When looking for colleges in Denver, larger schools tend to catch your eye first.

However, just because a school has a large student body and campus doesn't necessarily mean it's the best choice. For students who want to study in a more intimate setting with closer relationships with professors, Regis University is definitely worth considering.

Founded in 1877, Regis University is a private Catholic university affiliated with the Jesuits. It's a well-known institution for those who have lived in Denver for a long time, and it has a different atmosphere compared to large state universities. True to Jesuit education, it aims to teach not just job skills but also knowledge, ethics, and social responsibility.

The majors offered include a wide range of fields such as business, computer science, nursing, health sciences, education, and social sciences. One of the advantages of a smaller private university is that students often feel less lost in a crowd. This environment may be particularly suitable for students who value relationships with professors and a strong school community.

That said, it is not a cheap school. For the 2026-2027 academic year, the full-time undergraduate tuition is $47,490 per year. This amount applies to typical full-time students taking 12-18 credits per semester, while part-time students pay $1,583 per credit. Nursing is slightly more expensive, with annual tuition at $48,490.

Additionally, you need to consider housing and meal costs. For example, a standard double room in the dorms can range from about $4,449 to $4,798 per semester, and the largest meal plan costs $3,925 per semester. So, when you add tuition, housing, and meals together, the total can easily exceed $60,000 per year. When you factor in the costs of books, transportation, and personal expenses, the actual financial burden can be even greater.

However, you shouldn't judge private college tuition solely based on the listed amounts. The actual amount families pay can vary significantly due to scholarships, grants, and financial aid. Therefore, if you're considering Regis, it's better to look at the financial aid package you might receive after acceptance rather than just the $47,490 figure.

There are also options for those looking to return to school while working. For the 2026-2027 academic year, adult undergraduate courses range from $599 to $975 per credit, while graduate courses are priced between $679 and $1,216. There are online and programs designed for working adults, so you don't have to think of it as a school only for traditional college students in their 20s.

Some may worry about the religious aspect, but a Catholic university is not exclusively for Catholic students. What matters more is whether the educational philosophy and atmosphere of the school align with the student's values. For students who desire a deeper college experience with strong relationships with professors and a sense of community, Regis University in Denver is worth considering.