The academic program emphasizes workforce preparation, the public policy program is ranked #1 in Colorado, and the MBA part-time program is tied for #1 in Colorado.
Nearly every ranked program at the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) improved its ranking in the 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings, released today by U.S. News & World Report. As Colorado's only public urban research university, CU Denver is well positioned to make a significant impact in the community by addressing a critical teacher shortage, fostering economic growth and preparing the next generation of civic leaders.
The University of Denver’s passion for making education work for all has been recognized multiple times this academic year.
Educating Colorado Educators The University of Colorado Denver's graduate education program rose 13 spots, ranking among the best in Colorado and in the top 100 nationally.
“Our consistent top rankings demonstrate that we are a state and national leader, committed to serving the world through quality education and impactful research,” said Dr. Marvin Lin, dean of the School of Education and Human Development (SEHD). “It also reflects the impact our graduates are making in their communities. We are incredibly proud of our graduates and the difference they make in the urban, rural and global communities they serve.”
This national recognition comes at a time when Colorado and the nation are facing a severe teacher shortage and also grappling with changing demographics of school-age children.
SEHD’s graduate program is the largest in the state and is ranked second in Colorado.
Public Policy Graduate Program Remains Top in Colorado
The School of Public Policy's graduate programs continue to perform well, ranking first in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region and in the top 30 nationally. The specializations of Environmental Policy and Management, Nonprofit Management, Public Management and Leadership, and Public Finance and Budgeting also receive top ratings in the state.
“I have a lot of professors that have really contributed to my whole experience. They gave me guidance and support, made things clear and pointed me in the right direction,” said Cameron Dexter, who earned his master's in public administration and criminal justice. “Attending CU Denver online was really helpful in the sense that I was able to continue my life (in Maui) and get my education in addition to my full-time job as a court clerk.”
Part-time MBAs break down barriers
Recognizing that many students are unable to attend school full-time, CU Denver's part-time MBA program offers flexible options for students looking to balance their studies with work and family. With more specialization options than any other part-time MBA program in Colorado, students can choose the format that fits their lifestyle and career goals, including in-person, hybrid and fully online curricula.
The program is ranked #1 in Colorado and in the top 50 nationwide.
Ranking Methodology
US News has been providing education rankings for 30 years. Each graduate program is evaluated using factors called ranking indicators, which are based on two types of data: expert opinion about the program's excellence and statistical indicators that measure the quality of a school's faculty, research, and students. US News has made some significant updates to its methodology. Please read each program's specific methodology for a detailed explanation. If a school or program is listed as unranked, it means that US News has not provided enough of the key statistical data necessary to provide a numerical ranking.
