Framed by wide sky and mountain peaks, Adams State University feels both close-knit and wide open. It has a reputation for supportive, teaching-focused faculty and hands-on learning across education, business, health, science, and the arts. You'll find modern labs and studios, a welcoming library, and go-to resources like tutoring, advising, counseling, and mentoring that actually meet students where they are.
Campus life leans active and neighborly. Students plug into clubs, service projects, performances, and intramurals, then chase the weekend on nearby trails, rivers, and hot springs. The culture is grounded, inclusive, and proud of first-generation success. Career preparation shows up in practical workshops, faculty guidance, and internships with regional schools, clinics, nonprofits, and local employers. Alamosa adds a walkable downtown, community events, and big-night skies. And there's a strong running and outdoor spirit that's hard not to catch.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Location:
208 Edgemont Blvd, Alamosa, Colorado, 81101, USA
Explore degree programs offered at Adams State University with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Colorado. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Colorado vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Psychology (4)
Most Graduates (46.8%)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
42.0101
Psychology, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of individual and collective behavior, the physical and environmental bases of behavior, and the analysis and treatment of behavior problems and disorders. Includes instruction in the principles of the various subfields of psychology, research methods, and psychological assessment and testing methods.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
19-3032
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
$134,400
N/A
N/A
19-3033
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
$106,850
$95,670
-$11,180 (-10.5%)
19-3039
Psychologists, All Other
$111,340
$121,760
+$10,420 (+9.4%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$52,690
-$10,870 (-17.1%)
25-1066
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,530
$72,790
-$20,740 (-22.2%)
42.2803
Counseling Psychology.
(PostBacCert, FPD)
A program that prepares individuals for the independent professional practice of psychological counseling, involving the rendering of therapeutic services to individuals and groups experiencing psychological problems and exhibiting distress symptoms. Includes instruction in counseling theory, therapeutic intervention strategies, patient/counselor relationships, testing and assessment methods and procedures, group therapy, marital and family therapy, child and adolescent therapy, supervised counseling practice, ethical standards, and applicable regulations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
19-3033
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
$106,850
$95,670
-$11,180 (-10.5%)
21-1014
Mental Health Counselors
N/A
N/A
N/A
21-1019
Counselors, All Other
$58,070
$66,510
+$8,440 (+14.5%)
25-1066
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,530
$72,790
-$20,740 (-22.2%)
42.9999
Psychology, Other.
(Cert2y+)
Any instructional program in psychology not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
19-3039
Psychologists, All Other
$111,340
$121,760
+$10,420 (+9.4%)
25-1066
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,530
$72,790
-$20,740 (-22.2%)
Liberal Arts (4)
Most Graduates (21.9%)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0101
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
(Cert<2y, Cert2y+)
A program that is a structured combination of the arts, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, emphasizing breadth of study. Includes instruction in independently designed, individualized, or regular programs.
A program that focuses on combined studies and research in the humanities subjects as distinguished from the social and physical sciences, emphasizing languages, literatures, art, music, philosophy and religion.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$96,150
+$1,680 (+1.8%)
24.0199
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.
(Cert<2y)
Any single instructional program in liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
99-9999
NO MATCH
N/A
N/A
N/A
Business (2)
Most Graduates (12.3%)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0101
Business/Commerce, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the general study of business, including the processes of interchanging goods and services (buying, selling and producing), business organization, and accounting as used in profit-making and nonprofit public and private institutions and agencies. The programs may prepare individuals to apply business principles and techniques in various occupational settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-1011
Chief Executives
$262,930
$190,950
-$71,980 (-27.4%)
11-1021
General and Operations Managers
$133,120
$133,330
+$210 (+0.2%)
11-2022
Sales Managers
$160,930
$186,070
+$25,140 (+15.6%)
11-3012
Administrative Services Managers
$126,030
$126,670
+$640 (+0.5%)
11-3013
Facilities Managers
$114,520
$109,920
-$4,600 (-4%)
11-3051
Industrial Production Managers
$129,180
$106,520
-$22,660 (-17.5%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
$116,010
$116,350
+$340 (+0.3%)
11-9021
Construction Managers
$119,660
$108,610
-$11,050 (-9.2%)
11-9072
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
$87,060
$112,560
+$25,500 (+29.3%)
11-9151
Social and Community Service Managers
$86,100
$105,080
+$18,980 (+22%)
11-9179
Personal Service Managers, All Other
$70,620
N/A
N/A
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
13-1051
Cost Estimators
$83,160
$84,870
+$1,710 (+2.1%)
13-1082
Project Management Specialists
$108,100
$109,320
+$1,220 (+1.1%)
13-1111
Management Analysts
$114,710
$105,200
-$9,510 (-8.3%)
13-2022
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$103,040
-$10,800 (-9.5%)
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(PostBacCert)
A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, organize, direct, and control the functions and processes of a firm or organization. Includes instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-1011
Chief Executives
$262,930
$190,950
-$71,980 (-27.4%)
11-1021
General and Operations Managers
$133,120
$133,330
+$210 (+0.2%)
11-2022
Sales Managers
$160,930
$186,070
+$25,140 (+15.6%)
11-3012
Administrative Services Managers
$126,030
$126,670
+$640 (+0.5%)
11-3013
Facilities Managers
$114,520
$109,920
-$4,600 (-4%)
11-3051
Industrial Production Managers
$129,180
$106,520
-$22,660 (-17.5%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
$116,010
$116,350
+$340 (+0.3%)
11-3111
Compensation and Benefits Managers
$156,230
$175,830
+$19,600 (+12.5%)
11-3121
Human Resources Managers
$160,480
$136,380
-$24,100 (-15%)
11-3131
Training and Development Managers
$140,590
$147,570
+$6,980 (+5%)
11-9021
Construction Managers
$119,660
$108,610
-$11,050 (-9.2%)
11-9072
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
$87,060
$112,560
+$25,500 (+29.3%)
11-9151
Social and Community Service Managers
$86,100
$105,080
+$18,980 (+22%)
11-9179
Personal Service Managers, All Other
$70,620
N/A
N/A
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
13-1051
Cost Estimators
$83,160
$84,870
+$1,710 (+2.1%)
13-1071
Human Resources Specialists
$79,730
$76,330
-$3,400 (-4.3%)
13-1081
Logisticians
$87,600
$97,540
+$9,940 (+11.3%)
13-1082
Project Management Specialists
$108,100
$109,320
+$1,220 (+1.1%)
13-1111
Management Analysts
$114,710
$105,200
-$9,510 (-8.3%)
13-1141
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
$82,920
$75,900
-$7,020 (-8.5%)
13-1199
Business Operations Specialists, All Other
$92,380
$104,630
+$12,250 (+13.3%)
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$103,040
-$10,800 (-9.5%)
Education (7)
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
A program that focuses on the principles and practice of administration in four-year colleges, universities and higher education systems, the study of higher education as an object of applied research, and which may prepare individuals to function as administrators in such settings. Includes instruction in higher education economics and finance; policy and planning studies; curriculum; faculty and labor relations; higher education law; college student services; research on higher education; institutional research; marketing and promotion; and issues of evaluation, accountability and philosophy.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9033
Education Administrators, Postsecondary
$124,450
$112,580
-$11,870 (-9.5%)
11-9039
Education Administrators, All Other
$99,460
$92,040
-$7,420 (-7.5%)
13.1001
Special Education and Teaching, General.
(PostBacCert)
A general program that focuses on the design and provision of teaching and other educational services to children or adults with special learning needs or disabilities, and that may prepare individuals to function as special education teachers in a collaborative or team environment. Includes instruction in diagnosing learning disabilities, developing individual education plans, teaching and supervising special education students, special education counseling, and applicable laws and policies.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-2051
Special Education Teachers, Preschool
$72,610
$66,110
-$6,500 (-9%)
25-2055
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-2056
Special Education Teachers, Elementary School
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-2057
Special Education Teachers, Middle School
$72,310
$64,840
-$7,470 (-10.3%)
25-2058
Special Education Teachers, Secondary School
$74,610
$64,550
-$10,060 (-13.5%)
25-2059
Special Education Teachers, All Other
$74,180
$61,860
-$12,320 (-16.6%)
25-9043
Teaching Assistants, Special Education
N/A
N/A
N/A
13.1202
Elementary Education and Teaching.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to teach students in the elementary grades, which may include kindergarten through grade eight, depending on the school system or state regulations. Includes preparation to teach all elementary education subject matter.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1081
Education Teachers, Postsecondary
$78,500
$86,330
+$7,830 (+10%)
25-2021
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
A program that prepares individuals to teach students at more than one educational level, such as a combined program in elementary/secondary, early childhood/elementary, elementary/middle school, or junior high/high school teacher education.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1081
Education Teachers, Postsecondary
$78,500
$86,330
+$7,830 (+10%)
25-2011
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
$41,450
$42,720
+$1,270 (+3.1%)
25-2012
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education
$67,020
$58,590
-$8,430 (-12.6%)
25-2021
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
$69,790
$61,980
-$7,810 (-11.2%)
25-2022
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$70,040
$62,370
-$7,670 (-11%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
13.1210
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to teach students ranging in age from infancy through eight years (grade three), depending on the school system or state regulations. Includes preparation to teach all relevant subject matter.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1081
Education Teachers, Postsecondary
$78,500
$86,330
+$7,830 (+10%)
25-2011
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
$41,450
$42,720
+$1,270 (+3.1%)
25-2012
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education
$67,020
$58,590
-$8,430 (-12.6%)
25-2021
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
$69,790
$61,980
-$7,810 (-11.2%)
25-9042
Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-9043
Teaching Assistants, Special Education
N/A
N/A
N/A
13.1312
Music Teacher Education.
(PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to teach music and music appreciation programs at various educational levels.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1081
Education Teachers, Postsecondary
$78,500
$86,330
+$7,830 (+10%)
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,730
-$31,510 (-30.8%)
25-2022
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$70,040
$62,370
-$7,670 (-11%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
13.1314
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.
(PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to teach physical education programs and/or to coach sports at various educational levels.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1081
Education Teachers, Postsecondary
$78,500
$86,330
+$7,830 (+10%)
25-1193
Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,980
$57,300
-$30,680 (-34.9%)
25-2022
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$70,040
$62,370
-$7,670 (-11%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
27-2022
Coaches and Scouts
$58,910
$50,650
-$8,260 (-14%)
39-9031
Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors
$51,360
$59,340
+$7,980 (+15.5%)
Kinesiology (2)
Exercise Science, Sports Medicine and Physical Recreation
31.0505
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.
(Cert2y+)
A scientific program that focuses on the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and biophysics of human movement, and applications to exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation. Includes instruction in biomechanics, motor behavior, motor development and coordination, motor neurophysiology, performance research, rehabilitative therapies, the development of diagnostic and rehabilitative methods and equipment, and related analytical methods and procedures in applied exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
29-1128
Exercise Physiologists
$59,620
$59,750
+$130 (+0.2%)
31.0508
Sports Studies.
(PostBacCert)
A program that focuses on the psychological, sociological, and historical aspects of sport and physical activity. Includes instruction in theory of sport, sport psychology, sport in American society, gender and race/ethnicity and sport, and sports history.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1193
Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,980
$57,300
-$30,680 (-34.9%)
Social Sciences (2)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies
45.1002
American Government and Politics (United States).
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of United States political institutions and behavior. Includes instruction in American political theory, political parties and interest groups, state and local governments, Constitutional law, federalism and national institutions, executive and legislative politics, judicial politics, popular attitudes and media influences, political research methods, and applications to the study of specific issues and institutions.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
19-3094
Political Scientists
$137,600
N/A
N/A
25-1065
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,160
N/A
N/A
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
45.1101
Sociology, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of human social institutions and social relationships. Includes instruction in social theory, sociological research methods, social organization and structure, social stratification and hierarchies, dynamics of social change, family structures, social deviance and control, and applications to the study of specific social groups, social institutions, and social problems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
19-3041
Sociologists
$111,670
N/A
N/A
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$52,690
-$10,870 (-17.1%)
25-1067
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,270
N/A
N/A
Biological Sciences (1)
Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research
A general program of biology at the introductory, basic level or a program in biology or the biological sciences that is undifferentiated as to title or content. Includes instruction in general biology and programs covering a variety of biological specializations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,110
-$61,390 (-35.4%)
19-1029
Biological Scientists, All Other
$100,440
$78,130
-$22,310 (-22.2%)
19-1099
Life Scientists, All Other
$101,940
N/A
N/A
19-4012
Agricultural Technicians
$49,680
$58,110
+$8,430 (+17%)
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$67,370
+$12,970 (+23.8%)
19-4021
Biological Technicians
$58,020
$61,110
+$3,090 (+5.3%)
19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
$75,260
$74,040
-$1,220 (-1.6%)
25-1042
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$101,340
$62,490
-$38,850 (-38.3%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
Arts (3)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0599
Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other.
(Cert2y+)
Any instructional program in dramatic/theatre arts and stagecraft not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,730
-$31,510 (-30.8%)
27-2011
Actors
N/A
N/A
N/A
27-2012
Producers and Directors
$114,280
$95,850
-$18,430 (-16.1%)
27-2099
Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other
N/A
N/A
N/A
39-3092
Costume Attendants
$65,890
$56,370
-$9,520 (-14.4%)
50.0702
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to generally function as creative artists in the visual and plastic media. Includes instruction in the traditional fine arts media (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, CAD/CAM) and/or modern media (ceramics, textiles, intermedia, photography, digital images), theory of art, color theory, composition and perspective, anatomy, the techniques and procedures for maintaining equipment and managing a studio, and art portfolio marketing.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,730
-$31,510 (-30.8%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$79,440
+$2,990 (+3.9%)
27-1019
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
$79,490
$58,200
-$21,290 (-26.8%)
50.0902
Music History, Literature, and Theory.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the study of the historical evolution of music as a social and intellectual phenomenon, the development of musical instruments and techniques, and the analysis and criticism of musical literature. Includes instruction in music history research methods, aesthetic analysis of musical compositions, history of musical writing and notation, the development of musical instruments, the development of music theory, and the study of specific periods, cultural traditions, styles, and themes.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$70,730
-$31,510 (-30.8%)
Health (1)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
A program that generally prepares individuals in the knowledge, techniques and procedures for promoting health, providing care for sick, disabled, infirmed, or other individuals or groups. Includes instruction in the administration of medication and treatments, assisting a physician during treatments and examinations, Referring patients to physicians and other health care specialists, and planning education for health maintenance.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1072
Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,090
$76,980
-$10,110 (-11.6%)
29-1141
Registered Nurses
$98,430
$99,290
+$860 (+0.9%)
English (2)
English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis
23.0101
English Language and Literature, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the English language, including its history, structure and related communications skills; and the literature and culture of English-speaking peoples.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1123
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,400
$74,930
-$15,470 (-17.1%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
43-9081
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
$52,730
$55,530
+$2,800 (+5.3%)
23.1302
Creative Writing.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the process and techniques of original composition in various literary forms such as the short story, poetry, the novel, and others. Includes instruction in technical and editorial skills, criticism, and the marketing of finished manuscripts.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
25-1123
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,400
$74,930
-$15,470 (-17.1%)
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$96,150
+$1,680 (+1.8%)
27-3041
Editors
$85,700
$77,670
-$8,030 (-9.4%)
27-3043
Writers and Authors
$85,780
$81,220
-$4,560 (-5.3%)
Physical Sciences (2)
Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research
40.0501
Chemistry, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behavior of matter, including its micro- and macro-structure, the processes of chemical change, and the theoretical description and laboratory simulation of these phenomena.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,110
-$61,390 (-35.4%)
19-2031
Chemists
$95,940
$98,590
+$2,650 (+2.8%)
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$67,370
+$12,970 (+23.8%)
19-4031
Chemical Technicians
$61,300
$56,820
-$4,480 (-7.3%)
19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
$75,260
$74,040
-$1,220 (-1.6%)
25-1052
Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
$103,030
$84,700
-$18,330 (-17.8%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
40.0601
Geology/Earth Science, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the scientific study of the earth; the forces acting upon it; and the behavior of the solids, liquids and gases comprising it. Includes instruction in historical geology, geomorphology, and sedimentology, the chemistry of rocks and soils, stratigraphy, mineralogy, petrology, geostatistics, volcanology, glaciology, geophysical principles, and applications to research and industrial problems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,110
-$61,390 (-35.4%)
19-2042
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
$112,950
$130,770
+$17,820 (+15.8%)
Communication (2)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
09.0199
Communication and Media Studies, Other.
(Cert2y+)
Any instructional program in communication and media studies not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
99-9999
NO MATCH
N/A
N/A
N/A
09.0900
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.
(Cert2y+)
Instructional content for this group of programs is defined in codes 09.0900 - 09.0999.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-2011
Advertising and Promotions Managers
$149,270
$169,330
+$20,060 (+13.4%)
11-2032
Public Relations Managers
$163,520
$141,090
-$22,430 (-13.7%)
11-2033
Fundraising Managers
$137,290
$137,120
-$170 (-0.1%)
13-1131
Fundraisers
$73,130
$73,960
+$830 (+1.1%)
25-1122
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,340
$67,940
-$22,400 (-24.8%)
27-3031
Public Relations Specialists
$80,310
N/A
N/A
Public Services (1)
Public Administration, Social Work and Community Services
44.0401
Public Administration.
(PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to serve as managers in the executive arm of local, state, and federal government and that focuses on the systematic study of executive organization and management. Includes instruction in the roles, development, and principles of public administration; the management of public policy; executive-legislative relations; public budgetary processes and financial management; administrative law; public personnel management; professional ethics; and research methods.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-1011
Chief Executives
$262,930
$190,950
-$71,980 (-27.4%)
11-1021
General and Operations Managers
$133,120
$133,330
+$210 (+0.2%)
11-1031
Legislators
$67,390
$78,240
+$10,850 (+16.1%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
$116,010
$116,350
+$340 (+0.3%)
11-9131
Postmasters and Mail Superintendents
$93,760
$78,920
-$14,840 (-15.8%)
11-9151
Social and Community Service Managers
$86,100
$105,080
+$18,980 (+22%)
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
Interdisciplinary (1)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
30.1202
Cultural Resource Management and Policy Analysis.
(PostBacCert)
A program that focuses on the application of cultural studies, public policy analysis, and management skills to planning, promoting, and implementing programs to preserve and protect cultural heritage sites and artifacts. Includes instruction in historical preservation and conservation, business management, policy analysis, applied economics, public relations, applied history, historical archaeology, and environmental impact studies.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
19-3093
Historians
$78,470
$72,090
-$6,380 (-8.1%)
25-1062
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,350
$82,820
-$14,530 (-14.9%)
25-4011
Archivists
$67,620
$73,380
+$5,760 (+8.5%)
History (1)
Historical Studies, Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Research
54.0102
American History (United States).
(PostBacCert)
A program that focuses on the development of American society, culture, and institutions from the Pre-Columbian period to the present. Includes instruction in American historiography, American history sources and materials, historical research methods, and applications to the study of specific themes, issues, periods, and institutions.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$135,420
-$14,470 (-9.7%)
19-3093
Historians
$78,470
$72,090
-$6,380 (-8.1%)
25-1125
History Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,710
$66,190
-$27,520 (-29.4%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
Mathematics (1)
Mathematical Sciences, Statistics and Computational Analysis
27.0101
Mathematics, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the analysis of quantities, magnitudes, forms, and their relationships, using symbolic logic and language. Includes instruction in algebra, calculus, functional analysis, geometry, number theory, logic, topology and other mathematical specializations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Colorado
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Colorado Avg
CO vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,110
-$61,390 (-35.4%)
15-2021
Mathematicians
$122,520
$114,240
-$8,280 (-6.8%)
15-2041
Statisticians
$112,330
$110,080
-$2,250 (-2%)
15-2051
Data Scientists
$124,590
$100,670
-$23,920 (-19.2%)
15-2099
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
$84,700
N/A
N/A
25-1022
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$92,880
$63,550
-$29,330 (-31.6%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$63,640
-$10,060 (-13.6%)
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate
and graduate students
Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
$25,199
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
$37,271
In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$9,776
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$21,848
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
$9,553 (on) / $14,679 (off)
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
$1,460
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
$4,410
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
$3,105
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$10,425
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$13,161
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for
undergraduate students
17%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$9,393
Avg. Loan
$6,454
Avg. Federal Loan
$5,163
Additional
Students with Any Grant
268
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
152
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
145
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$4,805
Average amount of institutional grant awarded
Avg. Pell Grant
$5,135
Average amount of Pell Grant awarded to recipients
Avg. State/Local Grant
$5,408
Average amount of state or local grant awarded to recipients
Pell Grant Recipients
49%
Percentage of students who received Pell Grant
State/Local Grant Recipients
42%
Percentage of students who received state or local grant
Institutional Grant Recipients
76%
Percentage of students awarded institutional grants
Federal Grant Recipients
49%
Percentage of students who received federal grant
Any Grant Recipients
91%
Percentage of students who received any type of grant
Any Loan Recipients
52%
Percentage of students who received any kind of student loan
Federal Loan Recipients
51%
Percentage of students who received a federal loan
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and
long-term value of education.
32%
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
55%
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$28,262 – $64,019
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$28,262 (25th %)$64,019 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years:
$44,372
Median Salary After 6 Years
$38,338
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$44,372
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency
status.
3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
46.0%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
60.3%
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$19,500
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
Low38.3%
Middle50.3%
High59.3%
Repayment by Dependency
Dependent50.1%
Independent38.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Adams State University
How much does it cost to attend Adams State University?
The annual tuition at Adams State University is $9,776 for in-state students and $21,848 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $25,199 for in-state students and $37,271 for out-of-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $9,553 (on) / $14,679 (off) and books and supplies $1,460.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does Adams State University offer?
Adams State University offers 40 academic programs across 16 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate (Research).
Most popular program areas include:
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy (7 programs)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities (4 programs)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies (4 programs)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (3 programs)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations (2 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at Adams State University?
Adams State University provides financial aid to 17% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $9,393 and average loans of $6,454.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
Pell grants: $5,135
State/Local grants: $5,408
Institutional grants: $4,805
Federal loans: $5,163
The university supports 268 students with grants and 152 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for Adams State University graduates?
Adams State University graduates earn a median salary of $38,338 after 6 years and $44,372 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $28,262 (25th percentile) to $64,019 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $66,100 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.