Colorado Auraria Campus

The Colorado Auraria Campus is a unique educational facility located in the heart of Denver, Colorado. This campus is home to three separate institutions: the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and the Community College of Denver. The Auraria Campus is situated on a 150-acre site, providing an urban environment for students to learn, grow, and develop. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, the campus has evolved to meet the changing needs of its students and the community.
History and Development

The Auraria Campus has a fascinating history, with its roots in the 19th century. The area was originally home to the Auraria Townsite, which was founded in 1858. Over the years, the townsite grew and developed, with the establishment of various institutions, including the Territorial Capitol Building. In the 1970s, the campus underwent significant development, with the construction of new buildings and facilities to accommodate the growing student population. Today, the Auraria Campus is a thriving educational hub, with a diverse range of academic programs and research initiatives.
Academic Programs and Research
The Auraria Campus offers a wide range of academic programs, from undergraduate and graduate degrees to certificate and continuing education courses. The University of Colorado Denver is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and health sciences, while Metropolitan State University of Denver is recognized for its programs in education, social work, and the arts. The Community College of Denver provides affordable and accessible education in areas such as healthcare, technology, and the trades. The campus is also home to various research centers and institutes, focusing on topics such as urban sustainability, healthcare innovation, and social justice.
Institution | Enrollment | Academic Programs |
---|---|---|
University of Colorado Denver | 14,000 | Business, Engineering, Health Sciences |
Metropolitan State University of Denver | 20,000 | Education, Social Work, Arts |
Community College of Denver | 12,000 | Healthcare, Technology, Trades |

Student Life and Campus Facilities

The Auraria Campus offers a wide range of student life opportunities, from student organizations and clubs to recreational activities and cultural events. The campus is home to various facilities, including the Tivoli Student Union, the Auraria Library, and the Physical Education and Dance Building. Students can also take advantage of the campus’s proximity to downtown Denver, with its rich cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and internship opportunities.
Campus Sustainability and Community Engagement
The Auraria Campus is committed to sustainability and community engagement, with various initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint and promoting social responsibility. The campus has implemented energy-efficient systems, recycling programs, and sustainable transportation options, as well as community outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations. Students can get involved in various sustainability initiatives, such as the Auraria Campus Sustainability Committee, which works to promote environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices on campus.
The Auraria Campus is also home to various community engagement programs, including the Auraria Campus Community Engagement Center, which provides resources and support for students, faculty, and staff to engage in community service and volunteer work. The campus is committed to fostering a culture of social responsibility and civic engagement, preparing students to become active and engaged members of their communities.
What institutions are located on the Auraria Campus?
+The Auraria Campus is home to three separate institutions: the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and the Community College of Denver.
What types of academic programs are offered on the Auraria Campus?
+The Auraria Campus offers a wide range of academic programs, from undergraduate and graduate degrees to certificate and continuing education courses, in areas such as business, engineering, health sciences, education, social work, and the arts.
What sustainability initiatives are in place on the Auraria Campus?
+The Auraria Campus has implemented various sustainability initiatives, including energy-efficient systems, recycling programs, and sustainable transportation options, as well as community outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations.