This report presents an analysis of characteristics of public higher education in the Denver (Colorado) metropolitan area. Items examined include current educational offerings and participation, current and projected regional demographics, and the physical capacity available for higher education. Emphasis is on trends at the Auraria campus which houses branches of the University of Colorado (Denver), the Metropolitan State College of Denver, and the Community College of Denver. Analysis suggests that the population for the metropolitan area will increase 9.6 percent by the year 2000, implying an increased demand for higher education in the area. Currently the Denver metropolitan area is served by seven public institutions. Other conclusions of the analysis relate to demographic trends in age of residents and of students at the Auraria campus; employment status of students at this campus; growth in lower division courses; student transfers from community colleges; high demand for graduate programs in business and education; Auraria's planned continued focus on academic, rather than vocational, subjects; public transportation needs; and family income of Auraria students. Options for accommodating growth and access in the metropolitan area are analyzed and include: expansion of the Auraria campus, expansion of services off-campus, moving an entire institution from Auraria, moving select programs from Auraria, and building a new campus. (CK)