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Western Colorado University and Metropolitan State University of Denver are both public institutions — Western Colorado University in Gunnison, CO and Metropolitan State University of Denver in Denver, CO. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Gunnison, CO · Public
Acceptance rate: 99.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,586
Tuition: $24,434/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 50.5%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Gunnison, CO with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
Denver, CO · Public
Acceptance rate: 98.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 15,002
Tuition: $30,684/year
Student-faculty ratio: 14.0:1
Graduation rate: 31.5%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Psychology, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Denver, CO with published program strength in Business and marketing and Psychology.
| Factor | Western Colorado University | Metropolitan State University of Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 99.7% | 98.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1163–1353 |
| 880–1130 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 22–26 | 17–26 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,586 | 15,002 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $24,434/year | $30,684/year |
| Average net price after aid | $16,425 | $15,327 |
| Graduation rate | 50.5% | 31.5% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $46,833 | $52,093 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17.0:1 | 14.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Gunnison, CO | Denver, CO |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Social sciences | Business and marketing, Psychology, Health professions |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (99.7% vs 98.8%). Metropolitan State University of Denver has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,327 vs $16,425). Western Colorado University reports the higher graduation rate (50.5% vs 31.5%). Metropolitan State University of Denver is the larger undergraduate campus (15,002 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Western Colorado University and Metropolitan State University of Denver
Western Colorado University has an acceptance rate of 99.7%; Metropolitan State University of Denver is around 98.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Western Colorado University tuition is $24,434/year. Metropolitan State University of Denver is $30,684/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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