HED Admissions Questions
How do I apply?
You may complete your application at myweb.du.edu.
What is the admissions deadline if I want to start the program in Fall 2013?
The admissions deadline is January 4, 2013 for all Higher Education Programs.
What are the criteria for acceptance to this program?
Our admissions team has a "whole person" philosophy when admitting students. Thus, in addition to looking at your GRE scores, they will also review your transcript, letters of recommendation, and the essay you've submitted. They will also consider all experience you've had that is applicable to the program that you are applying to.
Who should I ask for letters of recommendation when I'm applying?
If you are a student, ask your advisor and a professor. If you have been a working professional, ask your supervisor and co-workers. Remember, recommendation letters are required because they give us another view of who you are. We regard them very seriously, so you will want letters from people who know you well and are familiar with your professional and academic goals and expertise. Individuals who are engaged in work that is similar to the career path that you are seeking to follow by completing our programs give us the best viewpoint. Be sure to ask your recommenders to tell us about the strength of your academic and work experience, as well as some information about your character and aspirations. Most importantly, these letters must be current; choose people you are working with or studying under at the present time. Experiences change us and letters submitted for an earlier application cannot accurately reflect who you have become as a result of those experiences.
Is an interview required in order to be considered for admission?
Our top applicants will be invited by the admissions committee for an on campus interview with our Higher Education faculty. If you are unable to attend the on campus interview, you may interview via Skype or phone.
Am I required to come to Denver for the admissions process?
It's always a good idea to visit a campus that you hope to attend, but if you can't, we are happy to conduct interviews by telephone. You'll have an opportunity to talk about your options if you are selected to interview for a GA or Inclusive Excellence Fellowship. For more information, call the Higher Education Program office at highered@du.edu
Can I transfer any of my undergraduate coursework into the Higher Education Program?
Only coursework that has not been previously counted toward another degree can be considered for transfer credit. If you have completed courses since received your last degree that you think might be applicable to your graduate work at DU, you'll have an opportunity to discuss the possibility of transferring those into the program with your advisor once you are accepted.
I would like to talk to a current student in the program. How can I get in touch with someone?
Contact the Office of Admissions by email (edinfo@du.edu) or phone (1-800-835-1607) and ask to be put in touch with one of our Student Ambassadors. If you live in the Denver area, you should also think about attending a campus info session. Faculty and current students are often available to visit with you there. You can inquire about the next one at this same email address and phone.
How can I reach a faculty member? I'd like to discuss my options....
Speaking with a faculty member is a useful way to determine if our program offers the research and curriculum that is right for you. Call or email the Higher Education program office at 303-871-6027 or highered@du.edu and we will set something set up.
I have a job and can't attend classes as a full-time student. Can I still be considered for admission?
We know that working is not only essential for the majority of our students, it can add a great deal to the relevance of your experience in our program. If you take 8 or more credits each quarter, or 24 credits for the academic year, you are considered a full-time student. Part-time students experience success in our program right along side those who attend on a more traditional timetable. In fact, our classes are scheduled in the late afternoon and evening to accommodate our students' work schedules.
I'm interested, but I'm not sure I can take several years to complete a graduate degree. How long should I plan to complete my coursework?
If you are pursuing a masters degree as a full-time student, you should plan to take courses for minimum of 2 years to complete the 45 credits required. As a full-time doctoral student, you will complete at least 90 credits and so you should plan 3-4 years to complete your coursework, and additional time to write your dissertation.
Can I start my graduate studies anytime? When should I plan to begin?
As a new student in the Higher Education Program, you'll be welcomed to the Morgridge College of Education beginning Fall Quarter (September) with a full day of orientation activities.
Can I save on the cost of tuition if I wait to become a Colorado, and then apply?
The University of Denver is a private institution. Tuition is the same for both in-state and out of state students. If you'd like to see specific rates of tuition for our program and an estimate of yearly costs, visit our Financial Aid page.
Does the Morgridge College of Education offer any type of additional funding or assistantships to assist with tuition costs?
All applicants to the program may apply for federal student loans FAFSA. There are additional funding opportunities available for doctoral students who are
interested in partnering in research with a faculty member in the Higher Education
Program. Additionally, there are a number of GA & Inclusive Excellence Positions avaialbe to MA applicants.
Do GA & Inclusive Excellence positions just help with tuition, or can I get help with other costs too?
Tuition assistance is one of the benefits you may qualify for. Some of our students may also be eligible to receive a monthly stipend that is linked to research work or an assistantship. A limited number of students may also receive funding for health insurance. To learn more about eligibility and funding for the 2011-2012 academic year, call our Office of Admissionsfice at 303.871.2509 to speak with a counselor about financial aid options.
What about housing? If I move to Denver, is there someone at DU who can help me find a place to live?
You'll find many rental options on or near the DU campus. To learn more about living both on and off campus, visit our Student Life Housing website.
If I complete the masters degree in your Higher Education Program, can I then transition into the Higher Education doctoral program?
Even though we love to see our students going on to an advanced degree in the program. Current students who apply for the doctoral program are considered along with other applicants during the admissions process. However, if you demonstrate success in your master's level coursework and engagement in scholarly and research pursuits, you may be encouraged to apply for the PhD program.
