
Take the Next Step in Your Academic Journey
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Top 3 Reasons to Choose Graduate Studies at Western

Personalized Faculty Support & Mentorship
Western’s graduate programs ensure that students receive individualized attention, mentorship, and guidance throughout their studies.

Unique & Industry-Focused Programs
Many of Western’s graduate programs are tailored to niche industries, giving students specialized knowledge and hands-on experience that aligns with their career goals.

Flexible & Career-Friendly Structure
Many of Western’s graduate programs are designed with working professionals in mind, offering online, hybrid, or low-residency options that allow students to balance their education with work, family, and other commitments.
Master's Programs
Western Colorado University’s School of Graduate Studies (SGS) is comprised of cutting-edge graduate programs committed to accelerating your career. Upon joining our graduate community, you will become part of an expansive network of graduate professionals who are eager to learn, interact and explore together.
Graduate Certificates
Western Colorado University's graduate certificates offer a flexible, fast-track option for advancing your career without the full commitment of a master’s degree. Designed for working professionals or those exploring a new field, these programs provide focused, practical knowledge you can apply immediately on the job. Whether you're looking to upskill, specialize, or test the waters before pursuing a full graduate degree, our certificates are a smart, affordable way to move forward.

Flexible Course Delivery
Many of our master’s programs and graduate certificates are designed with flexibility in mind. Depending on the program, courses may be delivered in a fully in-person format, fully online (asynchronous), or as a hybrid that blends both. This allows you to tailor your graduate experience to fit your professional and personal schedule.
Each program varies in how it delivers courses, so we recommend checking directly with your selected program for specific details about course formats, scheduling, and any in-person requirements. Our faculty and admissions team are happy to help you find the path that works best for you.
Department News

CMarie Fuhrman’s New Collection, Salmon Weather, Reflects on Change, Connection to Place
Elizabeth Bradfield Named New Poetry Concentration Director at Western’s Graduate Program in Creative Writing
Western’s Kevin J. Anderson Co-Produces HBO Max’s Dune: Prophecy
Southwestern Forests Burn Only a Fraction as Often as They Once Did. But When They Do, the Consequences are Severe
Western Colorado University Professor Julian Rubinstein Wins Emmy Award for Documentary “The Holly”
Helpful Information to Guide Your Graduate Journey
We recognize that applying to graduate school can seem like a big undertaking. Here’s a list of resources and helpful information to guide you through applying to our graduate programs.
School of Graduate Studies
Contact Information
Contact Location
Western Colorado University
Quigley Hall 115
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231