University of Denver
The Vibe Check
University of Denver offers a vibrant, close-knit urban campus experience with a distinct blend of academic rigor and Western adventure. Students often describe it as a community where intellectual curiosity meets a passion for the outdoors, with the Rocky Mountains visible from campus. It feels like a place where you can dive deep into research and still make it to a ski slope by afternoon.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
DU is recognized for strong programs in business, social sciences, and computer science, supported by a dedicated faculty focused on experiential learning. The university emphasizes undergraduate research and offers unique opportunities through its Puksta Scholars program and specialized institutes like the Josef Korbel School of International Studies. Small class sizes foster close mentorship and collaborative projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Denver
Denver offers students a dynamic urban playground with easy access to world-class hiking, skiing, and biking in the nearby Rocky Mountains. In the city, students enjoy a thriving music scene, diverse restaurants, professional sports, and cultural attractions like museums and art districts. The city's public transit and bike-friendly culture make it easy to explore.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($71,155):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The University of Denver maintains a safe campus environment with its own police department and well-lit pathways. The surrounding neighborhood, University, is generally considered safe, though students are advised to stay aware of their surroundings in any urban setting.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong sense of community with small class sizes and accessible faculty
- ✓ Prime location for students who love outdoor recreation and urban amenities
- ✓ High graduation and retention rates indicate strong student support
- ✓ Notable strengths in business, international studies, and computer science
Cons
- ✗ High cost of attendance, both in tuition and living expenses in Denver
- ✗ Pell Grant rate is relatively low, indicating a less socioeconomically diverse student body
- ✗ Campus is not in the heart of downtown Denver, requiring a short trip to reach the city center
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Denver is known for its strong programs in business (Daniels College of Business), international studies (Josef Korbel School), and psychology. It is also recognized for its commitment to experiential learning, including a required winter field course for freshmen, and its beautiful campus located just a short drive from the Rocky Mountains.
The University of Denver has an acceptance rate of 71.19%, making it moderately selective. While not as competitive as some elite institutions, successful applicants typically have a strong academic record, with an average SAT score around 1344. A compelling personal essay and demonstrated interest in the university's unique programs can improve your chances of admission.
Campus life at DU is described as a close-knit community with a strong focus on experiential learning and outdoor adventure. With an enrollment of just over 6,000 undergraduate students, the campus has a supportive feel, and the 87.7% retention rate indicates that students are happy and engaged. Students are active in Division I athletics, numerous clubs, and utilizing the nearby mountains for weekend trips.
The value of a DU degree depends on how you leverage its resources. With a 10-year median earnings of $71,155, graduates see a solid return, especially if they graduate on time (77.7% graduation rate). For students who take advantage of internship opportunities, strong alumni networks, and DU's specialized programs, the investment can be worthwhile, but it's crucial to minimize debt through scholarships and financial aid.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1864
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 7,058
- In-State Tuition $59,340
- Zip Code 80208
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a high sticker price, the financial value of a DU degree is strong, supported by a 10-year median earnings of $71,155. While the average net price is still significant, the university's graduation rate and retention rate suggest a supportive environment that helps students complete their degrees on time. Prospective students should actively seek merit-based scholarships and financial aid to improve the return on investment.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.