University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO, USA

Reviews

University of Colorado Boulder

John from Arvada, CO

a current student here
39 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There are classes ranging from several hundred students to just a handful. It is easy to contact teachers and have them help you in the courtesy of their own office. There are also help rooms for several of the math and science classes where you can get help from your peers and staff. Most of the classes are appropriately challenging and have good professors.
Am enjoying being here
There is so much to do in Boulder. The campus is located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains so there is plenty to do outdoors. It is also close to plenty of restaurants and hang out locations such as the Pearl St. Mall. There is always something going on.
Bang for the buck
It is definitely worth the amount you pay. The only downside is that tuition has risen the past couple of years.
Tips for prospective students
Come and visit the campus and city to see if it seems like someplace you would like to be. Also, sit in on a class for your prospective major to see if you like the atmosphere.
Great for these types of students
People who like the outdoors, people looking to be challenged, and anyone looking to learn while having a great time.

Christian from Waipahu, HI

a current student here
24 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
CU Boulder has a variety of classes with levels you can choose from that suite you. No doubt, some classes are a little more challenging than others, but it's great feeling after you've accomplished a semester. The professors know what they are talking about, and they have a passion for their field of study. If you have any questions, most professors are easy to get a hold of over email or during office hours.
Am enjoying being here
CU Boulder is a great school. There are different schools in the university that you can apply to, and each school has a number of majors to choose from. The advisors are very helpful, and there are also many other resources available for students for any type of needs you may have. Most of the professors are easy to talk to and easy to get in contact with, so there is always a way you can get help. There are also some free tutoring services on campus, and tutoring is free if you live in the residence halls. The campus is beautiful. It's a bit large, but it's not that difficult to get used to, and it's fun to explore. Students also have free access to school rec centers. Boulder has a great environment with wonderful people, so it's not hard to make friends.
Bang for the buck
CU Boulder is pretty expensive, but it's worth it. So much of the tuition money you pay goes toward making the school a better place and helping students.
Tips for prospective students
For your first couple of days, you should carry a campus map around with you. Some of the planners they sell in the book stores come with maps in the back, so that's not a problem. Also, at the end of each semester, make sure that you sell your books back to Shipping On the Hill, because they give you more money than the school book store does. Also make sure that you manage time wisely. It can be easy to get into the habit of partying every weekend, but make sure you study, because when finals come along, so do the consequences.
Great for these types of students
CU Boulder is definitely great for students who are interested in the environment because Boulder is such an environmentally friendly town. There also a lot of things for people who like the outdoors to do (for example, hiking, skating, mountain climbing, biking, jogging, etc). There is actually a place for everyone because there are different schools and so many different student-fun clubs. You should visit the school if you haven't already, and you'll see that there are all different types of people that attend.

Hannah from Denver, CO

a current student here
18 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
This school has a lot to offer. Not only do you have the opportunity to explore and learn with a very diverse body of students from all over the world, but you also have the ability to specialize and tailor your education in the many different colleges that the University is home to. Such as the College of Architecture and Planning, the College of Arts and Sciences, Leeds School of Business, the School of Education, College of Engineering And Applied Science, the School of Law, and their Graduate School. Therefore offering many different courses on topics ranging from Nordic influences in The Lord of the Rings to organic chemistry. And don't be intimidated, they offer every form of study help you can think of in very convenient ways.
Am enjoying being here
This campus truly is beautiful. Especially during the fall. It is pretty big yet very accessible, and is surrounded by a very cultured town. Boulder gives you the essence of a small town ( an up-scale small town) that is less than an hour away from a fairly large city that is on the rise. They have really great outdoor activities, a couple cute street malls and a really big mall (Flatirons) just twenty minutes away. I live off campus and find it really easy to get everywhere I need simply by taking the bus. Classes are hard but the people and the professors generally make them fun and it's all pretty rewarding. Not to mention the fun stuff going on all weekend on the Hill as well as the excitement of living on your own!
Bang for the buck
College is simply expensive. There isn't much getting around that fact. However, the prestige of going to a big school, the experience and the career opportunities are really worth it. I know a fair amount of people who have graduated here who have great jobs that they honestly love, and almost every single one says that it's due to their efforts at this University. It is a big expense and a big campus which is a little overwhelming, but if you make smart decisions and work hard, this school can really send you off into a bright future (as cliche as it sounds).
Tips for prospective students
Stay focused. Just like at any campus, there are distractions. My first semester, I ignored my professor's tips for success thinking I could just get by like I did in high school, and that was a mistake. Once I realized that, I saw HUGE improvements. So start out doing the suggested readings and use the Help Rooms they offer and form study groups (they make it fun). Being such a big campus, it's easy to get lost both physically and mentally. So go see your counselors often, they really help and give you great advice. If you do all this from the get-go, you won't need to cram or stress at the last minute and will have more opportunities to enjoy the school spirit and Boulder itself. Also, it is a huge expense so apply for scholarships and, if necessary, get a Work Study job. They are super flexible and don't pay too badly.
Great for these types of students
If you are anything like me and don't know exactly what you would like to do with your life, this school could really benefit you. Their great array of prestigious academic programs offers anyone the chance to experience many different paths of life giving you the tools you need to choose which path is for you. It's also perfect for people who really enjoy diversity and culture. The entire Boulder University experience promotes this lifestyle and completely exudes it. It's also one of the greenest colleges in the country so you can really be proud of your home!

Alexandra from Boulder, CO

a current student here
13 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am a psychology major in one of the largest and best psychology departments in the country. Admittedly, there are many schools that have quality psychology departments, but the University of Colorado's is very well equipped for research, especially in child an cognitive psychology. Also, our professors are very involved and friendly. Their lectures are both informative and full of funny stories.
Am enjoying being here
Boulder is one of the greatest places in the country, with a stunning view of the flatirons (a unique feature of the Rocky mountains), and wonderful weather almost every day. Like they say, 300 days of sun and the rest is snow or stunning thunderstorms. The university itself is also as beautiful as the terrain. Every building is built along the same architectural style, with flagstone facades and red tile roofs. There is only one or two of those ugly university buildings, so common to other schools.
Boulder itself, often called The People's Republic of Boulder has a great and real mix of the hippy, environmentalist culture, for which it is so famous, and the high class skiing town of the Colorado Rockies. Public transportation is to die for, and pedestrians have the ultimate right of way.
Bang for the buck
This depends on whether you plan to pay in-state or out of state tuition. For Colorado residents, the university is a fairly good deal, but if you are out of state, tuition is more than $20,000 a semester. It is worth it though. You will get a world-class education, live in a great town, and meet some amazing people.
Tips for prospective students
Pay no attention to the party school label behind the curtain. You will find drinking and crazy behavior at every University in the country. Boulder does a fairly good job of limiting this in their fraternities and sororities, and provides a number of alternative actions. Any student wary of drinking and partying can find lots of friends to hang out with and safe places to go.
Great for these types of students
Great for: Engineers, Environmentalists, Hippies, Outdoor lovers, Climbers, Mountain Bikers, Musicians (Classical and other), Architecture majors, anyone who wants to learn.

Athena from Spring Creek, NV

a current student here
9 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There are tons of options as far as classes and degrees go. I really feel like I'm getting a quality education and the teachers are willing to work with all the students and help them out. There are lots of opportunities to work with other students to find out how get good grades or do well on tests and what not. So far all of my teachers have known exactly what they're talking about when it comes to their subjects. I've learned more in one semester then I've learned in all of my high school career.
Am enjoying being here
The people here are amazing and there's lot of stuff to do. One of my favorite things to do is just wander around the halls of my dorm and talk to people. The people are super friendly and always willing to help me out. Boulder is full of attractions and there are constantly events going on on the campus. From laser shows to free concerts you never know what you'll get. If you want to go to a concert or something Denver is right over the hill and there are endless possibilities there when it comes to entertainment. It's a little far from home though so it sometimes gets lonely but if you can make really good friends the homesickness goes away and you'll be just fine.
Bang for the buck
I will admit that tuition is a little high.. I'm not fond of how much I have to pay being an out of state student but if you're in-state is pretty low. CU-Boulder is a very highly ranked school and there is a lot of opportunity. I've learned a lot and living on campus has been great. There are a lot of options as far as campus living and food goes so it definitely makes the cost of living worth it. As I said though, the tuition for out of state students is a little high so you always have to factor that in.
Tips for prospective students
I would deffinitly recommend this school just don't forget to look at your budget. Are you paying or are your parents/grandparents/whoever paying? If you don't think you can afford it now there are always community colleges in Colorado you can start out at and many of the credits at those schools are transferable to CU or any other university in Colorado. Another thing, campus living is great. It may not seem cool to live on campus for more then one year but it's not to expensive, you get a large selection of dining experiences, and it's close to everything in Boulder. Plus you only have to wake up an hour before classes start and there's no driving involved. Finally, the campus is not to large but a bike can make things easier, or even a scooter. Wheels are always good to have but if you don't buy some comfortable walking shoes. I walk and it's not to bad it's just a lot of wallking. lastly, take advantage of your resources. There's a huge recreational center which is free for students to use, and there are always events going on on campus, many of which are free to students.
Great for these types of students
If you don't mind large lecture halls to start out with then CU is wonderful. If you're the type of student who always needs something to do there are tons of things to do on campus and a lot of options as far as classes go. Homework loads aren't to big so if you're the type of student who likes to procrastinate a little then you'd do just fine. Don't worry about not being noticed, because I promise someone will notice you. It may be huge, but it becomes smaller the longer you're here so if you're the type of student who enjoys being in a close knit environment with lots of new people to help you out then it's perfect for you.

Tia from Hilo, HI

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
University of Colorado at Boulder offers a wide variety of topics to emerge yourself in. I have declared my major in Ethnic Studies and am amazed about how many events that happen and conferences that go on that are about my major. Since attending school here I have learned a lot and am eager to learn more.
Am enjoying being here
Boulder is a wonderful place to be when it comes to the environment and people. The surrounding environment is beautiful, with trails, rivers, mountains, there is no getting bored in Boulder. It is cold there, but with enough layers of clothing you will be okay.
Bang for the buck
Although the money situation in Boulder, to attend school is outrageous. If you get a way to pay for it then it it certainly worth it. As for myself I am been constantly trying to get scholarships to fund my education. University of Colorado does help you out somewhat when it comes to the money situation.
Tips for prospective students
Work hard and pay attention to scholarships and deadlines!

Out of State Student

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I am meeting outstanding academic challenges, which push me to the top of my game. I find time to access stunning mountains and ski resorts once weekly, and go mountain biking as often as I can. My roommate and friends in the Residential Academic Program have helped me to know I've found my tribe.
Tips for prospective students
Apply early and apply for scholarships. These helped to bring my cost to match in-state tuition rates. C4C has lots of diverse food choices, including gluten free, and labels foods at their stations serving lots of tastes with variety. Books can be ordered early, and ordering used (early) from the bookstore helped me bring my costs down more. My used books were in almost new condition. Teachers, TA's and advisors are all super helpful when you have trouble, like losing a BuffOne card, (which gives you access to dorms, your room and food) or having questions about course work. Talk to them before you have problems so they know you when you do! When I told people I was attending this school, they warned me about the party culture. The social scene seems like any other university, because people will make their own decisions anywhere. You can find people who think like you think and make similar choices at CU. The students are diverse, care about social issues and the planet, appreciate the geography, and want to make the world a better place.
Academic Rigor
The engineering department I'm in is ranked in the top 10 in the world. It is a strong school, and we are held to a high standard. Do your homework right away. Talk to the teacher or TA's. Work in study groups. The music department has courses which are challenging to manage with other courses, due to the number of hours or scheduling. For example, Orchestra is 1 credit hour, but it requires 7 hours of rehearsal time with the orchestra, which does not count any practice time you might need in addition. I am a freshman who graduated near the top of my class in another state, and came with several AP classes. This school really challenges me. I was accepted to some schools with pretty big names, but am very glad I came here because of the wide range of opportunities which fit my engineering goals. The music department is strong and the teachers I've met seem to really care about their student success.
Dorm Life
If you are looking at engineering as a major, CU has a super engineering honors program, and residence academic program (RAP) It is selective, but it has been one of the best places I could imagine living on campus. The advisor lives in the dorms and many classes are taught in dorm classrooms, too. It is noisy in common areas and quiet in rooms, so finding places to study or gather is always easy. My roommate and I missed the deadline to do a roommate match, but are a good fit, and we want to look for another room together next year, too.
Food and Dining
C4C has a variety of options. Munch money gives snacks and grab & go choices, and if your schedule means you are eating outside of C4C regular hours, you can get food in lots of convenient spots on campus. The food is really good. If you get tired of it, Boulder has so many great food choices, and most are all expensive. At the edge of campus are places like Whole Foods, Beaujos Pizza, and lots of cafes and sandwich shops. Boulder has a Tea House and vegan options, too.
What to do for fun
CU Boulder has everything you can think of for clubs and activities. The flatirons are beautiful and you can climb them with people who want to show you how. You can mountain bike through trails in the city or in the foothills. You can ski or snowboard at the closest resort or go a little farther to try the bigger hills. The athletics clubs always have a lot going on. The arts and sciences offer dance or music concerts at least once a week, and those are just the things I've had time to do in my first few months at CU.
Bang for the buck
Being from out of state makes this school more expensive. But applying for scholarships helped it to be competitive with offers from other schools which did not have as many of the choices this university offers. Students are involved, faculty is involved and this school is the right balance of fun, hard work and friendships for most of the students I've met so far. I am glad CU Boulder is here.

Adam from Parker, CO

researching this school
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
A great school especially if you are from Colorado. Everything about CU Boulder is welcoming and fun. You can't go wrong with this school!
Academic Rigor
Depends on the classes you take but overall from what I have heard from is the hard working students will have a very large chance at succeeding. Also, don't be afraid of your professor! Go to class, talk with your professor, and visit them during office hours.
Dorm Life
There is a large amounts of residency halls and most of them are pretty cozy and nice, especially the recently renovated Baker hall. Students can also part in residential academic programs or RAP. This also students of similar interests and classes to live together and sometime classes are even held within the residency hall themselves!
Food and Dining
The C4C's food is great tasting and has some cool variety such as their Persian section. However, if you get burnt out on the C4C's food (which definitely can happen) there are still many other option around the campus for food.
What to do for fun
Boulder is a great place for recreation. You can go hiking, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, camping, and tons of other things in the area around campus. The school also has lots of intramural sports and a great rec center with a buffalo shaped Ralphie pool!
Bang for the buck
Great price for in state students considering what the school has to offer. However, it may get a little pricey for out of state but the education and experience just might be worth it.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
4/20 day you may just wanna stay inside unless you are in the mood to get high ;)
Clubs and Activities
There are an abundant amount of clubs for all interests around campus, and if there isn't one that fits your interests, then you can always start your own. There is also a good amount of intramural sports that anyone can participate in and the area around campus is beautiful and there is a huge amount to do outside of the school grounds.

Kevin from Lakewood, CO

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am currently a freshman majoring in civil engineering as a freshman, and I can assure you that the level of difficulty in the engineering department is very challenging compared to AP courses. Rest assured though, engineering across all colleges is notorious for its heavy workload and steep learning curve as it involves heavy math and hands on experience.
Am enjoying being here
You will know that you have arrived at an actual college when you come to Boulder. Far and away, Boulder is the biggest campus in Colorado, and is stunningly beautiful. For those fed up with, or burnt out with the high school scene, Boulder will be the most refreshing reminder that all your hard work paid off in the end.
Bang for the buck
On one hand, Boulder is the most nationally respected college in Colorado, as it was named one of the Public Ivies of America. On the other hand, it is not the most friendly place for you and your parents' wallets. Mines, Metro, University of Colorado at Denver, University of Northern Colorado all offer better deals for students in and out of state. Further discouraging is that Boulder's range of scholarships is fairly limited to incoming students. But once you do get past the freshman year, with its mandatory requirement of living in dormitories, expect a substantial 30% drop in living expenses assuming you find a nice apartment. Tuition ranges from $20,000 to $27,000.
Tips for prospective students
Boulder is notorious for its reputation as a party school. Having said that, the parties were not as unavoidable as the rumors made them out to be. Personally, I knew quite a handful of students that did not choose Boulder mainly for its reputation as a party school. It all depends on who you choose to be friends with, and most people are respectful of people's decisions of whether or not to drink.
Great for these types of students
Engineers, any students wanting to major in Arts and Applied Science in Colorado, those Coloradans wanting to be far away enough to be away from parents, yet still close enough to keep in touch.

Breanna from Northglenn, CO

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I love CU it easy to learn. If you are not understanding something there is always a TA or even the professor to help you out or give you advice about study habits. One of the first things your teachers tell you is to get someones number and learn their name so you can have a study partner and a new friend. Its a great environment for learning and has great enthusiastic teachers to make even a class you may find boring fun.
Am enjoying being here
Boulder in general is fun and there is always something to do and when your also involved with the campus there are at least five things to do on a slow night. You have Pearl Street, The 29th Street mall, and the Hill all right next to each other and that's just shopping and some food. At our UMC there is a place foe bowling, live bands, pool and arcades. Not to mention all of the special events CU has going on all year. The environment in Boulder is very laid back and always filled with nice smiling people. Its such a nice place to just go lay out of Farren Field and take a nap or have a night of fun with all of your friends.
Bang for the buck
Between all the help you get, late nights in the 24 hour library, printing, transportation, and amazing professors you really get your moneys worth at CU.
Tips for prospective students
Have fun but don't get overly involved and party too much your first semester that's how people fail and drop out of college. It may seem hard or not as fun but ease into college life that way you can have fun both semesters and for the rest of college instead of being on academic probation and having to explain to your parents why you failed your first semester and messed up your college career.
Great for these types of students
CU is great for just about everyone. We do get some cold days and we are a really active and outdoor involved campus. We have a laid back environment but are still in the heart of Boulder. We aren't just for hippies but for everyday people and for those you want to act and be their own person.