Colorado Computer Science Schools

If you’re considering earning a computer science or IT degree in Colorado, you’re likely to find plenty of career opportunities once you graduate, whether you choose to live in one of the top cities for startups — Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, or Fort Collins — or elsewhere in the state.

Nine Colorado-based companies landed a spot on Deloitte’s 2018 list of fastest-growing tech companies, more than half of which are in the software space. And almost 11,000 technology companies — large and small — are located in Colorado. Whether you’re planning to start a tech career in Colorado or if you’re interesting in taking your current job to a higher level, pursuing a degree through one of the states online IT programs can help meet your goals.

Colorado’s Technology Education Initiatives

The Centennial State has implemented a number of initiatives to support and grow interest in technology, including creating pathways for students to pursue tech-related degree programs at IT schools in Colorado. Here’s a look at some of these efforts.

• Strengthening computer science education for secondary students: HB17-1184, the Modern Technology Education in Public Schools bill was signed into law in 2017. This bill’s purpose is to incorporate technology skills into the state’s current educational standards and to create a resource bank for schools and students interested in computer science.
• Preparing students for high-skill jobs: Pathways in Technology Early College High Schools or P-TECH made its debut in 2015. P-TECH is a unique partnership between a school district, a community college, and a local high-growth industry employer. Through P-TECH, students can simultaneously earn their high school diploma and an associate degree in a STEM-related field in six years.
• Providing students with work experience in the tech sector: CareerWise Colorado offers three-year apprenticeships that allow secondary students to gain work experience, earn a nationally recognized certification, tap into a professional network, and earn college credits. Students may work in positions such as computer technicians, software QA testers, and junior coders.
• Recognizing students who demonstrate mastery in STEM: In Colorado, secondary students may now earn a STEM-endorsed diploma. The special type of diploma can be granted to those who go above and beyond in STEM knowledge and skills. Students who earn this unique diploma may stand out when applying to IT degree programs in Colorado.

Southern New Hampshire University

• Some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
• Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
• Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access
• Offering over 200 online degree programs

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Purdue University Global

• Experience world-class education online with more than 175 programs at associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels.
• Apply eligible work experience and prior college credits toward up to 75% of your undergraduate degree.
• You have the option of trying out a Purdue Global undergraduate program for an introductory 3-week period. There’s no cost beyond the application fee.
• Competency-based ExcelTrack™ programs may allow you to earn your degree faster and for less money

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Best Computer Science and IT Colleges in Colorado

Colorado is home to a diverse collection of postsecondary institutions, including more than 20 public colleges (both two- and four-year), and 20 private institutions. At these schools, students can select from a variety of information and technology-related educational programs of study.

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Spotlight on Computer Sciences Schools in Colorado

There is no shortage of computer science schools in Colorado. However, the ones that truly stand out include:

• University of Colorado Boulder: Those who enroll in a computer science degree at UC Boulder can expect to spend two semesters during their senior year working on a real-world software project with a team. The project may be from an industry, research, or faculty sponsor.
• Colorado State University: At Colorado State University, students may choose a unique concentration known as human-centered computing. Human-centered computing focuses on how individuals interact with computers.
• Adams State University: Students in the computer science program at ASU have the exciting opportunity to develop artificial intelligence and social-emotional programming for robots. This is made possible through a three-year grant of more than a half-million dollars from the Department of Defense Army Research Office (ARO).
• Colorado School of Mines: Colorado School of Mines allows students to earn a bachelor’s of science and master’s of science in computer science simultaneously. Students are encouraged to apply for this program during the spring of their junior year.

IT Salaries and Career Outlook in Colorado

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that Colorado is projected to experience significant growth in a number of technology-related occupations.

Graduates of computer science degree programs in Colorado may find work at a variety of companies throughout the state. A few of the largest ones include OpenTable, an online restaurant reservation company; Gusto, an online HR platform for small businesses; FareHarbor, an online booking software for tours and activities; and HomeAdvisor, a digital marketplace for homeowners.

2019 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov.

Computer Science Scholarships for Colorado Students

Scholarships can help students who hope to pursue IT degree programs in Colorado save money on their education. Our partner site, Schools.com, has a scholarship database that allows students to search for potential opportunities based on different criteria. Here are a few scholarships specific to Colorado students who are interested in pursuing technology majors:

• Northrop Grumman Engineering Scholars: This scholarship is available to qualified high school seniors who live in one of 8 specific Colorado counties and who plan to pursue degree programs in one of several fields, including computer science.
• Robert Noyce Scholarship: Applicants must be full-time Colorado State University students who are interested in teaching a STEM-related field at the middle or high school level.

Colorado Professional Organizations and Resources

IT professionals as well as students pursuing IT or computer science degree programs in Colorado may benefit from these professional organizations and resources.

• Colorado Technology Association: Since 1994, CTA has been providing IT leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed. Its mission is to advance Colorado’s tech ecosystem through talent, advocacy, community, and economic development.
• Colorado Technology Professionals: This organization conducts networking events, educational programming, and career seminars for technology professionals in the state.
• Colorado Technology Student Association: This student-focused society has been around for more than 30 years, with 75-plus chapters throughout the state. The Colorado TSA strives to inspire students to prepare for careers in technology through numerous conferences and professional development opportunities.