The school was founded in 1874 to provide education in mining and metallurgy, and it has since expanded to include programs in engineering, applied science, and related fields.
CSM has an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 6,000 students and a student-faculty ratio of 16:1.
The school is known for its rigorous academic programs and its strong focus on applied research and practical training.
CSM offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, geology, energy, environmental science, and materials science.
The school has a number of unique research centers and institutes, including the Colorado Center for Biorefining and Biofuels, the Center for Underground Construction and Tunneling, and the Advanced Water Technology Center.
CSM has a strong athletic program, with 18 NCAA Division II varsity teams and numerous club and intramural sports.
The school has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, and it has received numerous awards for its sustainable practices and programs.
CSM has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 70 countries represented on campus.
Notable alumni of the Colorado School of Mines include former NASA astronaut Jim Voss, former CEO of Halliburton David Lesar, and former U.S. Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton.