Metropolitan State University of Denver
The Vibe Check
MSU Denver has a pragmatic, hands-on vibe that feels deeply connected to the pulse of downtown Denver. It's an urban campus where students are often juggling classes with internships or part-time jobs, creating a motivated and career-focused atmosphere. The student body is notably diverse and non-traditional, fostering a down-to-earth environment over a typical 'college bubble' feel.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
MSU Denver is recognized for strong, career-oriented programs in Business, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice. The university emphasizes practical learning with small class sizes and accessible faculty who bring real-world experience to the classroom. Students have opportunities for applied research and internships, often leveraging the university's deep ties to Denver's civic and business sectors.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Denver
Life in Denver means easy access to the Rocky Mountains for weekend hiking and skiing, alongside a vibrant city scene. Students enjoy the city's thriving craft brewery culture, live music venues, and professional sports, all just steps from campus. The shared campus location puts students in the heart of downtown, with endless options for dining and entertainment.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($52,093):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Auraria Campus, which MSU Denver shares with two other institutions, has its own police department and is generally considered safe with a visible security presence. However, being in a dense urban environment requires students to be aware of their surroundings and practice standard city safety precautions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly affordable in-state tuition and low average net price
- ✓ Prime downtown Denver location with unparalleled internship and job access
- ✓ Impressive 99% acceptance rate provides access to a wide range of students
- ✓ Strong, career-focused programs in high-demand fields like Health and Business
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation and retention rates can be a concern for student success
- ✗ Urban setting may not appeal to students wanting a traditional 'college town' experience
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher, reducing affordability for non-residents
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
MSU Denver is known for its accessible, career-focused education in an urban setting. It has particularly strong programs in Business & Marketing, Psychology, and Health Professions. The university is also recognized for its diverse, non-traditional student body and its integral role in the downtown Denver community.
No, MSU Denver is not considered hard to get into, with an exceptionally high acceptance rate of 99.14%. This open-admissions policy makes it a very accessible option for a broad range of applicants. However, admission to specific, competitive programs within the university may require higher academic standards.
Campus life at MSU Denver is integrated into the fabric of downtown Denver, rather than being a secluded college town experience. Many students commute and balance their studies with work and internships, creating a mature and focused atmosphere. Student life revolves around urban amenities, with easy access to city culture, outdoor recreation, and professional networking.
For in-state students, MSU Denver represents a strong financial investment. The low net price and solid median earnings of $52,093 suggest a positive return on investment. The value is maximized by choosing a high-demand major and actively utilizing the university's Denver location for internships and career development.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 19,839
- In-State Tuition $10,780
- Out-of-State $29,503
- Zip Code 80217
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $14,294 and significantly lower in-state tuition, MSU Denver offers a compelling financial value for Colorado residents. The 10-year median earnings of $52,093 provide a solid return on investment, especially compared to the cost of a private university. For out-of-state students, the value proposition is less clear, as the tuition cost increases substantially.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.