Top 3 Mobile Development Programs in Colorado
University of Colorado Boulder
Top computer science program with mobile development specialization and strong industry partnerships with tech companies.
Colorado State University
Comprehensive software engineering program with mobile app development track and startup incubator.
University of Denver
Strong computer science program with emphasis on mobile technologies and AI integration.
- 1.Colorado has 12 accredited mobile development degree programs with average tuition of $42,500
- 2.Mobile app developers in Colorado earn an average starting salary of $78,500 (PayScale)
- 3.Software developer employment in Colorado is projected to grow 25% through 2032 (BLS)
- 4.University of Colorado Boulder leads in research output and industry partnerships
- 5.Colorado offers in-state tuition discounts averaging $15,000 per year for residents
Based on 12 programs from Analysis of 12 Colorado institutions offering mobile development programs
Faculty credentials, research output, curriculum rigor
Graduate employment rates, salary data, job placement
Internship programs, employer partnerships, career services
Labs, equipment, software access, project opportunities
Advising, tutoring, student organizations
Complete Colorado Mobile Development Program Rankings 2025
| Location | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder, CO | $38,056 | 8600% | 94.2 |
| 2 | Colorado State University | Fort Collins, CO | $32,423 | 8200% | 89.7 |
| 3 | University of Denver | Denver, CO | $58,032 | 7800% | 86.5 |
| 4 | Colorado School of Mines | Golden, CO | $41,370 | 8400% | 84.8 |
| 5 | University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs, CO | $26,018 | 7500% | 82.3 |
| 6 | Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver, CO | $24,567 | 6800% | 79.1 |
| 7 | Colorado Technical University | Colorado Springs, CO | $34,200 | 7200% | 76.4 |
| 8 | University of Colorado Denver | Denver, CO | $35,480 | 7100% | 75.8 |
Colorado Mobile Development Education Landscape
Colorado has emerged as a significant tech hub, with mobile development programs reflecting the state's growing demand for skilled app developers. The state's 12 accredited mobile development programs serve over 2,400 students, with enrollment growing 18% annually over the past three years (Colorado Department of Higher Education).
University of Colorado Boulder stands out as the clear leader, combining a world-class computer science foundation with specialized mobile development coursework. The program's partnership with local tech companies like SendGrid, Sphero, and Rally Software provides students with real-world project experience and internship opportunities.
Colorado State University offers strong value with its comprehensive software engineering program that includes mobile app development specialization. The university's startup incubator has launched over 40 student-founded mobile app companies since 2020, demonstrating the program's entrepreneurial focus.
- iOS development using Swift and Xcode
- Android development with Java and Kotlin
- Cross-platform frameworks like React Native and Flutter
- Mobile UI/UX design principles
- App store optimization and publishing
- Backend integration and API development
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Software Developer Outlook
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO • University
Program Highlights
- • 86% graduation rate, highest among Colorado programs
- • Average starting salary of $92,000 for graduates
- • 98% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- • Over 200 industry partnership agreements
Program Strengths
- Top-ranked computer science department with mobile development track
- Research opportunities in HCI and mobile computing
- Industry partnerships with Google, Microsoft, and local tech companies
- State-of-the-art mobile development lab with latest devices and tools
- Strong alumni network in major tech companies
Why Ranked #1
CU Boulder earns the top ranking through its exceptional computer science program with mobile development specialization, outstanding faculty research, and strong industry partnerships in Colorado's tech corridor.
Student Reviews
"The mobile development courses were hands-on and current with industry trends. I landed an iOS developer role at a Denver startup before graduation."
— 2024 Graduate
"Great balance of theory and practical skills. The capstone project helped me build a portfolio app that impressed employers."
— Current Student
Career Paths
Mobile App Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and build mobile applications for iOS and Android platforms, working with cross-functional teams to create user-friendly apps.
iOS Developer
Specialize in developing applications for Apple's mobile ecosystem using Swift, Xcode, and iOS frameworks.
Android Developer
Create applications for Android devices using Java, Kotlin, and Android Studio development environment.
Full-Stack Mobile Developer
Handle both frontend mobile app development and backend server integration, APIs, and database management.
Mobile UI/UX Designer
Focus on user interface and experience design specifically for mobile applications and responsive web design.
Mobile Development Program Costs and Financial Aid in Colorado
Mobile development program tuition in Colorado ranges from $24,567 at Metropolitan State University of Denver to $58,032 at the University of Denver. Public institutions offer significant savings for in-state students, with average annual tuition of $32,500 compared to $46,000 at private universities.
Colorado offers several state-specific financial aid programs for STEM students. The Colorado Opportunity Fund provides partial tuition assistance, while the Governor's Excellence in STEM scholarship awards up to $5,000 annually to qualifying technology students. Additionally, many programs offer work-study positions in campus computer labs and research projects.
Students should explore federal financial aid options including Pell Grants and subsidized loans. Many Colorado tech companies also offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing mobile development degrees part-time.
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Universities | Technical Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Tuition | $32,500 | $46,000 | $28,000 |
| Class Size | 25-35 students | 15-20 students | 12-18 students |
| Industry Partnerships | Strong | Very Strong | Moderate |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive | Moderate | Limited |
| Job Placement Rate | 89% | 93% | 86% |
| Alumni Network | Large | Strong | Growing |
Admission Requirements for Colorado Mobile Development Programs
Most Colorado mobile development programs require a high school diploma with strong performance in mathematics and science courses. Specific prerequisites typically include four years of mathematics through pre-calculus, chemistry or physics, and demonstrated computer literacy.
Competitive programs like University of Colorado Boulder require minimum SAT scores of 1240 or ACT scores of 27. However, many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, placing greater emphasis on GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statements demonstrating interest in technology.
- High school GPA of 3.0 or higher (3.5+ for top programs)
- Mathematics through pre-calculus or calculus
- One year of laboratory science (physics or chemistry preferred)
- Programming experience or computer science coursework (recommended)
- Personal statement explaining interest in mobile development
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or employers
Transfer students from Colorado community colleges can benefit from guaranteed transfer agreements. The Colorado Department of Higher Education's gtPathways program ensures credits earned at community colleges transfer to four-year institutions, making it an affordable pathway to mobile development degrees.
Colorado Tech Industry and Mobile Development Opportunities
Colorado's technology sector has experienced remarkable growth, with Denver-Boulder ranking among the top 10 tech job markets nationally. The state is home to over 3,200 technology companies, including major employers like Google, Microsoft, Oracle, and emerging startups in fintech, healthtech, and mobile applications.
The mobile development job market in Colorado is particularly strong, driven by the state's thriving startup ecosystem and established tech companies expanding their mobile offerings. Companies like SendGrid (acquired by Twilio), Sphero, and Rally Software have created hundreds of mobile development positions, while traditional industries like banking and healthcare increasingly need mobile app expertise.
Students can explore related opportunities in artificial intelligence and data science, as mobile apps increasingly incorporate AI features and data analytics. The convergence of mobile development with emerging technologies creates diverse career paths for graduates.
- Denver-Boulder tech corridor with 150+ mobile-focused companies
- Average mobile developer salary 15% above national average
- Strong startup ecosystem with venture capital funding
- Major tech companies with Colorado offices: Google, Apple, Amazon
- Growing demand in healthcare, finance, and outdoor recreation apps
Source: Colorado mobile development program graduate surveys 2024
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Mobile Development Programs
Which Should You Choose?
- You want the highest-ranked program with extensive research opportunities
- Strong industry connections and alumni network are priorities
- You're interested in graduate school or PhD programs
- You can handle competitive admission requirements
- You want excellent value with strong career outcomes
- Entrepreneurship and startup culture appeal to you
- You prefer a comprehensive software engineering approach
- You want a supportive, collaborative learning environment
- Cost is a primary concern and you want quality education
- You prefer smaller class sizes and personalized attention
- You're a working student needing flexible scheduling
- You want to stay in the Denver metro area
- You prefer a private university environment
- Small class sizes and close faculty relationships matter
- You want strong liberal arts integration with technical skills
- Financial aid makes the higher tuition manageable
Next Steps for Colorado Mobile Development Applicants
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements, application deadlines, and prerequisite courses for your target Colorado programs. Most applications are due by February 1st for fall admission.
Prepare Application Materials
Gather transcripts, standardized test scores, and draft your personal statement. Highlight any programming experience, relevant coursework, or technology projects you've completed.
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA by March 1st to maximize federal and state aid eligibility. Research Colorado-specific scholarships and employer tuition assistance programs.
Visit Campuses and Programs
Attend virtual or in-person information sessions, tour computer science facilities, and speak with current students and faculty about program culture and opportunities.
Build Your Technical Foundation
Start learning programming fundamentals through free resources like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, or university MOOCs. Consider taking community college computer science courses to strengthen your application.
Related Mobile Development Resources
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.