Metropolitan State University of Denver: An Accessible and Innovative Urban University
Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver or Metro State) stands as a public university committed to providing accessible, high-quality education in the heart of downtown Denver, Colorado. Sharing the Auraria Campus with the University of Colorado Denver and the Community College of Denver, MSU Denver offers a diverse range of programs and opportunities for students of all backgrounds.
A History of Opportunity and Access
Founded in 1965 as an opportunity school, Metropolitan State University of Denver was created with the explicit goal of being accessible to all. This commitment is reflected in its consistently low tuition rates compared to other four-year colleges and universities in Colorado. MSU Denver has a long history of advocating for educational equity, including being the first university to offer in-state tuition rates to DREAMers under the ASSET bill. The university’s motto, "Changemakers Wanted," encapsulates its mission to empower students to become active and engaged citizens.
Former Names
- Metropolitan State College (1965-1990)
- Metropolitan State College of Denver (1990-2012)
Academics and Programs
MSU Denver offers a wide array of academic programs, including bachelor's and master's degrees, as well as certificate programs. The university boasts more than 90 majors and 10 graduate programs, catering to a diverse range of interests and career aspirations.
The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring the quality and rigor of its academic offerings.
Key Academic Features
- Modified Open-Access: MSU Denver maintains a commitment to accessibility while ensuring academic standards.
- Career-Focused Programs: The university emphasizes practical skills and knowledge relevant to the workforce.
- Experiential Learning: MSU Denver provides students with opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, research, and other applied experiences.
Campus and Location
MSU Denver is situated on the Auraria Campus in downtown Denver, sharing the space with the University of Colorado Denver and the Community College of Denver. This central location provides students with access to the city's vibrant cultural, commercial, and recreational opportunities. The campus is located adjacent to Speer Boulevard and Colfax Avenue.
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Student Life
Metropolitan State University of Denver is primarily a commuter campus.
The university offers a variety of student activities and organizations, including fraternities and sororities. Students can also get involved with student media outlets, such as The Metropolitan newspaper, Met Radio, and Metrosphere: The Art & Literary Magazine of MSU Denver.
Athletics
MSU Denver's athletic teams, known as the Roadrunners, compete in NCAA Division II. The university has a rich athletic history, having been a member of the Colorado Athletic Conference and later joining the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference in 1996. MSU Denver has produced 239 All-Americans.
Affordability and Financial Aid
MSU Denver is committed to providing affordable education. For the academic year, in-state tuition and fees are $11,124, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $30,684. The average net price for federal loan recipients is $15,602.
In 2023, the median undergraduate tuition at Metropolitan State University of Denver was $8,868, which is $−15,707 less than the national average for Masters Colleges and Universities ($24,575). After taking grants and loans into account, the average net price for students is $13,727. In 2023, 57% of undergraduate students attending Metropolitan State University of Denver received financial aid through grants. Comparatively, 30% of undergraduate students received financial aid through loans.
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Student Body and Diversity
MSU Denver serves a diverse student population of approximately 17,000 students. The university is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds.
In 2023, the enrolled student population at Metropolitan State University of Denver was 43.8% White, 36% Hispanic or Latino, 7.44% Black or African American, 5.33% Two or More Races, 4.37% Asian, 0.875% American Indian or Alaska Native, and 0.25% Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders.
Outcomes and Impact
MSU Denver graduates make a significant impact on the Colorado community and economy. Nearly 80% of alumni remain in Colorado, contributing to the state's workforce and civic life.
Six years after graduation, the median salary for graduates is $45,391. MSU Denver is recognized as a leader in social mobility, committed to fostering equity and providing an accessible, excellent educational experience.
Key Statistics (2023)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 16,430
- Campus Size: 127 acres
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Acceptance Rate: 99.1%
- Graduation Rate (4-year): 13%
- Endowment: $26.2 million (2024)
- Total staff: 2,848 (faculty, student, and non-academic staff as of Jan.
Accreditation
MSU Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Metropolitan State University of Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
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A Thriving Institution
Metropolitan State University of Denver is a comprehensive, modified open-access university offering a relevant, rigorous and innovative education in the heart of downtown Denver. The University serves 17,000 students of all ages and backgrounds in 90+ majors and 10 graduate programs. And nearly 80% of our 105,000+ alumni stay in Colorado, advancing communities and economies. Founded in 1965, MSU Denver offers high-value, career-focused programs with unparalleled access to experiential learning and applied internships. Metropolitan State University of Denver is a public institution that was founded in 1963.
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