The school is debating whether to change its name to Metropolitan State University of Denver, University of Central Colorado or Denver State University.

"We are moving forward with the strategic name initiative," said school President Stephen Jordan in a statement.

Jordan said that students, alumni and the community can weigh in on the idea at a town hall meeting on Feb. 9 from 7:30-9 a.m. in the Tivoli Turnhalle on campus.

Metro State has 24,000 students. It started offering master’s degrees in accounting and teacher education last fall. It will start offering a master’s degree in social work in fall 2011.

School officials said a survey last year showed that the school's current name does not reflect Metro State’s quality, size and complex offerings, including the recent addition of master’s degrees. The survey also indicated that there is confusion as to whether Metro State is a community college or a four-year institution.

"I believe a change in the name can only mean positive things for the college," said Kathryn "Kat" Cammack, Metro State student trustee. "I think this is long overdue."