Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Colorado Springs, CO & Denver, CO
When students choose between University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus and University of Colorado Colorado Springs, they're comparing two public universities in the same state system with similar costs but different career outcomes. Both serve Colorado students with business-focused programs, but Denver/Anschutz graduates typically earn $9,611 more at the median ten years after enrollment.
The schools sit just 75 miles apart, yet the earnings data reveals a meaningful career trajectory difference.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$20,000
federal loans
$20,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$21,710
borrowed by parents
$21,716
borrowed by parents
Both universities emphasize business programs, with Denver/Anschutz graduating 17% business majors and Colorado Springs graduating 18%. Denver/Anschutz has a more health-focused mix, with nursing producing 300 graduates annually compared to Colorado Springs' 196.
The largest programs at Denver/Anschutz include Business Administration (459 graduates), Registered Nursing (300), and Biology (244). Colorado Springs mirrors this with Business Administration (362), Nursing (196), and Communication (167).
Denver/Anschutz's medical campus component and urban health care networks help explain the earnings advantage.
For students prioritizing career earnings potential, Denver/Anschutz delivers a $9,611 annual advantage that justifies its $2,702 higher cost. Colorado Springs offers a more affordable path with reasonable outcomes, making it the better choice for cost-conscious families or students planning graduate school where immediate earnings matter less.
The data points to Denver/Anschutz as the stronger financial value — the medical campus component, health science programs, and Denver's larger job market create meaningful career advantages. But the right choice depends on your major interests, financial capacity, and whether you value maximizing immediate career earnings or minimizing educational costs.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
