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Colorado Mesa University

Grand Junction, United States

  • Cost of Living$ 22,008
  • Tuition Fee From$ 18,000
  • Country Rank#919
  • Batch Strength9,110
  • Global Diversity-
  • Gender Ratio-

Overview

About

Established in 1925, Colorado Mesa University stands as a comprehensive regional public institution of higher education. It provides a wide range of academic offerings, including liberal arts, professional, and technical programs at the certificate, associate, bachelor's, and master's levels.

 

At Colorado Mesa University, the institution's utmost commitment lies in furnishing students with the educational opportunities and resources they need to excel in today's intricate and interconnected world. The university offers technical programs that cater to the demands of vocational careers.

 

The university holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, and at its core, it boasts a team of 326 dedicated full-time academic and technical faculty members spanning 13 departments. Complementing this faculty are 253 carefully chosen scholars and professionals who serve as part-time instructors. This diverse faculty body strives to foster a dynamic exchange of ideas and, beyond teaching, plays a pivotal role as academic advisors. They collaborate with hundreds of students annually, engaging them in challenging undergraduate research programs—a unique experience often associated with graduate-level education.

 

Colorado Mesa University's main campus spans 141 acres in the heart of Grand Junction, Colorado. Nestled amidst mountains and high-desert canyons, the region offers exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities and boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year.

 

With a commitment to small class sizes and an accomplished faculty, Colorado Mesa University ensures that students receive a top-notch, personalised education. In the classrooms, students will find professors, not teaching assistants, who not only know them by name but are also deeply invested in their academic success. Furthermore, the university provides an extensive array of academic programs and degree options to choose from, including a wide variety of Colorado Mesa University courses. Students can explore the academic search tool to discover a program that aligns with their passions and aspirations.

 

To secure admission, it's essential to maintain strong academic performance and demonstrate a strong alignment between your goals and what Colorado Mesa University offers. Approximately 45% of admitted students at Colorado Mesa submitted their SAT scores. In terms of SAT scores, the middle 50% range for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing was 480 to 610, while maths scores ranged from 468 to 590.

Ranking

Colorado State University, situated in Fort Collins, Colorado, has solidified its position as a notable global institution, drawing students worldwide with its academic excellence and diverse campus. Renowned for its programmes in environmental science, engineering, veterinary medicine, and agricultural sciences, CSU's commitment to sustainability and its land-grant mission bolster its reputation in these areas. The university has also gained recognition for its business and liberal arts offerings in recent years. In terms of global rankings, CSU has shown slight fluctuations, placing 442nd in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, down from 409th in 2024 and 408th in 2023. Nationally, it maintained its 151st position among National Universities in the 2024 US News & World Report rankings, consistent with 2023 but slightly lower than its 148th rank in 2022. The 2024 Times Higher Education Rankings saw CSU retain its joint 401st global position from the previous year.

 

Colorado State University - QS Ranking 2025

In the QS World University Rankings for 2025, Colorado State University is ranked 442nd globally, following its rankings of 409th in 2024 and 408th in 2023. These rankings illustrate the university's position relative to other global institutions according to QS assessments over the past few years.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

World University

408

409

442

 

Colorado State University - US News & World Report Ranking 2024

In the US News & World Report rankings for 2024, Colorado State University is ranked 151st among National Universities, consistent with its position in 2023 but a slight decline from 148th in 2022.  it was previously ranked 276th among Global Universities in 2023, down from 266th in 2022. These rankings highlight the university's standing in both national and global contexts according to US News assessments.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Global Universities

266

276

-

National University

148

151

151

 

Learn More About: Colorado State University’s Admission

 

Colorado State University - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

In the 2024 THE (Times Higher Education) Rankings, Colorado State University maintained its position from 2023, ranking joint 401st globally. This follows its placement in the 2023 rankings where it also held the 401st position. In 2022, the university was slightly higher, ranked at 351st globally.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

351

401

401

 

Colorado State University - QS Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Biological Sciences

251

201

-

Engineering and Technology

361

307

-

Global MBA

131

141

-

Mathematics

351

351

-

Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

401

451

-

Medicine

-

401

-

Physics and Astronomy

351

351

-

 

Colorado State University - US News & World Report Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Biomedical Engineering PG

81

88

79

Chemical Engineering PG

73

69

66

Civil Engineering PG

37

40

36

Computer Engineering PG

62

63

71

Electrical Engineering PG

77

82

76

Mechanical Engineering PG

77

75

71

UG Business

106

86

84

 

Colorado State University - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Arts and Humanities

501

501

501

Clinical and Health

301

401

301

Engineering

301

301

301

Life Sciences

126

151

201

PG Business and Economics

401

501

401

PG Computer Science

601

601

601

Psychology

301

301

301

 

Course Rankings

BBA

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - UG Business

106

86

84

 

LL.M.

Ranked by

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law

201

 

M.A.

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

101

151

201

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

76

76

76

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

-

501

501

 

Learn More About: Colorado State University’s Courses

MBA/PGDM

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Global MBA

121

131

141

 

MIM

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

401

501

401

 

MS

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Physics and Astronomy

-

351

351

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

-

451

401

QS - Mathematics

-

301

351

QS - Biological Sciences

-

251

251

QS - Engineering and Technology

-

377

361

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics

301

201

201

US News & World Report - Computer Engineering PG

-

62

63

US News & World Report - Electrical Engineering PG

-

77

82

US News & World Report - Mechanical Engineering PG

-

77

75

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

-

126

151

US News & World Report - Civil Engineering PG

-

37

40

US News & World Report - Chemical Engineering PG

-

73

69

US News & World Report - Biomedical Engineering PG

-

81

88

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

-

301

301

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

-

601

601

 

Others PG

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Medicine

-

-

401

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

301

301

301

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

301

401

301

 

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing )

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

501

501

501

 

Business & Management Studies

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - UG Business

106

86

84

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

401

501

401

QS - Global MBA

121

131

141

 

Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

451

401

451

QS - Engineering and Technology

377

361

307

US News & World Report - Computer Engineering PG

62

63

71

US News & World Report - Electrical Engineering PG

77

82

76

US News & World Report - Mechanical Engineering PG

77

75

71

US News & World Report - Civil Engineering PG

37

40

36

US News & World Report - Chemical Engineering PG

73

69

66

US News & World Report - Biomedical Engineering PG

81

88

79

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

301

301

301

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

601

601

601

 

Humanities & Social Sciences

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

101

151

201

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

76

76

76

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

-

301

301

 

Law

Ranked by

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law

201

 

Medicine & Health Sciences

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Medicine

-

-

401

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

301

401

301

 

Science

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Physics and Astronomy

-

351

351

QS - Mathematics

-

301

351

QS - Biological Sciences

-

251

251

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics

301

201

201

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

-

126

151

 

Biology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Biological Sciences

251

251

201

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

126

151

201

 

Biomedical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Biomedical Engineering PG

81

88

79

 

Business Economics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

401

501

401

 

Chemical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Chemical Engineering PG

73

69

66

 

Civil Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Civil Engineering PG

37

40

36

 

Computer Science Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

601

601

601

 

Electrical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Electrical Engineering PG

77

82

76

 

Mathematics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Mathematics

301

351

351

 

Mechanical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

451

401

451

US News & World Report - Mechanical Engineering PG

77

75

71

 

Physics

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Physics and Astronomy

-

351

351

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics

301

201

201

 

Political Science

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

101

151

201

 

Psychology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

301

301

301

 

Sociology

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

76

76

76

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2023

-

-

Facilities

The core objective of Colorado Mesa University facilities is to align with the university's mission of fostering education, learning, and community service. They achieve this by offering a well-maintained, comfortable, functional, and visually appealing environment. Additionally, these facilities serve as a training ground for student-employees, equipping them with valuable professional and personal skills that will benefit them in their post-graduation endeavours. Among the facilities available, the Rec Center is notable. It encompasses an indoor track, a fitness area equipped with state-of-the-art strength and cardio equipment, an Olympic-quality pool, basketball courts, racquetball courts, tennis courts, and even a climbing wall. Some other facilities include: 

 

  • Tomlinson Library
  • Tutorial Learning Centre and Writing Centre
  • Confluence Hall
  • Archuleta Engineering Centre
  • Moss Performing Arts Centre
  • Maverick Centre 

Notable Alumni

Dick Nourse
Dick Nourse
American news anchor
Josh Penry
Josh Penry
Former Member of the Colorado Senate
Dalton Tanonaka
Dalton Tanonaka
Journalist

Courses

Admission

Colorado Mesa University (CMU), located in Grand Junction, Colorado, is a public university that has evolved significantly since its founding 1925 as Grand Junction Junior College. The university emphasises a student-centred learning environment with small class sizes and high faculty interaction, fostering a supportive academic community. CMU's campus includes state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the educational experience. In addition to its main campus, CMU operates a branch campus in Montrose and is committed to meeting the educational needs of western Colorado through various programmes, including technical education offered at CMU Tech. With a mission focused on accessibility and quality education, Colorado Mesa University continues to be a vital educational institution in the region.

 

Things To Consider Before Applying

Applying to your desired university requires a fair amount of work before starting. Preparing crucial documents and degree percentages can decide your course of action. 

Entry Requirements

Colorado Mesa University entry requirements differ for every programme. They may include specific academic qualifications, submitting a portfolio of your work, or attending an audition. It is crucial to review the entry requirements for your chosen programme and confirm that you meet them before applying. 

Prospective undergraduate students must meet specific entry requirements. Applicants are generally expected to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, although students with a GPA below this may still be considered based on other factors. Standardised test scores from the ACT or SAT are optional, but if submitted, the average ACT score for admitted students is around 22, and the average SAT score is approximately 1050.

For international students, the application process includes submitting the International Student Application along with a $40 non-refundable application fee, proof of English proficiency (such as a TOEFL score of at least 70 iBT or an IELTS score of 6.0), and official transcripts from secondary and any post-secondary institutions attended. Additionally, international applicants must provide financial documentation to demonstrate the ability to cover tuition and living expenses.

 

Documents

Attaining all of Colorado Mesa University's documents is essential to ensure successful admission into the university. The critical documents required for a streamlined process are:

  • Official Transcripts: School or college transcripts must be sent directly to CMU. For international students, transcripts must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
  • Formal Statement of Goals: A written statement outlining the applicant's academic and career objectives.
  • Current CV/Resume: A resume detailing the applicant's educational background and relevant experiences.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two letters from individuals who can speak to the applicant's academic potential and professional capabilities.
  • Official Test Scores: While SAT or ACT scores are optional, they can be submitted to enhance the application. For international students, proof of English language proficiency is required, such as a minimum TOEFL score of 70 or an IELTS score of 6.0.

These documents also qualify as CMU’s eligibility criteria. These documents help demonstrate the applicant's qualifications and readiness for academic success at CMU.

 

How To Apply To Colorado Mesa University?

Colorado Mesa University has a well-sought application process with distinct procedures for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Students must apply well in advance to make things easy and understandable. Below is the detailed information needed for enrolling in Bachelors and Masters programmes at Colorado Mesa University:

  1. Complete the Application: Start by filling out the Colorado Mesa University application online. Choose the appropriate application type based on your student status (first-time, transfer, or graduate). Students can also apply with the help of UniScholars experts. 
  2. Application Fee: Undergraduate applicants must submit a non-refundable application fee of $40 or $50, respectively. Fee waivers may be available upon request.
  3. Submit Official Transcripts: Request that your official high school transcripts (or GED scores) be sent directly to the CMU Admissions Office. If you have completed any college coursework, include those transcripts as well.
  4. Standardised Test Scores: While SAT or ACT scores are optional for admission, they may be required for class placement or merit scholarships.
  5. English Language Proficiency: International students must provide proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
  6. Additional Documents: Depending on the programme, you may need to submit a formal statement of goals, a resume, and letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

Understanding the Colorado Mesa University deadlines is essential to ensure your submission is considered. Here are the key application deadlines for CMU:
Undergraduate Deadlines

  • Fall Semester: August 23
  • Spring Semester: Rolling admissions, no specific deadline mentioned

Graduate Deadlines

  • Fall Semester: July 1
  • Spring Semester: December 1

Some specific graduate programmes may have earlier deadlines, so it's important to check the requirements for your programme of interest.

International Student Deadlines
The deadlines for international students are the same as the graduate deadlines:

  • Fall Semester: July 1
  • Spring Semester: December 1

International students have additional requirements like submitting proof of English proficiency and financial documentation. These materials should be submitted along with the application by the deadline.

 

Decision Dates

Colorado Mesa University typically announces admissions decisions within a few weeks after the application deadline. For undergraduate applicants, decisions are generally made on a rolling basis, allowing students to receive their acceptance notifications shortly after their applications are complete.

  • Fall Semester: Decisions are typically released by mid-May after the May 1 application deadline.
  • Spring Semester: Decisions for spring admissions are usually communicated by mid-December after the October 1 deadline.

Graduate programme decision timelines may vary depending on the specific programme, so applicants are encouraged to check with their respective departments for more precise information. 

 

Colorado Mesa University Selection Criteria

CMU employs a holistic approach in its selection criteria for admissions, focusing on various aspects of each application to determine suitability for the chosen course. Here are the critical components of the selection criteria:

Undergraduate Selection Criteria

  • Standardised Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are optional for admission, but may be required for merit scholarships. The average ACT score for admitted students is not provided.
  • English Language Proficiency: International students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL (minimum score not specified) or IELTS (minimum score of 6.0). Other English tests may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Additional Requirements: Applicants with unique talents, leadership experience, or strong class ranking may have an advantage in the selection process.

Graduate Selection Criteria

  • GPA Requirement: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is typically required for graduate programmes.
  • Standardised Test Scores: GRE or GMAT scores may be required for certain graduate programmes.
  • English Language Proficiency: International graduate applicants must meet the same English proficiency requirements as undergraduates.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programmes require two-three letters of recommendation.
  • Additional Documents: A formal statement of goals and a current CV/resume are required for graduate applications.

CMU emphasises a holistic review process, considering academic performance along with unique talents, experiences, and English proficiency.

 

Colorado Mesa University Acceptance Rate

Colorado Mesa University’s acceptance rate is 82%. Suggesting the university follows a somewhat selective admission process, while still maintaining academic standards by attracting students with a high GPA. Among those admitted who provided test scores, half scored between 930 and 1180 on the SAT or between 18 and 25 on the ACT. Notably, 25% of these admitted students achieved scores higher than these ranges, while another 25% scored below them.

 

Fees

Colorado Mesa University fees can vary based on your programme of study and whether you are a domestic or international student. This will give you a comprehensive understanding of the costs and help you plan accordingly. Here's an overview of the fees:

International Student Fees

  • Tuition: $26,048 per year
  • Personal Expenses: $4,000 per year
  • Books and Supplies: $1,500 per year

These figures provide a comprehensive overview of the costs associated with attending Colorado Mesa University. The university offers financial aid to help make education accessible for students from various backgrounds.

Scholarship

Colorado Mesa University provides a learning environment characterised by small class sizes, modern facilities, and a dedicated faculty invested in your achievements. CMU places great importance on affordable higher education. Given below are some of the scholarships offered at Colorado Mesa University: 

 

Scholarship Name

Eligibility Criteria

Amount Awarded

Distinguished Scholars

Students must have at least 24 credit hours from another institution. ACT score – 18 (English); 17 (Reading/ Social Science); 19 (Maths) SAT score – 470 (Evidence-based reading and writing); 500 (Maths). 

6,000 USD

Presidential Scholarship

3,500 USD

Academic Achievement  Award

1,250 USD

 

Finances

Alternative student loans, also known as private student or parent loans, are accessible through private lenders. They serve students who don't qualify for federal loans, including international students or those who require financial assistance beyond their annual federal aid limits. These loans are provided by banks and private lenders, and their terms are determined by these institutions. It's important to note that considering alternative student loans should come after completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Colorado Application for Student Aid (CASFA).

 

For individuals currently ineligible for federal student aid due to not meeting satisfactory academic progress, there is an encouragement to first complete the Financial Aid Ineligibility Appeal. If approved, this appeal can reinstate federal student aid.

 

UniCreds offers student loans with efficient approval processes and competitive interest rates, streamlining the loan application process. UniCreds stands as a valuable resource for exploring options related to international student loans. Students who apply through UniCreds can secure loans without the need for collateral and with minimal processing fees.

Accommodation

Colorado Mesa University provides a diverse range of 11 Residence Halls offering various room options and themed environments for students to select from. Students are encouraged to apply for housing as soon as they gain admission to secure their preferred choice. The university is dedicated to ensuring student success and recognizes that residing on campus and engaging in activities contributes to higher graduation rates. As such, CMU has implemented a two-year on-campus living requirement for new freshmen and transfer students who graduated from high school less than two years before their CMU/WCCC enrollment. 

 

These students are expected to reside in a residence hall for four semesters, based on space availability, unless they request and receive an exemption before completing the four-semester obligation. UniAcco offers a variety of options and supports students in locating cost-effective off-campus housing while aiding them in making well-informed decisions. Many students opt for off-campus living to experience independence and cultivate self-reliance.

Cost of Living

While historical price levels in Grand Junction have been relatively elevated, compared to other Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in Colorado, it tends to be regarded as having average potential for future home price appreciation among the leading Colorado MSAs. Grand Junction has earned recognition as one of the safest places in the United States, offering a blend of big-city amenities and a cosy small-town ambiance, making it an excellent location for residence, employment, and leisure.

 

Particulars

Cost (Monthly)

Off-Campus Accommodation 

$1164

On-Campus Accommodation

$1066

Transportation

$116

Food Cost

$327

Utility Cost

$150

Entertainment

$54

Groceries

$66

Clothes

$107

Health Insurance

$80

Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation 

$2064

Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation 

$1966

Annual Cost of Living

$24773

FAQs