Top 3 UX Design Programs in Colorado
University of Colorado Boulder
Top-ranked program with industry partnerships including Google, Adobe, and IBM
Colorado State University
Strong emphasis on human-centered design and accessibility
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design
Specialized UX/UI track with portfolio-focused curriculum
- 1.Colorado offers 12 accredited UX design programs across public and private institutions
- 2.Average starting salaries for UX designers in Colorado range from $58,000-$78,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- 3.Job growth for UX designers is projected at 13% through 2032, faster than average (BLS)
- 4.Top programs feature partnerships with tech companies in Denver's growing tech scene
- 5.Colorado's lower cost of living makes it attractive for entry-level UX professionals
Based on 12 programs from Analysis of NCES data, career outcomes surveys, and program reviews
Employment rates, starting salaries, and job placement data
Industry-relevant coursework, portfolio requirements, and hands-on projects
Industry experience of faculty and access to design tools/labs
Internship opportunities, employer partnerships, and guest lectures
Graduate surveys and program reviews
UX Design Education Landscape in Colorado
Colorado has emerged as a significant player in the UX design education space, with 12 institutions offering specialized programs ranging from traditional graphic design with UX emphasis to dedicated Human-Computer Interaction degrees. The state's growing tech sector, anchored by companies in Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins, has created strong demand for UX professionals.
The University of Colorado Boulder leads the state with its comprehensive program that combines technical skills with design thinking methodologies. Students benefit from the university's research partnerships and proximity to Boulder's startup ecosystem. Similarly, Colorado State University offers a robust program with particular strength in accessibility and inclusive design practices.
Colorado's UX design programs typically emphasize hands-on learning through real client projects, internship requirements, and portfolio development. Many programs have established partnerships with local tech companies, providing students direct pathways into the workforce upon graduation.
Complete Rankings: Colorado UX Design Programs 2025
| 1 | University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder | $38,960 | 8900% | 94 |
| 2 | Colorado State University | Fort Collins | $32,023 | 8500% | 89 |
| 3 | Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design | Lakewood | $42,800 | 7800% | 85 |
| 4 | University of Colorado Denver | Denver | $35,079 | 8200% | 83 |
| 5 | Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction | $25,632 | 7600% | 79 |
| 6 | Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver | $28,420 | 7100% | 76 |
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Colleges | Community Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition | $32,000 | $43,000 | $18,500 |
| Class Size | 25-35 students | 15-20 students | 20-25 students |
| Industry Connections | Strong research partnerships | Focused industry ties | Local business partnerships |
| Portfolio Support | Comprehensive programs | Intensive mentoring | Basic guidance |
| Job Placement Rate | 85% | 82% | 76% |
Colorado UX Design Job Market Analysis
Colorado's UX design job market has experienced significant growth, with the Denver-Boulder metropolitan area becoming a major tech hub. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Denver metro area employs approximately 1,240 web developers and digital interface designers, with median annual wages of $72,830.
Major employers in Colorado's UX design space include established companies like IBM, Oracle, and Lockheed Martin, alongside growing startups and mid-size tech companies. The state's business-friendly environment has attracted companies relocating from California, creating additional opportunities for UX professionals. Many graduates find positions with companies like SendGrid, Palantir, and various fintech startups in the remote tech job market.
Entry-level UX designers in Colorado typically start at salaries ranging from $58,000 to $68,000, with experienced professionals earning $85,000 to $120,000 annually. The relatively lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs makes these salaries particularly attractive for new graduates entering the software engineering career ladder.
Source: Colorado Department of Labor and Employment
What You'll Learn in Colorado UX Design Programs
Colorado UX design programs emphasize a comprehensive curriculum that bridges design theory with practical application. Core coursework typically includes user research methodologies, information architecture, interaction design, and usability testing. Students learn industry-standard tools including Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and prototyping platforms.
- User Research and Testing: Qualitative and quantitative research methods, user interviews, and A/B testing
- Design Systems: Creating and maintaining scalable design systems for digital products
- Accessibility Design: WCAG compliance and inclusive design practices
- Psychology and Human Factors: Understanding cognitive load and user behavior patterns
- Business Strategy: Aligning UX decisions with business goals and ROI metrics
Many programs require capstone projects where students work with real clients or participate in design challenges. These projects often involve collaboration with computer science and software engineering students, providing valuable interdisciplinary experience that mirrors professional environments.
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO • University
Program Highlights
- • 89% graduation rate, highest in the state
- • Average starting salary of $71,000 for graduates
- • 95% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
Program Strengths
- Research opportunities with the ATLAS Institute
- Partnerships with major tech companies including Google and Adobe
- Access to state-of-the-art fabrication and design labs
- Strong alumni network in tech industry
- Emphasis on both technical skills and design thinking
Why Ranked #1
CU Boulder's Technology, Arts and Media (TAM) program leads the state with its interdisciplinary approach combining design, technology, and critical thinking. The program benefits from Boulder's tech ecosystem and strong industry partnerships.
Student Reviews
"The TAM program at CU Boulder gave me the perfect blend of technical skills and creative thinking. The faculty connections helped me land an internship at a major tech company."
— Sarah M., Class of 2024
Career Paths
UX Designer
SOC 15-1255Create user-centered designs for digital products and services, conducting research and testing to improve user experience.
UI Designer
SOC 27-1024Focus on the visual and interactive elements of digital interfaces, working closely with UX designers and developers.
Product Designer
SOC 15-1255Take a holistic approach to product development, combining UX/UI skills with business strategy and user research.
UX Researcher
SOC 19-3051Conduct user research, usability testing, and data analysis to inform design decisions and product strategy.
UX Design Programs by Colorado Region
Front Range (Denver-Boulder)
Northern Colorado
Western Colorado
Admission Requirements and Application Tips
Admission requirements for Colorado UX design programs vary by institution and degree level. Most bachelor's programs require a high school diploma with a minimum 3.0 GPA, SAT scores of 1200+ or ACT scores of 25+, and a portfolio demonstrating creative potential. Some programs allow students to submit portfolios from other creative disciplines if they lack specific UX work.
Graduate programs typically require a bachelor's degree in any field, though preference may be given to applicants with backgrounds in design, psychology, or computer science. Professional experience in design, research, or related fields can strengthen applications significantly.
- Portfolio: 10-15 pieces showing design process, problem-solving, and creativity
- Personal statement: Explain your interest in UX design and career goals
- Letters of recommendation: From teachers, employers, or professionals in design field
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous institutions
- Application deadlines: Most programs have February 1 priority deadlines
Which Should You Choose?
- You want the highest-ranked program in the state
- Research opportunities are important to you
- You prefer a comprehensive university environment
- Industry connections are a priority
- You're interested in accessibility and inclusive design
- You want strong academic support services
- Cost is a significant factor
- You prefer a collaborative learning environment
- You want intensive, specialized training
- Small class sizes appeal to you
- Portfolio development is your main focus
- You thrive in creative, artistic environments
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Related Programs and Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal data on college costs, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings
Employment statistics, salary data, and job growth projections for design occupations
Comprehensive data on higher education institutions and programs
State-specific data on Colorado higher education institutions and outcomes
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.