Colorado School of Mines Is More Than Engineering
Looking for a college with a high ROI? Discover how Mines combines rigorous STEM degrees with a supportive culture to ensure long-term career success.
Best quote from Colorado School of Mines Is More Than Engineering
The Mines Advantage is about that academic contract where faculty and students are true partners; it’s not just 'sink or swim,' but rather 'we’re in the boat with you, but you have to row.'
This audio lesson was created by a BeFreed community member
My son is in high school and exploring colleges. I want to learn about Colorado School of Mines.
Frequently Asked Questions
The academic contract is a philosophical commitment that frames the relationship between students and faculty as a literal partnership. Students are expected to be active participants who bring punctuality, attentiveness, and a demonstrable effort to their studies. In return, the school commits to providing high-quality faculty access and the necessary advising and scaffolding to ensure students can graduate within four years if they follow their prescribed programs.
While the school has a high upfront cost and has been noted for lower affordability compared to some peers, it ranks in the top three public universities nationally for 40-year return on investment. Alumni median earnings six years after enrollment are approximately 90% higher than the national median. The school maintains that the "Mines brand" and the high employment rate—nearly 94% within three years of graduation—justify the initial investment, particularly in high-demand fields like Computer Science and Petroleum Engineering.
Mines offers several one-of-a-kind facilities, most notably the Edgar Experimental Mine, where students go underground to learn excavation, drilling, and even explosives research. On the main campus, the Labriola Innovation District and the "InnoHub" provide over 37,000 square feet of space for making and prototyping, including machine shops and additive manufacturing labs. Additionally, the Beck Venture Center helps students transition their inventions into actual businesses by providing access to venture capitalists and mentors.
The "Oredigger" identity is built on shared struggle and community, highlighted by traditions like the "M Climb," where freshmen carry a ten-pound rock up Mt. Zion to be placed on a giant "M" overlooking Golden. Other traditions include "E-Days" (Engineering Days), which features cardboard boat races down Clear Creek and a trebuchet contest. Upon graduation, students receive a unique silver diploma, an engraved plate of silver that has been a school tradition since 1934.
Admissions are highly competitive, with the school maintaining the highest standards of any public university in Colorado. Successful applicants typically rank in the top 10% of their high school class, with middle-50% SAT scores ranging between 1320 and 1470. Beyond grades, the admissions team looks for "well-rounded nerds" who demonstrate leadership, resilience, and a passion for STEM through extracurricular activities like robotics or coding camps.
Discover more
Master Engineering: Math, Physics & Domain
Master Engineering: Math, Physics & Domain
This comprehensive plan bridges the gap between theoretical science and practical application, essential for anyone pursuing a rigorous career in technical fields. It is designed for aspiring engineers and students who want to build a rock-solid foundation in the core pillars of the profession.
Master Mechanical Design & Financial Success
Master Mechanical Design & Financial Success
This plan is essential for engineers who want to transcend technical roles and achieve financial independence. It perfectly blends rigorous mechanical design with the entrepreneurial and financial skills needed to build a profitable venture.
Improve Mech Engineering & Light Energy Study
Improve Mech Engineering & Light Energy Study
This curriculum bridges the gap between traditional mechanical systems and modern optical technologies. It is ideal for engineers and students looking to specialize in high-tech fields like renewable energy, laser systems, and advanced manufacturing.
Excel in engineering academia
Excel in engineering academia
Success in engineering academia requires more than technical knowledge—it demands mastery of research methodologies, scholarly writing, and academic leadership. This learning plan equips engineering students, researchers, and faculty with the comprehensive skillset needed to excel in academic environments, publish influential work, and advance into leadership positions.
Biochem Major, Math & Climbing Skills
Biochem Major, Math & Climbing Skills
This interdisciplinary plan bridges the gap between rigorous molecular science and the peak performance mindset required for elite physical pursuits. It is designed for science students who want to pair quantitative academic excellence with the mental and physical discipline of rock climbing.
Welding and mechatronics
Welding and mechatronics
This curriculum bridges the gap between traditional fabrication and modern automation, providing a comprehensive toolkit for the next generation of engineers. It is ideal for hands-on learners and professionals looking to master the intersection of metalwork, electronics, and intelligent robotics.
Explore Science, Finance, Growth & Culture
Explore Science, Finance, Growth & Culture
This multidisciplinary curriculum is designed for lifelong learners who want to master the foundational pillars of modern success. By merging hard sciences with financial intelligence and social dynamics, it provides a comprehensive toolkit for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.
Master high school STEM through understanding
Master high school STEM through understanding
This plan is designed for high school students who want to move beyond memorization to achieve a deep, intuitive grasp of science and math. It provides a vital bridge between theoretical concepts and real-world application, making it ideal for those preparing for advanced studies or competitive exams.
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
