In a recent article on Greatist.com, DU was ranked the 5th healthiest college campus in the country. The university made this list because of its comprehensive focus on both the mental and physical health of its students.

This focus is due in large part to the Ritchie Center, where, with your Pioneer Card, you can enjoy a diverse range of physical activities free of charge. No matter if you are looking to do a workout routine alone or with a friend, join a yoga or spin class or make use of the pool; the Ritchie center has options for everyone. Intramural and club sports also contribute to a healthy and active student body.

However, this emphasis on health is not only physical—priority is put on the mental aspect as well. At the Health and Counseling Center, students can visit and talk about sensitive topics, such as alcohol and stress.

The Healthy Peer Empowerment program (HYPE), which trains students in ways to help and assist their fellow students with health-related topics, is also a large success on campus. It allows students who may not feel comfortable talking to someone in the Health and Counseling Center still get the help they want by confiding in a peer.

One of the most important factors in DU making the list is the active nature and mindset of many students at the school. There are many opportunities to be physically active off-campus, too, such as Alpine Club, which organizes trips to various locales in the mountains on an almost-weekly basis.

Although Colorado is one of the healthiest and most active places in the country, DU is the only school in the state to make the list, showing how the university is not only academically-oriented, but health-oriented as well.