Top 10 Architecture Schools In Colorado And Fees (2025)
Colorado, with its stunning landscapes, modern infrastructure, and environmentally conscious communities, is a fantastic place to study architecture. Whether you’re interested in sustainable design, urban planning, or cutting-edge digital architecture, the Centennial State offers some of the best programs in the western U.S. In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 architecture schools in Colorado, their tuition fees, program strengths, and career opportunities for graduates.
Top 10 Architecture Schools In Colorado And Fees
1. University of Colorado Boulder – College of Environmental Design (CU Boulder)
The University of Colorado Boulder is widely recognized for its College of Environmental Design (ENVD), offering comprehensive programs that prepare students to excel in the architecture industry.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Environmental Design (BEnvD)
- Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
- Ph.D. in Design and Planning
The BEnvD program allows students to specialize in architecture, urban design, or sustainable planning. CU Boulder emphasizes environmental sustainability and community engagement, encouraging students to design buildings that balance aesthetics with ecological responsibility.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: Approximately $14,000 per year
- Out-of-State: Around $39,000 per year
Why Choose CU Boulder:
- State-of-the-art design studios and fabrication labs
- Strong focus on green architecture and urban planning
- Excellent internship opportunities in Denver and Boulder
2. University of Colorado Denver – College of Architecture and Planning (CAP)
The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) is home to one of the top architecture schools in the Rocky Mountain region. The College of Architecture and Planning (CAP) offers a dynamic and hands-on curriculum.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BS Arch)
- Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
- Dual-degree options in landscape architecture and urban planning
Students gain practical experience through design-build projects and internships with Denver’s leading firms. The M.Arch program is NAAB-accredited and emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and urban resilience.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: About $13,500 per year
- Out-of-State: Approximately $35,000 per year
Why Choose CU Denver:
- Located in downtown Denver — access to real-world architecture projects
- Renowned faculty and professional connections
- Focus on sustainable and community-centered design
3. Colorado State University – College of Health and Human Sciences
Although Colorado State University (CSU) doesn’t offer a traditional B.Arch, it provides related programs in Interior Architecture and Design that align closely with architectural practice. The university’s design philosophy integrates functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture and Design
- Master of Design and Merchandising
Students work on projects that involve real clients and develop portfolios emphasizing spatial design and structural balance. CSU’s curriculum also includes CAD, 3D modeling, and sustainable materials application.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: Around $12,000 per year
- Out-of-State: Roughly $33,000 per year
Why Choose CSU:
- Accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA)
- Focus on human-centered design and sustainability
- Internship placements in Denver, Fort Collins, and beyond
4. Colorado College – Environmental and Architectural Studies
Colorado College, located in Colorado Springs, offers an Environmental and Architectural Studies track that combines liberal arts education with practical design thinking. While not a professional B.Arch program, it provides a strong foundation for students planning to pursue graduate studies in architecture.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor’s in Environmental and Architectural Studies
Students explore urbanism, landscape design, and architectural history while engaging in studio-based projects. The small class sizes allow for close mentorship and creative collaboration.
Tuition Fees:
- Annual Tuition: Around $67,000 per year
Why Choose Colorado College:
- Unique block plan system (intensive one-course-at-a-time approach)
- Strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental design
- Ideal for students interested in pursuing graduate architecture programs
5. University of Northern Colorado – Design and Technology Program
The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) in Greeley offers programs that integrate architecture-related disciplines such as design technology, environmental studies, and construction management. Students learn to blend technical design with artistic creativity.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Design and Technology
- Courses in architectural visualization, CAD, and construction systems
This program provides a pathway to careers in architectural drafting, sustainable building, and project management.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: About $11,000 per year
- Out-of-State: Around $26,000 per year
Why Choose UNC:
- Affordable tuition
- Project-based learning and design studio courses
- Growing links to Colorado’s construction and architecture industry
6. Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD)
Located in Lakewood, RMCAD blends creativity with practical design training, preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, interior design, and environmental art.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design
- Courses in architectural rendering, lighting, and space planning
The program emphasizes sustainability, technology integration, and artistic flair. Students learn to use Revit, AutoCAD, and other advanced design tools.
Tuition Fees:
- Annual Tuition: Approximately $26,000 per year
Why Choose RMCAD:
- Flexible on-campus and online options
- Focus on innovative design and visualization
- Supportive creative community and mentorship programs
7. Red Rocks Community College – Architectural Engineering and Design Technology
Red Rocks Community College (RRCC) offers a practical pathway for students interested in architecture without the high cost of a university degree. Their Architectural Engineering and Design Technology (AEDT) program provides hands-on training in drafting, design, and digital modeling.
Programs Offered:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Architectural Engineering and Design Technology
- Certificate programs in CAD and Revit
Graduates often transfer to four-year architecture schools or enter the workforce as design technicians or junior draftsmen.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: Around $4,500 per year
- Out-of-State: Approximately $15,000 per year
Why Choose RRCC:
- Affordable entry into the architectural field
- Small class sizes and individualized instruction
- Articulation agreements with major Colorado universities
8. Arapahoe Community College – Architectural Drafting Program
Arapahoe Community College (ACC) in Littleton provides an Architectural Drafting and Design program focused on practical technical skills. Students are trained to produce architectural drawings, construction documents, and 3D models.
Programs Offered:
- Associate of Applied Science in Architectural Drafting
- Certificate in Revit Architecture
Students gain proficiency in AutoCAD, BIM, and 3D modeling — essential skills for architectural offices and construction companies.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: About $4,700 per year
- Out-of-State: Around $16,000 per year
Why Choose ACC:
- Affordable, career-oriented training
- Partnerships with local architecture firms
- Ideal for students seeking immediate job readiness or transfer pathways
9. Colorado Mesa University – Construction Management and Design Studies
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) in Grand Junction offers programs in Construction Management and Design Studies, combining engineering, technology, and design principles. It’s a great choice for those who want to bridge architecture and construction management.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
- Associate of Applied Science in Drafting and Design Technology
Students gain strong technical foundations, with courses covering building design, project estimating, and sustainable construction techniques.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: Approximately $10,000 per year
- Out-of-State: Around $25,000 per year
Why Choose CMU:
- Strong technical and practical orientation
- Modern facilities with 3D modeling labs
- Career opportunities in both design and construction fields
10. Front Range Community College – Architectural Design and Technology
Front Range Community College (FRCC) offers one of the most affordable architecture-related programs in Colorado. Their Architectural Design and Technology associate degree equips students with key drafting and modeling skills.
Programs Offered:
- Associate of Applied Science in Architectural Design and Technology
- Certificates in CAD, BIM, and green building practices
Graduates often pursue entry-level architectural or construction roles or transfer to a four-year program.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: About $4,300 per year
- Out-of-State: Around $15,000 per year
Why Choose FRCC:
- Affordable tuition and flexible schedules
- Focus on practical skills and employability
- Seamless transfer pathways to universities like CU Denver
Choosing the Right Architecture School in Colorado
When selecting the best architecture school, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: For professional licensing, NAAB-accredited programs (like CU Boulder and CU Denver) are essential.
- Program Focus: Some programs lean more toward design and theory, while others emphasize construction technology or environmental sustainability.
- Location: Denver and Boulder offer the most networking and internship opportunities, while smaller towns provide more personalized learning.
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Colorado offers scholarships like the College Opportunity Fund (COF) to help reduce tuition costs for in-state students.
Career Opportunities for Architecture Graduates in Colorado
Graduates of Colorado’s architecture schools can pursue careers such as:
- Architect (after licensure)
- Urban Designer or Planner
- Interior Designer
- Construction Manager
- BIM Specialist
- Landscape Architect
- Sustainability Consultant
Colorado’s fast-growing cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins provide a wealth of opportunities for young professionals, especially in sustainable architecture and urban redevelopment projects.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a major university like CU Boulder or a community college like FRCC, Colorado offers diverse options to kickstart your architectural journey. From design innovation to sustainable construction, these schools prepare students to shape the built environment responsibly and creatively.
With its inspiring natural landscapes and strong focus on green design, Colorado is one of the best places in America to study architecture.