| and | are once again gaining recognition as leaders in education. These two universities are the sole representatives from Colorado in the prestigious tier 2 research category, securing the sixth position nationally. This achievement marks over a decade of consistent inclusion in these rankings.
The rankings acknowledge institutions that excel in supporting military students by providing dedicated resources to ensure the academic and future success of veterans. Both universities are dedicated to delivering high-quality education tailored to the unique needs of those who are currently serving, have served, or are connected to the military, including active duty personnel, guard members, reservists, military spouses, and veterans. This commitment is facilitated through the joint efforts of the dual-campus Veterans and Military Student Services (VMSS) office.
Dr. Leona Lopez, the director of VMSS, emphasized the universities’ dedication to supporting veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families. The focus is not only on academic excellence but also on the overall well-being and success of the students. VMSS offers comprehensive programs and resources aimed at nurturing student success and providing a supportive environment beyond the classroom. The team at VMSS values the diverse experiences that military-affiliated students bring to the campus and is well-versed in military culture, understanding the challenges faced by students transitioning from military service to academic life.
Support for Military-Connected Students and Tailored Programs
In the fall of 2023, a total of 1,853 military-connected students were enrolled, with 1,589 at CU Denver, 262 at CU Anschutz Medical Campus, and two students enrolled in both campuses concurrently. Specialized services are in place to assist veterans, active-duty military personnel, and military-connected students in their academic pursuits and career advancement. These services offer holistic support, connecting students with both campus and community resources to address their various needs effectively.
The benefits and services provided include waived admission application fees, priority registration, military service credit evaluation, tutoring, peer mentoring, referrals to community and institutional resources, and access to professional development programs.
Through initiatives like the peer-to-peer advisor program, community referrals, and institutional support, VMSS ensures that students have access to a wide range of additional services to support their academic success. These services cover areas such as financial aid, legal assistance, mental health support, crisis intervention, and more.
The Veterans Employee Resource Group participated in the 2023 Veterans Carry the Load Event.
Insights into Military Friendly® Schools
The Military Friendly® Schools list is compiled annually through extensive research utilizing public data sources from over 8,800 schools nationwide, feedback from student veterans, and responses to the data-driven Military Friendly® Schools survey. This survey, offered at no cost, is open to all postsecondary institutions interested in participating.
The Military Friendly® rankings are categorized into ten groups, including tier 1 and 2 doctoral research universities, private institutions offering doctoral programs, and large and small public universities. Recognitions are awarded in various tiers such as Top Ten (with specific rankings), Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Designated, based on the institutions’ commitment to supporting military-affiliated students.