Colleges have as their primary mission the education of students and the fundamental purpose of college residence halls is to promote student learning and development.
Western State College residence halls and apartments have a living-learning emphasis. Professional and student staff are selected and trained, programs are designed and services are offered that intentionally link a student’s living environment (where they spend a great deal of time) to their academic success. We are pleased to offer:
Indroducing Western State's Living/Learning Centers

*Independent Living: Chipeta and Shavano Apartments
Emphasizes student independence and self- responsibility . Student leaders and professional staff will support independence and self- responsibility in this living environment designed especially for older students. Click here to find out more about the Shavano Complex and Chipeta Apartments.
*First-Year Experience Living/Learning Center: Escalante Complex (Dolores, Colorado, Tomichi, and Crystal Halls)
Escalante Complex is home to the First-Year Experience Living/Learning Center. We are excited to offer an exceptional living opportunity developed especially to help new students transition successfully into the academic learning community of Western State College. Possible activities include: interaction with professors and fellow students, outdoor discovery/adventure trips, campus activities, study groups, peer mentoring, and leadership. Click here to find out more about the Escalante Complex.
*Community Life: Mears Complex
Emphasizes student involvement and responsibility in their living community. Student leaders and professional staff will work with floor members to establish community standards for behavior and active participation. Involvement and leadership in hall council will present ideal opportunities for students who have an interest in volunteerism, civic engagement and leadership. Click here to find out more about the Mears Complex.
*Academic Connections Living/Learning Center: Ute Hall
Ute hall is home to the Academic Connections Living/Learning Center for students interested in: Arts, Science & Environmental Studies, and Wellness
Residence Life in conjunction with the Art, Recreation and Science and environmental Studies Departments designed a community to compliment classroom learning for students interested in exploring the academic areas. Possible activities include: interaction with professors and fellow students, student galleries and art shows, study groups, service-learning opportunities, museum trips, forest restoration, and trail clearing. Click here to find out more about Ute Hall.
Campus Map of Our Buildings
Shavano Apartment Complex --> Red
Mears Complex --> Yellow
Chipeta Hall --> Green
Escalante Complex --> Blue
Ute Hall --> Orange
Faculty and Staff Housing --> Purple
Apartments & Residence Halls
Residence Halls and apartments at Western State College of Colorado are designed to accommodate students' academic needs and personal comfort. Common characteristics include:
- Co-ed Population
- All-female wing in Ute Hall
- All-male wing in Ute Hall
- All buildings are tobacco-free.
- Cable Television Access
- Local Telephone Access
- Extra Long Twin Beds (39"W x 80"L)
- Computer labs and internet availability
- Laundry facilities (coin operated)
