Western Colorado University
Western
Gunnison, Colorado 81231
Data last updated: May 29, 2026
Campus Vibe
Known for business — excellent value
Western Colorado University is a public institution in Gunnison with particular strength in business and biology. With an average SAT of 1130, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 1.7K undergraduates with a 18:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
51% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $46,833 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $16,773.
Campus Visits
Plan Your Visit
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1130
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
77.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
2.4%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$12,000
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
9
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Programs (33)
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
73%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •History Western was established in 1901 and opened for classes in 1911 as the Colorado State Normal School, the first college on the Western Slope.
- •In 1923 the college's name was changed to Western State College of Colorado in recognition of its expanding programs in the liberal arts at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
- •In 2012, the institution was renamed Western State Colorado University.
- •In September 2018, the institution changed its name to Western Colorado University.
Source: Wikipedia
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from CO state average
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
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