Education Your Way: Urban, Flexible, Lifelong
Founded in 1973, the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) offers a relevant, flexible education with multiple paths to success—in life and career—delivered how, when, and where you want it. CU Denver has more than 150 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 that provide learners with real work skills and job experience throughout their academic journey.
Globally connected and locally invested, CU Denver is among the most diverse universities in Colorado and serves more than 13,000 future-focused learners—among the most diverse in the state. Our location, within steps of Denver's business district and arts corridor, offers many opportunities to enhance lives, careers, and professional networks. Plus, we have strong partnerships in the city, state, and region to help our learners reach their academic and professional goals.
Our leading faculty inspire and work alongside students to solve complex challenges through boundary-breaking innovation and impactful research and creative work. As part of the state’s largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with nearly 2,000 employees and an annual economic impact of $665 million.
Education Game Changer
To meet the needs of all learners at every stage of life and career, we are committed to providing an education that is innovative, flexible, and relevant to the demands of today.
High-Quality Academics
Working across a broad range of highly ranked programs and degrees in the arts, sciences, humanities, business, and more, our faculty create an engaging, real-world learning environment.
Society-Advancing Research
Complex challenges require comprehensive solutions. Our researchers and scholars work collaboratively alongside our students to generate transformative, real-world advancements in technology, health care, sustainability, and more.
Industry Connections
As an active partner in shaping the future talent that Colorado and the world need, we work together with industry partners to train the next generation of leaders and fuel workforce pipelines.
Impactful Partner
As an anchor institution in downtown Denver, we align our innovative mindset, cutting-edge research and scholarship, and collaborative spirit with civic, business, and academic leaders to boost the economy, fuel the workforce, and benefit the communities we serve.
Top Employer
We are committed to being a people-centered workplace where our employees flourish and succeed.
Our Charge: 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 CU Denver is redefining the model of tomorrow's public urban research university. We strive to make education work for all.
CU Denver by the Numbers
13,800+
students. 71% undergraduate + 29% graduate
½
of undergraduates are students of color
100,000+
alumni from more than 130 countries
$665M
economic impact contributed to Colorado's economy
150
degree programs
100+
student-led organizations
7
schools & colleges
40+
degree programs fully online
CU Denver's Leadership
Building a strong and diverse leadership team is deeply important for our success as a university. Our cabinet members have joined us from locations near and far, bringing a wealth of knowledge and unique experiences.
Since joining CU Denver in July 2020, Chancellor Michelle Marks has pursued an ambitious vision for the future of CU Denver and its impact as a leading public urban research university.
Providing a High-Quality Academic Experience
Our top-ranked academic programs help students gain real-world experience in issues with global impact and in top industries that lead to meaningful, successful careers. We offer more than 110 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across seven schools and colleges, as well as more than 30 online degree programs and numerous certificate and non-degree programs.
Innovating Research & Discovery
The complexities of today’s global challenges require approaches that address them head-on with fresh thinking and dynamic, diverse teams. As an R1 institution and Colorado’s only public urban research university, our faculty and students solve problems that matter and help shape the region through their research in areas such as cybersecurity, K-12 education, smart and sustainable urban infrastructure, and health – bolstered by our affiliation with the nationally renowned Anschutz Medical Center. For our students, our research programs provide exposure to industry-leading faculty and real-world experiences in the lab, in the field, and in the classroom – experiences that build resumes, advance careers, and change lives and communities.
By taking on the challenges affecting society today, we translate our research to impact.
Fulfilling Our Public Service Obligation
Our university is a source of pride for students and employees alike and is based on our shared belief that diverse experiences and viewpoints enrich the learning and professional environment for all of us. As we work to fulfill our public service obligation to make education work for all, we foster a culture of belonging and provide the resources and support to help everyone succeed.
Denver's Higher Education Partner
CU Denver is nestled near the heart of downtown Denver—Colorado’s capital and largest city. Known as the Mile High City, Denver is recognized for its 300 days of sunshine per year, tech startups, local shops and restaurants, unique music and arts scene, and its proximity to the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. You are sure to find something you love here.
Hear from Our Students
CU Denver students share what they love about the university.
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CU Denver
CU Denver
Student Commons Building
1201 Larimer Street
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 315-5969
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