The exciting and adventurous capital of Colorado, Denver is known as the Mile High City due to its altitude of exactly one mile (1.6kms) above sea level. Here you’ll find a selection of great universities plus many activities to pass the time.
So, if you’re looking for a study experience with a difference, you’ll definitely want to consider living in Denver.
What is Denver like?
Location and demographics
Denver is located in western central USA, on the edge of the High Plains and just below the Rocky Mountains. The city is flat at its centre, becoming hillier in the suburbs. It experiences hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters, meaning residents here get the best out of every season.
With a population of 725,000, Denver is Colorado’s main hub. It’s an extremely multicultural city, proud of its energy and diversity.
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Culture and history
Denver is perfect for those who enjoy immersing themselves in culture. For an inspiring, budget-friendly day out, explore the city’s unique and varying Art Districts and take in the many public art installations, murals and street art.
Head to the Golden Triangle Creative District and visit one of the district’s 30 galleries and art studios. Or, for a fun trip with a difference, enjoy one of the many festivals hosted by the city – they’re often free.
History fans of all genres, you’ll enjoy Denver’s fantastic and informative selection of museums and galleries. Whether you want to learn about the city’s heritage or local sports, there’s a museum for just about everything here.
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What universities are in Denver?
A number of universities and colleges are based in and around the city, which is good news for anyone wanting to study in Denver. Here we list a few of the most popular, but it’s definitely worth researching others in the area too to make sure you find the best one for you.
The University of Colorado, Boulder (CU Boulder) is the leading academic institution in the Denver area. This public university is ranked 158 in the US News & World Report 2022 and has notable alumni across all fields. Although it is most renowned for its business majors, the university has international reach across fields.
- Colorado School of Mines – a public university specialising in the sciences, ranked 89 in the USNWR 2022
- University of Denver – a private university ranked 105 in the USNWR 2022
- University of Colorado, Denver – a public university with a particular strength in health and medical graduate programmes, ranked 219 in the USNWR 2022
- Regis University – a private university ranked 250 in the USNWR 2022
If you’re prepared to travel a little out of Denver itself, consider Colorado State University, a public university based in Fort Collins and ranked 151 in the USNWR 2022.
If you are hoping to apply to a community college to obtain an associate degree, consider the Community College of Denver or Community College of Aurora.
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What does Denver offer students?
What is transport like?
As one of the fittest cities in the USA, Denver has some great infrastructure in place for cyclists, and pedestrians can make use of this too, meaning you can easily get around safely and cheaply in the city.
There will be times as a student when you’ll prefer to use public transport. In Denver, you’ll typically be looking at bus or light rail for this, although there are a number of fun options available too, like tuk-tuks and rickshaws!
Buy your bus tickets on board or train tickets at the station. Alternatively, you can purchase a Day Pass. Or for regular travel, a MyRide prepaid smartcard will allow you to access discounts and avoid queuing for tickets. If your university is enrolled in the CollegePass scheme, you can apply for further student discounts.
If you fancy a trip into the Rocky Mountains, Denver is well connected to the region by rail and bus. The city also has its own international airport with flights around the globe.
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What about entertainment and food?
Denver has an enviable food scene. With a range of eateries serving global cuisines at every budget, you’ll soon find yourself with a long list of ‘must-visit’ restaurants, diners and even famous ice creameries. Denver is also home to more breweries than any other city in the USA so be sure to taste some of the local flavours. And if you fancy an exciting change, you’ll never have to wait long for the next food or drinks festival.
In the evening, you’re unlikely to be bored in Denver. Whether you prefer a quiet night of comedy, passing the hours away in a classy bar, dancing in a club or enjoying a huge music concert, the city has it all.
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Are there public services for students?
Living in the USA, you’ll have access to resources at government, state and university level to help you understand the country’s higher education system.
The US government provides free information to assist international students. Access student resources via the US Department of State website. Or explore financial aid options across Massachusetts with Education USA’s helpful tool.
Your university’s international office will be able to assist you with any queries or concerns you have, from visa issues to settling into life in Denver.
Get more information on how to apply for a student visa in the USA.
How much does it cost to live in Denver?
The general cost of Denver
Historically, Denver has not been an expensive place to live. However, as the city has become more cosmopolitan, the cost of living in Denver has increased, so you’ll definitely need to include this into your student budget.
Student budget
International students living in the USA have to pay a number of upfront costs, such as tuition fees and health insurance. But once those are settled, CU Boulder suggests an annual budget of USD 20,000 – USD 21,000 to live in Denver.
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What is accommodation like in Denver?
Studying in the USA, most people choose to live on-campus and in fact some universities insist upon it. You’ll find that costs vary widely between institutions, with more prestigious institutions often charging more. But the benefit of campus living is that your bills and sometimes even your food will usually be included in your rent.
For an approximation of accommodation costs in Denver, CU Boulder suggests that room and board typically costs USD 15,000 – USD 16,000 a year.
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What are the main attractions in Denver?
If you’re wondering what sort of activities there are for students to do in Denver, you’ve come to the right place. The city is packed with exciting attractions just waiting to be discovered.
If you’re an outdoorsy person, Denver may just be your ideal study destination. Only a short trip from the spectacular Rocky Mountains, living here you can fill your free time with outdoor adventures. Try your hand at hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, white water rafting, kayaking, skiing and more, all the while surrounded by stunning scenery.
If you prefer spectator sport, the Denver area is home to major league teams in NFL, baseball, basketball, ice hockey and soccer.
There are plenty of attractions in the city itself too. We’ve already touched upon its incredible arts scene, but Denver has far more than just museums and galleries. Book in to see a performance by the acclaimed Colorado ballet, immerse yourself in an opera or catch a show at one of the city’s impressive theatres.
Whether you want to explore the city’s chic Larimer Square for its boutique stores or spend a whole day in Cherry Creek Shopping District with everything you could ever need for a day of retail therapy, Denver will fill all your shopping urges. Or for a different way to pass time, get together with friends and head to one of the city’s famous amusement parks.
However you like to pass time when you’re not in class, Denver has adventures around every corner, making it a one-of-a kind study destination.
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