WHAT YOUR GIFTS SUPPORT

A college that places the greatest value on learning, not the price of admission.

    An act by the Colorado Legislature in 1963 created an institution that would forever change higher education in the state. The Metropolitan State College of Denver was established for a unique purpose: to give people the opportunity to work for a high-quality college education, regardless of previous academic success or financial limitations. To ensure that the College was accessible to all, it would be located in the heart of the city, keep tuition and fees affordable and be flexible to accommodate working students and those with families. On October 4, 1965, The Metropolitan State College of Denver opened its doors to 1,200 students eager to take advantage of that opportunity.

From that vision, Metro State has grown into the largest public undergraduate college in the United States. Each year, more than 21,000 students come to Metro State with a vision for success and hope for the future. Some choose Metro State over other colleges and universities because of the superior education they know they will receive. Others know that Metro State doesn't base admission solely on grades and test scores. Instead, Metro State will give them the chance that another institution may not. Still others come to Metro State because no other school offers the affordability, flexibility and location they need to pursue a degree while managing a career and family. Some 80 percent of the College's students work full time or part-time. Metro State opens its doors at dawn and keeps them open long after sunset to meet the needs of its highly diverse student body.

The College encompasses three schools: The School of Business; The School of Letters, Arts and Sciences; and The School of Professional Studies. Students can receive bachelor's degrees in any of 51 majors. All of Metro State's programs have a common denominator: an environment that gives students a real-world educational experience and personalized attention.

1999 Metro State Case Statement

HIGHLIGHTS OF CURRENT COLLEGE PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

Metro State has collaborated with community and business leaders to develop extraordinary initiatives to ensure that students graduate prepared to become leaders in their communities and their chosen professions.

Scholarships: Providing opportunities for more students
 
As Colorado's College of Opportunity, Metro State is committed to providing educational opportunities for those who have the motivation and potential to be outstanding students, but lack the financial resources. Although $48 million in financial aid is distributed to Metro State students annually, it is about $20 million less than they are qualified to receive. Loans make up almost two-thirds of financial aid, which means graduates must begin their careers significantly in debt. The goal is to raise additional scholarship funds to help more students in need.  For a list of scholarship funding opportunities click here.

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