University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) vs UNC-Greeley

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) and University of Northern Colorado (UNC) stand as two distinct academic havens, each offering a unique educational experience. While both universities share a commitment to academic excellence, they differ in several key aspects. UCCS boasts a lower acceptance rate, indicating a more selective admissions process, while UNC welcomes a larger and more diverse student body. UCCS excels in fields like business, engineering, and nursing, while UNC shines in education, music, and the arts. With varying graduation rates and distinct campus cultures, UCCS and UNC cater to different student preferences and aspirations. Explore our comprehensive comparison table to discover which university aligns best with your academic goals and personal preferences.
University of Colorado Colorado Springs logo

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

University of Northern Colorado logo

University of Northern Colorado

Overview

Location Colorado Springs, Colorado Greeley, Colorado
Campus setting City: Large City: Midsize
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 67.0% 69.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 95.3% 91.1%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $60
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $50
SAT range N/A 970 - 1210
ACT range N/A 19 - 27
Students submitting SAT score 29.0%
Students submitting ACT score 8.0%
Total number of applicants 11,900 10,152
Total number of admissions given out 11,337 9,252
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,409 1,256
Yield rate 12.4% 13.6%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Not required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Not required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $26,306

Out of state: $38,762
In state: $27,308

Out of state: $40,427
Average net price $15,547 $17,128
Tuition
In state: $7,296

Out of state: $19,752
In state: $8,127

Out of state: $21,246
Room & board $11,458
Room/dormitory: $6,546

Meal plan: $5,606
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

71.0%
Average amount $6,940
98.0%
Average amount $8,308
Students receiving federal student loan 34.0%
Average amount $5,047
49.0%
Average amount $4,866
Students taking out private loans 7.0%
Average amount $15,415
5.0%
Average amount $12,652

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 10,002
Men 45.8% Women 54.2%
7,357
Men 32.9% Women 67.1%
Graduate students 2,029
Men 40.0% Women 60.0%
2,991
Men 24.5% Women 75.5%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 22.0% 15.4%
International students 1.3% 1.6%
Campus local/setting City: Large City: Midsize
Dormitory capacity 1,719 3,542
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Colorado Texas California Illinois Minnesota Colorado California Texas Arizona New Mexico

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Business
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Visual & Performing Arts
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
Students to faculty ratio 16:1 14:1
Institutional accreditation Higher Learning Commission Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 44.1% 51.9%
Dropout rate 16.8% 12.7%
Transferred out 35.6% 33.5%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $96,442
  • Year 2: $92,358
  • Year 3: $103,568
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $67,849
  • Year 2: $67,240
  • Year 3: $77,111
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,511
  • Year 2: $69,338
  • Year 3: $76,950
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $67,374
  • Year 2: $71,015
  • Year 3: $74,444
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,567
  • Year 2: $56,544
  • Year 3: $64,874
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,473
  • Year 2: $59,441
  • Year 3: $63,152
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,437
  • Year 2: $45,048
  • Year 3: $53,324
Public Administration (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,674
  • Year 2: $44,170
  • Year 3: $49,511
Economics (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $39,542
  • Year 2: $40,089
  • Year 3: $48,299
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $41,745
  • Year 2: $40,521
  • Year 3: $47,859
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $95,592
  • Year 2: $93,076
  • Year 3: $97,134
Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $67,550
  • Year 2: $64,493
  • Year 3: $71,265
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,692
  • Year 2: $59,688
  • Year 3: $64,765
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,641
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $62,395
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $60,682
  • Year 2: $57,995
  • Year 3: $60,883
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $49,199
  • Year 2: $50,231
  • Year 3: $52,879
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $44,408
  • Year 2: $45,665
  • Year 3: $52,808
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,601
  • Year 2: $48,198
  • Year 3: $49,964
Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,018
  • Year 2: $46,738
  • Year 3: $48,853
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,825
  • Year 2: $42,979
  • Year 3: $46,903

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between UCCS and UNC?

    UCCS (University of Colorado Colorado Springs) is a primarily STEM-focused institution located in a larger city, offering a more urban experience with a growing research profile. UNC (University of Northern Colorado), situated in Greeley, has a strong emphasis on education, nursing, and the performing arts, providing a more traditional college town atmosphere.

  • Where are UCCS and UNC located?

    UCCS is located in Colorado Springs, a city at the base of the Rocky Mountains, offering access to outdoor activities and a larger metropolitan area. UNC is located in Greeley, a smaller city on the plains of Northern Colorado, providing a more close-knit community feel.

  • Which school is larger, UCCS or UNC?

    UNC is generally larger than UCCS in terms of total student enrollment. While enrollment numbers fluctuate, UNC typically has a higher undergraduate and graduate student population.

  • What academic programs are UCCS known for?

    UCCS is particularly well-regarded for its programs in engineering, computer science, business, and criminal justice. They also have strong offerings in the health sciences and visual and performing arts.

  • What academic programs are UNC known for?

    UNC is renowned for its teacher education programs, nursing, performing arts (especially music), and business. They also have solid programs in the natural and social sciences.

  • How do the tuition costs compare between UCCS and UNC?

    Tuition costs can vary depending on residency and program. Generally, UCCS and UNC have comparable tuition rates for in-state students. Out-of-state tuition may differ, so it's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date information.

  • What is campus life like at UCCS?

    UCCS offers a vibrant campus life with a growing number of student organizations, clubs, and activities. Its location in Colorado Springs provides access to outdoor recreation, cultural events, and a thriving city scene. The campus is more modern and continues to expand.

  • What is campus life like at UNC?

    UNC provides a more traditional college town experience with a strong sense of community. There are numerous student organizations, Greek life, and campus events. Greeley offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Colorado Springs.

  • What are the athletic programs like at UCCS and UNC?

    UCCS competes in NCAA Division II athletics, offering a variety of sports programs. UNC competes in NCAA Division I athletics, providing a higher level of competition and visibility. If being a part of a Division I athletic environment is important to you, UNC might be a better fit.

  • Which school is better for someone interested in a career in education?

    UNC is generally considered the stronger choice for students pursuing careers in education. They have a long-standing reputation and extensive resources dedicated to teacher preparation and educational leadership.

  • Which school is better for someone interested in a career in engineering or computer science?

    UCCS is generally considered the stronger choice for students pursuing careers in engineering or computer science. They have a growing reputation and extensive resources dedicated to these fields.

  • What kind of student is a good fit for UCCS?

    UCCS is a good fit for students who are interested in STEM fields, enjoy outdoor activities, and prefer a more urban environment. It's also a good choice for students who want a university with a growing research profile.

  • What kind of student is a good fit for UNC?

    UNC is a good fit for students who are interested in education, nursing, or the performing arts, and who prefer a more traditional college town atmosphere. It's also a good choice for students who value a strong sense of community.

  • Do UCCS and UNC offer on-campus housing?

    Yes, both UCCS and UNC offer a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls, apartments, and suites. Availability and specific amenities may vary, so it's best to check their respective housing websites.

  • How do the research opportunities compare between UCCS and UNC?

    UCCS is increasingly focused on research, particularly in STEM fields, and offers growing opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to participate in research projects. UNC also offers research opportunities, particularly in areas related to education, health sciences, and the natural sciences, but its overall research profile is generally less prominent than UCCS.

Compare Similar Colleges

The list of suggested college comparisons provided below is generated automatically by our system, utilizing statistics gathered from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and various online sources. If you don't find the colleges you wish to compare, please visit our comparison page. There, you can search for the specific colleges and initiate your comparison.
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Adams State University Adams State University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Fort Lewis College Fort Lewis College
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Colorado Mesa University Colorado Mesa University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Metropolitan State University of Denver Metropolitan State University of Denver
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs University of Northern Colorado University of Northern Colorado
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Regis University Regis University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Colorado State University Pueblo Colorado State University Pueblo
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs United States Air Force Academy United States Air Force Academy
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Western Colorado University Western Colorado University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs University of West Georgia University of West Georgia
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Idaho State University Idaho State University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs University of Idaho University of Idaho
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Emporia State University Emporia State University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs The University of Montana The University of Montana
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Western Carolina University Western Carolina University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs University of North Dakota University of North Dakota
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Oregon State University Oregon State University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs South Dakota State University South Dakota State University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs University of South Dakota University of South Dakota
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs University of Houston-Clear Lake University of Houston-Clear Lake
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs The University of Texas Permian Basin The University of Texas Permian Basin
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Norfolk State University Norfolk State University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Central Washington University Central Washington University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Eastern Washington University Eastern Washington University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Washington State University Washington State University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Western Washington University Western Washington University
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs West Virginia University Institute of Technology West Virginia University Institute of Technology
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs University of Wyoming University of Wyoming
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs Denver College of Nursing Denver College of Nursing
University of Colorado Colorado Springs UCCS vs DeVry University-Colorado DeVry University-Colorado
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs University of Arizona University of Arizona
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Northern Arizona University Northern Arizona University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Arkansas State University Arkansas State University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs California State University-Northridge California State University-Northridge
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Adams State University Adams State University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Colorado School of Mines Colorado School of Mines
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins Colorado State University-Fort Collins
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Southern Connecticut State University Southern Connecticut State University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Idaho State University Idaho State University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Oakland University Oakland University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Saint Cloud State University Saint Cloud State University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs University of Nebraska at Kearney University of Nebraska at Kearney
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Oregon State University Oregon State University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Peirce College Peirce College
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs East Tennessee State University East Tennessee State University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs University of Vermont University of Vermont
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Radford University Radford University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Washington State University Washington State University
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs University of Wyoming University of Wyoming
University of Northern Colorado UNC-Greeley vs Denver College of Nursing Denver College of Nursing