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Western Colorado University

Gunnison, Colorado · Public

$17k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
B+Academics
C-Admissions
B-Student Life
B+Overall

About

Western Colorado University is located in Gunnison, Colorado. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,653 students.

western.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

$17kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$11,083
Out-of-state tuition$23,683
Room & board$10,442
Avg aid package$7,169
Students receiving aid14%
Pell grant recipients13%

Western Colorado University offers a private school feel at a public school price, with 80% of students receiving some form of financial aid. All admitted students are considered for merit scholarships, helping to keep costs down. Upon graduation, students carry 33% less debt than those attending other institutions.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1000–1240
4001600
ACT · middle 50%21–28
136

Application info

Acceptance rate97%
Average GPA3.42
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$0

Western Colorado University has a least selective admission policy with an acceptance rate between 90-99%. The university considers entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. Western looks for students who are academically adventurous and ready to contribute meaningful work in their fields.

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Academics

Graduation rate49%
Retention rate73%
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Full-time faculty62%

Western Colorado University provides a high-quality education with small, interactive classes and personal attention from faculty. The university offers unique programs tailored to its mountain environment, such as outdoor recreation and emergency management. With a focus on hands-on experience, students benefit from an ideal outdoor laboratory for physical sciences.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$46,833
Avg starting salary$42,800
Job placement rate95%
Earn more than HS grad65%
Economic mobility78%
Loan default (3 yr)6%
Loan repayment (3 yr)63%

Western Colorado University prepares students for meaningful work in communities across Colorado and beyond. Graduates are equipped to become cybersecurity experts, social workers, teachers, and more. The university's ICELab connects students with local businesses for internships and job opportunities.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
1,653Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More maleGender ratio
Female 43%Male 57%
72% WhiteRacial diversity
White 72%Hispanic 13%Black 3%Asian 1%Other 10%
Campus housingYes

Western Colorado University offers a close-knit, friendly atmosphere with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities. Students enjoy a welcoming community where they can easily connect with peers and professors. The campus is praised for its stunning mountain scenery and access to hiking, skiing, and other outdoor adventures.

Student reviews

Professors

Alumni

Western Colorado University is very close to Aspen and Crested Butte Ski resorts. I plan on getting a ski pass this winter to relax and enjoy the skiing with other students and peers during our downtime. Academically, Western Colorado University has much support whether its: other students, tutors, counselors or Professors on their open to student hours and times.

Campus and vibes

Junior

What I like is that this University is very social. Many students and professors are friendly (for the most part) to each other and they try to help out whenever they can. The professors come up with engaging extra-curricular activities to students that can range from hands-on projects to trips to other towns in Colorado.

Alumni

I like that they have: A smaller Campus, Smaller Classes, Counselling staff is very helpful and check on you often, Mountains/ Nature/ with many outdoor activities, beautiful campus, the Administration/ people/ student body are all very friendly and the campus amenities were very appealing to me.

Student

However, the winter was very long and cold, and I feel as if the school has some work to be done to improve student life. It would be helpful to have more spaces on campus for students to gather. Academically, the small class sizes gave me the opportunity to discuss often with my professors and get the help I needed.

Student

The friendly atmosphere of Gunnison fosters strong connections among students and locals, enhancing the overall college experience. I particularly appreciated the small class sizes, which allow for personalized attention from professors, and the variety of outdoor recreation opportunities available.

About Western Colorado University

Western Colorado University is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Campus Security Services offers 24-hour accessibility, roving patrols, and cooperation with local emergency agencies. The university utilizes the Rave Mobile Safety System for emergency notifications and works closely with the Gunnison Police Department.

The Western Honors Program provides enhanced and challenging academic programming to a carefully selected group of highly motivated students. Honors students have the opportunity to become autonomous learners within a highly supportive and collaborative academic community. Benefits include Honors housing, access to the Honors Center, priority registration, and exclusive scholarship opportunities.

Western Colorado University welcomes international students and provides support through various academic and non-academic facilities. While specific details on dedicated international student support services are limited, the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion suggests a supportive environment for international students.

Endowment$8,835,417
Avg faculty salary$90,072

Western Colorado University FAQ

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Western Colorado University admits about 97% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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