The University of Denver: what it's really like

Want to study a degree at the only US university with both an urban and mountain campus, where you can learn mountain skills alongside your academics? DU could be the place for you...

Maddy is a global ambassador and second year student at the University of Denver (DU). She answers questions from prospective international students and helps create content for the student club. Here, she tells us what it's like to study there.


What’s the institution like?

I would describe DU as small, beautiful, and full of opportunity. DU is on the quarter system, so we have classes in ten-week periods. Most schools in the US have 16-week semesters. It’s something I like about DU, because we get to take so many more classes and I get to explore different subjects. 

Our library was rated the number one best college library by the Princeton Review in 2022. I spend a lot of time there and I really enjoy using it as a study space outside of my dorm. 

One more thing – we're a big hockey school! A lot of students attend hockey games and sit in the student section. There are tons of cheers and school spirit. We just won our 10th national championship this year! On top of this, we offer 18 Division I sports.
What’s it like for students to live in the local area?

I love DU’s location; I think it’s the best of both worlds. It’s about 15 minutes away from downtown Denver, but it doesn’t feel like it's in a city. We’re located next to residential neighbourhoods and I think that makes the campus feel more cosy.There are plenty of places to eat right by campus. One of my favourites is Bruggers, a bagel shop I go to for breakfast with my friends. I find that I mostly stay near the campus, but it’s easy to get downtown on the light rail and it’s free for DU students.

Downtown, there’s great restaurants and shopping, and I’ve gotten to go to a couple professional baseball and basketball games that were really fun. I love the music scene in Denver; I’ve gone to a few concerts at Red Rocks amphitheatre. There are also tons of great hikes and camping that are pretty accessible right outside Denver. 


What accommodations options are available to students? Are these different for international students?

We have a two-year live-on requirement at DU. There are three freshman year dorms and you will only have one roommate for your freshman year.Each building is different and has different accommodations. Options range from singles to nine-person apartments with a full kitchen and bathroom. There are also a lot of apartments around DU that cater mostly to students. Off-campus housing does get competitive, so I would suggest looking early. 

DU has one dining hall with six different food stations. First and second years get a meal plan. This includes swipes you can use at the dining hall, and cash you can use at places across campus including Starbucks, cafes, and Einstein's bagels.

What facilities does the institution have that make it stand out from other institutions?

Denver is the only uni in the US to integrate an urban and mountain campus. As part of a 4D initiative, that means students can try out activities like rope courses and rock climbing alongside creative writing and art activities.The Daniels College of Business on-campus offers world-class facilities and lots of majors and minors to choose from. Some are more niche like hospitality management, real estate and the built environment, and there are opportunities for real world experience and interactions with business leaders.

Finally, we offer something called Crimson Constellation, which is a private alumni network that gives students access to connections with professionals in their field. It’s a great opportunity to meet people who are more than willing to help you better your future.

What is the top reason a student living in the UK or overseas should study here?

One of my biggest draws to DU was the size. Our average class size is 24 students, but I’ve had classes as small as 12. I really feel like the faculty wants me to succeed and know me as an individual instead of just another student.I’m currently pursuing distinction in my major, public policy, and I’ve been able to reach out to different professors I’ve had over the past two years to talk about it. Just last week, I had the opportunity to ask the mayor of Denver questions about his policy and implementation strategies through one of my public policy classes.

Who shouldn’t apply?

DU really emphasises experiential learning – for example, through the ‘mountain campus’ initiative I mentioned. Last year, in one of my geography classes we got to visit Red Rocks amphitheatre, a state park named Cherry Creek reservoir, and Denver’s botanical gardens. I really enjoy this form of learning, but someone who might not benefit from DU’s experiential, adventure-based approach to education may not choose to apply here.

How does the institution meet the needs of students with different accessibility requirements?

DU really prioritises students' mental and physical wellbeing. Student disability services is our programme that helps set up accommodations for both physical and learning disabilities. We have a testing centre that will work to meet your needs, including extra time or a more quiet environment for you to take your tests.DU also works to address students’ financial needs. As an international student, you’re only eligible for merit scholarships, but if you apply as an incoming freshman, the scholarship will apply for all four years that you’re here as a full-time student. 


Do you offer any study abroad options for students?

DU has an extensive study abroad programme. Around 70% of DU students study abroad at some point while they’re here. DU has more than 100 partner programmes students can choose from, and scholarship options like the Cherrington Global Scholars programme that helps cover the costs of visas and flights.

There are even programmes where you can do internships or service opportunities while abroad. One opportunity that DU offers is with the Sea Education Association, where students can sail around the world doing aquatic research for a semester.

In addition, we have partnerships with the University of Western Australia and Lund University in Sweden, where you can take part in a student exchange or spend a semester studying abroad. We also have Global Master Scholar programmes with both universities, giving DU students in certain disciplines the chance to study at the partner university for two years and earn their master's degree.

Want to explore more US universities? Unifrog’s Shortlisting tool can help you put together a list of great potential courses. 

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