Working at DU

The Culture at DU

Every workplace has its own "culture" - beliefs, traditions, values, and ways to "get things done." At DU, there are many things that contribute to the University culture, including the events that bring us together as the University community

The first common vision that brings us together at DU is our focus on our students. Bringing excellence to our students' experience is a primary goal of all University employees. This applies in the classroom, of course, but also in all the other areas where students receive support - from advising, registration, and financial services to support services both within departmental offices and by those departments that support the people and functions that directly affect the DU student experience.

Another theme of the work environment at DU is decentralization. Different departments, academic Divisions, and Colleges each have their own specific culture that is demonstrated through internal standards, recognition, events, dress code, and interpersonal relationships. These may be written down, but are more likely "understood" without being written down and are not generally formally communicated.

Innovation and responsibility go hand in hand with decentralization. Without layers of bureaucracy governing each action, program or initiative, units within the University can be more responsive, innovative and nimble in addressing student, program and employee needs and interests. Along with this ability comes responsibility for actions and outcomes. Working together with knowledgeable colleagues and coworkers - both within your department and in other areas of the University - will help ensure success.

Our common vision and goals are the "glue" that hold our community of many cultures together. The University Planning Advisory Council has recently drafted a statement of DU's strategic vision, mission, values, and eleven goals that will guide the University in making that vision real. The University Board of Trustees approved this document in June 2001. Our challenge is now to make the vision real, finding ways to link individual Division and departmental goals to the larger University vision, mission, and goals.

For more information on the culture at DU, click on:

• Spirits and Traditions
• DU Honor Code

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Community and Learning

The DU community is actually a collection of communities. People gather by geographic location, by academic discipline and function, to solve problems and share ideas.

Look within your own area first for learning opportunities: staff meetings, conversations with coworkers over coffee (or at the photocopier!). The more you know about the department you work in - its people, its programs, its culture - the more effective you'll be. You'll feel more "at home" too!

There are many events beyond the boundaries of the office or academic department. We encourage you to become a part of these events as your interests and time permit. Below are just a few of these University-wide events.

Come join us!

Training and Development

DU Frontiers (a seminar series on high education practices) include:

• Intellectual Property
• Grad Studies & Research
• Communicating the DU Vision to Stakeholders
• Diversity in the DU Community

"Ideas at Work" (the DU Reading Group)

Peer Mentoring

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DU Students

By the numbers

The University of Denver is about people working together to provide education of the highest quality. There are close to 4November 18, 2010culty and 1,370 appointed staff, supporting about 10,000 students.

The University also employs people on a part-time, temporary basis. These may be adjunct faculty, student employees, graduate assistants, or temporary staff.

University of Denver students come from 50 states and more than 100 countries. Enrollment is approximately 3,700 undergraduates, 5,200 graduates, 590 certificate, and 650 pre-collegiate students. Student to faculty ratio is 14:1.

Liberal Arts and Professional Programs

The Liberal Arts and Sciences are the traditional basis for higher education. Courses foster creative thinking and critical reasoning while introducing students to a broad range of knowledge and experience.

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Undergraduate and Graduate Programs

Undergraduate

Discoveries Orientation

Discoveries assists students in making the best possible start to their experience at the University. Academic achievement and personal development is promoted by preparing students for the challenges and experiences that lie ahead. Through workshops, small group meetings, computer classes, presentations, and discussion sessions, they learn important information regarding the University and register for fall classes.

Special Programs for Undergraduate Students

• Office of Undergraduate Studies, Wellness and Campus Life
• Living/Learning Communities
• The Pioneer Leadership Program (PLP)
• Summer Excursion Trips (SET)
• Partners in Scholarship (PINS)

Graduate Programs - Academic and Professional

For more than 100 years, the University has offered distinguished graduate programming in academic and professional fields. Students pursue post-baccalaureate education including in:

• Masters and doctoral programs in the traditional arts, sciences, mathematics, and engineering
• Advanced programs in law, business, professional psychology, education, international studies, and social work
• Nontraditional Masters and certificate programs at DU's University College

Selected interdisciplinary programs include

• Master of Arts Degree in Digital Media Studies (DMS)
• Master of Arts Degree in Public Policy (MPP)
• Master of Arts Degree in Conflict Resolution (MCM)

Click here for a comprehensive list of Graduate Programs

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