Colorado State University (CSU) Pueblo’s RISE Initiative Opens Affordable Pathway For Kansas Students

Colorado State University Pueblo (CSU Pueblo) today highlighted its Regional In-State Equivalent (RISE) tuition program and its targeted outreach to students in Kansas.

As one of America’s leading Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI), CSU Pueblo now offers a more affordable pathway to a four-year degree through the RISE program. This initiative allows first-time and transfer undergraduate students from Kansas and nine other neighboring states to pay the equivalent per-credit tuition rate as Colorado residents.

“College should be an attainable next step — and not a financial stretch,” said Kristyn White Davis, Vice President for Enrollment Management, Marketing & Extended Studies at CSU Pueblo. “RISE removes one of the biggest barriers for students across our region by offering Colorado resident tuition to eligible students from nearby states like Kansas — enabling talented students to pursue a high-value education without paying an out-of-state premium.”

RISE applies to residents of Arizona, California, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah and Wyoming. The program also extends in-state equivalent rates to students from five international partner countries.

Under RISE eligible students pay approximately $410.85 per credit hour — roughly $15,940 for a full-time academic year at the resident rate — representing thousands in annual savings compared with typical out-of-state costs.

The university’s total enrollment increased in Fall 2025 to 3,847 students as CSU Pueblo continues its strategic growth toward a 4,000-student goal — strengthening academic offerings and student support services for visitors from the region in the process.

Kansas has an established but changing college-going landscape - Recent statewide higher-education reports show shifts in where high-school graduates enroll and continuing concerns about in-state and out-of-state affordability — trends that make new affordable, regional options especially relevant to Kansas families and counselors working to expand postsecondary access.

By extending the RISE rate to Kansas residents, CSU Pueblo aims to reduce cost barriers while providing strong academic programs, hands-on learning, and robust support for first-generation and transfer students who are seeking over 300 days of sunshine and close proximity to the mountains and outdoor activities.

RISE students will have access to CSU Pueblo’s full suite of student success resources — including academic advising, tutoring and career services — plus experiential learning opportunities across fields such as business, education, health professions, engineering cybersecurity, and the sciences. The university’s campus life, affordability supports and faculty mentoring are highlighted as part of CSU Pueblo’s recruitment and retention efforts for regional students.

“Expanding access across our region is central to CSU Pueblo’s mission,” added Kristyn White Davis. “RISE helps us welcome students who might otherwise be priced out of a four-year degree”.

“We’re excited to partner with Kansas high schools, counselors and community organizations to show students that a high-quality, career-focused education is within reach.”

Note To Editors

Prospective students in Kansas interested in RISE are encouraged to visit CSU Pueblo’s RISE information page, request information, or speak directly with an admissions counselor to determine eligibility.

CSU Pueblo also offers virtual information sessions and individualized cost estimates to help families compare options and calculate savings.

Contact Information

Sam Amsterdam

Head of Positioning

Strategic Partnerships

Contact via E-mail