Adams State University
Alamosa, Colorado 81101
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — close-knit campus
Adams State University is a public town institution in Alamosa, Colorado. The school is accessible to a wide range of students.
A small campus of 1.2K undergraduates with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
32% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $44,372 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $14,173.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Grizzlies and
History & Fun Facts
- •History Adams State was founded in 1921 as a teacher's college.
- •In 1926, Harriet Dalzell Hester became the university's first graduate.
- •She became the school's first librarian and an Alamosa County school superintendent.
- •The school adopted the name Adams State College in 1946, corresponding with the expansion of its undergraduate and graduate programs.
- •In 2012, the institution's name changed again, to Adams State University.
Source: Wikipedia
Schools Like This
Western Colorado University
Gunnison, CO · Town · Public
Fort Lewis College
Durango, CO · Town · Public
United States Air Force Academy
USAF Academy, CO · Rural · Public
Colorado State University Pueblo
Pueblo, CO · Urban · Public
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
67.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
1.8%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$11,750
Programs (37)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
55%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
8
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from CO state average