Western Colorado University Overview

Western Colorado University is a four-year, full-time, selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Gunnison, CO. It has an enrollment of 1,722 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 90.87%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $17,437. Tuition is $10,662.00 without financial aid.

Western Colorado University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Western Colorado University, 73.61% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Western Colorado University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 18 to 1.

Western Colorado University Website

Western Colorado University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 90.87%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required

• The average SAT score was 1143.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 24.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Western Colorado University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $17,437. The in-state tuition is $10,662.00. Out-of-state tuition is $22,446.00

The average tuition is:

• $11,976, when family income is less than $30,000

• $13,037, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $17,772, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $18,893, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $21,338, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 30.01% of students received a federal student loan and 16.73% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $22,446.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Western Colorado University Net Price Calculator

Western Colorado University Majors/Salaries

Western Colorado University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Western Colorado University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Master’s Degree) – $40,365
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Computer Programming. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $54,435
• Education, General. (Master’s Degree) – $40,488
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,947
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,871
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,405
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,874
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,381
• Business/Commerce, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,585
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,281
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,087

Western Colorado University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Western Colorado University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.64%
• Asian: 0.99%
• Black: 3.43%
• Hispanic: 10.10%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.41%
• Non-resident alien: 0.29%
• Two or more races: 4.41%
• Unknown: 9.99%
• White: 69.74%

At Western Colorado University, 6.73% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Western Colorado University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Western Colorado University?

Western Colorado University has a great school spirit, and it is reflected in various events and activities that take place throughout the year. Students can participate in a wide range of athletic and recreational activities, such as basketball, football, skiing, and rock climbing. The university’s mascot is a mountaineer, and the students are proud of this symbol, which represents their love for the outdoors and adventure. Additionally, the university hosts several events and traditions that help build school spirit, such as homecoming, the annual Mountaineer Days celebration, and the purple and gold game. Overall, Western Colorado University students have a strong sense of community and pride in their university.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Western Colorado University?

Western Colorado University offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students. Some of the popular extracurriculars offered at Western Colorado University are: 1. Outdoor Recreation Club 2. Ski and Snowboard Club 3. Climbing Club 4. Intramural Sports 5. Music and Performance Clubs 6. Outdoor Leadership Program 7. Sustainability Club 8. Student Government Association 9. Honors Program These are just a few examples of the many extracurricular activities available on campus. Students can also start their own clubs and organizations based on their interests and passions.

How are the food choices at Western Colorado University?

Western Colorado University offers a variety of dining options for students, which includes a main dining hall, retail markets, a coffee shop, and a convenience store. The main dining hall is called the “Black Canyon Grill” and it features a buffet-style menu that typically includes a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The retail markets offer a range of items such as sandwiches, sushi, and salads while the coffee shop offers a selection of coffee, baked goods, and smoothies. The convenience store stocks snacks, grab-and-go meals, and other daily essentials. Additionally, Western Colorado University has a registered dietitian on staff who can help students with special dietary needs or concerns. Overall, the food choices at Western Colorado University offer a diverse selection for students with different dietary preferences.

Is there Greek life at Western Colorado University?

Yes, Western Colorado University does have Greek life on campus. There are currently four recognized social Greek organizations at Western Colorado University that are affiliated with either the National Panhellenic Conference or the North-American Interfraternity Conference. These organizations include Alpha Sigma Alpha, Delta Chi, Kappa Sigma, and Sigma Chi. Additionally, there is a local sorority on campus called Rho Lambda Phi. Students interested in Greek life can participate in recruitment events held on campus to learn more about each organization.

What is Western Colorado University known for?

Western Colorado University, formerly known as Western State Colorado University, is a public university located in Gunnison, Colorado. It is known for its outstanding natural environment, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and learning in the Rocky Mountains. Western Colorado University is also recognized for its strong programs in environmental studies, business, education, and creative arts. Additionally, the university offers a diverse range of majors, including geology, outdoor education, psychology, and exercise and sports science. Moreover, the small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty members make Western Colorado University a great destination for students looking for a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

What are the most popular school clubs at Western Colorado University?

Western Colorado University has a variety of clubs and organizations available to its students. Some of the most popular school clubs at Western Colorado University include: 1. Outdoor Leadership Club: This club organizes outdoor activities like camping, hiking, biking, and skiing for students who are interested in exploring the great outdoors. 2. Pre-Health Club: This club is for students who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. Members participate in volunteer work and attend workshops to prepare for graduate school. 3. Environmental Club: This club aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices on campus. 4. Ski Team: Western Colorado is located near some of the best ski resorts in the country, and the ski team is a popular club for students who enjoy skiing and snowboarding. 5. Student Government Association: The Student Government Association (SGA) represents the student body and advocates for student rights and interests. The SGA also plans events and activities for students throughout the year.

Is the campus at Western Colorado University safe?

Western Colorado University, located in Gunnison, Colorado, is generally considered a safe campus. The university’s Department of Public Safety employs certified police officers who patrol campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Campus buildings and residence halls are secured using access card systems and monitored by the Department of Public Safety. In addition, the university offers a variety of safety resources to students, including self-defense classes, safety escorts, and emergency blue light phones located throughout campus. However, it’s always important for students to take precautions and remain aware of their surroundings to ensure their own safety.