A Brief History of the University of Denver
Founded in 1864, the University of Denver (DU) is a private, doctoral-granting university with very high research activity, earning R1 status in 2022. DU enrolls approximately 5,700 undergraduate students and 7,200 graduate students. The university has become increasingly known, nationally and internationally, for its creative, 21st-century approaches to problem-based scholarship, as well as its holistic, student-centered approach to learning known as the 4D Experience, and its dedication to the public good through local, national, and international partnerships.
Beginning in the fall of 2022, DU embraced a “one DU, two campuses” approach, offering every student the opportunity for a unique set of leadership and outdoor learning experiences at the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus. The 720-acre Kennedy Mountain Campus is located approximately 110 miles northwest of Denver, in Larimer County and plays an important role in 4D. The four integrated dimensions—advancing intellectual growth, exploring character, promoting well-being and pursuing lives and careers of purpose—guide every program and activity on the mountain, just as they do on our urban campus.
In the last 20 years, the University has invested more than $640 million in the construction of new buildings, including the Ritchie Center for Sports and Wellness, the Newman Center for the Performing Arts, the Chambers Center for the Advancement of Women, Olin Hall, the Ricketson Law Building, Ruffatto Hall (Morgridge College of Education), the Daniels College of Business, the Joy Burns Center and the Anderson Academic Commons (home of Penrose Library), as well as two new residence halls. In recent years, the Daniel Felix Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science building and the Anna & John J. Sie International Relations Complex, which expands the Josef Korbel School of International Studies, have opened. Recently, the university has completed three transformation projects: a new Community Commons (reimagined student center), Dimond Family Residential Village (a 500-bed first-year residence hall) and the Burwell Center for Career Achievement. The newest project, currently in design by the Architect of Record for submission to the city of Denver for permitting, is the STEM Horizons building to house cutting-edge life sciences research and teaching labs and instructional activities. The University has completed a campus/community master plan (known as the Denver Advantage) to integrate the campus and its surrounding neighborhood into a knowledge/innovation/residential village.
The University of Denver plays an integral role in the cultural, social, economic, and educational vibrancy of the fast-growing city and region it calls home. As a university that participates in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education's Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (AASHE STARS), DU shares a commitment to pursue sustainability in a pluralistic and inclusive way, encompassing human and ecological health, social justice, secure livelihoods, and a better world for all generations. The 125-acre main campus is a designated arboretum and is located primarily in the University Park neighborhood, about five miles south of downtown Denver.
Denver is a vibrant and engaging city with endless opportunities for recreation, social engagement, networking and learning, and breathtaking views. According to the website Denver.org, “Urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure in Denver. Known as The Mile High City, 300 days a year of sunshine, a thriving cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods, and natural beauty combine for the world’s most spectacular playground.” With a wide range of neighborhoods catering to niche interests, Denver has something for everyone.