Why Colorado School of the Mines?

🏫 Campus Vibes

With around 5,200 undergrads, Mines has the feel of a private school but is part of the Colorado public university system. The campus is nestled at the base of the stunning Rocky Mountains, with plenty of green space and modern architecture. It's the ideal size—easy to navigate without feeling too small. Mines is academically rigorous, but it's also a very collaborative with strong peer mentorship that is evident from the moment students set foot on campus.

🏞️ Life Outside the Classroom

When it’s time to relax, students are just a 5-minute walk from shops, restaurants, and tubing in Clear Creek. Outdoor lovers will feel right at home with easy access to:

• Mountain biking
• Skiing
• Hiking
• Rock Climbing (there’s a wall in the gym as well as easy access to the Rocky Mountains)

There are also 200+ clubs and 18 athletic teams. Greek life is present but involvement is relatively low at 17%. 

🧠 Academics & Majors

Mines is a STEM-only institution and offers 39 undergraduate degrees in all types of engineering, computer science, and chemistry. To round out their education, students can add minors in: Business Entrepreneurship Global Politics Leadership Communication. These combinations make Mines grads highly employable.

📌 Students don’t have to declare a major until the end of sophomore year, giving them time to explore.

✏️ Admissions Admission is holistic, but competitive. Most admitted students have:

• A weighted GPA of 4.1–4.3
• Strong course rigor Impressive extracurriculars
• A thoughtful “Why Mines?” essay

👩‍🔬 Women currently make up about 33% of the student body; the school is actively working to increase that number, so if you're a female, that's a bit of an edge.

💼 In terms of career prep, every student completes at least one 6-week Field Session — a hands-on experience in the industry. It’s a serious resume booster!

📊 Last year, 1,300 companies recruited just 927 undergrads — that’s more companies than students!

💰 Cost & Scholarships

For out-of-state students, the total cost of attendance is $70,000. While Mines doesn't participate in WUE, they do offer:

✅ Automatic merit scholarships range between $4,000–$14,000

🌟 Numerous full-tuition scholarships for top applicants

📉 Most out-of-state students pay $56,000–$66,000/year

📍 Final Thoughts

Colorado School of Mines blends rigorous academics, real-world experience, and outdoor adventure—all in a supportive, tight-knit community. If you're serious about STEM and want a future full of opportunity, Mines is a gem worth exploring!

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