Pioneer Prep

The Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute is a core component of the University of Denver's commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, centering the needs of the Black/African-American and Latinx communities as they relate to higher education.

There is no racial or ethnic prerequisite to participate in the program. All are welcome to apply!

The Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute application window is now open until March 31.

Pioneer Prep Application

The Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute brings together rising high school juniors and seniors from across the country for a transformative experience that:

  • Enriches participants' cultural awareness

    Examine and celebrate the communities, cultural adaptations, and resilience that have allowed Black/African-American and Latinx peoples to survive the systemic inequality they face in the United States. Noted academics, thought leaders, and storytellers discuss what it means to occupy these identities, as well as the strength and grit gained from the shared experiences of these communities.

  • Empowers emerging leaders

    Begin creating the future emerging leaders envision through workshops, exercises, and presentations led by recognized experts from a variety of fields and professions. Participants will walk away armed with a wealth of knowledge about their individual strengths and leadership skills and how to put them to use in shaping their futures.

  • Guides scholars through the college admission process

    Navigate the college admission process from initial selection to application and financial aid. Presentations from admission and financial aid professionals, panel interviews with current University of Denver students, and admission case studies all help scholars understand every facet of this process, ensuring they make the best choice for their educational goals.

Are you interested in studying business at the University of Denver? Are you curious about what a business degree is all about? If so, you should apply for the Pioneer Prep Business Days!

Pioneer Prep Business Days is an extension to the Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute and provides interested students with additional programming to explore life as a business student at DU.

  • Learn More About Business Days

    Students accepted into this program will:

    • Connect with current students and hear what life is like as a business scholar experienced through the Daniels College of Business and our major offerings:
      • Accounting
      • Business Information & Analytics
      • Finance
      • Hospitality Management
      • Marketing
      • Management
      • International Business
      • Real Estate & The Built Environment
    • Participate in a Case Competition, a team-based exercise that will develop participants' collaboration, problem-solving, and presentation skills as they work to develop solutions to unique business challenges.
    • Interact with alumni, engage with faculty & staff, and learn about today's competitive business environment.

If you want to discover what it means to be a business leader and start your journey towards becoming one, then select "yes" when you apply for the Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute, and after completing some additional questions, you will be considered for Business Days!

Pioneer Prep group outside

Benefits of Pioneer Prep

  • Engaging discussions promoting cultural awareness, leadership, and college access
  • Continued communication and support throughout the college search and application process
  • Build one's resume and social circle of influence
  • As a Pioneer Prep Scholar, we'll waive your $65 application fee if you choose to apply for college at DU
  • Depending on financial need, Pioneer Prep participants who successfully complete the program may receive a Pathways Scholarship worth up to $7,500 per year, renewable for four years at DU

Getting ready for Pioneer Prep

  • Who can apply to Pioneer Prep?

    Rising juniors and seniors who are US citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients are all eligible to apply for the program.

  • How much does the program cost?

    The total cost of the program is $65, with scholarship consideration for families who demonstrate financial hardship through free or reduced lunch eligibility.

    For non-Colorado applicants only: If you are interested in being considered for a travel stipend, please be sure to indicate this on your application.

    Note: Travel stipends are limited and evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

  • When will Pioneer Prep take place?

    The program will run from July 15th - 17th.

Pioneer Prep Mentor Cohorts

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Contact

Undergraduate Admission

For visit-related questions, please call 303-871-7711.

Daniels College of Business Undergraduate Programs