Colorado College Rankings & Ratings

Founded in 1874, Colorado College (CC) has long been recognized as one of the premier private liberal arts colleges in the United States. Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the college has built a reputation for its rigorous academic programs, dynamic campus culture, and commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also deeply engaged in their communities and the world. Offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees, including the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.), Colorado College combines a rich history with a progressive approach to higher education. As one of the top liberal arts institutions, CC has cultivated an intellectual environment where students engage deeply with their studies, broaden their perspectives, and prepare for successful careers across a wide array of fields.

The academic offerings at Colorado College are diverse, encompassing a wide range of disciplines. The college has a distinctive academic structure, with departments and programs in Anthropology, Art, Asian Studies, Biology, Chemistry, Classics, Comparative Literature, Drama and Dance, Economics and Business, Education, English, Environmental Program, Feminist and Gender Studies, Francophone and Mediterranean Studies, Geology, German, History, Mathematics and Computer Science, Music, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Race and Ethnic Studies, Religion, Russian, Sociology, Spanish, Sport Science, and Southwest Studies. Each department provides students with an opportunity to engage in deep, focused study while benefiting from an interdisciplinary approach to learning. This diverse array of programs ensures that students can find an academic path that aligns with their interests and goals, whether in the sciences, humanities, arts, or social sciences.

One of the defining features of Colorado College’s academic environment is its unique block plan, which allows students to take one course at a time for three and a half weeks. This intense, immersive approach fosters deep engagement with the subject matter and provides students the opportunity to focus their attention fully on a single course without the distractions of multiple classes. The block plan encourages intellectual curiosity, promotes individualized attention from professors, and allows students to dive into hands-on learning experiences, whether through fieldwork, laboratory research, or internships. The college’s commitment to experiential learning is also reflected in its emphasis on study abroad programs, service learning opportunities, and a host of co-curricular activities that enrich the educational experience.

In addition to its broad range of academic programs, Colorado College is known for its emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. The college has made significant strides in integrating sustainability into its campus operations and academic offerings. In fact, the college received a “B” on the Sustainable Endowments report card, an improvement from a “C” in 2008. This ranking reflects CC’s efforts to address energy and climate change, promote recycling, support green building initiatives, and engage students in environmental causes. The college’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in its Environmental Program, which combines ecological awareness with practical solutions, preparing students to become leaders in environmental advocacy, conservation, and policy.

The college’s commitment to education extends beyond the undergraduate level. Its Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) program is accredited by the State of Colorado Board of Education and provides students with the tools and knowledge necessary to pursue careers in teaching. The M.A.T. program has earned particular recognition for its focus on providing students with real-world teaching experience while also offering a theoretical foundation in education. This program allows individuals who have already earned a B.A. to complete their teacher certification and pursue a teaching career. The integration of educational theory with practical experience ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern classrooms, particularly in diverse and underse

rved areas.

Colorado College’s commitment to academic excellence and student success is reflected in its consistent rankings. The college is regularly ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. For example, U.S. News & World Report ranked Colorado College 24th in its Tier 1 category of liberal arts colleges in 2010. The college has also been recognized for its affordability and overall value. It was ranked 17th in the nation for value among private liberal arts colleges in Kiplinger’s Personal Finance in April 2008. This ranking is a testament to Colorado College’s efforts to provide a high-quality education while keeping tuition costs manageable. The college's emphasis on value extends beyond tuition, with a range of financial aid options available to ensure that students from diverse backgrounds have access to a world-class education.

In addition to its strong academic reputation, Colorado College is also recognized for its vibrant campus life and its commitment to fostering a well-rounded student experience. The college’s sports teams, known as the Tigers, compete in the NCAA Division III and the Western Collegiate Hockey Association. In 2005, the Tigers claimed a share of their eighth Western Collegiate Hockey Association championship, further enhancing the college’s national profile in athletics. In addition to traditional sports, the college offers a range of recreational activities, including intramural sports, hiking, skiing, and rock climbing. Colorado College’s location, situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains, provides students with unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, allowing them to combine their academic pursuits with an active and healthy lifestyle.

The college also has a reputation for its service-oriented students. It ranks 7th among small schools and universities in terms of the number of alumni serving in the Peace Corps. This ranking reflects Colorado College’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also engaged in the world and eager to make a positive impact. The college fosters a strong sense of community, with students often participating in volunteer work, internships, and other co-curricular activities that promote social responsibility and civic engagement. The college’s robust commitment to global citizenship and social justice ensures that students are prepared to meet the challenges of an increasingly interconnected world.

Colorado College’s campus is as impressive as its academic offerings. The college is situated in a beautiful, historic location in Colorado Springs, providing students with a serene and inspiring environment in which to live and learn. The campus is home to a number of architecturally significant buildings, blending traditional structures with modern, eco-friendly designs that reflect the college’s commitment to sustainability. The scenic beauty of the surrounding area, with its access to the Rocky Mountains, offers students a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and a peaceful setting for academic reflection.

In conclusion, Colorado College stands as a beacon of academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and community engagement. With its unique block plan, interdisciplinary academic programs, strong commitment to sustainability, and focus on experiential learning, CC offers students an educational experience that is both rigorous and holistic. Its impressive rankings, outstanding faculty, and diverse student body contribute to its reputation as one of the nation’s top private liberal arts colleges. Whether students are interested in pursuing a career in the arts, sciences, business, or public service, Colorado College provides them with the tools and opportunities necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. The college’s commitment to academic achievement, social responsibility, and global engagement ensures that its graduates are not only prepared for success in their careers but also equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.