Request Information
Ready to find out what MSU Denver can do for you? We’ve got you covered.
Have Questions? We have answers.
Contact UsMarch 2025
For years, we’ve seen stories in the media about Americans questioning the value of a college degree. But in spite of a global pandemic, national enrollment challenges and surging inflation, Metropolitan State University of Denver has emerged stronger than ever as a major economic driver in Colorado, contributing nearly $1 billion annually to the state’s economy.
MSU Denver is not only important to the students we serve, but to Colorado’s economy. The University’s economic footprint has grown from $700 million in 2019 to more than $950 million in 2023, according to the University-commissioned economic-impact report. The findings indicate an impressive return on investment for the State of Colorado. For every dollar it receives in state funding, MSU Denver generates an $11.52 impact.
Not only does MSU Denver support thousands of jobs across the state, the University provides highly skilled workers for the critical, in-demand industries that need them most, such as health care, aerospace, business and education. The vast majority of MSU Denver graduates remain in Colorado after earning degrees, the report states. More than 83,000 alumni support more than 4% of the state’s workforce, and the University’s economic impact extends to all 35 state Senate districts, the report found.
And it doesn’t end there – the University supports and sustains more than 7,200 jobs across the state, reinforcing the value of a college degree and higher education’s critical role in fueling the state’s economy.
Our role as an economic catalyst for Coloradans is only getting more important. Ninety-five percent of the top-paying jobs in the state in 2024 required postsecondary education or training, according to the State’s 2024 Talent Pipeline Report. Schools such as Metropolitan State University of Denver are preparing students for in demand careers without the high cost or burden of excessive loan debt. The average full-time resident undergraduate at MSU Denver pays less than $2,600 out of pocket per year. And more than 4,000 students have tuition fully covered by an array of support from federal and state programs, and private donors.
MSU Denver’s impact is undeniable—fueling workforce development, driving economic growth, and ensuring that higher education remains an accessible and powerful pathway to opportunity. As we look ahead, we remain committed to delivering an excellent, affordable education that strengthens Colorado’s economy and transforms lives.
Sincerely,
Janine Davidson, Ph.D.
President, MSU Denver
MSU Denver in the News
MSU Denver Aerobatics Team wins fifth national title in 8-year period (Fox31)
Thousands of cars circle the campus every day, but if passers-by look to the skies, they may have the chance to see a national-champion aerobatics team flying overhead. A story in RED contributed to the coverage.
Kamber Labs designs binding-free boards for backyard fun (9News)
Quinn Aiello and Chris Hagenau co-founded their business Kamber Labs together, all while continuing their Industrial Design studies. A RED story contributed to the coverage.
MSU Denver’s new Affordable Housing Institute professionalizes an industry to beef up workforce (The Denver Post)
The institute melds real estate coursework with social work classes for a well-rounded affordable housing education. A story in RED contributed to the coverage.
Stories from MSU Denver
Partnerships rewire career paths for apprentices
No-cost classes at MSU Denver can spark all kinds of possibilities.
Expanded Pell eligibility opens doors for students who were previously left out
New rules and a streamlined FAFSA process are making college more affordable, advancing MSU Denver’s mission of equity and access.
As MBA applications rise nationwide, MSU Denver’s program draws a record number of students
The University has taken steps to make the graduate degree more accessible, and students are taking notice.
Upcoming MSU Denver Events
April 23
MSU Denver keynote | Auraria Campus
Rachel B. Noel Distinguished Visiting Professorship
Community keynote and awards | Shorter Community AME Church
Join us to hear from Van Jones – CNN host, political commentator, Emmy Award-winning producer and author of three New York Times bestselling books. Click here for more information.
May 16 | 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Denver Coliseum
Spring 2025 Commencement
Join us in celebrating our spring 2025 graduates! The morning ceremony will last about two hours and 30 minutes, and the afternoon ceremony will last about two hours.