The University of Denver, located in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado, is one of the top private universities in the Rocky Mountain region. If you’re considering applying to DU, you probably want to know – is the University of Denver a good school?
In this comprehensive article, we’ll examine DU’s academics, student life, location, admissions stats, and more to help you decide if it’s a good fit for you.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: With challenging academics, strong undergraduate and graduate programs, an active campus life, and a location in the heart of Denver, the University of Denver offers students a high-quality education and experience overall.
Academics at the University of Denver
The University of Denver is widely recognized for its strong academic programs and commitment to excellence in education. With a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, students have the opportunity to pursue their passions and gain a valuable education.
Undergraduate Academics and Programs
The University of Denver offers a wide variety of undergraduate programs across various fields of study. From business and economics to the arts and sciences, students have the opportunity to explore their interests and find the perfect fit for their academic journey.
The curriculum is designed to be rigorous and engaging, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen profession.
One of the highlights of the undergraduate experience at the University of Denver is the emphasis on experiential learning. Students have the opportunity to engage in internships, research projects, and community service, allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
This hands-on approach to learning prepares students for success in their future careers and sets them apart from their peers.
Graduate Academics and Programs
Graduate students at the University of Denver benefit from a wide range of academic programs and opportunities. Whether pursuing a master’s degree or a doctoral degree, students have access to world-class faculty and resources that contribute to their educational and professional growth.
One of the standout graduate programs at the University of Denver is their Daniels College of Business, which consistently ranks among the top business schools in the country. The Sturm College of Law is also highly regarded, preparing students for successful careers in the legal field.
Additionally, the Morgridge College of Education offers a variety of programs for aspiring educators, including counseling psychology and educational leadership.
Student-Faculty Ratio
The University of Denver prides itself on maintaining a low student-faculty ratio, providing students with personalized attention and support. With an average class size of 18 students, professors are able to engage with each student on a deeper level, fostering a collaborative and interactive learning environment.
This close relationship between students and faculty allows for meaningful mentorship opportunities and enhances the overall educational experience.
Prominent Faculty
The University of Denver boasts a diverse and accomplished faculty, with many professors who are leaders in their respective fields. From published authors and renowned researchers to industry professionals and experts, students have the opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in academia.
The university’s faculty members are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education and preparing them for success in their chosen careers.
For more information about the academics at the University of Denver, you can visit their official website https://www.du.edu.
Student Life at DU
When it comes to student life, the University of Denver (DU) offers a vibrant and engaging environment for its students. With a range of activities, clubs, and organizations, there is something for everyone to get involved in and make the most of their college experience.
Campus Environment
The DU campus is known for its picturesque setting with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The well-maintained grounds provide a peaceful and inviting atmosphere for students to study, relax, and socialize.
With plenty of outdoor spaces, it’s not uncommon to see students enjoying picnics or playing frisbee during the sunny Colorado days.
Greek Life
For students interested in joining a fraternity or sorority, DU offers a variety of Greek organizations to choose from. Greek life at DU provides a sense of community, leadership opportunities, and a chance to form lifelong friendships.
These organizations also host a range of social, philanthropic, and networking events throughout the year.
Athletics and Club Sports
The University of Denver boasts a strong athletic program, with NCAA Division I teams competing in sports like ice hockey, soccer, lacrosse, and basketball. DU also offers a wide variety of club sports for students who want to stay active and compete at a more recreational level.
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or simply enjoy staying active, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and show your school spirit.
Housing and Dining
DU offers a range of on-campus housing options for students, including traditional dormitories, apartment-style living, and themed housing communities. Living on campus provides students with a convenient and immersive college experience, with easy access to classes, campus facilities, and social events.
The university also offers a variety of dining options, including dining halls, cafes, and food trucks, to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
The University of Denver’s Location
The location of a university can play a crucial role in a student’s overall college experience. In the case of the University of Denver, students have the advantage of being located in the beautiful city of Denver, Colorado.
Access to Denver
One of the major advantages of attending the University of Denver is the easy access to the vibrant city of Denver. Located just a few miles away from downtown, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a city known for its cultural diversity, thriving arts scene, and booming job market.
Denver offers a wide range of internship and job opportunities in various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and more. Students can take advantage of the city’s strong economy and connect with professionals in their field of interest.
Additionally, Denver is home to numerous professional sports teams, including the Denver Broncos (NFL), Colorado Rockies (MLB), and Denver Nuggets (NBA). Students can cheer on their favorite teams and experience the excitement of live sports events.
Outdoor Opportunities
Another highlight of the University of Denver’s location is its proximity to the great outdoors. With the Rocky Mountains just a short drive away, students have access to a plethora of outdoor activities throughout the year.
From hiking and skiing to mountain biking and camping, Denver offers endless opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. Students can take a break from their studies and explore the scenic trails, breathtaking views, and pristine lakes that surround the city.
Moreover, Colorado is known for its 300 days of sunshine, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, students at the University of Denver can enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.
Admissions and Cost
Acceptance Rate
The University of Denver is a moderately selective private university with an acceptance rate of around 60%. For fall 2021, DU received over 13,000 applications and accepted approximately 8,000 students.
While not extremely competitive, DU does have some selectivity in admissions, focusing on bringing in students with strong academic records. The admissions committee takes a holistic approach in reviewing applicants, looking at factors like GPA, test scores, extracurricular involvement, letters of recommendation, and essays.
Average Test Scores and GPA
The middle 50% of admitted students at DU for fall 2021 had ACT scores between 25-31 and SAT scores between 1160-1370. The average high school GPA for incoming freshmen was 3.7. Competitive applicants should aim for ACT scores in the high 20s or SAT scores around 1300 or above.
Maintaining a strong high school GPA of 3.7+ is also important for admission to DU.
Tuition and Fees
For the 2022-2023 academic year, tuition and fees at the University of Denver are $55,566 for full-time undergraduate students. Room and board costs around $13,392 and books/supplies are estimated at $1,200 per year. In total, the estimated annual cost of attendance is approximately $70,158.
This makes DU one of the more expensive private universities in the region. However, a significant portion of DU students receive financial aid to help offset the high tuition costs.
Financial Aid
Over 85% of undergraduate students at the University of Denver receive some form of financial aid, with the average aid package totaling around $33,000. This includes scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and federal/private student loans.
DU offers robust merit-based and need-based financial aid. Competitive scholarship options include the Chancellor’s Scholarship for top academics and the Pioneer Award for outstanding leadership and community impact.
Students should complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile by priority deadlines for full consideration for aid.
Conclusion
With its challenging yet supportive academic environment, vibrant campus life, access to the city of Denver, and scenic Rocky Mountain location, the University of Denver has a lot to offer students. While it may not be the right fit for everyone, DU provides an excellent education and experience for driven, engaged students looking for a private university with a beautiful location and strong undergraduate and graduate programs.
We hope this comprehensive overview has provided the details you need to determine if the University of Denver is a good school for you. Best of luck in your college search!
