Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Metropolitan State University of Denver vs Western Colorado University

Denver, CO · Gunnison, CO · Source: IPEDS federal database

Metropolitan State University of DenverWestern Colorado University
Acceptance Rate99.1%97.5%
In-State Tuition$10,780$11,083
Out-of-State Tuition$23,683
Average Net Price$13,727$17,709
Graduation Rate30.0%51.0%

GradFax Analysis

Metropolitan State University of Denver accepts 99.1% of applicants. Western Colorado University accepts 97.5%. Tuition is close: $10,780 at Metropolitan State University of Denver, $11,083 at Western Colorado University. Metropolitan State University of Denver graduates 30% of students in 6 years. Western Colorado University graduates 51%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $13,727/year at Metropolitan State University of Denver and $17,709/year at Western Colorado University. Metropolitan State University of Denver is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Metropolitan State University of Denver profileWestern Colorado University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Metropolitan State University of Denver or Western Colorado University?

Western Colorado University. It accepts 97.5% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Metropolitan State University of Denver or Western Colorado University more affordable?

Metropolitan State University of Denver, on average. After aid, students pay $13,727/year versus $17,709/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Western Colorado University: 51% of students finish in 6 years. Metropolitan State University of Denver is at 30%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Metropolitan State University of Denver vs Western Colorado University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax