as business, healthcare, environmental science, and government.
3. Networking and Alumni Connections
CC’s strong alumni network offers mentorship, job referrals, and internships.
The Tiger Link Platform connects students with alumni for career advice and networking.
4. Career Fairs and On-Campus Recruiting
Regular career fairs and employer visits help students connect with companies and organizations.
Notable participating employers include Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and government agencies.
5. Professional Development Workshops
Resume writing, interview preparation, and LinkedIn profile optimization sessions are offered regularly.
Colorado College graduates pursue careers in diverse industries:
Field |
Top Employers/Programs |
Average Starting Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business and Consulting |
Deloitte, PwC, Bain & Company |
$55,000–$75,000 |
|
Technology |
Google, Amazon, IBM, Oracle |
$65,000–$90,000 |
|
Education and Nonprofit |
Teach for America, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps |
$35,000–$50,000 |
|
Healthcare and Research |
National Institutes of Health (NIH), NREL |
$50,000–$70,000 |
|
Law and Government |
U.S. Department of State, Policy Think Tanks |
$55,000–$75,000 |
|
Creative Arts and Media |
National Geographic, The New York Times |
$40,000–$55,000 |
Keller Venture Grants:
Funding for students to design and pursue unique professional or academic projects.
Fellowships:
CC graduates regularly receive prestigious fellowships, including:
Fulbright Program
Watson Fellowship
Rhodes Scholarship
Optional Practical Training (OPT):
International students can work in the U.S. for up to 12 months (or 36 months for STEM graduates).
Curricular Practical Training (CPT):
Opportunities to gain hands-on experience in their field during their studies.
Career Workshops for International Students:
Special sessions on navigating the U.S. job market and securing work authorization.
Holistic Admissions Process:
CC evaluates applicants based on academic achievements, personal qualities, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and alignment with the college’s values.
Essays, particularly the supplemental essay about the Block Plan, play a crucial role.
Test-Optional Policy:
Colorado College is test-optional, allowing students to decide whether to submit SAT/ACT scores. This policy helps create a more diverse and inclusive applicant pool.
Early Decision Advantage:
Early Decision applicants demonstrate a strong commitment to attending CC, and their acceptance rates are typically higher than Regular Decision or Early Action applicants.
Colorado College
14 E. Cache La Poudre St.
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
USA