History
In the late 19th century, Gunnison was a progressive cattle and mining town establishing itself as a cultural leader on Colorado’s Western Slope. Placed on the leading edge of the American frontier, Gunnison sought to establish educational programs for the citizens of the area. A bill was introduced in 1885 to establish a college; in 1901, that bill was approved by the state legislature.
Education
- Undergraduate Programs
- School of Graduate Studies
- Accelerated Degree Programs (3+2)
- Paul M. Rady School of Computer Science & Engineering
- School of Business
- School of Environment & Sustainability (ENVS)
Research
The Office of Institutional Research performs statistical and analytical studies that support the academic, co-curricular and administrative functions of the University, including compilation and interpretation of information for enrollment analysis, student tracking, assessment, planning, budgeting and evaluation. The Institutional Research office generates and interprets data for individual campus departments, student projects, the Colorado Department of Higher Education and federal offices. Institutional Research personnel develop surveys of alumni, faculty, staff and students to further understanding of perceptions and emerging trends among University constituents.
Career
Career Services will help you assess your strengths and provide you the tools you’ll need to successfully achieve your personal and professional goals. As a Mountaineer, we know that you’re an adventurer, pioneer and entrepreneur–career services staff is here to help you craft your next adventure. To prepare you for a rewarding career in today’s competitive business environment, we offer career preparation resources, alumni and employer networking and assistance with internship placements.
Distance Learning Courses
- M.A. Education
- M.A. Special Education
- MFA Creative Writing
- M.A. Creative Writing
- M.B.A. Outdoor Industry MBA
- Master Environmental Management
Student services
- The Student Government Association’s mission is to better serve the students and make sure that all students are involved with the decisions we make.
- The Student Government Association (SGA) acts as the official voice of the Associated Student Body and protects the rights and privileges of the student body. The SGA is responsible for the allocation of more than $350,000 in student fees.
Housing services
Western’s on-campus housing was intentionally designed to be inclusive, comfortable and supportive spaces where all students can thrive. Western offers great living options for your time on campus, including traditional residence halls, two-bedroom suites and apartments.
Library services
The Leslie J. Savage Library is an integral part of Western State Colorado University. As a state-supported academic library, we serve the needs of students, faculty, staff, and the community by providing information resources, physical space for study and socialization, and specialized services supporting the educational missions of the library and university.
ICT services
- Information Technology Services (IT Services, ITS or just plain IT) is responsible for all computing, networking, internet, audio/visual and telecommunications services on campus.
- It is critical that students have easy access to the internet and other online resources. To help make that happen, we have deployed a wi-fi network that you can access 24x7x365 from anywhere on campus.
Medical services
Western’s Student Health & Wellness Office provides resources, education, assessment, formalized trainings, engagement opportunities and peer support to those in need.
- Alcohol/Drug use and abuse
- Sexual Misconduct
- Healthy Relationships
- Mental Health
- Suicide Prevention
- Stress and Anxiety
Campus life
Meal Plan Options:
- Blue Mesa Plan
- Mountaineer Plan
- Crimson Plan
- Mountaineer 80
- Mountaineer 40
- Mountaineer 20
Rare Air Café
Mad Jack’s
Sports facilities
- Wilderness Pursuits
- Mountain Sports
- Club Sports
- Intramural Sports
- Mountaineer Field House
- Aquatic Center
Student clubs
- Amigos
- Asian Pacific Islanders Club
- Black Student Alliance
- Native American Student Council
- Polynesian Chant and Dance Club
Western Colorado University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.