From the Rocky Mountains to the Front Range tech corridor, Colorado offers a dynamic setting for future engineers. With strong ties to aerospace, energy, and environmental industries, the state supports both traditional and cutting-edge engineering disciplines.
Colorado is a hub for innovation, offering engineering students access to leading research institutions, thriving industries, and an active, tech-savvy workforce. Whether you're interested in sustainability, aerospace, or advanced computing, Colorado supports a diverse range of types of engineering jobs.
Highlights include:
Colorado is home to several highly regarded engineering schools known for research, innovation, and strong industry connections. The institutions listed below represent just some of the top options in the state. Be sure to check out the comprehensive list of ABET-accredited programs at the end of this profile.
The Colorado School of Mines offers a focused, interdisciplinary education in engineering and applied science, deeply rooted in addressing challenges related to the Earth, energy, and the environment. Known for its rigorous curriculum and strong return on investment, Mines equips students with the technical expertise, hands-on experience, and collaborative mindset needed for impactful careers in science and engineering.
Undergraduate programs include majors such as:
Students also have access to a wide range of interdisciplinary minors in emerging and specialized areas like Aerospace, Quantum Engineering, Robotics, Space Mining, and Underground Construction. Research and project-based learning are central, with initiatives tied to global sustainability, advanced materials, and energy innovation.
Colorado School of Mines is a public research university in Golden, Colorado. With a longstanding legacy dating back to 1874, Mines is renowned for its focus on science and engineering education and research, particularly in disciplines related to the Earth's resources and environmental stewardship. Its proximity to both the Rocky Mountains and Denver provides students with unique academic and lifestyle advantages.
The Ritchie School of Engineering & Computer Science at the University of Denver emphasizes hands-on, interdisciplinary education and research grounded in ethical innovation. With small class sizes and a strong focus on experiential learning, the school cultivates a student-centered environment that integrates technical excellence with social responsibility.
Academic programs include:
Students benefit from cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative research ecosystem, including the Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging. Partnerships with Denver’s tech and business communities enhance career readiness and real-world impact. The school is deeply committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring a broad and meaningful educational experience.
The University of Denver is a private research university located in Denver, Colorado. Known for its commitment to public good and strong liberal arts foundation, DU combines academic rigor with a mission to positively impact society through innovation, inclusivity, and community engagement.
The College of Engineering & Applied Science at CU Boulder offers a comprehensive, top-ranked education that combines hands-on learning, world-class research, and a deep commitment to societal impact. With 56 degree programs across 18 areas of study, the college fosters innovation in fields like aerospace, energy, data science, environmental engineering, and biomedical technologies.
Departments and major programs include:
Interdisciplinary and specialty programs:
CU Engineering is known for its faculty excellence—including two former NASA astronauts and founders of globally recognized organizations—and for its commitment to initiatives such as the BOLD Center and the Mortenson Center for Global Engineering. Graduate and undergraduate students alike benefit from extensive lab and project-based opportunities, entrepreneurship support, and global learning experiences.
The University of Colorado Boulder is a public research university and flagship campus of the CU system. Located in one of the nation's top-ranked college towns, CU Boulder is recognized for its strong STEM programs, global research impact, and a vibrant culture that blends academic excellence with outdoor adventure and innovation.
The Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering at Colorado State University offers a robust, research-active environment with a focus on solving global challenges through innovation and collaboration. The college provides a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, blending hands-on learning with interdisciplinary research and community engagement.
Departments and affiliated programs include:
Students benefit from strong academic advising, career support through the Engineering Success Center, and numerous undergraduate and graduate opportunities that encourage personal growth and societal impact. With a commitment to student well-being and academic achievement, the college fosters a dynamic and supportive community.
Colorado State University is a public land-grant institution located in Fort Collins, Colorado. Known for its strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and public service, CSU provides a high-quality education in a scenic setting with access to a range of research, cultural, and outdoor activities.
Students pursuing engineering degrees in Colorado can tap into a variety of financial aid resources, from state grants to merit-based scholarships offered by universities and foundations.
Key programs and resources include:
Be sure to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal and state aid programs.
To practice as a licensed professional engineer (PE) in Colorado, you must meet education, experience, and examination requirements. The state also offers robust professional networks and academic resources for engineering students and professionals.
Key organizations and resources include:
These resources are invaluable for academic success, career development, and the PE licensure process.
Can I earn an engineering degree online in Colorado?
Yes. While not all Colorado schools offer fully online options, many students explore accredited online engineering bachelor's degree and online master's degree in engineering programs that are accessible to Colorado residents.
What engineering fields are strongest in Colorado?
Colorado is especially strong in aerospace, civil, environmental, and renewable energy engineering. The state’s economic focus supports careers in both public and private sectors.
Is licensure required to work as an engineer in Colorado?
Licensure is not always mandatory, but it is essential for engineers offering public services or working in regulated fields. The Colorado AE Board manages PE licensure.
Are there co-op or internship programs for engineering students in Colorado?
Yes. Schools like CU Boulder, Colorado School of Mines, and CSU-Fort Collins maintain strong ties with industry partners and offer structured internship and cooperative education programs.
Attending an ABET-accredited engineering school ensures that your program meets rigorous academic and professional standards—essential for licensure and competitive job placement. Colorado offers a broad range of accredited programs across multiple institutions.
| Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction | - Mechanical Engineering Technology |
| Colorado School of Mines | Golden | - Metallurgical and Materials Engineering
- Mining Engineering - Petroleum Engineering - Civil Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Environmental Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Engineering Physics - Geological Engineering - Geophysical Engineering |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | - Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Engineering - Chemical and Biological Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Environmental Health (Industrial Hygiene Specialization) - Radiological Health Sciences (Health Physics Specialization) - Civil Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Engineering Science(s) - Environmental Engineering |
| Colorado State University Pueblo | Pueblo | - Industrial Engineering
- Engineering - Civil Engineering Technology |
| Colorado Technical University | Colorado Springs | - Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering |
| Fort Lewis College | Durango | - Engineering
- Computer Engineering |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver | - Computer Science
- Computer Information Systems - Computer Engineering - Environmental Engineering - Civil Engineering Technology - Electrical Engineering Technology - Mechanical Engineering Technology |
| Regis University | Denver | - Computer Information Systems
- Information Technology - Computer Science |
| United States Air Force Academy | USAFA | - Mechanical Engineering
- Systems Engineering - Computer Science - Cyber Science - Aeronautical Engineering - Astronautical Engineering - Civil Engineering - Electrical and Computer Engineering |
| University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder | - Computer Science
- Computer Science - Western Colorado University/CU Boulder Partnership - Aerospace Engineering Sciences - Architectural Engineering - Electrical and Computer Engineering - Colorado Mesa University/CU Boulder Partnership - Mechanical Engineering - Western Colorado University/CU Boulder Partnership - Chemical Engineering - Civil Engineering - Electrical and Computer Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Environmental Engineering - Chemical and Biological Engineering - Mechanical Engineering – Colorado Mesa University/CU Boulder Partnership - Integrated Design Engineering - Civil Engineering – Colorado Mesa University/CU Boulder Partnership - Biomedical Engineering |
| University of Colorado at Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs | - Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Computer Engineering |
| University of Colorado Denver | Denver | - Construction Engineering & Management
- Construction Management - Computer Science - Civil Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Bioengineering |
| University of Denver | Denver | - Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering |
Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Colorado was compiled in 2025. Program offerings and accreditation statuses may change. Prospective students should consult the ABET official website and the individual university pages linked above for the most current information. You can also explore additional resources mentioned earlier, including the Colorado Department of Higher Education and the Colorado State Board of Licensure.
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