2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY)

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Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY)

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First-year retention rates measure the percentage of first-year students who come back to campus for a second year. This is an indicator of how happy students are generally with their decision to attend that institution as less students decide to drop out or transfer to another school.

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Rank	Institution	First Year Retention Rate	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	Colorado College	94	18.47	1,270 – 1,460	36123	47611	#1 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado College Colorado Springs, CO Scientia et Disciplina is the Latin motto of Colorado College which means “Learning through Hard Work.” It’s an extremely selective school – 30% of accepted students enroll. With over 80 undergraduate majors available, Political Science and Government, General is a common option. First Year Retention Rate 94 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 18.5% SAT Score 1,270 – 1,460 Avg. Net Price $36,123 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,611
2	Colorado School of Mines	93	60.69	1,330 – 1,480	29925	82950	#2 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado School of Mines Golden, CO The programs offered at Colorado School of Mines are all focused on energy and environment, so all available majors are in STEM fields. The Orediggers are led on by their mascots Marvin the Miner and Blaster the Burro....Read more First Year Retention Rate 93 % Acceptance Rate 60.7% SAT Score 1,330 – 1,480 Avg. Net Price $29,925 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $82,950
3	Brigham Young University	91	67.78	1,310 – 1,440	16694	58450	#3 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Brigham Young University Provo, UT Management Science is the most commonly chosen undergraduate major at Brigham Young University. BYU has four satellite campuses in Jerusalem, Salt Lake City, Washington D.C., and London. 567 Cougars compete in the NCAA Division I-FBS, with most teams taking part in the Big Twelve Conference. First Year Retention Rate 91 % 2.2% Acceptance Rate 67.8% SAT Score 1,310 – 1,440 Avg. Net Price $16,694 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,450
4	University of Colorado Boulder	90	78.08	1,270 – 1,440	26231	54939	#4 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Colorado Boulder Boulder, CO The Boulder campus is the flagship school of the University of Colorado system. It was actually founded a few months before Colorado became a state in 1876. Athletes, called the Buffaloes, are part of the Big Twelve Conference....Read more First Year Retention Rate 90 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 78.1% SAT Score 1,270 – 1,440 Avg. Net Price $26,231 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,939
5	University of Denver	89	77.81	1,270 – 1,430	45451	57118	#5 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Denver Denver, CO The University of Denver is home to the Evans Memorial Chapel, the oldest building on campus and the oldest Protestant church in the city. It has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9 to 1 and a first year retention rate of 89%. DU’s motto is “Pro Scientia et Religione,” or “For Knowledge and Spirit.” First Year Retention Rate 89 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 77.8% SAT Score 1,270 – 1,430 Avg. Net Price $45,451 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $57,118
6	Colorado State University-Fort Collins	86	88.54	1,100 – 1,310	21011	49748	#6 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado State University-Fort Collins Fort Collins, CO The flagship university of Colorado, CSU’s mascot is Cam the Ram. Popular sports on campus include Football, Basketball, and Track and Field and Cross Country (combined), among others. Business Administration and Management, General is the most popular major at the school by far. CSU has a 17 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. First Year Retention Rate 86 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 88.5% SAT Score 1,100 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $21,011 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,748
7	Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences	86	61.88	--	28110	45177	#7 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences Draper, UT Previously known as the Ameritech College of Healthcare, Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences fairly selective. 80% of accepted students go on to attend. The only undergraduate major Joyce offers is Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. It also has a 100% four year graduation rate. First Year Retention Rate 86 % 6.2% Acceptance Rate 61.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $28,110 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,177
8	University of Utah	86	85.98	1,130 – 1,350	16583	55239	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT The University of Utah’s campus is nestled between mountains and the Great Salt Lake. 28,000 are undergraduate students. The oldest higher education institution in the state, U of U was founded in 1850 and originally called University of Deseret. Class sizes are larger, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 19 to 1. First Year Retention Rate 86 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 86.0% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $16,583 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,239
9	New Saint Andrews College	85	83.89	1,150 – 1,370	16692	63721	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) New Saint Andrews College Moscow, ID Based in Moscow, New Saint Andrews College’s acceptance rate is 84% and requests $50 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 85% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. At New Saint Andrews College, there is a 85% first year retention rate and 64% of students will earn their degree......Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % 3.4% Acceptance Rate 83.9% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $16,692 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
10	Colorado Christian University	84	97.64	1,010 – 1,210	30940	41623	#10 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado Christian University Lakewood, CO Colorado Christian University has a first year retention rate - 84%%. Unlike many schools who use Latin in their mottos, CCU takes inspiration from the Greeks. “χαρις και αληθεια” translates to mean “Grace and Truth.” Mental Health Counseling/Counselor is a popular area of study. First Year Retention Rate 84 % 6.3% Acceptance Rate 97.6% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $30,940 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,623
11	Carroll College	82	70.93	1,070 – 1,290	25575	43507	#11 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Carroll College Helena, MT Though the school seal features two lions, Carroll College’s mascot is actually a St. Bernard named Halo. Student athletes compete as the Fighting Saints in Football, Basketball, and Track and Field and Cross Country (combined), among others....Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 70.9% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $25,575 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,507
12	The College of Idaho	82	49.1	1,080 – 1,300	21686	42097	#12 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) The College of Idaho Caldwell, ID Founded in 1891, The College of Idaho is the oldest private liberal arts college in the state. The school offers up to Doctor's degrees, and graduates have entered impressive careers in business, politics, law, and sports. Many students pursue degrees in Business Administration and Management, General. First Year Retention Rate 82 % 7.9% Acceptance Rate 49.1% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $21,686 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,097
13	University of Wyoming	80	96.88	1,070 – 1,290	14872	48360	#13 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Wyoming Laramie, WY The University of Wyoming was founded in 1886, four years before Wyoming became a state. It’s one of the rare schools that features a live animal mascot – a horse named Cowboy Joy. Another mascot, Pistol Pete, is played by a student. Brown and gold are the official school colors, and their motto is simple – “Equality.” First Year Retention Rate 80 % 3.9% Acceptance Rate 96.9% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $14,872 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,360
14	Boise State University	79	87.21	1,050 – 1,220	21583	45251	#14 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Boise State University Boise, ID Located on the Boise River, Boise State University also offers dozens of programs online. Many choose to study Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, Social Work, Business Administration and Management, and General. A non selective school, it received 16,100 applications during the last admissions cycle and accepted 14,000. First Year Retention Rate 79 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 87.2% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $21,583 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,251
15	Colorado Mesa University	79	82.03	940 – 1,170	15590	39223	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado Mesa University Grand Junction, CO Located in Grand Junction, Colorado Mesa University accepted 82% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $40 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 57% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 5.3% Acceptance Rate 82.0% SAT Score 940 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $15,590 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,223
16	Montana State University	79	82.14	1,080 – 1,290	20142	44757	#16 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Montana State University Bozeman, MT “Mountains and Mines” is the motto of Montana State University. In the last admissions cycle, the school received 21,700 applications and accepted 82% of them. Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, Business/Commerce, General, and Mechanical Engineering are the most popular undergraduate majors....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 82.1% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $20,142 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,757
17	The University of Montana-Western	79	99.78	890 – 1,090	16745	37252	#17 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) The University of Montana-Western Dillon, MT Based in Dillon, The University of Montana-Western’s acceptance rate is 100% and requests $30 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 44% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % Acceptance Rate 99.8% SAT Score 890 – 1,090 Avg. Net Price $16,745 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,252
18	Montana Technological University	77	91.05	1,020 – 1,220	16665	48356	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Montana Technological University Butte, MT Montana Technological University’s motto “De Re Metallica,” or “Of the metals,” pays homage to the school’s original name – the Montana School of Mines. The school’s seal features mining tools as well. The Orediggers wear green and copper, and athletes could be eligible for athletic scholarships. First Year Retention Rate 77 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 91.1% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $16,665 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,356
19	Northwest Nazarene University	77	64.74	1,020 – 1,250	30178	45488	#19 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Northwest Nazarene University Nampa, ID 99% of students receive grant aid to help them afford their education at Northwest Nazarene University. A NCAA Division II without football school, there are also athletic scholarships available, averaging $25,146 each. NNU has a 14 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 77% first year retention rate. First Year Retention Rate 77 % 2.5% Acceptance Rate 64.7% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $30,178 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,488
20	Southern Utah University	76	81.79	1,040 – 1,240	11840	41147	#20 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Southern Utah University Cedar City, UT Found in Cedar City, Southern Utah University accepts 82% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 89% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate 81.8% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $11,840 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,147
21	University of Idaho	76	75.53	1,000 – 1,240	15111	42602	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Idaho Moscow, ID “A Legacy of Leading” is the motto of the University of Idaho. Founded in 1889, it was the only university in the state until 1963. The Vandals compete in Football, Basketball, and Track and Field and Cross Country (combined), among others....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 75.5% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $15,111 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,602
22	University of Northern Colorado	76	85.85	970 – 1,200	19376	43756	#22 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Northern Colorado Greeley, CO Also known as UNC, the university’s motto is "Sapientia in aeternum est" or “Wisdom is eternal.” 93% of UNC students receive institutional grant aid—$5,393 on average. Klawz the Bear is the school's mascot, and their colors are navy blue and gold. Notable alumni of UNC include musicians, champion athletes, and politicians. First Year Retention Rate 76 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate 85.9% SAT Score 970 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $19,376 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,756
23	Westminster University	76	66.57	1,130 – 1,340	26844	52994	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Westminster University Salt Lake City, UT Westminster College became Westminster University in 2023. Over 50 Olympians have studied at the school. During the 2014 Olympics, 23 Westminster students were part of Team USA – 18 in 2018. Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse is the most sought after program at the school. First Year Retention Rate 76 % Acceptance Rate 66.6% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $26,844 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,994
24	The University of Montana	75	95.86	1,140 – 1,310	17370	35729	#24 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) The University of Montana Missoula, MT Located along the Clark Fork River, The University of Montana's Grizzlies and Lady Griz compete in the NCAA Division I-FCS Big Sky Conference. Alumni include Colin Meloy, J.K. Simmons, and Carroll O’Connor, as well as numerous professional athletes, scientists, and politicians. First Year Retention Rate 75 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 95.9% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $17,370 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,729
25	Colorado State University Global	74	98.4	890 – 970	16510	65131	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado State University Global Denver, CO Found in Denver, Colorado State University Global accepts 98% of applicants and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. Approximately 10% of students attending Colorado State University Global currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % Acceptance Rate 98.4% SAT Score 890 – 970 Avg. Net Price $16,510 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $65,131
26	Neumont College of Computer Science	74	86.78	1,020 – 1,190	34557	77865	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Neumont College of Computer Science Salt Lake City, UT One of the younger colleges in America, the Neumont College of Computer Science was founded in 2003. The school offers 5 total undergraduate majors: Computer Programming, Network and System Administration, Information Technology Project Management, Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design, and Modeling,......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 3.9% Acceptance Rate 86.8% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $34,557 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $77,865
27	University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus	73	74.68	1,000 – 1,240	14831	52475	#27 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus Denver, CO Based in Denver, the University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus’s acceptance rate is 75% and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 79% of students attending the University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 74.7% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $14,831 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,475
28	Utah Valley University	73	0	--	8721	46825	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Utah Valley University Orem, UT First Year Retention Rate 73 % 4.3% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,721 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,825
29	Aims Community College	72	0	--	8384	39696	#29 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Aims Community College Greeley, CO First Year Retention Rate 72 % 14.3% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,384 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,696
30	Idaho State University	72	0	--	12174	41377	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Idaho State University Pocatello, ID First Year Retention Rate 72 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,174 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,377
31	University of Providence	72	50.28	850 – 1,140	16598	37734	#31 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Providence Great Falls, MT Located in Great Falls, the University of Providence accepted 50% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They require unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 100% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. At the University of Providence, there is a 72% first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 50.3% SAT Score 850 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $16,598 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,734
32	Western Colorado University	72	99.71	1,150 – 1,310	17711	40037	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Western Colorado University Gunnison, CO Western Colorado University’s motto is “Potestas ad Ministrandum,” which is Latin for “The Power to Serve.” 420 student athletes, known as the Mountaineers, compete in the NCAA Division II with football Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. Biology/Biological Sciences, General is a popular undergraduate major. First Year Retention Rate 72 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 99.7% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $17,711 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,037
33	Brigham Young University-Idaho	71	95.75	1,010 – 1,230	8528	40447	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Brigham Young University-Idaho Rexburg, ID Based in Rexburg, Brigham Young University-Idaho accepted 96% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 39% of students attending Brigham Young University-Idaho will receive institutional grant aid. The school’s first year retention......Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 95.8% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $8,528 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,447
34	Regis University	71	86.46	1,110 – 1,340	21618	64557	#34 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Regis University Denver, CO Regis University was originally in Las Vegas, Nevada, when it opened in 1877, with the apt name of Las Vegas College. It moved only 10 years later, and received its current name in 1991....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 5.3% Acceptance Rate 86.5% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $21,618 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $64,557
35	Utah State University	71	92.47	1,050 – 1,310	15788	44822	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Utah State University Logan, UT Based in Logan, Utah State University accepted 92% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 73% of students at Utah State University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 4.1% Acceptance Rate 92.5% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $15,788 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,822
36	Rocky Mountain College	69	69.61	970 – 1,180	20791	41783	#36 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Rocky Mountain College Billings, MT Rocky Mountain College is a fairly selective school. During the last admissions cycle, it received 1,410 applications and accepted 1,000. Athletes are known as the Battlin’ Bears and, wearing forest green and Vegas gold, they compete in Football, Basketball, and Soccer, among other sports. First Year Retention Rate 69 % 7.8% Acceptance Rate 69.6% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $20,791 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,783
37	University of Colorado Colorado Springs	68	97.35	1,020 – 1,230	16942	45766	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) University of Colorado Colorado Springs Colorado Springs, CO Located in Colorado Springs, the University of Colorado Colorado Springs accepted 97% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $50 to apply. Approximately 73% of students at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs currently receive institutional grant aid to make......Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 97.4% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $16,942 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,766
38	Utah Tech University	68	0	--	17598	37959	#38 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Utah Tech University Saint George, UT First Year Retention Rate 68 % 7.9% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $17,598 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,959
39	Weber State University	67	0	--	11333	47061	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Weber State University Ogden, UT First Year Retention Rate 67 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $11,333 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,061
40	Fort Lewis College	66	77.3	990 – 1,230	17114	36352	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Fort Lewis College Durango, CO Found in Durango, Fort Lewis College accepts 77% of applicants and charges $40 for undergraduate applications. About 61% of students attending Fort Lewis College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 4.8% Acceptance Rate 77.3% SAT Score 990 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $17,114 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,352
41	Western Governors University	65	45.44	--	11328	69572	#41 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Western Governors University Salt Lake City, UT Opening in 1997, Western Governors University is entirely online. It’s made up of four colleges – School of Business, School of Technology, School of Education, and the Leavitt School of Health. Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse is the most popular area of study. First Year Retention Rate 65 % 4.8% Acceptance Rate 45.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $11,328 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $69,572
42	Colorado State University Pueblo	64	94.9	1,010 – 1,240	13079	43053	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado State University Pueblo Pueblo, CO Found in Pueblo, Colorado State University Pueblo’s acceptance rate is 95%. They request $25 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be requested. Approximately 83% of students at Colorado State University Pueblo will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 94.9% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $13,079 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,053
43	Montana State University-Northern	64	100	890 – 1,090	9961	45045	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Montana State University-Northern Havre, MT Based in Havre, Montana State University-Northern accepts 100% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 53% of students attending Montana State University-Northern will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 7.2% Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 890 – 1,090 Avg. Net Price $9,961 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,045
44	Trinidad State College	64	0	--	12198	36025	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Trinidad State College Trinidad, CO First Year Retention Rate 64 % 4.5% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,198 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,025
45	Metropolitan State University of Denver	63	98.8	890 – 1,140	14584	45391	#45 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Metropolitan State University of Denver Denver, CO Based in Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver’s acceptance rate is 99%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. About 38% of students attending Metropolitan State University of Denver will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % 10.0% Acceptance Rate 98.8% SAT Score 890 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $14,584 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,391
46	Lewis-Clark State College	61	87.69	850 – 1,110	15917	42133	#46 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Lewis-Clark State College Lewiston, ID Found in Lewiston, Lewis-Clark State College’s acceptance rate is 88%. They require unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 72% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At Lewis-Clark State College, there is a 61% first year retention rate and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate 87.7% SAT Score 850 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $15,917 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,133
47	Montana State University Billings	56	99.47	1,000 – 1,180	15018	39531	#47 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Montana State University Billings Billings, MT Based in Billings, Montana State University Billings accepted 99% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $30 for undergraduate applications. About 78% of students at Montana State University Billings currently receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % Acceptance Rate 99.5% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $15,018 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,531
48	Ensign College	54	0	--	12505	43320	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Ensign College Salt Lake City, UT First Year Retention Rate 54 % 11.5% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,505 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,320
49	Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design	54	100	990 – 1,160	31752	30280	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design Lakewood, CO Found in Lakewood, Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design accepted 100% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 43% of students at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college......Read more First Year Retention Rate 54 % 6.9% Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 990 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $31,752 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,280
50	Adams State University	51	99.18	890 – 1,170	13340	38338	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Adams State University Alamosa, CO Found in Alamosa, Adams State University accepts 99% of applicants. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 82% of students attending Adams State University will receive institutional grant aid. The school’s first year retention rate is 51% and 21% of students will earn their degree in four years. Many......Read more First Year Retention Rate 51 % 7.3% Acceptance Rate 99.2% SAT Score 890 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $13,340 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,338
51	Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs	51	91.79	--	16449	30406	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs Colorado Springs, CO Found in Colorado Springs, Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs’s acceptance rate is 92% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 26% of students at Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs will receive grant aid from the school. At Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs,......Read more First Year Retention Rate 51 % 15.9% Acceptance Rate 91.8% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $16,449 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,406
52	Nightingale College	50	0	--	29077	63412	#52 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Nightingale College Salt Lake City, UT First Year Retention Rate 50 % 12.3% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $29,077 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,412
53	Colorado Mountain College	40	0	--	7631	36307	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Rocky Mountains (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY) Colorado Mountain College Glenwood Springs, CO First Year Retention Rate 40 % 28.6% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $7,631 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,307