University of Northern Colorado
The Vibe Check
The University of Northern Colorado offers a tight-knit, supportive atmosphere where students feel seen and encouraged, set against the backdrop of a classic college town. It balances a vibrant social scene with a focus on hands-on learning, creating a community that's both energetic and grounded. You'll find a mix of driven education majors and creative arts students, all navigating a campus that feels genuinely connected to its local identity.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
UNC is renowned for its top-tier College of Education and Health Professions programs, offering strong clinical and field experiences from day one. The university emphasizes undergraduate research and practical application, particularly in psychology and visual and performing arts. Class sizes are often manageable, fostering direct interaction with faculty who are invested in student success.
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 Greeley
Greeley offers a down-to-earth college town vibe with a growing craft brewery scene, local coffee shops, and the popular downtown farmers' market. Students often head to nearby parks for biking and hiking or drive an hour north for weekend trips to Fort Collins or Denver for bigger city events. Campus events, Division I sports games, and the student-run radio station provide plenty of on-campus entertainment.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($52,231):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
UNC has its own campus police department and promotes a 'See Something, Say Something' culture, though students should remain aware of their surroundings in any urban setting. Greeley is generally a safe, family-oriented community, but like any city, it's wise to take standard precautions, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly-ranked and respected College of Education and Health Professions with extensive clinical placements.
- ✓ Strong emphasis on undergraduate research and hands-on learning across diverse majors.
- ✓ More accessible admissions with a high acceptance rate, offering a good opportunity for students with solid academic records.
- ✓ A close-knit community feel in an urban setting, providing a balance of campus resources and city amenities.
Cons
- ✗ The 51.6% graduation rate is below the national average, which may indicate challenges in student completion.
- ✗ Greeley's location is somewhat isolated from major metropolitan areas, limiting off-campus internship and entertainment options.
- ✗ The retention rate of 74.4% suggests that a notable portion of students transfer after their first year.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Northern Colorado is particularly distinguished for its College of Education and Health Professions, with nationally recognized programs in teaching, speech pathology, and nursing. It also has a strong reputation in the visual and performing arts, psychology, and its unique programs in sports and exercise science. The university's historic campus and commitment to practical, field-based learning are hallmarks of its academic identity.
No, the University of Northern Colorado is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 86.43%. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1077, and the university has a test-optional policy. A strong GPA and a well-crafted personal statement are key components of a successful application.
Campus life at UNC is characterized by a strong sense of community and school spirit, especially around NCAA Division I athletics. Students can get involved in over 150 student organizations, from cultural clubs to academic societies. The setting in Greeley provides a classic college town experience with easy access to outdoor activities, while the university's urban location offers various dining and shopping options.
For in-state students, the University of Northern Colorado presents a strong value proposition, with a relatively low net price and solid median earnings of $52,231 ten years after enrollment. The investment is particularly worthwhile for students pursuing high-demand fields like education and health professions, where UNC's programs have strong reputations. Out-of-state students will need to secure scholarships to make the cost comparable to other public university options.
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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 7,453
- In-State Tuition $12,010
- Out-of-State $26,204
- Zip Code 80639
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $18,457 and in-state tuition around $12,000, UNC is a financially accessible option for Colorado residents, especially with over a quarter of students receiving Pell Grants. The 10-year median earnings of $52,231 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like health professions and education. Out-of-state students should carefully weigh the higher tuition against available scholarships to ensure the value aligns with their career goals.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.