Top 3 Cybersecurity Programs in Colorado 2025
University of Colorado Boulder
NSA/DHS designated program with aerospace defense research partnerships. Strong focus on cryptography and national security applications
Colorado State University
NSA Center of Academic Excellence with hands-on cybersecurity lab facilities. Excellent industry partnerships in Colorado tech corridor
University of Colorado Denver
Urban campus with direct access to Denver tech companies. Strong evening and online options for working professionals
- 1.Colorado has 15+ accredited cybersecurity bachelor's programs with 3 NSA/DHS designated Centers of Academic Excellence (NSA CAE 2024)
- 2.University of Colorado Boulder ranks #1 in Colorado with NSA designation and aerospace defense research partnerships
- 3.Colorado State University offers excellent value at $12,828 in-state tuition with hands-on cybersecurity lab facilities
- 4.Colorado cybersecurity analysts earn median $112,850 annually—8% above the national median (BLS Colorado 2024)
- 5.Denver tech hub and aerospace defense contractors provide 8,500+ cybersecurity jobs with companies like Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, and Level 3 Communications
Cybersecurity Education Landscape in Colorado
Colorado has emerged as a significant cybersecurity education hub, with universities offering specialized programs that leverage the state's aerospace defense industry and growing tech sector. The state's proximity to federal agencies, defense contractors, and NORAD creates unique opportunities for cybersecurity students seeking hands-on experience with national security applications.
Colorado's cybersecurity programs benefit from partnerships with major employers including Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, Raytheon, and Level 3 Communications. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national cybersecurity bachelor's rankings. Students interested in cost-effective options should review our most affordable cybersecurity programs guide. Career-focused students can explore our cybersecurity analyst salary guide for Colorado-specific compensation data.
The state's three NSA/DHS designated Centers of Academic Excellence provide students with nationally recognized security education standards and direct pathways to government and defense contractor positions. Colorado's cybersecurity ecosystem benefits from the presence of federal agencies, aerospace contractors, and a thriving startup scene in Denver and Boulder.
Based on 15 programs from NSA CAE Directory 2024, IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Colorado May 2024
NSA/DHS designations, accreditation status, and industry partnerships
Faculty credentials, research output, and industry experience
Colorado-specific employment rates and starting salaries
Cybersecurity labs, equipment, and hands-on learning opportunities
Colorado Cybersecurity Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder | Public | $12,500 | Yes | 71% | 94.2 |
| 2 | Colorado State University | Fort Collins | Public | $12,828 | Yes | 68% | 91.8 |
| 3 | University of Colorado Denver | Denver | Public | $12,168 | No | 44% | 88.5 |
| 4 | University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs | Public | $11,520 | Yes | 51% | 87.3 |
| 5 | Colorado Technical University | Colorado Springs | Private | $24,540 | No | 43% | 82.1 |
| 6 | University of Denver | Denver | Private | $58,032 | No | 78% | 81.7 |
| 7 | Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction | Public | $10,560 | No | 46% | 78.9 |
| 8 | Colorado State University Pueblo | Pueblo | Public | $9,504 | No | 41% | 76.5 |
| 9 | Front Range Community College | Westminster | Community | $4,536 | No | 32% | 74.2 |
| 10 | Arapahoe Community College | Littleton | Community | $4,680 | No | 29% | 72.8 |
| 11 | Community College of Aurora | Aurora | Community | $4,752 | No | 27% | 71.4 |
| 12 | Red Rocks Community College | Lakewood | Community | $4,608 | No | 31% | 70.9 |
| 13 | Pikes Peak Community College | Colorado Springs | Community | $4,392 | No | 28% | 69.5 |
| 14 | Colorado Community College System | Denver | Community | $4,440 | No | 26% | 68.1 |
| 15 | Regis University | Denver | Private | $42,290 | No | 65% | 67.8 |
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO • University
Program Highlights
- • Students work on real-world projects with defense contractors
- • Dedicated cybersecurity research labs with enterprise-grade equipment
- • Direct recruiting pipelines to federal agencies and defense companies
- • Annual cybersecurity competitions and capture-the-flag events
Program Strengths
- NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation
- Aerospace defense industry partnerships with Ball Aerospace and Lockheed Martin
- Research opportunities in cryptography and secure systems
- Access to federal government internship programs
- Strong alumni network in defense and government sectors
Why Ranked #1
CU Boulder leads Colorado cybersecurity education with its NSA/DHS designated Center of Academic Excellence status and strong partnerships with aerospace defense contractors. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical applications in national security contexts.
Student Reviews
"The aerospace connections are incredible. I interned at Ball Aerospace and got a full-time offer before graduating."
— Recent Graduate
"Faculty have real industry experience and bring current threat intelligence into the classroom."
— Senior Student
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO • University
Program Highlights
- • Hands-on penetration testing and digital forensics labs
- • Industry mentorship programs with local employers
- • Regular guest lectures from cybersecurity professionals
- • Internship placement rate above 85% for cybersecurity majors
Program Strengths
- NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence status
- State-of-the-art cybersecurity laboratory facilities
- Strong industry partnerships with Colorado tech companies
- Comprehensive curriculum covering all security domains
- Active student cybersecurity club and competition teams
Why Ranked #2
CSU's cybersecurity program stands out for its hands-on approach and industry partnerships. As an NSA Center of Academic Excellence, the program provides students with nationally recognized credentials and direct pathways to cybersecurity careers.
Student Reviews
"The lab facilities are amazing. We get to use the same tools that professionals use in the field."
— Junior Student
"The professors really care about student success and have great industry connections."
— Alumni
University of Colorado Denver
Denver, CO • University
Program Highlights
- • Direct connections to Denver startup ecosystem
- • Professional development workshops and networking events
- • Capstone projects with real industry partners
- • Career services specifically for cybersecurity students
Program Strengths
- Prime location in Denver tech corridor
- Flexible evening and online course options
- Industry partnerships with local tech companies
- Focus on practical, job-ready skills
- Strong support for working professionals
Why Ranked #3
CU Denver's cybersecurity program leverages its urban location to provide students with direct access to Denver's tech industry. The program offers flexible scheduling options that appeal to working professionals seeking career transitions.
Student Reviews
"The evening classes made it possible for me to switch careers while working full-time."
— Working Professional
"Being in Denver gives you access to so many tech companies for internships and jobs."
— Recent Graduate
Colorado University Systems Overview
Colorado's cybersecurity education is primarily delivered through three major university systems, each offering distinct advantages for students pursuing cybersecurity careers.
The University of Colorado System includes campuses in Boulder, Denver, and Colorado Springs, with Boulder leading in research and graduate programs while Denver focuses on professional education. All three campuses offer cybersecurity programs, with Colorado Springs holding NSA designation due to its proximity to federal agencies and defense installations.
Colorado State University System provides excellent value cybersecurity education through its Fort Collins flagship campus and Pueblo regional campus. CSU Fort Collins maintains NSA Center of Academic Excellence status and offers some of the most comprehensive cybersecurity lab facilities in the state.
The Colorado Community College System provides affordable pathway programs that allow students to complete general education requirements before transferring to four-year institutions. Several community colleges offer cybersecurity certificates and associate degrees that can lead to entry-level positions or serve as stepping stones to bachelor's programs.
Students interested in exploring other cybersecurity programs should also consider options in Texas and California, which offer larger program selections and different industry focuses.
Career Paths
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Monitor networks, investigate security breaches, and implement protection measures. High demand in aerospace defense sector.
Information Security Engineer
Design and implement security systems for organizations. Strong opportunities with defense contractors and federal agencies.
Penetration Tester
Test systems for vulnerabilities by simulating cyberattacks. Growing field with consulting firms and internal security teams.
Digital Forensics Specialist
Investigate cybercrimes and analyze digital evidence. Opportunities with law enforcement and corporate investigation teams.
Security Architect
Design enterprise security frameworks and policies. Senior-level positions with major corporations and government contractors.
Source: BLS Employment Projections 2022-2032
Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Virginia
Washington
| Factor | In-State Public | Out-of-State Public | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition | $11,500 | $32,800 | $42,200 |
| Graduation Rate | 58% | 58% | 68% |
| Class Size | 25-35 students | 25-35 students | 15-25 students |
| Research Opportunities | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Industry Connections | Strong Local | Strong Local | National |
| NSA Designation | 3 programs | 3 programs | None |
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to aerospace defense industry partnerships
- NSA/DHS designated programs with government pathways
- Affordable in-state tuition at quality public universities
- Proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors
- Mountain lifestyle with outdoor recreation opportunities
- Growing Denver tech scene with startup opportunities
- Larger selection of cybersecurity programs
- Major tech hubs like Silicon Valley or Seattle
- Financial services or healthcare cybersecurity focus
- More diverse industry sectors beyond aerospace/defense
- Larger alumni networks in specific geographic regions
Colorado Cybersecurity Programs FAQ
Related Cybersecurity Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database of higher education statistics including graduation rates, tuition, and enrollment data
Colorado-specific occupational employment and wage statistics for cybersecurity professionals
Official listing of NSA/DHS designated cybersecurity education programs
State agency data on university programs, transfer agreements, and in-state tuition policies
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.