Dual Undergraduate-Graduate Programs

Academics

Combined undergraduate and graduate programs at the University of Denver allow you to earn your bachelor’s and master’s or JD more quickly than pursuing each degree separately. By taking graduate-level classes as an undergraduate student, you’ll save time and money, and enter the workforce a step ahead. 

See all available program combinations in the DU Bulletin.

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Undergraduate Courses

You'll need to meet all core, major, and minor requirements. Depending on your graduate program, the total number of undergraduate credits you need may be reduced, allowing you to take graduate courses in your senior year.

Graduate Courses

Graduate-level coursework starts during your final undergraduate year. You'll need to apply and be admitted to your graduate program before taking graduate courses.

Sample Degree Combinations

  • BA Sociology + Master of Public Policy

    Gain critical understanding of the social problems and issues affecting communities and human societies with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Then, build on your undergraduate coursework to drive positive change through inclusive and ethical policy and earn a Master of Public Policy from the Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs.

  • BS Chemistry + MS Bioengineering

    A Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the College of Natural Science and Mathematics introduces you to general chemistry, organic chemistry, quantitative analysis, instrumental analysis, physical chemistry, biochemistry and more. Combined with a Master of Science in Bioengineering from the Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science, you'll leverage your undergraduate coursework to explore bioscience research and development and conduct work on a variety of medical treatments and devices, including biomechanical smart devices and wearable technologies.

  • BA Communication Studies + MS Marketing

    Explore the role of communication in fostering high-quality human relations in interpersonal, organizational, cultural and public contexts with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. Dive deeper with an MS in Marketing from the Daniels College of Business and apply your undergraduate communications work to the core concepts, technical skills, and the latest methods in marketing.

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Explore all Degree Combinations

Many graduate degrees can be combined with any Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science program. Visit the bulletin to see all the possibilities. 

View the Bulletin

How to Apply to a Dual Degree Program

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    Talk to Your Academic Advisor

    Talk to your undergraduate academic advisor about graduate programs that might complement your undergraduate program and professional interests. Review your degree audit together to understand how a potential reduction in your undergraduate credits could work with your major, minor(s), or electives.

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    Meet with an Admission Representative

    Meet with an admissions representative for your graduate program of interest to learn more about the requirements, and which graduate courses you could take early. Discuss graduate-level financial aid and funding for your fifth year. 

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    Apply

    Apply to your graduate program as a dual undergraduate-graduate student.

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    Follow The Plan

    Work closely with both your undergraduate advisor and graduate advisor to map out your plan to complete both degrees within five years (or six for a JD).

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Financial Aid

If you are considering a dual degree combined program, planning ahead for financial aid is crucial. Eligibility for financial aid differs for undergraduate and graduate students at both the institutional and federal aid levels. Once you have completed 198 credit hours, you’ll be considered a graduate student and are no longer eligible to receive undergraduate student aid.  

For questions on funding your fifth year, contact your graduate program of interest to explore your options and start planning ahead. The Office of Financial Aid is available to discuss how financial aid works as a dual undergraduate-graduate student.

Additional Financial Aid Details