Adams State University emblem

Adams State University

Alamosa, United States • Founded 1921

Updated Jun 2026

Overview

Acronyms: ASU
Founded: 1921
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Public
Entity Type: Non-profit
Motto: Great Stories Begin Here
Colours: Green and white
Mascot: Grizzly bear
Adams State University main campus view
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Founded in 1921, the Adams State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the rural setting of the medium town of Alamosa (population range of 2,500-9,999 inhabitants), Colorado.

Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Adams State University (ASU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Adams State University (ASU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

This 103-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 100% making this US higher education organization a non-selective institution.

ASU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Adams State University's coordinates, postal address, and the contact channels admissions teams respond on. Campus tour bookings often have their own page distinct from general contact channels.

Address: 208 Edgemont Boulevard
Postal Code: 81101
Phone: +1 (719) 587 7011
Fax: +1 (719) 587 7522
Social Media:

Academic Details

A snapshot of Adams State University's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and the bodies recognising its work. Useful as a benchmark when comparing against peer institutions or national leaders.

Recognition: Higher Learning Commission
Total Students: 1,250
Student Enrollment: 3
Academic Staff Range: 200-299
Campus Setting: Rural
Memberships & Networks
American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Academic Structures

The academic-side structure of Adams State University, broken down by unit type. International branch campuses, where they exist, are sometimes organised as separate units with their own structure.

Unit 11 items
  • Art Department
  • Department of Biology
  • Department of Chemistry
  • Department of History, Government and Philosophy
  • Department of Human Performance and Physical Education
  • Department of Psychology
  • Department of Sociology
  • Department of Teacher Education
  • Graduate School
  • Music Department
  • School of Business

Programs Offered

The programmes available at Adams State University are organised by level. Most institutions cluster intake decisions by faculty, so application timelines often run in waves through the year.

35 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Bachelor's Degree 21 programmes

Bachelor's Degree in Biology, General
Biological Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Business/Commerce, General
Business Administration
Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
Chemistry
Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Media Studies
Communication Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Performing Arts
Bachelor's Degree in English Language and Literature, General
English Language Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Fine and Studio Arts
Visual Arts
Bachelor's Degree in Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
Earth Sciences & Geology
Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Liberal Arts
Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics
Mathematics

Showing 10 of 21.

Master's Degree 12 programmes

Master's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Master's Degree in Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Master's Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision
Educational Leadership
Master's Degree in Fine and Studio Arts
Visual Arts
Master's Degree in Historic Preservation and Conservation
Liberal Arts
Master's Degree in History
History
Master's Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Liberal Arts
Master's Degree in Public Administration
Public Administration
Master's Degree in Special Education and Teaching
Special Education
Master's Degree in Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
Sport and Exercise Science

Showing 10 of 12.

Doctorate 1 programme

Doctorate in Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Clinical Psychology

Associate's Degree 1 programme

Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Liberal Arts

How to apply to Adams State University

A short guide to applying to Adams State University — five steps covering the path from programme selection to confirmation of receipt.

  1. 1
    Research programmes at Adams State University

    Adams State University's catalogue includes 35 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

  2. 2
    Review admissions criteria

    Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Adams State University's admissions process.

  3. 3
    Gather supporting documents

    Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.

  4. 4
    Lodge your application

    Submit your completed application through Adams State University's official website at www.adams.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.

  5. 5
    Confirm receipt and track progress

    Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (719) 587 7011. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about Adams State University

Below are the key facts most prospective students ask about Adams State University, drawn directly from institutional records.

In what year was Adams State University established?

Adams State University was founded in 1921 (approximately 105 years ago).

In which city is Adams State University?

Adams State University is based in Alamosa, United States.

What is Adams State University's control type?

Adams State University is a public institution.

How many students study at Adams State University?

Adams State University has approximately 3,000-3,999 students.

What is Adams State University's academic structure?

Adams State University is organised into 11 academic units across its disciplines.

Is Adams State University accredited?

Adams State University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.

Where can I learn more about Adams State University?

You can find Adams State University online at www.adams.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

Ranking methodologies vary across the United States — national rankings, subject-specific rankings, and international tables can each tell different stories about the same universities.

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Member-only fellowships through National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) are open to students at Adams State University and the universities below. These can be less competitive than open competitions because the applicant pool is narrower.

Faculties at nearby universities

Other institutions in Adams State University's region offer similar admissions cycles and overlapping subject areas, listed below for comparison. Regional clusters often share employer networks and post-study career pathways.

Where Else to Study Liberal Arts

Interested in Liberal Arts but want alternatives to Adams State University? These institutions in the United States also offer programmes in this field, each with their own specialisations and admissions paths. Comparing the curriculum across schools often surfaces differences worth weighing.

Universities Compared with Adams State University

Beyond Adams State University, several other universities operate at a comparable level — by ranking, heritage, or scale. They are worth knowing as you build your shortlist, particularly if you want options at the same competitive tier.

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