The University of Northern Colorado opened on October 6, 1890, as the
State Normal School to train qualified teachers for the state's public schools. Greeley's
citizens raised the necessary money for the first building. At that time, certificates were granted upon the completion of a two
year course. In 1911 the school's name was changed to
Colorado State Teachers
College and offered bachelor degrees after completion of a four year course. In 1935
the name changed again to
Colorado State College of Education to recognize the graduate program, which was started in
1913. In 1957 the name was shortened to
Colorado
State College to recognize the further growth of programs and offerings. Finally, in 1970 the name was changed to the current
University of Northern Colorado.