University of Colorado Denver

Our Charge: Make Education Work for All

CU Denver is redefining the model of tomorrow’s public urban research university to lead to a more equitable and innovative society.

We know that, for the last 300 years, higher education was designed to meet the needs of the privileged few.

We see it differently: We strive to make education work for all. Education has the power to transform lives, expand economies, and uplift communities, and everyone must have access to these opportunities. That is why we seek to become the nation’s first equity-serving institution—an inclusive, supportive university where all can excel.

Leading on diversity
Our diversity is a source of pride for students, faculty, and staff alike, and is based on our shared belief that diverse experiences and viewpoints enrich the learning and professional environment for all of us. But it is not enough to simply be diverse. As we work to become the nation’s first equity-serving institution, we will sustain a culture of belonging for all and provide the resources and support to help everyone succeed. Each year our Center for Identity & Inclusion helps thousands of students succeed academically and professionally.

Education your way: urban, flexible, lifelong
Founded in 1973, the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) offers a modern, comprehensive urban education with multiple paths to success—in life and career—delivered how, when, and where you want it. CU Denver is the state’s premier public urban research university, offering more than 100 degree programs in seven schools and colleges and across a spectrum of bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional and continuing education options. Research, internship, and apprenticeship experiences are a hallmark of a CU Denver education, giving learners an excellent education and real-work skills and job experience along the way.

Globally connected and locally invested, CU Denver partners with more than 15,000 future-focused learners—among the most diverse in the state—to design accessible, relevant, transformative educational experiences for every stage of life and career. Our proximity to downtown Denver enables many opportunities to enhance lives, careers, and professional networks as we are located within steps of the city’s business, political, and arts corridor—and we have deep partnerships in the city, state, and region to help create or accelerate learners’ paths.

Education game changer
We are committed to making higher education work for all, understanding that to meet the needs of all learners at every stage of life and career we must provide an education that is diverse, innovative, flexible, and relevant to the demands of today.

Academics
Discover the benefits of CU Denver. We are the only public urban research university in Colorado. Our campus in downtown Denver enables our faculty and students to work on groundbreaking research, often focused on solving urban issues. Our academic programs bring together current research, creative work, and civic engagement in classes taught by dedicated professors.

Design your educational goals. Choose from academic degrees and programs at all levels. Our courses serve students who want to earn bachelor’s, master's, and doctoral degrees who want to learn something new for personal or professional development. Additionally, we offer certificate programs to help you advance your career.

Life at CU Denver
Life as a CU Denver Lynx is about seeing the possibilities—and being brave enough to follow your instincts. In the heart of the city, opportunities surround you. For employment and enjoyment, Denver offers more to do than anywhere else in the state.

Concerts at the Pepsi Center. Shows at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Games at Mile High Stadium. Trips down the 16th Street Mall. Many of the best things to see and do in the city are only steps (or a light rail stop) away from our campus.

To get the most out of studying and living downtown, eligible students can choose to live in student housing at Lynx Crossing or in our new student housing at City Heights.

Whether you live on campus or off, you can easily connect with other students. Whatever your interests are, we want you to do what you love. We will help you discover new interests, too. There are more than 120 student groups and clubs to join, and dozens of club sports and intramural teams. All CU Denver students can use our Student Wellness Center and its services to stay happy and healthy.