Western was established in 1901. It was the first college on Colorado's Western Slope and is the fourth oldest public college in the state.

The College actually opened for classes in 1911 as the Colorado State Normal School. Originally planned as a preparatory college for teachers, Western's role changed when it became Western State College in 1923. Though for many years Western was known for its graduates who became teachers, it was, in fact, the first Colorado college designed to teach a primarily liberal arts curriculum, and the liberal arts have remained at the core of Western's academic life ever since.

Some of Western's most cherished buildings-hallmarks of the lasting durability of the College-were constructed during the lean years of the Depression. Savage Library, the President's House, and Ute Hall are striking architecturally and add character to the campus.

During the postwar years of the 1940s, Western's enrollment soared as veterans took advantage of the GI Bill and new programs were added. By the 1970s, enrollment was exceeding 3,000, crowding the College so much that new f... [ Read All ]