CU Boulder and Denver, UNC, and DU, are all among Forbes’ list of top colleges in the U.S. for 2019. According to Forbes, the list is based on the top academics, career success and lowest debt. There were 650 schools in the ranking, meaning that only 15% of schools nationwide were included. Colorado schools ranked as such:

United States Air Force Academy – 43
Colorado College – 92
Colorado School of Mines – 94
University of Denver – 140
University of Colorado, Boulder – 146
Colorado State University, Fort Collins – 223
Regis University – 298
University of Colorado, Denver – 466
University of Northern Colorado – 534
University of Colorado Colorado Springs – 544
Western Colorado University – 602
Fort Lewis College – 636

The schools are ranked based on alumni salary, student satisfaction, debt, on-time graduation rate and academic success. According to Forbes, “The average total cost for these colleges is $45,000 annually; nationally, 49% of graduates under the age of 30 are carrying loan debt, on the hook for a median amount of $25,000 for the privilege of earning a bachelor’s degree, according to a new Pew Research Center analysis.”

A group of CU student Buffs roam the hill in search of a pre-game party. (Photo Credit Joseph Wirth)