University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is a public research university founded in 1876 and serves as the flagship campus of the University of Colorado system. Situated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains on a scenic 786-acre campus, it offers a blend of historic and modern architecture alongside stunning natural surroundings. With an enrollment of over 38,000 students—including around 32,000 undergraduates and nearly 6,500 graduate students—the university is a major academic hub with a student–faculty ratio of approximately 19:1.

Academically, CU Boulder comprises nine colleges and schools, offering more than 150 undergraduate and over 150 graduate programs. It is classified as an R1 “Very High Research Activity” institution and is a member of the Association of American Universities, marking it as a top-tier research university. The university attracts significant research funding, including leading support from NASA, and hosts distinguished institutes such as JILA and the Institute for Arctic and Alpine Research.

Student life at CU Boulder is vibrant and diverse, featuring over 400 student organizations, a prominent NCAA Division I athletic program known as the Colorado Buffaloes—including their live mascot Ralphie the bison—and extensive outdoor recreation opportunities that complement its mountain setting. The campus culture emphasizes sustainability, with LEED-certified buildings and environmental initiatives. CU Boulder boasts alumni who have earned prestigious honors including Nobel Prizes, MacArthur Fellowships, and Rhodes Scholarships, reflecting its strong tradition of academic excellence, innovation, and community impact.