Higher Education Program--Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Visit the Morgridge College of Education admission site for a link to the online application and a list of supplemental materials.
What is the admissions timeline if I want to start the program in Fall 2010?
Applications received by January 4, 2010 will receive priority consideration and later submissions will be reviewed as received. If you are interested in applying for one of the graduate assistanceships available in this program, we strongly suggest that you have your completed application submitted no later than March 1, 2010. Here are other important dates to consider:
- January 4, 2010: priority application deadline; additional deadlines are February and March 6th, 2010
- January 18, 2010: application reviews begin
- Early March: interview invitations go out
- March 11-12, 2010: Interview Days
- March 13, 2010: Telephone interviews for those unable to come to campus
- Early April: Decision letters mailed
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.
How heavily are the GRE scores weighted? If I don't have GREs, but have results from a different test, will you consider those? What if I took the test a few years ago-can I submit those scores?
We are aware that test scores don't give a total picture of an applicants "fit" for our program, but they are the only test scores we will accept. You may submit results from an earlier GRE test, as long as you took them no more than five years ago.
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 are invited by the admissions committee to the University of Denver for a campus experience and an interview. During that time you will have an opportunity to spend time with the faculty in group and individual sessions, talk with current students about the program, and tour the campus. Be sure to check out the timeline above to see the dates for these interviews, and remember, you're interviewing us too!
What if I can't come to Denver for an interview?
It's always a good idea to visit a campus that you hope to attend, but if you can't, we are happy to interview you by telephone. You'll have an opportunity to talk about your options if you are selected. We will also have a table at a number of national conferences this spring, and an interview could be arranged at one of those. For more information, call the Higher Education Program office at 303-871-6027 or email 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....
Talking with a faculty member can be a very helpful way to determine the program that is right for you. Call or email the Higher Education program office at 303-871-6027 or highered@du.edu and the office assistant will help you get 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 Program during a full day of orientation activities at the beginning of fall quarter in September.
The economy isn't great right now. Could I save some money on tuition if I wait to be a Colorado resident before I enroll?
The University of Denver is a private institution so 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, click here.
Now that I've seen what it will cost me to come to DU, I think I'll need some tuition assistance. Are there any funding or assistance ship opportunities available?
All applicants to the program may apply for Federal student loans. There are some funding opportunities available for doctoral students who are interested in partnering in research with a faculty member in the Higher Education Program. There are also a small number of assistantships for applicants to the masters program. To see what you're eligible for, and to let us know that you are interested in some financial assistance, start by going to www.fafsa.ed.gov and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Position descriptions for Master's student assistanceships will be available soon.
Do these assistanceships just help with tuition, or can I get help with other costs too?
Tuition assistance is only one of the benefits you may qualify for. Some of our students receive a monthly stipend which is linked to their research work or assistanceship. A limited number of students also receive funding for health insurance. Call our Financial Aid and Enrollment Services Office at 1.800.835.1607 to talk with one of our representatives if you have more questions.
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. Check out the information about living on campus at www.du.edu/housing and see the off-campus options at www.du.edu/och/ .
If I complete the masters degree in your Higher Education Program, does that mean I can move right into the Higher Education doctoral program?
Not necessarily, 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.
If you have any other questions, please contact the Higher Education Program Office at 303-871-6027 or highered@du.edu.