Colorado State University

Quick Facts about Colorado State University

• Type: Public
• Students: 34,218
• Campus: Multiple Campuses
• Language: English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
• Intakes: August, January, May

About Colorado State University

Academics

CSU offers over 150 programs of study across eight colleges and 55 departments, with a strong emphasis on research and hands-on learning. Notable programs include engineering, environmental sciences, veterinary medicine, agriculture, and business. The university is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" and spent over $577 million on research expenditures in 2024. CSU's teaching approach integrates interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly in fields like health and human sciences, and offers various research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.

International Students

Colorado State University is home to over 1,800 international students from more than 100 countries, making up approximately 4.9% of the student body. International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides extensive support, including orientation, immigration and sponsor services, regulatory compliance, and cultural adjustment assistance. The university offers English-taught programs and various student organizations, such as the Council of International Student Affairs (COISA), to foster cultural integration and community among international students. CSU also facilitates international research opportunities, including a summer research internship program for visiting international scholars.

Campus & Location

Colorado State University's main campus spans 583 acres in Fort Collins, a mid-size city at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Fort Collins is consistently ranked as one of the top places to live in the U.S., offering a vibrant downtown area known as Old Town, located just a 10-minute walk from campus. The campus itself is pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, with limited vehicle access, and features attractions like the historic Oval, the Lory Student Center, and the University Center for the Arts. Students can enjoy free transportation on all Transfort bus routes and the MAX Rapid Transit system with their RamCard, connecting the campus to various destinations throughout Fort Collins.

Career Outcomes

CSU demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with 91% of undergraduates and 97% of graduate students securing employment or further education within six months of graduation. The Career Center and college-specific career services offer comprehensive support, including career exploration, resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, and connections with employers. Over 800 unique employers worldwide hire CSU graduates, with many finding employment in Colorado, particularly in the Denver Metro and Northern Colorado areas. The university also emphasizes experiential learning through internships, with a 72% internship rate for undergraduates.

Information for International Students at Colorado State University

Colorado State University in Fort Collins, United States welcomes international students.

• Visa support available
• On-campus work allowed
• Student housing available
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Colorado State University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Colorado State University:

• IELTS minimum: 6.5
• TOEFL minimum: 80
• Duolingo minimum: 120
• GPA minimum: 3
• GRE required
• GMAT required
• Application fee: $50
• Selectivity: Open (60%+)

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Programs at Colorado State University (19 programs)

Colorado State University offers 19 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (9)

• Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr
  This program explores human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, covering areas like cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist
• Agricultural Business (BSc) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the economic principles and management practices essential for success in the agricultural industry, covering topics from finance to marketing.
  Field: Agriculture
  Career outcomes: Farm Manager, Agricultural Economist, Commodity Trader
• Civil Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr · STEM
  Students learn to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems, focusing on sustainability and safety.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager
• Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr · STEM
  This program provides a strong foundation in chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry, with opportunities for laboratory research.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Chemist, Forensic Scientist, Materials Scientist
• Journalism and Media Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr
  Students develop skills in news reporting, writing, editing, and multimedia production across various platforms, preparing them for careers in journalism, public relations, and media.
  Field: Communication
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Content Creator
• Horticulture (BSc) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr · STEM
  Students study the science and art of cultivating plants, including topics like plant propagation, landscape design, sustainable food production, and urban horticulture.
  Field: Agriculture
  Career outcomes: Horticulturist, Landscape Architect, Nursery Manager
• Animal Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr · STEM
  Students learn about the biology, care, and production of various animal species, with specializations available in areas like equine science, livestock management, and pre-veterinary medicine.
  Field: Animal Science
  Career outcomes: Veterinarian, Animal Nutritionist, Livestock Producer
• Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems, covering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Aerospace Engineer
• Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $12,400/yr
  Students examine social structures, human behavior in groups, and societal issues, exploring topics like inequality, crime, family, and social change.
  Field: Sociology
  Career outcomes: Social Worker, Policy Analyst, Community Organizer

Master Programs (6)

• Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
  This advanced program delves into theoretical and applied aspects of computer science, with opportunities for research in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Architect, Machine Learning Engineer, Research Scientist
• Environmental Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
  Students address complex environmental challenges through engineering principles, focusing on water resources, air quality, waste management, and sustainable development.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Environmental Engineer, Consultant, Policy Analyst
• Education and Human Resource Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $17,000/yr
  This program offers specializations in areas like adult education, organizational learning, and higher education leadership, focusing on human development and educational practices.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: Educator, Training and Development Manager, HR Specialist
• Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · English · $20,000/yr
  The MBA program develops leadership and management skills, offering specializations in areas such as finance, marketing, supply chain management, and organizational leadership.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Operations Director
• Atmospheric Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
  Students study atmospheric phenomena, climate change, weather forecasting, and air quality, utilizing advanced modeling and observational techniques.
  Field: Atmospheric Science
  Career outcomes: Meteorologist, Climate Scientist, Air Quality Specialist
• Applied Statistics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
  This program trains students in statistical theory and methods for analyzing data in various fields, including biostatistics, environmental statistics, and data science.
  Field: Statistics
  Career outcomes: Statistician, Data Analyst, Quantitative Researcher

PhD Programs (4)

• Biomedical Sciences (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
  The program offers rigorous training in biomedical research, covering areas such as molecular biology, genetics, immunology, and infectious diseases, with a strong emphasis on laboratory work.
  Field: Biomedical Sciences
  Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, Biotechnology Scientist, Pharmacologist
• Ecology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in ecological systems, biodiversity, conservation, and environmental change, preparing students for academic and research careers.
  Field: Ecology
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Conservation Biologist
• Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
  Doctoral research in electrical engineering covers advanced topics such as power systems, electromagnetics, control systems, and microelectronics, contributing to cutting-edge technological advancements.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Engineer, University Professor, Innovator
• Forestry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
  This program involves advanced research in forest ecology, management, conservation, and policy, addressing challenges related to sustainable forest resources and ecosystem health.
  Field: Forestry
  Career outcomes: Forest Scientist, Environmental Policy Advisor, Academic Researcher

Scholarships & Tuition at Colorado State University

✅ Colorado State University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Colorado State University

• National Ranking: #148 in United States
• QS World University Ranking: #458
• Times Higher Education (THE): #501
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #201
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at Colorado State University

• Student housing available
• No sports facilities
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Multiple Campuses

Key Highlights

• R1: Very High Research Activity
• Diverse Academic Programs
• Strong International Student Support
• Scenic Fort Collins Campus
• Over $577 Million in Research
• Founded 1870 Land-Grant University

Notable Alumni

• James H. Dickinson
• Cory Gardner
• Leslie Jones
• Lane Kiffin
• Scott Carpenter

Frequently Asked Questions about Colorado State University

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