Building the Future of Science at Colorado College
The application of scientific inquiry to pressing real-world problems like climate change and public heath crises requires the kind of critical thinking, interdisciplinary perspective, and understanding of the human condition developed through a liberal arts education.
To meet this demand and strengthen our national leadership in undergraduate science education and research, Colorado College is launching an ambitious science initiative with bold investment in our students, faculty, and shared future.
The vision for this project explores both renovation and new construction to create a dynamic science neighborhood in the northeast part of campus, with state-of-the-art teaching labs designed for experiential, Block-Plan-style learning and collaborative research facilities for faculty and students.
Strength in the Sciences—It Starts Here
At CC, our students learn how to solve not only scientific problems, but human problems.
- 40% of CC students major in science or interdisciplinary science fields
- CC is 1 of only 36 liberal arts schools with the Carnegie Research Colleges and Universities designation—a new designation that recognizes schools that are not R1- or R2-level research institutions, yet are extraordinarily research active.
- Nearly 50% of graduates pursue advanced degrees, with:
- 27% in the sciences
- 22% in medical/health professions
The Urgency
Investing in this transformative initiative enables us to:
- Shape a collaborative hub, leveraging the power of the liberal arts for scientific inquiry
- Fuel groundbreaking research and innovation
- Empower students to lead with purpose in a rapidly changing world
We must continue to evolve to prepare students not just to keep up, but to lead with purpose. Our students are ready.
These new spaces will:
- Expand capacity for high-demand courses
- Support immersive, hands-on learning on the Block Plan
- Advance student and faculty research
- Modernize lab spaces and equipment to meet new standards for teaching and research
- Center on collaboration and interdisciplinary learning
- Hold sustainability at the core
- Inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators, and problem solvers
It’s a bold new era for science at CC—one where curiosity thrives, collaboration sparks discovery, and the next generation of problem solvers are born.
Where We're Headed
The project is envisioned as a multi-component project that involves renovation of existing science facilities and new construction.
Projected Milestones
| Title | Action | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Programming Study | Programming study to identify options based on academic program needs and campus space research | March 2024 |
| Evaluation | Board of Trustees evaluation of options, funding and timelines | June 2024 Board of Trustees retreat |
| Engineering Study | Engineering Study for Olin Hall | October 2024 |
| RFP | RFP for conceptual and design architect | Winter 2025 |
| Design | Conceptual design | May-November 2025 |
| Financing and Detailed Planning | Fundraising, schematic design, and contractor selection | Winter 2025-Winter 2027 |
| Groundbreaking | Estimated - Break ground | Winter 2027-28 |