University of Denver

The University of Denver (DU) is a private, nonprofit research university in the city’s University neighborhood. Its urban campus is the academic home for more than 100 undergraduate programs and a wide graduate portfolio, while the quarter system shapes the pace of the academic year. DU also uses a mountain campus in northern Colorado for outdoor learning and leadership programs. Applicants comparing DU with other private universities should look at the net price in their actual aid offer, the cost of living near campus and the particular school that houses their intended degree.

Programs and the two-campus model

Undergraduates can choose fields such as business, engineering and computer science, international studies, music, natural sciences, psychology, education, public policy and the arts. Graduate study spans schools and colleges including Daniels College of Business, Sturm College of Law, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs, Morgridge College of Education, the Graduate School of Social Work, the Graduate School of Professional Psychology, and the Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science. The Lamont School of Music offers performance and music study. The university also lists professional studies with online and evening options for working adults. Program admission, course schedules and professional licensing expectations vary, so start with the undergraduate program finder or the relevant graduate school before choosing a degree.

The main campus address is 2199 S. University Blvd., Denver, CO 80208. DU’s James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus is at 17900 W. County Road 74E, Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545, about two hours from Denver. It supports student learning and university group programs in the mountains; public access and parking are restricted, so visitors should arrange an approved program or visit in advance rather than treating it as an open trailhead.

2026–27 cost and financial aid

For traditional undergraduate students in 2026–27, DU lists tuition of $1,770 per credit or a flat $21,240 per quarter for full-time enrollment of 12–18 credits. That is $63,720 for fall, winter and spring tuition. The university’s on-campus budget estimate adds $1,584 in annual fees, $11,283 for housing and $7,532 for food; its direct bill estimate is $84,119 before books, transportation and personal costs. The total differs by housing choice, enrollment and program, and other academic units may have their own rates. Check DU’s current cost-of-attendance breakdown before comparing offers.

All first-year applicants are considered for merit scholarships, which DU lists at $15,000–$40,000 per year; the award is fixed for four years if the student meets renewal requirements. Transfer applicants may be considered for merit awards of $12,000–$25,000, with FAFSA and CSS Profile required for that review. Need-based grants, federal and state aid, work-study and departmental awards may also apply. DU reports that scholarships and grants make up 84% of its undergraduate financial aid, but that institutional figure does not predict an individual package. Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile where required, then compare grants and scholarships separately from loans. Ask whether a scholarship renews, what academic progress is required and how the offer changes if you commute or enroll below full time.

Student experience and practical questions

Public student reviews often describe faculty access, small classes and a supportive community as strengths. Other students raise concerns about the high cost, campus social life, diversity and university administration. Those experiences differ by school, program and level of involvement. A campus visit can help you judge the scale and neighborhood, but also talk with students in your intended major and ask about course availability, advising, internship access and the full price after aid.

The university’s general main-phone hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Mountain Time, except holidays; individual offices may keep different hours. The main number is (303) 871-2000. Undergraduate Admission can be reached at (303) 871-2036 and Graduate Admission at (303) 871-2706. DU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and many professional programs carry additional specialized accreditation. Confirm the standing and licensing implications for the exact program you plan to complete.

To arrange a campus visit, ask an admissions counselor a question or apply, use the university’s official admissions and visit links. Before submitting a deposit, compare DU’s written aid offer against the estimated full cost and ask your department how the quarter calendar affects internships, clinical placements or study abroad.