University of Colorado Boulder – Leeds School of Business
Overview
The Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado Boulder is one of the top MBA programs in the state, particularly known for its emphasis on leadership, sustainability, and innovation. Located in Boulder, a hub for tech startups and entrepreneurial ventures, the MBA program is well-positioned to provide students with experiential learning opportunities. The program offers various concentrations such as entrepreneurship, finance, and real estate, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals. Leeds focuses on experiential learning through consulting projects, internships, and capstone courses where students solve real-world business problems.
Leeds also emphasizes responsible business practices, reflecting the growing trend towards corporate social responsibility. Students benefit from strong connections with local industries, particularly in tech, aerospace, and renewable energy, offering them access to a robust job market upon graduation.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked 83rd nationally
- Number of Students: 210 full-time MBA students
- Acceptance Rate: 57.2%
- Average GMAT Score: 628
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Ball Aerospace
- Deloitte
- Xcel Energy
- Average Starting Salary: $93,401
- Employment Rate at Graduation: 34.2%
Notable Alumni
- Brad Feld: Co-founder of Techstars, a prominent startup accelerator.
- Gregory Maffei: CEO of Liberty Media Corporation.
- Joe Ellis: President and CEO of the Denver Broncos.
University of Denver – Daniels College of Business
Overview
The University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business is one of the oldest and most respected MBA programs in Colorado. It offers a curriculum centered around leadership, ethics, and innovation, making it an excellent choice for students looking to transition into senior management or leadership roles. The Daniels MBA program is unique in its integration of social responsibility, preparing graduates to navigate the complexities of modern business environments. The school offers small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and a range of networking opportunities through its extensive alumni network.
Located in Denver, one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., Daniels College of Business provides students with ample opportunities for internships and networking in industries like finance, healthcare, and real estate. Students can choose from various concentrations, including finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Top 70 MBA programs in the U.S.
- Number of Students: 173 full-time MBA students
- Acceptance Rate: 63.1%
- Average GMAT Score: 606
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Arrow Electronics
- DaVita
- Charles Schwab
- VF Corporation
- Average Starting Salary: $98,276
- Employment Rate at Graduation: 44.9%
Notable Alumni
- Condoleezza Rice: Former U.S. Secretary of State and national security advisor.
- Dan Caruso: Founder and CEO of Zayo Group, a global provider of bandwidth and network services.
- Jim Lentz: Former CEO of Toyota Motor North America.
Colorado State University – College of Business
Overview
The College of Business at Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins offers a highly regarded MBA program with a particular focus on sustainability and ethical business practices. CSU’s MBA is known for its flexibility, offering full-time, part-time, and online options to suit the needs of working professionals. The program is also distinguished by its hands-on approach, providing students with numerous opportunities for experiential learning, including internships, case competitions, and consulting projects with local businesses.
The curriculum at CSU is rooted in sustainability and social responsibility, reflecting the university’s broader commitment to these areas. Students can choose from a range of concentrations, such as finance, marketing, and business analytics. CSU graduates benefit from a strong alumni network and strong connections with employers in industries like healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked in the top 100 U.S. MBA programs
- Number of Students: 250 full-time and part-time MBA students
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Average GMAT Score: 590
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Hewlett Packard Enterprise
- Otter Products
- Intel
- Deloitte
- Average Starting Salary: $94,300
- Employment Rate at Graduation: 55%
Notable Alumni
- Bill Ritter: Former Governor of Colorado and Director of the Center for the New Energy Economy.
- Michael G. Smith: CEO of Freeport LNG, one of the largest natural gas companies in the U.S.
- Chad McWhinney: CEO of McWhinney Real Estate, a major real estate development firm.
University of Colorado Denver – Business School
Overview
The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) offers a flexible MBA program that caters to working professionals and full-time students alike. Situated in downtown Denver, CU Denver’s MBA program is known for its strong connections to local businesses, offering unparalleled networking and internship opportunities. The program emphasizes real-world learning, ensuring that students are prepared to face the challenges of modern business environments. CU Denver offers a variety of specializations, including business analytics, healthcare administration, and information systems.
CU Denver’s MBA program is also distinguished by its commitment to global business education. The curriculum includes international business modules and study abroad options, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked within the top 120 MBA programs nationally
- Number of Students: 300+ full-time and part-time MBA students
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Average GMAT Score: 590
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Centura Health
- Lockheed Martin
- Comcast
- VF Corporation
- Average Starting Salary: $108,246
- Employment Rate at Graduation: 60%
Notable Alumni
- Chris Riccobono: Co-founder of UNTUCKit, a popular clothing brand.
- Marla Williams: CEO of Community First Foundation, a nonprofit organization.
- Hassan Salem: President of U.S. Bank’s Private Client Group.
University of Colorado Colorado Springs – College of Business and Administration
Overview
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) offers an MBA program that is highly affordable and flexible, making it a popular choice among working professionals. The program provides both on-campus and online options, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their needs. UCCS is known for its strong emphasis on leadership and innovation, and its MBA curriculum reflects this focus. Students can choose from various concentrations, including healthcare management, finance, and international business.
UCCS MBA graduates benefit from a robust job market in Colorado Springs, which is home to numerous industries, including aerospace, healthcare, and cybersecurity. The program’s close ties with these industries provide students with ample internship and employment opportunities.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked among top regional MBA programs
- Number of Students: 200+ full-time and part-time students
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Average GMAT Score: 560
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Lockheed Martin
- Oracle
- Progressive Insurance
- UCHealth
- Average Starting Salary: $71,000
- Employment Rate at Graduation: 50%
Notable Alumni
- Mike Kazmierski: CEO of the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada.
- Yemi Mobolade: Co-founder of Wild Goose Meeting House.
- Heath Snyder: CIO of Penrose-St. Francis Health Services.