The University of Colorado Boulder is a leading public research university set against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, renowned for aerospace engineering and atmospheric and space research. CU Boulder partners with NOAA and NASA on major research initiatives and offers a distinctive combination of academic rigor and outdoor recreation.
Mascot: Buffalo
Notable Alumni
Robert Redford (Academy Award-winning filmmaker)•Trey Parker (co-creator of South Park)•Matt Stone (co-creator of South Park)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Safety
CU Boulder Police provide 24/7 patrols with electronically secured dorms, trained security staff, and CU Safety Alerts. The campus is generally safe, though occasional incidents occur.
Boulder has an elevated overall crime rate, but the vast majority is property crime. The Hill neighborhood near campus sees more party-related incidents; residential areas are quite safe.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Location
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