A unique name for a unique university

Mines is different, but it just may be perfect for you.

Colorado School of Mines has, since our founding in 1874, been a bit different. We were built to give the West, the world and emerging industries the knowledge and talent required to power the 19th and 20th centuries (and beyond).

Not much has changed in the nearly 150 years since. We’re still closely aligned with—and committed to meeting—industry and societal needs by preparing graduates who can contribute, adapt and lead in a constantly changing world.

What else hasn’t changed? Our name. We remain a place dedicated to hands-on practice (thus the “School”) and committed to digging deep (“mining”) for answers to the world’s pressing challenges. If that makes us sound and look a bit different… well, that’s nothing new either.

If you’re a problem-solver, code cracker or someone excited to do something new (and big), Mines should be on your list.

What makes Mines special?

Students reflect on what it means to be an Oredigger

pickaxe icon
#1 in the world for mineral and mining engineering

QS World University Rankings

research icon
#2 in the U.S. for combining research with classroom instruction

Wall Street Journal


#23 Top U.S. Public Colleges

Forbes Magazine