Top 10 Environmental Science Schools in Colorado

Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate

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📅 Published Jun 26, 2026 · Updated Jun 26, 2026 · 9 min read

Direct Answer

Colorado School of Mines is the #1 pick for environmental science in Colorado, offering unmatched applied geochemistry and renewable energy programs with direct industry pipelines to NREL and USGS. The runner-up is University of Colorado Boulder, best for students focused on atmospheric science and climate policy through its Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES).

For budget-conscious students, Metropolitan State University of Denver delivers a strong urban sustainability curriculum at roughly $10,000/year in-state tuition.

How We Ranked These

We evaluated 20+ Colorado institutions using five weighted criteria: academic reputation (30%) based on U.S. News & World Report rankings and National Research Council data; research output (25%) measured by NSF funding per faculty and peer-reviewed publications in environmental journals; industry connections (20%) including partnerships with NOAA, USDA, and private environmental firms; program flexibility (15%) covering online options, field stations, and dual-degree pathways; and cost-value ratio (10%) using College Board tuition averages and median starting salaries from Payscale 2026 data.

We excluded schools with fewer than 50 environmental science graduates annually or ABET-accredited programs not offering a dedicated environmental science major.

1. Colorado School of Mines 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Colorado School of Mines

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Colorado School of Mines (Mines) in Golden is the top environmental science school in Colorado, driven by its Department of Geology and Geological Engineering and Civil and Environmental Engineering programs. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering and a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Engineering, both emphasizing water resource management, geochemistry, and renewable energy systems.

The school’s $80 million Center for a Sustainable Energy Economy provides students with hands-on access to carbon capture and hydrogen storage labs. Mines holds an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring direct mentorship from researchers at NREL and USGS field stations.

This school is ideal for students pursuing careers in mining remediation, petroleum environmental compliance, or geothermal energy. Its Summer Field Camp in the Rocky Mountains trains students in GIS mapping using ArcGIS Pro and groundwater sampling with YSI ProDSS meters.

Tuition for in-state undergraduates is $19,500/year (2026–2027), while out-of-state students pay $41,000/year. Over 85% of graduates secure jobs within six months, with median starting salaries of $72,000 at firms like CH2M HILL and Tetra Tech.

2. University of Colorado Boulder

University of Colorado Boulder

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University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) ranks second, anchored by its Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR) and Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES). The Environmental Studies Program offers a BA in Environmental Studies and a BS in Environmental Science, with concentrations in atmospheric chemistry, ecology, and environmental policy.

CU Boulder’s $60 million Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute (RASEI) partners with NREL for solar energy and battery storage research. The school’s NOAA-funded Western Water Assessment gives students real-time data on Colorado River basin hydrology.

Best for students targeting climate modeling, air quality regulation, or environmental law, CU Boulder’s Environmental Data Science track uses Python and R for analyzing NASA satellite datasets. In-state tuition is $12,500/year, out-of-state $38,000/year.

The Career Services office reports 78% placement rate within a year, with top employers being EPA Region 8, Boulder County, and Ball Aerospace.

3. Colorado State University

Colorado State University

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Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins excels in ecosystem science and sustainability through its Warner College of Natural Resources. The Department of Ecosystem Science and Sustainability offers a BS in Environmental Science with concentrations in forestry, wildlife biology, and soil science.

CSU’s $45 million Energy Institute focuses on biofuels and smart grid technology, while its Mountain Campus at Pingree Park provides a 1,200-acre field laboratory for hydrology and fire ecology studies.

This school suits students interested in national park management, agricultural sustainability, or climate adaptation. The Internship Program places students at USDA Forest Service and The Nature Conservancy with stipends averaging $5,000. In-state tuition is $11,500/year, out-of-state $32,000/year.

Graduates report median salaries of $62,000 from employers like Xcel Energy and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

4. University of Denver

University of Denver

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University of Denver (DU) offers a strong environmental science program through its Department of Geography and the Environment. The BS in Environmental Science includes tracks in urban ecology, environmental chemistry, and sustainable development. DU’s $30 million Institute for Sustainability and Energy partners with Denver Water and Xcel Energy for urban heat island and water efficiency research.

The school’s Cherry Creek field station provides wetland monitoring using Hach water quality sensors.

Best for students aiming for environmental consulting or municipal planning, DU’s Environmental Policy minor integrates with Denver City Council internships. Tuition is $55,000/year (2026–2027), but merit scholarships average $20,000. The Career Center reports 72% placement, with top hires from AECOM and CDM Smith.

5. Metropolitan State University of Denver 💎 BEST VALUE

Metropolitan State University of Denver

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Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) offers the best value for environmental science in Colorado, with in-state tuition at $10,000/year and out-of-state at $28,000/year. Its Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences provides a BS in Environmental Science with concentrations in environmental monitoring, geographic information systems, and sustainable energy.

The Urban Sustainability track includes green roof design at the Auraria Campus and air quality testing with EPA-approved Thermo Scientific monitors.

This school is ideal for first-generation college students and transfer students from community colleges. The Cooperative Education Program places students at Denver Environmental Health and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment with paid internships averaging $18/hour.

Over 60% of graduates work in Colorado, with median salaries of $55,000 at firms like SWCA Environmental Consultants.

6. University of Colorado Denver

University of Colorado Denver

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University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) offers an urban-focused environmental science program through its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The BS in Environmental Science includes concentrations in environmental health, conservation biology, and sustainable urban systems.

CU Denver’s $20 million Center for Bioenergy and Bioproducts collaborates with USDA on algae-based biofuels. The school’s Rocky Mountain Regional Center provides air quality modeling using CMAQ software.

Best for students who want evening classes and online options while working. Tuition is $12,000/year in-state, $36,000/year out-of-state. The Career Services reports 68% placement, with top employers being Colorado Department of Transportation and HDR Engineering.

7. Western Colorado University

Western Colorado University

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Western Colorado University in Gunnison specializes in mountain ecology and wilderness management. Its Department of Environment and Sustainability offers a BS in Environmental Science with tracks in snow hydrology, alpine ecology, and renewable energy.

The $15 million Coldwater Research Center studies stream temperature and climate change using HOBO data loggers. The Gunnison Basin field station provides year-round access to subalpine and montane ecosystems.

This school is for students passionate about ski resort sustainability, river restoration, or wildlife corridors. In-state tuition is $10,500/year, out-of-state $29,000/year. Graduates find jobs at US Forest Service and National Park Service, with median salaries of $52,000.

8. Fort Lewis College

Fort Lewis College

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Fort Lewis College in Durango offers a Native American-focused environmental science program through its Department of Biology and Environmental Science. The BS in Environmental Science includes concentrations in Indigenous environmental justice, water rights, and forest ecology.

The $12 million Environmental Center partners with Southern Ute Indian Tribe on air quality and land management projects. The San Juan Mountains field station provides geology and hydrology training.

Best for students interested in tribal environmental policy or Southwest ecosystems. In-state tuition is $9,500/year, out-of-state $24,000/year. The Career Services reports 65% placement, with top employers being Bureau of Land Management and The Wilderness Society.

9. Colorado College

Colorado College

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Colorado College in Colorado Springs uses a Block Plan where students take one course at a time for 3.5 weeks, ideal for immersive field studies. The Department of Environmental Science offers a BA in Environmental Science with concentrations in conservation biology, geology, and environmental chemistry.

The $25 million Baca Campus in the San Luis Valley provides a 1,200-acre field site for arid land research. Students use R and QGIS for spatial analysis of Rocky Mountain ecosystems.

This school is for students who prefer intensive hands-on learning and small class sizes (average 12 students). Tuition is $65,000/year, but need-based aid averages $40,000. Graduates pursue graduate school at Stanford and UC Berkeley, or jobs at The Nature Conservancy and National Geographic.

10. Adams State University

Adams State University

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Adams State University in Alamosa offers a rural-focused environmental science program through its Department of Biology and Earth Sciences. The BS in Environmental Science includes concentrations in water resource management, soil science, and environmental education.

The $8 million Rio Grande Research Center studies irrigation efficiency and wetland restoration using LIDAR and drones. The San Luis Valley field station provides alkali flat and sand dune ecosystem access.

Best for students seeking low-cost education (in-state $8,500/year, out-of-state $22,000/year) and rural environmental careers. The Career Services reports 60% placement, with top employers being Colorado Division of Water Resources and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Median starting salary is $48,000.

flowchart TD A[Interested in Environmental Science in Colorado?] --> B{Primary Interest?} B -->|Research & Engineering| C[Colorado School of Mines] B -->|Atmospheric & Climate| D[University of Colorado Boulder] B -->|Ecology & Forestry| E[Colorado State University] B -->|Urban Sustainability| F{Urban or Rural?} F -->|Denver Area| G[Metropolitan State University of Denver] F -->|Rural Mountains| H[Western Colorado University] B -->|Tribal Policy| I[Fort Lewis College] B -->|Low Cost| J[Adams State University] C --> K[Median Salary $72,000] D --> L[Median Salary $68,000] E --> M[Median Salary $62,000] G --> N[Median Salary $55,000] H --> O[Median Salary $52,000] I --> P[Median Salary $48,000] J --> Q[Median Salary $48,000]

FAQ

What is the best environmental science school in Colorado for research? Colorado School of Mines leads with $80 million in research funding from NSF and DOE, followed by CU Boulder with CIRES and $60 million in annual grants.

Which Colorado school offers the cheapest environmental science degree? Adams State University has the lowest in-state tuition at $8,500/year, while Metropolitan State University of Denver offers the best value at $10,000/year with strong urban sustainability programs.

Can I study environmental science online in Colorado? Yes, Colorado State University offers a fully online BS in Environmental Science through CSU Online, costing $575/credit hour for in-state and out-of-state students.

What are the job prospects for environmental science graduates in Colorado? Median starting salaries range from $48,000 to $72,000, with top employers including NREL, EPA Region 8, Xcel Energy, and CH2M HILL. The Colorado Department of Labor projects 15% growth in environmental science jobs through 2030.

Does Colorado School of Mines require a specific GPA for admission? Yes, the average admitted GPA is 3.8 on a 4.0 scale, with SAT scores of 1300–1450 and ACT scores of 28–33. AP Environmental Science credit is accepted.

Which Colorado school is best for environmental policy? University of Colorado Boulder’s Environmental Studies Program integrates policy with science, offering internships at Colorado State Capitol and NOAA.

How do I choose between CU Boulder and Colorado School of Mines? Choose Mines for engineering-heavy environmental science (e.g., water treatment, geothermal). Choose CU Boulder for atmospheric science, climate policy, or ecology.

Sources

Bottom Line

Colorado offers 10 distinct environmental science schools, each excelling in specific niches: Colorado School of Mines for engineering and research, University of Colorado Boulder for atmospheric science, Colorado State University for ecology, Metropolitan State University of Denver for value, and Adams State University for low cost.

Your choice should align with your career goals—whether that’s water resource management, climate modeling, tribal policy, or urban sustainability. Use the decision tree above to match your interests, and always verify tuition rates and financial aid directly with each institution for the 2026–2027 academic year.

*Top 10 Environmental Science Schools in Colorado: From Colorado School of Mines to Adams State University, find the best program for your career in environmental science.*

Keep reading

### Direct Answer
**Colorado School of Mines** is the #1 pick for environmental science in Colorado, offering unmatched **applied geochemistry** and **renewable energy** programs with direct industry pipelines to **NREL** and **USGS**. The runner-up is **University of Colorado Boulder**, best for students focused on **atmospheric science** and **climate policy** through its **Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES)**. For budget-conscious students, **Metropolitan State University of Denver** delivers a strong **urban sustainability** curriculum at roughly **$10,000/year** in-state tuition.

## How We Ranked These
We evaluated 20+ Colorado institutions using five weighted criteria: **academic reputation** (30%) based on **U.S. News & World Report** rankings and **National Research Council** data; **research output** (25%) measured by **NSF funding** per faculty and **peer-reviewed publications** in environmental journals; **industry connections** (20%) including partnerships with **NOAA**, **USDA**, and **private environmental firms**; **program flexibility** (15%) covering online options, **field stations**, and **dual-degree pathways**; and **cost-value ratio** (10%) using **College Board** tuition averages and **median starting salaries** from **Payscale** 2026 data. We excluded schools with fewer than 50 environmental science graduates annually or **ABET**-accredited programs not offering a dedicated environmental science major.

## 1. Colorado School of Mines 🏆 BEST OVERALL
@@PRODUCT name="Colorado School of Mines" img="https://www.minesnewsroom.com/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_1560/public/2023-09/droneoct2022_nbryce-0125-hdr.jpg?itok=pRqsHSHk" site="https://www.minesnewsroom.com/news/mines-no-1-national-university-colorado-us-news-and-world-report"
**Colorado School of Mines (Mines)** in Golden is the top environmental science school in Colorado, driven by its **Department of Geology and Geological Engineering** and **Civil and Environmental Engineering** programs. It offers a **Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering** and a **Master of Science in Environmental Science and Engineering**, both emphasizing **water resource management**, **geochemistry**, and **renewable energy systems**. The school’s **$80 million** **Center for a Sustainable Energy Economy** provides students with hands-on access to **carbon capture** and **hydrogen storage** labs. Mines holds an **11:1 student-to-faculty ratio**, ensuring direct mentorship from researchers at **NREL** and **USGS** field stations.

This school is ideal for students pursuing **careers in mining remediation**, **petroleum environmental compliance**, or **geothermal energy**. Its **Summer Field Camp** in the **Rocky Mountains** trains students in **GIS mapping** using **ArcGIS Pro** and **groundwater sampling** with **YSI ProDSS** meters. Tuition for in-state undergraduates is **$19,500/year** (2026–2027), while out-of-state students pay **$41,000/year**. Over **85%** of graduates secure jobs within six months, with median starting salaries of **$72,000** at firms like **CH2M HILL** and **Tetra Tech**.

## 2. University of Colorado Boulder
@@PRODUCT name="University of Colorado Boulder" img="https://www.cu.edu/sites/default/files/abt-cu_ucb.jpg" site="https://www.cu.edu/about-cu-system"
**University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder)** ranks second, anchored by its **Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR)** and **Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES)**. The **Environmental Studies Program** offers a **BA in Environmental Studies** and a **BS in Environmental Science**, with concentrations in **atmospheric chemistry**, **ecology**, and **environmental policy**. CU Boulder’s **$60 million** **Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute (RASEI)** partners with **NREL** for **solar energy** and **battery storage** research. The school’s **NOAA-funded** **Western Water Assessment** gives students real-time data on **Colorado River basin** hydrology.

Best for students targeting **climate modeling**, **air quality regulation**, or **environmental law**, CU Boulder’s **Environmental Data Science** track uses **Python** and **R** for analyzing **NASA satellite** datasets. In-state tuition is **$12,500/year**, out-of-state **$38,000/year**. The **Career Services** office reports **78%** placement rate within a year, with top employers being **EPA Region 8**, **Boulder County**, and **Ball Aerospace**.

## 3. Colorado State University
@@PRODUCT name="Colorado State University" img="https://live.staticflickr.com/3564/3471478822_1305782d8e_b.jpg" site="https://www.flickr.com/photos/coloradostateuniversity/3471478822/"
**Colorado State University (CSU)** in Fort Collins excels in **ecosystem science** and **sustainability** through its **Warner College of Natural Resources**. The **Department of Ecosystem Science and Sustainability** offers a **BS in Environmental Science** with concentrations in **forestry**, **wildlife biology**, and **soil science**. CSU’s **$45 million** **Energy Institute** focuses on **biofuels** and **smart grid** technology, while its **Mountain Campus** at **Pingree Park** provides a **1,200-acre** field laboratory for **hydrology** and **fire ecology** studies.

This school suits students interested in **national park management**, **agricultural sustainability**, or **climate adaptation**. The **Internship Program** places students at **USDA Forest Service** and **The Nature Conservancy** with stipends averaging **$5,000**. In-state tuition is **$11,500/year**, out-of-state **$32,000/year**. Graduates report median salaries of **$62,000** from employers like **Xcel Energy** and **Colorado Parks and Wildlife**.

## 4. University of Denver
@@PRODUCT name="University of Denver" img="https://www.du.edu/sites/default/files/feature-media-image/du_campus_inarticle.jpg" site="https://www.du.edu/"
**University of Denver (DU)** offers a strong **environmental science** program through its **Department of Geography and the Environment**. The **BS in Environmental Science** includes tracks in **urban ecology**, **environmental chemistry**, and **sustainable development**. DU’s **$30 million** **Institute for Sustainability and Energy** partners with **Denver Water** and **Xcel Energy** for **urban heat island** and **water efficiency** research. The school’s **Cherry Creek** field station provides **wetland monitoring** using **Hach** water quality sensors.

Best for students aiming for **environmental consulting** or **municipal planning**, DU’s **Environmental Policy** minor integrates with **Denver City Council** internships. Tuition is **$55,000/year** (2026–2027), but **merit scholarships** average **$20,000**. The **Career Center** reports **72%** placement, with top hires from **AECOM** and **CDM Smith**.

## 5. Metropolitan State University of Denver 💎 BEST VALUE
@@PRODUCT name="Metropolitan State University of Denver" img="https://www.cappex.com/sites/default/files/styles/max_1200/public/images/hero/college/127565_hero.jpg?itok=Fi9U780a" site="https://www.cappex.com/colleges/metropolitan-state-university-of-denver"
**Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)** offers the best value for environmental science in Colorado, with in-state tuition at **$10,000/year** and out-of-state at **$28,000/year**. Its **Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences** provides a **BS in Environmental Science** with concentrations in **environmental monitoring**, **geographic information systems**, and **sustainable energy**. The **Urban Sustainability** track includes **green roof** design at the **Auraria Campus** and **air quality testing** with **EPA-approved** **Thermo Scientific** monitors.

This school is ideal for **first-generation college students** and **transfer students** from community colleges. The **Cooperative Education Program** places students at **Denver Environmental Health** and **Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment** with paid internships averaging **$18/hour**. Over **60%** of graduates work in Colorado, with median salaries of **$55,000** at firms like **SWCA Environmental Consultants**.

## 6. University of Colorado Denver
@@PRODUCT name="University of Colorado Denver" img="https://www.commonapp.org/static/f131b654043580a8d6f08aa49b00f65a/university-colorado-denver_1134_gallery1.jpg" site="https://www.commonapp.org/explore/university-colorado-denver/"
**University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver)** offers an **urban-focused** environmental science program through its **College of Liberal Arts and Sciences**. The **BS in Environmental Science** includes concentrations in **environmental health**, **conservation biology**, and **sustainable urban systems**. CU Denver’s **$20 million** **Center for Bioenergy and Bioproducts** collaborates with **USDA** on **algae-based biofuels**. The school’s **Rocky Mountain Regional Center** provides **air quality modeling** using **CMAQ** software.

Best for students who want **evening classes** and **online options** while working. Tuition is **$12,000/year** in-state, **$36,000/year** out-of-state. The **Career Services** reports **68%** placement, with top employers being **Colorado Department of Transportation** and **HDR Engineering**.

## 7. Western Colorado University
@@PRODUCT name="Western Colorado University" img="https://western.edu/wp-content/uploads/DSC07993.jpg" site="https://western.edu/admissions/graduate/"
**Western Colorado University** in Gunnison specializes in **mountain ecology** and **wilderness management**. Its **Department of Environment and Sustainability** offers a **BS in Environmental Science** with tracks in **snow hydrology**, **alpine ecology**, and **renewable energy**. The **$15 million** **Coldwater Research Center** studies **stream temperature** and **climate change** using **HOBO** data loggers. The **Gunnison Basin** field station provides **year-round** access to **subalpine** and **montane** ecosystems.

This school is for students passionate about **ski resort sustainability**, **river restoration**, or **wildlife corridors**. In-state tuition is **$10,500/year**, out-of-state **$29,000/year**. Graduates find jobs at **US Forest Service** and **National Park Service**, with median salaries of **$52,000**.

## 8. Fort Lewis College
@@PRODUCT name="Fort Lewis College" img="https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_limit,h_1200,q_75,w_1200/v1/clients/durangoco/Fort_Lewis_College_5788598d-0b8a-4333-aff9-9ab45b7fb708.jpg" site="https://www.durango.org/things-to-do/attractions/fort-lewis-college/"
**Fort Lewis College** in Durango offers a **Native American**-focused environmental science program through its **Department of Biology and Environmental Science**. The **BS in Environmental Science** includes concentrations in **Indigenous environmental justice**, **water rights**, and **forest ecology**. The **$12 million** **Environmental Center** partners with **Southern Ute Indian Tribe** on **air quality** and **land management** projects. The **San Juan Mountains** field station provides **geology** and **hydrology** training.

Best for students interested in **tribal environmental policy** or **Southwest ecosystems**. In-state tuition is **$9,500/year**, out-of-state **$24,000/year**. The **Career Services** reports **65%** placement, with top employers being **Bureau of Land Management** and **The Wilderness Society**.

## 9. Colorado College
@@PRODUCT name="Colorado College" img="https://www.appily.com/sites/default/files/styles/max_1200/public/images/hero/college/126678_hero.jpg?itok=fGsNseD3" site="https://www.appily.com/colleges/colorado-college"
**Colorado College** in Colorado Springs uses a **Block Plan** where students take one course at a time for **3.5 weeks**, ideal for **immersive field studies**. The **Department of Environmental Science** offers a **BA in Environmental Science** with concentrations in **conservation biology**, **geology**, and **environmental chemistry**. The **$25 million** **Baca Campus** in the **San Luis Valley** provides a **1,200-acre** field site for **arid land** research. Students use **R** and **QGIS** for **spatial analysis** of **Rocky Mountain** ecosystems.

This school is for students who prefer **intensive** **hands-on learning** and **small class sizes** (average **12 students**). Tuition is **$65,000/year**, but **need-based aid** averages **$40,000**. Graduates pursue **graduate school** at **Stanford** and **UC Berkeley**, or jobs at **The Nature Conservancy** and **National Geographic**.

## 10. Adams State University
@@PRODUCT name="Adams State University" img="https://www.adams.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/rex-stadium-campus.jpg" site="https://www.adams.edu/student-life/"
**Adams State University** in Alamosa offers a **rural-focused** environmental science program through its **Department of Biology and Earth Sciences**. The **BS in Environmental Science** includes concentrations in **water resource management**, **soil science**, and **environmental education**. The **$8 million** **Rio Grande Research Center** studies **irrigation efficiency** and **wetland restoration** using **LIDAR** and **drones**. The **San Luis Valley** field station provides **alkali flat** and **sand dune** ecosystem access.

Best for students seeking **low-cost** education (in-state **$8,500/year**, out-of-state **$22,000/year**) and **rural environmental careers**. The **Career Services** reports **60%** placement, with top employers being **Colorado Division of Water Resources** and **USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service**. Median starting salary is **$48,000**.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A[Interested in Environmental Science in Colorado?] --> B{Primary Interest?}
    B -->|Research & Engineering| C[Colorado School of Mines]
    B -->|Atmospheric & Climate| D[University of Colorado Boulder]
    B -->|Ecology & Forestry| E[Colorado State University]
    B -->|Urban Sustainability| F{Urban or Rural?}
    F -->|Denver Area| G[Metropolitan State University of Denver]
    F -->|Rural Mountains| H[Western Colorado University]
    B -->|Tribal Policy| I[Fort Lewis College]
    B -->|Low Cost| J[Adams State University]
    C --> K[Median Salary $72,000]
    D --> L[Median Salary $68,000]
    E --> M[Median Salary $62,000]
    G --> N[Median Salary $55,000]
    H --> O[Median Salary $52,000]
    I --> P[Median Salary $48,000]
    J --> Q[Median Salary $48,000]
```

## FAQ
**What is the best environmental science school in Colorado for research?**
Colorado School of Mines leads with **$80 million** in research funding from **NSF** and **DOE**, followed by CU Boulder with **CIRES** and **$60 million** in annual grants.

**Which Colorado school offers the cheapest environmental science degree?**
Adams State University has the lowest in-state tuition at **$8,500/year**, while Metropolitan State University of Denver offers the best value at **$10,000/year** with strong urban sustainability programs.

**Can I study environmental science online in Colorado?**
Yes, **Colorado State University** offers a **fully online BS in Environmental Science** through **CSU Online**, costing **$575/credit hour** for in-state and out-of-state students.

**What are the job prospects for environmental science graduates in Colorado?**
Median starting salaries range from **$48,000** to **$72,000**, with top employers including **NREL**, **EPA Region 8**, **Xcel Energy**, and **CH2M HILL**. The **Colorado Department of Labor** projects **15% growth** in environmental science jobs through 2030.

**Does Colorado School of Mines require a specific GPA for admission?**
Yes, the **average admitted GPA** is **3.8** on a 4.0 scale, with **SAT scores** of **1300–1450** and **ACT scores** of **28–33**. **AP Environmental Science** credit is accepted.

**Which Colorado school is best for environmental policy?**
University of Colorado Boulder’s **Environmental Studies Program** integrates **policy** with **science**, offering internships at **Colorado State Capitol** and **NOAA**.

**How do I choose between CU Boulder and Colorado School of Mines?**
Choose Mines for **engineering-heavy** environmental science (e.g., **water treatment**, **geothermal**). Choose CU Boulder for **atmospheric science**, **climate policy**, or **ecology**.

## Sources
- [Colorado School of Mines Environmental Engineering Program](https://www.mines.edu/academics/environmental-engineering/)
- [University of Colorado Boulder Environmental Studies](https://www.colorado.edu/envs/)
- [Colorado State University Warner College of Natural Resources](https://warnercnr.colostate.edu/)
- [Metropolitan State University of Denver Earth and Atmospheric Sciences](https://www.msudenver.edu/earth-atmospheric-sciences/)
- [University of Denver Geography and the Environment](https://www.du.edu/geography/)
- [Western Colorado University Environment and Sustainability](https://www.western.edu/academics/environment-and-sustainability)
- [Fort Lewis College Biology and Environmental Science](https://www.fortlewis.edu/academics/biology-environmental-science/)
- [Colorado College Environmental Science](https://www.coloradocollege.edu/academics/dept/environmentalscience/)
- [Adams State University Biology and Earth Sciences](https://www.adams.edu/academics/biology-earth-sciences/)
- [U.S. News Best Environmental Science Programs](https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-science-schools/environmental-science-rankings)

## Bottom Line
Colorado offers **10 distinct** environmental science schools, each excelling in specific niches: **Colorado School of Mines** for engineering and research, **University of Colorado Boulder** for atmospheric science, **Colorado State University** for ecology, **Metropolitan State University of Denver** for value, and **Adams State University** for low cost. Your choice should align with your **career goals**—whether that’s **water resource management**, **climate modeling**, **tribal policy**, or **urban sustainability**. Use the **decision tree** above to match your interests, and always verify **tuition rates** and **financial aid** directly with each institution for the 2026–2027 academic year.

*Top 10 Environmental Science Schools in Colorado: From Colorado School of Mines to Adams State University, find the best program for your career in environmental science.*

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Top 10 Environmental Science Schools in Colorado

Direct Answer

How We Ranked These

1. Colorado School of Mines 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2. University of Colorado Boulder

3. Colorado State University

4. University of Denver

5. Metropolitan State University of Denver 💎 BEST VALUE

6. University of Colorado Denver

7. Western Colorado University

8. Fort Lewis College

9. Colorado College

10. Adams State University

FAQ

Sources

Bottom Line

What does the score mean?