The University of Denver

The University of Denver (DU) is one of the premier institutions in the United States, offering a rich history, diverse academic programs, and a vibrant campus life. Nestled in the heart of Denver, Colorado, this university has been a beacon of education and innovation for over 150 years. Whether you’re a prospective student, a parent, or just curious about what DU has to offer, this guide will provide an in-depth look at the university’s academic offerings, campus life, history, and more.

History and Heritage of the University of Denver

Founding and Early Years

The University of Denver was founded in 1864, just a few years after the city of Denver itself was established. Originally named the Colorado Seminary, the institution was founded by John Evans, the former governor of Colorado Territory, with the mission of providing higher education in the newly settled region. The university was soon renamed the University of Denver, reflecting its expanding academic programs and growing influence in the region.

Over the years, DU has grown from a small regional college to a nationally recognized university, known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to student success.

Growth and Expansion

Throughout the 20th century, the University of Denver continued to expand its academic offerings, facilities, and student body. The university’s commitment to innovation has seen it become a leader in fields such as business, law, international studies, and psychology. DU’s focus on research and practical experience has produced graduates who are well-prepared to lead in their respective fields.

Today, the university is home to over 11,000 students from all 50 states and more than 90 countries, making it a truly global institution.

Commitment to Sustainability and Social Responsibility

In recent years, DU has also made a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The university has implemented numerous initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact, promoting social justice, and fostering a culture of inclusivity on campus.

DU’s sustainability efforts include the construction of LEED-certified buildings, the use of renewable energy sources, and the promotion of sustainable practices among students and staff. The university is also deeply engaged in community service, with students and faculty working on projects that benefit the local community and beyond.

Academic Programs at the University of Denver

Undergraduate Programs

The University of Denver offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines. With over 100 majors and minors to choose from, students have the flexibility to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences: DU’s College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences offers majors in areas such as English, History, Sociology, and Philosophy. These programs emphasize critical thinking, communication skills, and a deep understanding of human culture and society.
Natural Sciences and Mathematics: For those interested in the sciences, DU offers programs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. The university is known for its strong research programs, providing students with opportunities to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge research projects.
Business: The Daniels College of Business is one of the top-ranked business schools in the country. Undergraduate programs in business administration, finance, marketing, and management prepare students for leadership roles in the global economy.
Engineering and Computer Science: DU’s Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science offers programs in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and related fields. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs.

Graduate Programs

The University of Denver is also home to a wide range of graduate programs, many of which are nationally recognized for their excellence.

Law: The Sturm College of Law is one of the top law schools in the country, offering programs in areas such as Environmental Law, International Law, and Corporate Law. The school is known for its strong emphasis on practical experience, with students participating in clinics, externships, and moot court competitions.
International Studies: The Josef Korbel School of International Studies is a leader in the field of international relations, offering graduate programs in Global Finance, International Security, Human Rights, and more. The school’s faculty includes former diplomats, policy analysts, and other experts with real-world experience.
Psychology: DU’s Department of Psychology offers graduate programs in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and Developmental Psychology. The department is known for its strong emphasis on research and clinical training, preparing students for careers in academia, healthcare, and private practice.
Social Work: The Graduate School of Social Work at DU is one of the top-ranked social work programs in the country. The school offers MSW and PhD programs with specializations in areas such as Mental Health, Child Welfare, and Social Justice.

Online and Continuing Education

In addition to its traditional academic programs, the University of Denver also offers a range of online and continuing education options. These programs are designed to meet the needs of working professionals, adult learners, and those looking to advance their careers.

University College: DU’s University College offers flexible, career-focused degree and certificate programs in areas such as Leadership, Information Technology, and Healthcare Management. Many of these programs are available online, allowing students to balance their studies with work and family commitments.
Professional Development: DU also offers a range of professional development courses and workshops in areas such as project management, digital marketing, and nonprofit management. These programs are designed to provide practical skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace.

Campus Life at the University of Denver

Residential Life and Housing

The University of Denver offers a variety of housing options for students, ranging from traditional residence halls to apartment-style living. First-year students are required to live on campus, which helps them build a sense of community and transition smoothly into college life.

Residence Halls: DU’s residence halls offer a supportive and engaging living environment for students. Each hall has a unique theme or focus, such as leadership, sustainability, or global learning, allowing students to connect with others who share their interests.
Apartments and Townhomes: For upperclassmen and graduate students, DU offers apartment-style housing options that provide more independence while still being close to campus. These units are fully furnished and include amenities such as kitchens, living rooms, and laundry facilities.

Dining and Food Services

DU’s dining services offer a wide range of options to suit all tastes and dietary needs. The university is committed to providing healthy, sustainable, and delicious food options for its students.

Dining Halls: DU’s dining halls offer a variety of meals, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The university partners with local farmers and food producers to ensure that meals are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Retail Dining: In addition to the dining halls, DU has several retail dining options on campus, including coffee shops, cafes, and convenience stores. These locations offer grab-and-go meals, snacks, and beverages for students on the move.
Special Dietary Needs: DU is committed to accommodating students with special dietary needs. The university’s dining services team works closely with students to ensure that they have access to meals that meet their nutritional requirements.

Student Organizations and Clubs

With over 200 student organizations and clubs, the University of Denver offers countless opportunities for students to get involved, make friends, and pursue their passions.

Academic and Professional Clubs: These organizations are focused on specific academic disciplines or career paths. Examples include the Accounting Society, the Psychology Club, and the Pre-Law Society.
Cultural and Identity-Based Organizations: DU is home to a diverse array of cultural and identity-based organizations, including the Black Student Alliance, the Latinx Student Alliance, and the International Student Organization. These groups provide a supportive community for students from various backgrounds.
Service and Volunteer Organizations: DU students are deeply committed to giving back to the community. The university’s service and volunteer organizations, such as the DU Service and Change and the DU Chapter of Habitat for Humanity, offer numerous opportunities to get involved in community service projects.
Recreational and Sports Clubs: DU’s recreational and sports clubs provide opportunities for students to stay active and pursue their athletic interests. The university offers clubs for a variety of sports, including soccer, rugby, and ultimate frisbee, as well as outdoor adventure clubs for activities like hiking and skiing.

Arts and Culture on Campus

The University of Denver has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous opportunities for students to engage with the arts.

The Newman Center for the Performing Arts: The Newman Center is the heart of the performing arts at DU. The center hosts a wide range of performances throughout the year, including theater productions, dance performances, and concerts by the university’s music ensembles.
Art Galleries and Exhibitions: DU is home to several art galleries, including the Vicki Myhren Gallery, which features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. The university also hosts annual student art shows, where students can showcase their work.
Music and Theater: DU’s Lamont School of Music offers numerous performance opportunities for students, including orchestras, choirs, and jazz ensembles. The university’s theater department also produces several plays and musicals each year, giving students the chance to participate both on stage and behind the scenes.

Athletics and Recreation

DU’s athletics program is known for its competitive teams and strong commitment to student-athlete success. The university is a member of the NCAA Division I, and its teams, known as the Pioneers, compete in a variety of sports.

Men’s and Women’s Teams: DU offers varsity teams in sports such as ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, basketball, and skiing. The university has won numerous national championships, particularly in ice hockey and skiing, and its teams are consistently ranked among the best in the nation.
Club and Intramural Sports: In addition to varsity sports, DU offers a robust club and intramural sports program. These programs provide opportunities for students to participate in sports at a competitive or recreational level, with options ranging from flag football to rock climbing.
Fitness and Wellness: DU’s Coors Fitness Center offers a wide range of fitness and wellness programs, including group exercise classes, personal training, and wellness workshops. The center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a weight room, cardio machines, and a swimming pool.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Undergraduate Admissions

The University of Denver has a selective admissions process, with a focus on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal character. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early and take advantage of the university’s rolling admissions process.

Application Process: DU accepts the Common Application and requires students to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The university also offers an optional interview for applicants.
Scholarships and Financial Aid: DU is committed to making education affordable for all students. The university offers a range of merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, and special scholarships for specific groups, such as first-generation college students or students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Graduate Admissions

Graduate admissions at DU vary by program, with each department having its own requirements and deadlines. Generally, applicants are required to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, a statement of purpose, and standardized test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT).

Financial Aid for Graduate Students: DU offers a variety of financial aid options for graduate students, including fellowships, assistantships, and loans. The university’s Office of Graduate Financial Aid works closely with students to help them find the best funding options for their studies.

International Students

The University of Denver is home to a diverse international student body, with students from over 90 countries. The university provides a range of support services to help international students succeed academically and adjust to life in the United States.

Admissions Requirements: International students are required to submit the same application materials as domestic students, along with proof of English proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS scores) and financial documentation.
International Student Support: DU’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office provides a wide range of support services, including visa advising, cultural programming, and academic support. The university also offers an International Student Orientation to help new students adjust to life at DU.

The University of Denver’s Impact on the Community

Community Engagement and Partnerships

The University of Denver is deeply committed to community engagement and has established numerous partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies.

Community Service: DU students and faculty are actively involved in community service projects, both in Denver and beyond. The university’s Center for Community Engagement to advance Scholarship and Learning (CCESL) supports these efforts by providing resources, training, and funding for community-based projects.
Local Partnerships: DU has established partnerships with a variety of local organizations, including schools, nonprofits, and government agencies. These partnerships provide students with opportunities for internships, research, and service-learning experiences that benefit the community.

Economic Impact

As one of Denver’s largest employers and a major contributor to the local economy, the University of Denver plays a significant role in the economic development of the region.

Job Creation: DU employs thousands of faculty and staff, and its operations generate additional jobs in the local economy. The university is also a major consumer of goods and services, supporting local businesses and industries.
Research and Innovation: DU’s research activities contribute to the development of new technologies, products, and services that benefit the local economy. The university’s innovation and entrepreneurship programs also support the growth of startups and small businesses in the region.

Final Words

The University of Denver is a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that offers students a world-class education in a vibrant and supportive community. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a degree in business, law, engineering, or the arts, DU provides the resources, opportunities, and environment you need to succeed.

With its strong academic programs, commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, and deep ties to the local community, DU is more than just a university—it’s a place where students can grow, learn, and make a difference in the world.

For more information about the University of Denver, visit their website at www.du.edu or visit the campus at:

2199 S. University Blvd.
Denver, CO 80208
United States