About University of Denver
The University of Denver combines rigorous academics with mountain proximity in a city setting that attracts 6,059 students. The private research university has built its reputation on strong business programs and intimate classroom experiences. Notable graduates include former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Coors Brewing Chairman Peter Coors. Students benefit from a 10:1 student-faculty ratio that ensures personal attention from professors.
Despite a sticker price of $59,340 in tuition, most students pay far less thanks to financial aid. The average net price drops to $36,037, making this expensive private education more accessible. Graduates typically earn $71,155 ten years after graduation, while carrying a median debt load of $21,844. That translates to monthly loan payments of just $232, a manageable burden given the earning potential.
The quarter system keeps academics moving at a brisk pace on this urban campus. With an 87.7% retention rate, most students stick around after their first year. The school competes in NCAA Division I athletics with 18 varsity sports, though academics clearly take priority. About 70% of students come from out of state, creating a geographically diverse community in the shadow of the Rockies.
Despite a sticker price of $59,340 in tuition, most students pay far less thanks to financial aid. The average net price drops to $36,037, making this expensive private education more accessible. Graduates typically earn $71,155 ten years after graduation, while carrying a median debt load of $21,844. That translates to monthly loan payments of just $232, a manageable burden given the earning potential.
The quarter system keeps academics moving at a brisk pace on this urban campus. With an 87.7% retention rate, most students stick around after their first year. The school competes in NCAA Division I athletics with 18 varsity sports, though academics clearly take priority. About 70% of students come from out of state, creating a geographically diverse community in the shadow of the Rockies.
Academics & Faculty
The University of Denver operates as a private research university with particularly strong business and international studies programs. The student-faculty ratio of 10:1 creates small classroom environments where professors know students personally. DU's Daniels College of Business consistently ranks among the top undergraduate business schools nationally. The quarter system allows students to take more diverse courses throughout their academic careers. With a 78% six-year graduation rate, most students complete their degrees successfully. The school's proximity to downtown Denver provides extensive internship opportunities, especially in business, law, and international affairs. DU also maintains respected programs in psychology, engineering, and communications.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 10:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 53.4%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 77.7%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 78.0%
- Retention Rate
- 87.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $71,155
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral University (R1)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $86,129 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Doctoral | $84,653 |
| Real Estate. | Master | $83,546 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Certificate | $75,204 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $74,576 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Master | $73,949 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Certificate | $72,667 |
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. | Bachelor | $69,338 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Doctoral | $69,338 |
| Natural Resources Management and Policy. | Master | $68,379 |
Campus Life
The University of Denver sits just eight miles from downtown in a city known for 300+ sunny days annually, though you'll need both winter coats and sunscreen here. With housing for 2,647 students and total enrollment of 6,059, roughly 44% of students live on campus. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate academic environment where professors know your name.
Students take advantage of Denver's outdoor culture year-round, with skiing an hour away and hiking trails throughout the metro area. The quarter system keeps academics moving fast, with new classes starting every ten weeks. Weekends often involve exploring Denver's brewery scene, attending Nuggets or Broncos games, or heading to the mountains. The Pioneers compete in 18 Division I sports, creating school spirit around hockey and lacrosse especially. With 70% of students coming from out-of-state, there's a diverse mix of backgrounds, though the campus skews affluent given the $59,340 tuition. Greek life and outdoor clubs dominate the social scene.
Students take advantage of Denver's outdoor culture year-round, with skiing an hour away and hiking trails throughout the metro area. The quarter system keeps academics moving fast, with new classes starting every ten weeks. Weekends often involve exploring Denver's brewery scene, attending Nuggets or Broncos games, or heading to the mountains. The Pioneers compete in 18 Division I sports, creating school spirit around hockey and lacrosse especially. With 70% of students coming from out-of-state, there's a diverse mix of backgrounds, though the campus skews affluent given the $59,340 tuition. Greek life and outdoor clubs dominate the social scene.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 2,647 beds
- Calendar System
- Quarter
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1864
Campus Safety (2023)
100 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary | 19 | 9 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 18 | 0 | 0 | 9 |
| Rape | 6 | 6 | 1 | 0 |
| Fondling | 7 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Stalking | 8 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Domestic Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Dating Violence | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Robbery | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 21°–48°F
- July Avg
- 61°–91°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 15.9"
- Annual Snowfall
- 40.7"
Student Demographics
Students come from across the country, with 70% arriving from out of state drawn by DU's business reputation and mountain proximity. The student body skews female, reflecting strong programs in social work, education, and international studies alongside business. About one in seven students receives Pell Grants, indicating some economic diversity within a largely affluent population. The quarter system attracts high achievers who thrive in fast-paced academic environments. With 87% retention, students clearly find their fit among peers who value both academic rigor and outdoor adventure in Colorado's capital.
- Men
- 44.9%
- Women
- 55.1%
- White
- 68.0%
- Black
- 2.8%
- Hispanic
- 13.7%
- Asian
- 3.8%
- In-State Students
- 29.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 14.7%
Location
The University of Denver sits in Colorado's capital city, home to 715,000 residents and part of a metro area with over 2.9 million people. Denver offers the rare combination of urban amenities with mountain access just 30 minutes from campus. The city anchors Colorado's Front Range corridor, where students can ski strong slopes in winter and hike fourteeners in summer. Denver's thriving job market spans aerospace, technology, and energy sectors, with major employers like Lockheed Martin and Arrow Electronics headquartered nearby. The quarter system aligns well with Colorado's outdoor lifestyle, giving students extended winter breaks for skiing. Students considering colleges in Colorado may also compare University of Denver with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Denver, Colorado 80208
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $71,155
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $74,242
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $49,000
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 73.1%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $232/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $21,844
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at University of Denver?
University of Denver accepts 77.68% of applicants with an average SAT score of 1310. The school attracts strong students who value small class sizes and the quarter system that allows for focused, intensive learning.
How much does University of Denver cost after financial aid?
The average net price is $36,037 after aid, though families earning under $30,000 pay just $20,820. With total costs reaching $77,389, the university provides substantial institutional grants averaging $30,391 to 26% of students.
What are the academics like at University of Denver?
Students enjoy a 10:1 student-faculty ratio across 18 varsity sports and strong business programs. The quarter system and small classes create an intimate learning environment that helps achieve a 77.71% four-year graduation rate.
What do University of Denver graduates earn?
Alumni earn a median of $71,155 ten years after graduation with a 95.1% employment rate. Graduates carry manageable debt of $21,844 median with monthly payments of $232, reflecting the school's strong career preparation.
Where do University of Denver students live?
Campus housing accommodates 2,647 students at $17,049 for room and board. The urban setting in Denver provides Rocky Mountain access while maintaining the feel of a close-knit community with 6,059 total students.
Does University of Denver compete in major college sports?
The Pioneers compete in NCAA Division I with 372 total athletes across 18 varsity sports. The school awards $14.8 million in athletic scholarships while maintaining academic excellence through the Summit League conference.
