Information for Undergraduate Students

Click on any of the following links for information:

At CU Denver, six undergraduate schools and colleges (College of Architecture and Planning, College of Arts & Media, Business School, College of Engineering and Applied Science, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and School of Public Affairs) provide a diverse array of baccalaureate majors, minors, certificates and teacher licensure options to meet the ever-challenging demands of a global society. Your undergraduate education consists of a general education core curriculum and a major and elective courses for most areas of study. The campuswide core curriculum develops proficiency in writing and mathematics, cultivates a breadth of knowledge, promotes critical thinking, allows you the flexibility to meet your career goals and helps you develop sensitivity to cultural diversity and international perspectives.

A list of all our undergraduate programs, including minors and online programs, is available in the academics section of the CU Denver website.

Assistant Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management: Barbara Edwards
Office: 1250 West 14th Street—Annex
Telephone: 303-556-2704
Fax: 303-556-4838
E-mail: admissions@ucdenver.edu
Website: www.ucdenver.edu/admissions

CU Denver seeks to identify applicants who are likely to be successful in a rigorous academic program of study. Admission decisions are based on many factors, the most important being:

• level of previous academic performance
• evidence of academic ability and accomplishment as indicated by scores on national aptitude tests
• evidence of maturity, motivation and potential for academic success

CU Denver may deny admission to new applicants or readmission to former students whose total credentials indicate an inability to assume obligations of performance and behavior deemed essential by the university.

After completing the application process, official notification of one’s admission status as an undergraduate, graduate or nondegree student is provided by the Office of Admissions. Letters from various schools and colleges indicating acceptance into a particular program are pending, subject to official notification of admission to the institution by the admissions office.

Students who are admitted pending receipt of the application fee, additional documents or with unofficial documents will be permitted one term to submit the fee and/or documents. If temporarily waived fees and/or official documents are not received by the end of the initial term of attendance, registration for subsequent terms will be denied. If at any time additional credentials are received that affect the student’s qualifications, the university reserves the right to change the admission decision.

Applicants who have not decided upon a major field of study will be considered for admission to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as undeclared majors. Students admitted as undeclared majors should declare a major as quickly as possible and no later than the end of their sophomore year.

All questions about admission to CU Denver and requests for application forms should be directed to 303-556-2704 or admissions@ucdenver.edu. Send credentials to:

Office of Admissions
University of Colorado Denver
Campus Box 167, P.O. Box 173364
Denver, CO 80217-3364

The university may change document/credential deadlines in accordance with enrollment demands. For the best scholarship and registration time considerations, applicants should apply and be admitted as early as possible. Admission to the university does not assure availability of specific courses. For an applicant to be considered for a specific term, all documents required for admission must be received in the Office of Admissions by the deadline for that term. Applicants who are unable to meet the deadline may elect to be considered for a later term. Transfer students are reminded that they should allow sufficient time to have transcripts sent from institutions they have previously attended.

Advanced planning and early application are necessary for the timely admission of international students. International students are advised that it takes additional time for credentials to reach the Office of International Affairs from international locations. See the Information for International Students  section for more information.

Application Deadline for Priority Consideration (excluding BA/BS-MD and music applicants)

Fall: July 22
Spring: December 1
Summer: May 3

Early application is strongly encouraged.  Admission to the university does not assure specific course availability.

First-time freshman and transfer students entering the University of Colorado Denver are required to meet the following minimum academic preparation standards (MAPS) for high school units of study, either prior to initial enrollment or before graduation from the University of Colorado Denver.   College courses taken before or after graduation from high school can be considered toward MAPS fulfillment.  Note:  Students who graduated from high school between 1988 and 2009 may have reduced unit requirements in some areas.  Students who graduated from high school before 1988 are exempt from MAPS.

Students with MAPS deficiencies may be considered for admission to the university on an individual basis based on the rigor of units completed as well as other admission criteria (e.g., test scores, rank in high school class and GPA) If admitted, students must make up any MAPS deficiencies prior to graduation from the university. Students may make up MAPS deficiencies by successful completion of:

1. courses taken at CU
2. courses taken at other institutions of higher education
3. additional high school credits
4. credit-by-examination programs
5. other requirements as approved by each school or college on the Denver Campus

Freshman admission standards define the level of success and achievement necessary to be admitted to CU Denver and include factors that predict academic success such as scores on the ACT or SAT, high school course work and GPA. Both the subjects the student has studied and how the student has performed will be factors that determine admission to the university. 

Applicants being considered for admission to a college or university for the first time after graduating from high school or earning a GED are freshmen for admission purposes, even if any number of college courses were completed prior to high school graduation.  College credits earned while in high school may be considered in transfer to the university.  Freshmen may apply for admission to the Colleges of Architecture and Planning, Arts & Media, Engineering and Applied Science, Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Public Affairs and the Business School.

Freshman applicants must be high school graduates, be enrolled in a program of study leading to high school graduation, or have been awarded a High School Equivalency Certificate by completing the General Education Development (GED) test and are subject to the state of Colorado Higher Education Admission Requirements (HEAR) and University of Colorado Minimum Academic Preparation Standards (MAPS) as outlined above. 

Bachelor of Arts or Science to Medical Doctor (BA/BS-MD) Program

BA/BS-MD applicants must first apply and be accepted for freshman admission in any CU Denver program of study.  If academically qualified, a supplemental BA/BS-MD application must then be submitted along with all required documents and credentials by the published BA/BS-MD deadline date. To be considered, applicants must be classified as Colorado residents for tuition purposes.  Intended for highly qualified students from diverse backgrounds, the BA/BS-MD program offers a limited number of “reserved” positions at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.  For additional information, visit http://babsmd.ucdenver.edu.

Admission Consideration

Architecture and Planning, College of

Architecture applicants will receive priority consideration if they have fulfilled all HEAR and MAPS requirements if applicable, graduated in the top 25 percent of their high school class and achieved a composite score of at least 26 on the ACT (16 or higher in English) or a combined score of at least 1100 on the SAT (excluding essay with 410 or higher in critical reading). For architecture admission, applicants must have an admission index score of 103. Applicants not meeting requirements for direct admission to architecture are automatically considered for admission as undelcared majors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Arts & Media, College of

For majors other than music, arts and media applicants will receive priority consideration if they have fulfilled all HEAR and MAPS requirements if applicable, graduated in the top 30 percent of their high school class and achieved a composite score of at least 21 on the ACT (16 or higher in English) or a combined score of at lest 950 on the SAT (excluding essay with 410 or higher in critical reading).  For arts and media admission, applicants must have an admission index score of 93.

Music applicants receive priority consideration if they meet at least the minimum criteria above for arts and media admission AND complete additional music application requirements by the posted music application deadline date.  For all emphases, an aural skills examination is required.  For all emphases except the non-audition tracks in music business and recording arts, an audition is required. Music admission is open only for fall semester and is competitive for all students. Complete application files are pooled and reviewed by a selection committee. Visit the music department website for additional information.

Business School

Business applicants will receive priority consideration if they have fulfilled all HEAR and MAPS requirements if applicable, graduated in the top 25 percent of their high school class and achieved a composite score of at least 26 on the ACT (16 or higher in English) or a combined score of at least 1100 on the SAT (excluding essay with 410 or higher in critical reading). For business admission, applicants must have an admission index score of 103. Applicants not meeting requirements for direct admission to the Business School will be automatically considered for admission as prebusiness majors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Engineering and Applied Science, College of

Engineering applicants will receive priority consideration if they have fulfilled all HEAR and MAPS requirements if applicable, graduated in the top 25 percent of their high school class and achieved a composite score of at least 26 on the ACT (16 or higher in English and 28 or higher in mathematics) or a combined score of at least 1100 on the SAT (excluding essay with 410 or higher in critical reading and 600 or higher in mathematics).  For engineering admission, applicants must have an admission index score of 103. Applicants not meeting requirements for direct admission to engineering programs will be automatically considered for admission as preengineering majors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Liberal Arts and Sciences, College of

Liberal arts and science applicants will receive priority consideration if they have fulfilled all HEAR and MAPS requirements if applicable, graduated in the top 30 percent of their high school class and achieved a composite score of at least 21 on the ACT (16 or higher in English) or a combined score of at lest 950 on the SAT (excluding essay with 410 or higher in critical reading).  For liberal arts and science admission, applicants must have an admission index score of 93.

Public Affairs, School of

Criminal justice applicants in the School of Public Affairs will receive priority consideration if they have fulfilled all HEAR and MAPS requirements if applicable, graduated in the top 30 percent of their high school class and achieved a composite score of at least 21 on the ACT (16 or higher in English) or a combined score of at lest 950 on the SAT (excluding essay with 410 or higher in critical reading).  For criminal justice admission, applicants must have an admission index score of 93.

Applicants for all departments who do not satisfy the requirements for priority consideration are reviewed on an individual basis.

How to Apply

1. Students are encouraged to apply online at www.ucdenver.edu/admissions.  A paper application for undergraduate admission may also be used and can be obtained from a Colorado high school counselor or downloaded from the CU Denver website at www.ucdenver.edu/admissions.  A paper application may be requested via email at admissions@ucdenver.edu or by calling the Office of Admissions at 303-556-2704.
2. The application must be completed and submitted online or mailed to the Office of Admissions along with a $50 (subject to change) nonrefundable application fee.  For online applications, the fee may be paid with a credit card, check, e-check, or money order; for paper applications, a check or money order is required for fee payment.  For applicants who are granted admission but are unable to enroll for that term, the $50 application fee will remain valid for 12 months, provided the Office of Admissions is informed of the intent to enroll for a later term and the student does not enroll at another college or university.
3. Students are required to have their high school send an official transcript of their high school grades, including class rank if available, to the Office of Admissions.  For applicants currently enrolled in high school, final official transcripts are also required after the high school graduation date is officially posted.  Official transcripts are those sent by the issuing institution or sent electronically through Docufide directly to: Office of Admissions, University of Colorado Denver, Campus Box 167, P.O. Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364. Faxed, copied or electronic copies sent other than through Docufide are not official. Hand-carried copies are official only if delivered in a sealed envelope originating at the issuing institution.
   
4. Students who did not graduate from high school are required to have a copy of their GED test scores and GED certificate sent directly from the certifying agency to the CU Denver Office of Admissions.  For GED applicants, GED scores and ACT or SAT scores are the basis for the admission decision.  GED applicants must also submit official high school transcripts for a complete applicant file,  but these records are not factored into the admission review process.
5. Students are required to take either the ACT (essay portion is optional) or the SAT and request that test scores be sent to CU Denver (ACT code 0533, SAT code 4875). High school students may obtain ACT and SAT test dates and locations from their counselors. Scores from national exams or the Colorado junior ACT exam are accepted.  Residual exams are accepted ONLY if administered by Metropolitan State University of Denver.  Other residual exams are not accepted.  Students who took one or more of these tests while in high school may use the test scores reported on their official high school transcript as an official test score report. Applicants who did not designate CU Denver as a score recipient and/or whose scores are not posted on high school transcripts must notify the testing agency to send scores to CU Denver. A request for additional score reports may be requested from any of the offices listed below.
   
   American College Testing Program (ACT)
   P.O. Box 451
   Iowa City, Iowa 52243
   319-337-1313
   www.ACT.org school code: 0533
   
   The College Board (SAT)
   P.O. Box 8057
   Mount Vernon, IL 62864
   866-756-7346
   www.collegeboard.org school code: 4875
    
6. Students who completed college course work while in high school must submit an official transcript from each college or university attended.
7. International students must submit an international student application for admission, $75.00 application fee, and provide additional documentation (see the Information for International Students  section of this catalog for more information).

Credentials

All credentials presented for admission become the property of the University of Colorado and must remain on file.  Original documents and/or copies of submitted documents are not returned or provided to students.

Students who knowingly falsify transcripts or test scores or who fail to indicate and provide credentials from all previously attended institutions will be denied admission to, or will be disenrolled from, the university.

Freshman Housing Requirement

First-time freshmen under age 20 not living at home with parents or otherwise receiving a housing exemption are required to live in Campus Village Apartments. See Student Housing  in the Campus Life section of this catalog for additional information.

After Admission - Advising and Enrollment

Several months before the start of each semester, freshmen accepted for admission to the university will receive information about activating their official University of Colorado Denver UCDAccess portal and email accounts, receiving required academic advising, attending freshmen orientation and timelines and procedures for course registration.  For best course availability, students should attend orientation/and or advising sessions to receive required advisor approval and register for courses as early as possible. 

All credentials presented for admission become the property of the University of Colorado and must remain on file.  Original documents and/or copies of submitted documents are not returned or provided to students.

Students who knowingly falsify transcripts or test scores or who fail to indicate all previously attended institutions will be denied admission to, or will be disenrolled from, the university.

Applicants Not Granted Admission

An applicant who is not granted admission as an entering freshman may wish to consider transferring to the university after successful study elsewhere. To be considered for transfer student admission, such students must complete from one full semester (13 minimum semester hours) to one year (30 minimum semester hours) of college-level course work at another college or university. Students should select courses that will provide sound academic preparation for future transfer.

Freshman students who are not admissible are encouraged to participate in the Admissions Promise program that CU Denver has established with select Colorado community colleges.

Applicants are considered as transfer students for admission purposes if they have completed any number of college courses after graduating from high school or earning a GED. Applicants with any number of college courses taken only prior to high school graduation are considered as freshmen for admission purposes and should consult the Admission Requirements for Freshmen section.  

Transfer applicants who graduated from high school in 1988 or later are subject to MAPS requirements. Transfer students who graduated from high school in 2008 or later and have fewer than 30 college credits* completed at the time of application are subject to HEAR requirements in addition to MAPS. Transfer applicants must have earned a high school diploma or GED regardless of the number of college credits completed.

Admission Consideration

Students with 12 or fewer semester hours of completed college-level course work* at the time of application are considered for admission based on high school GPA, high school courses/units completed, rank in class, ACT or SAT scores and college or university GPA.

Students with 13 to 29 semester hours of completed college-level course work* at the time of application are considered for admission based primarily upon performance in college courses, but high school transcripts are still required. ACT or SAT scores are desirable, but not required.

Students with 30 or more semester hours of completed college-level course work* at the time of application are considered for admission based upon college course work alone.  High school school records and ACT or SAT scores are not required.

The cumulative GPA is calculated as or converted to a 4.0 scale and will include all college or university course work attempted, including course work from foreign institutions.

*Only coursework that was completed after graduation from high school or completion of a GED is counted in these totals.

Admission Criteria by Academic Program

Architecture and Planning, College of

A minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA is required, but applicants with at least a 2.3 cumulative GPA may be considered on an individual basis if the academic record shows consistent improvement and/or strong performance in science, mathematics art or architecture-oriented courses. Applicants not offered direct admission to the architecture program will be automatically considered for admission as undeclared majors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Arts & Media, College of

A minimum 2.4 cumulative GPA is required, but anyone with at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA may be considered. Music majors are considered for fall semester only, have a required audition (except non-audition tracks in Music Business and Recording Arts) and other additional application requirements which must be completed by the Department of Music deadline. (Visit http://cam.ucdenver.edu/meis.) Admission to the music major is selective and qualified applicants are pooled and reviewed by an admissions committee.

Business School

A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on at least 24 semester hours that apply to the business degree program, or a 3.0 in the 24 most recent semester hours that apply to the business degree program is required. The business course GPA must be at least a 2.0.  Students with at least a 2.6 cumulative GPA are considered on an individual basis. Applicants with fewer than 80 college credits who are not offered direct admission to the Business School will be automatically considered for prebusiness admission in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.  Students who have earned a previous undergraduate degree in business may not apply for a second undergraduate degree in business.

Engineering and Applied Science, College of

Bioengineering:  There is no direct admission to Bioengineering; applicants apply and are considered for admission to the prebioengineering program.  For prebioengineering admission, a full year each of college calculus, general biology with labs and general chemistry with labs and one semester of calculus-based physics with lab must be completed with “B” or better grades.  The cumulative GPA must be at least 2.75.  Applicants with fewer than 80 college credits not accepted for direct admission to prebioengineering are considered for admission as undeclared majors in the College of Engineering and Applied Science or for preengineering admission in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Civil Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Undeclared Engineering:  One full year each of college calculus and calculus-based physics (or calculus-based physics I and general college chemistry I) must be completed with B or better grades. Grades of B are required in all other math and science courses and the cumulative GPA must be at least 2.75. Students meeting most, but not all of these standards are fully considered. Applicants with fewer than 80 college credits who are not offered admission to the College of Engineering and Applied Science will be automatically considered for preengineering admission in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Liberal Arts and Sciences, College of

A minimum 2.4 cumulative GPA is required (excludes BA/BS-MD program), but anyone with at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA may be considered.   

Public Affairs, School of

A minimum 2.4 cumulative GPA is required, but anyone with at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA may be considered.

How to Apply

1. Students are encouraged to apply online at www.ucdenver.edu/admissions.  A paper application for undergraduate admission may also be used and can be downloaded from the CU Denver website at www.ucdenver.edu/admissions.  A paper application may be requested via email at admissions@ucdenver.edu or by calling the Office of Admissions at 303-556-2704.
2. The application must be completed and submitted online or mailed to the Office of Admissions along with a $50 (subject to change) nonrefundable application fee.  For online applications, the fee may be paid with a credit card, check, e-check, or money order; for paper applications, a check or money order is required for fee payment.  For applicants who are granted admission but are unable to enroll for that term, the $50 application fee will remain valid for 12 months, provided the Office of Admissions is informed of the intent to enroll for a later term and the student does not enroll at another college or university.
3. Students must request that one official transcript be sent directly from each college or university attended, including foreign institutions, directly to the CU Denver Office of Admissions. Transcripts are considered official if received in this manner or received electronically through Docufide. Hand-carried transcripts or transcripts sent by the student are considered official only if delivered in the original sealed envelope of the issuing institution. All other transcripts are unofficial. If not in English, a certified English translation must accompany each official transcript. Official transcripts should be sent to:
   
   Office of Admissions
   University of Colorado Denver
   Campus Box 167
   P.O. Box 173364
   Denver, CO 80217-3364
4. For students who have completed fewer than 13 college-level semester hours at the time of application,  official high school transcripts, GED scores (if applicable) and ACT or SAT scores must also be submitted.  ACT or SAT scores recorded on the high school transcript are considered official.
5. For students who have completed between 13 and 29 college-level semester hours at the time of application,  official high school transcripts and GED scores (if applicable) must also be submitted.

Please Note

• If you apply for admission while enrolled in your first semester of college or university courses, a current semester progress report form will be sent to you and required as part of the application process.  A final official college or university transcript is also required and should be sent to the Office of Admissions at the end of the semester or term.
• If you are a continuing college or university student at the time you apply for admission, official transcripts showing course work completed to date should be sent as indicated above.  You must also request that a final official transcript be sent to the Office of Admissions when grades are recorded at the end of your final semester or term.
• All credentials presented for admission consideration become the property of the University of Colorado and will not be copied for or returned to the student.
• The University of Colorado Denver reserves the right to deny admission to transfer students not deemed to have completed college-level course work at the sending institution and/or those who are not eligible to return to their previous college or university campuses.
• Students who knowingly falsify transcripts or test scores or who fail to indicate all previously attended institutions will be denied admission to, or will be disenrolled from, the university.

After Admission - Advising and Enrollment

Accepted transfer students who have submitted official transcripts will receive a transfer credit evaluation which will include advising office contact information. Students should schedule an advising appointment or contact their advisor for assistance with applying transfer credits to degree requirements. Advisor approval is required for new students prior to registering for CU Denver courses in their first semester.  

Several months before classes begin, additional information about activating your official UCDAccess portal and course registration timelines and processes will be provided. For best course availability, students are encouraged to receive advisor approval and register for courses as early as possible. If admitted for fall or spring semester, students will receive an invitation for the new student welcome program from the orientation office. 

Student course work of comparable content and scope to that of the University of Colorado Denver curriculum will be considered for transfer credit if it was completed at a college or university with regional accreditation.  If coursework was completed at an institution not regionally accredited, the student may specifically request that credit be considered in transfer by initiating a review process which begins with the student’s academic advisor. Only courses in which a grade of C- or better (1.7) was earned are considered for transfer. Courses in which a grade of Pass (P) was earned are considered for transfer only if a grade of Pass at the sending institution is defined as a C- or better. Courses identified on transcripts as State of Colorado guaranteed transfer courses (gtPATHWAYS) are always accepted in transfer (with C- or better grades) and applied to degree requirements per gtPATHWAYS guidelines. 

Developmental, remedial, religious doctrinal, religious training, single religion, outdoor leadership, student orientation, internship and cooperative education courses are not accepted in transfer. Vocational/technical courses are not accepted in initial transfer but exceptions may be granted by the dean responsible for the student’s curriculum. Independent Study, Special Topics and other experiential learning programs that lack catalog descriptions are not accepted in initial transfer but may be reviewed for transfer consideration by the corresponding academic department. Students wishing to appeal transfer credit decisions should contact their school or college advisor.  Except for developmental/remedial courses, academic departments make final decisions on transfer credit appeals.

After all official transcripts have been received and the student is admitted as a degree-seeking student, the Office of Admissions prepares a transfer credit report indicating which courses have been accepted in general transfer by CU Denver.  After this report has been completed, the student is notified and directed to contact his/her academic advisor who will determine how transferred credit applies to specific degree requirements, sometimes using automated systems and with assistance from academic departments.   Transfer courses and/or exams considered to be duplicated credit do not apply to degree requirements, unless an exception is granted by an academic unit.  Academic units make all final decisions regarding application of transfer credit to degree requirements. Transfer credit evaluations are valid only for degree programs offered entirely at the Denver campus.

Courses are accepted in initial transfer to CU Denver and applied to graduation requirements at the same level as listed on the transcript from the sending institution.  Transfer courses that have similar content to specific CU Denver courses, but are listed on transcripts at a different level, may be substituted on a content basis for CU Denver courses upon approval from the academic unit.  Such courses, however, apply to overall requirements at the level listed by the sending institution unless an exception has been granted.  Only undergraduate courses are considered in transfer.

The Office of Admissions considers course work for general transfer regardless of the age of the academic credit. Certain departments, however, have specific age of credit policies for applying credit to degree requirements and for meeting prerequisites.  State guaranteed general education courses will be accepted in transfer and applied to graduation requirements for a period of at least 10 years after course completion as outlined in gtPATHWAYS guidelines.

The Business School generally limits its transfer of business course credits to those that are comparable to lower-division business courses at CU Denver. Students who have taken upper-division business courses from an Association for Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)accredited business program may request review of these courses for possible transfer by contacting the Business School advising office. All courses taken in the business area of emphasis must be completed at CU Denver.

The College of Engineering and Applied Science, in general, requires that engineering course transfer credit must come from an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited engineering program to be acceptable for degree purposes. Engineering technology courses are not considered equivalent to engineering courses.

A maximum of 60 total semester hours is acceptable in transfer from community or junior colleges. A maximum of 90 semester hours is acceptable from four-year institutions or a combination of two- and four-year institutions, with no more than 60 from two-year schools.  For students with acceptable transfer credit in excess of these limits, advisors will apply the best fit courses to requirements.

Colorado Community College Transfer

Guaranteed Transfer

In compliance with Colorado’s Statewide Transfer Policy, students may transfer credit from a Colorado community college on a course-by-course basis or by completing an associate of arts (AA) or associate of science (AS) degree. Students who complete an AA/AS degree may be guaranteed full transfer of the associate degree (60 credits maximum).

The guaranteed transfer program applies only to students who began Colorado community college studies in fall 2003 or later and who meet the following requirements:

• complete an AA/AS degree, which includes 31 credits of state-guaranteed general education courses
• earn credit only at Colorado community colleges within the last 10 years
• earn a grade of C- or better in each course

Statewide articulation agreements are in place governing transfer of students from Colorado community colleges into programs in anthropology, business, economics, elementary education teacher licensure, engineering, French, history, mathematics, political science, psychology, sociology and Spanish. 

Transfer advising plans for Colorado Community College students are available from the Office of Admissions and at www.ucdenver.edu/admissions. In addition, an admissions representative can assist students with planning a transfer program of study. Representatives regularly visit Colorado community colleges. Call the Office of Admissions at 303-556-2704 or e-mail admissions@ucdenver.edu for additional information.

Advanced Placement Program

The Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) allows students to take advanced work while in high school and then be examined for credit at the college level. Students who take advanced placement courses and subsequently receive scores of 4 or 5 on the CEEB Advanced Placement Examination are generally given college credit for lower-level courses in which they have demonstrated proficiency. With some exceptions, credit is also granted for scores of 3 plus a course grade of A or A- in the second semester course for the corresponding subject. For more information, contact your academic advisor and click on the following chart.  Original, official score reports are required for credit award consideration.

Advanced Placement Program Requirements (AP) chart 

College-Level Examination Program

Incoming students may earn university credit by examination in some subject areas in which they have demonstrated college-level proficiency. Interested students may take approved examinations through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) of the College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) testing service.

Acceptable CLEP examinations and credit awards are outlined in the following chart.  Original, official CLEP score reports are required for credit award consideration.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) chart 

International Baccalaureate Diploma Program

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB), available at select high schools, is a rigorous, pre-university course of study emphasizing liberal arts from an international perspective.

In accordance with HB 03-1108, the University of Colorado Denver will grant at minimum 24 semester hours of credit for any student who has graduated from high school having successfully completed an International Baccalaureate diploma program with a minimum score of 4 on each exam. Credit may be granted for most, but not all, individual IB courses where examinations are completed with at least a score of 4 for students who do not complete an IB diploma program. For additional information, students should contact their academic advisors and refer to the following chart. Original, official IB transcripts with exam scores are required for credit award consideration.

International Baccalaureate (IB) chart 

Military Service and Schooling

To have credit for educational experiences evaluated, applicants with military experience will be required to submit the DD-214 to the Office of Veterans Student Services.  Applicants should also submit the Smart Transcript and official Dantes Subject Standard Test (DSST) score reports (if applicable) to the  Office of Admissions for additional credit consideration.  For students with other military credit for which a separate transcript is issued, such as Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) or Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript System (AARTS), official transcripts should be sent to the Office of Admissions. 

Military Service and Other Credit

It is the policy of the University of Colorado Denver to award transfer credit for military courses and/or military service based on the recommendations of the American Council on Education (ACE)’s Guide to the Evaluation of Education Experiences in the Armed Services, provided such credit is generally applicable to CU Denver programs of study. For DSST exams, only upper level credit as recommended by the ACE guide is considered in transfer.  For military transcripts such as CCAF and AARTS, transfer credit is considered on the same basis as transcripts from traditional collegiate institutions.

Upon review of the DD-214, either elective or core course credit will be awarded based on ACE recommendations. Specifically, three credits of lower division Social Science core credits will be granted for prior service members who attended basic training (all services), and three credits of lower division humanities core credits will be awarded to those who have completed a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Academy (all services). Elective Credit is based on either rank at time of separation or length of service, six elective credits will be awarded for the rate of enlisted 4 (E4) or lower, or one enlistment (four years) or less.  Twelve elective credits will be granted to those who held the rate of Enlisted 5 (E5) or higher, or more than one term of service (five years or more). 

The applicability of electives is determined by the student’s major and/or college.  Proficiency credit (requirement will be waived, credit will not be awarded) for International Perspectives is available for military related students who served at least six months of an overseas deployment.  The language requirement will also be waived for students who attended an official Military Language Training Institute of 6 months or more.  In addition, the Business Experiential Learning Requirement will be waived for prior military members.  

For any questions or further information regarding military credit transfer, please contact the CU Denver Office of Veteran Student Services at 303.556.2745 (DD-214 credit consideration).

Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC)

The Air Force, Navy/Marines, and Army offer college students the opportunity to receive a commission as an officer through the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program. These military training programs occur in conjunction with a student’s undergraduate coursework and lead to a commission upon graduation. All ROTC programs offer competitive scholarships, allow for elective academic credit depending on policies of the student’s home school or college, and include a commitment to military active or reserve duty.

The University of Colorado Denver actively supports students desiring to participate in one of the ROTC programs and provides registration access to Army ROTC (sponsored by the Metropolitan State University of Denver) and to Navy/Marines or Air Force ROTC (sponsored by the University of Colorado Boulder).

Interested students should contact the specific ROTC program directly for military training, scholarship information, and registration details.

Air Force ROTC

AFROTC Detachment 105
University of CO Boulder
UCB 371
Boulder, CO 80309-0371
Phone: (303) 492-3128; (303) 492-8352

Navy/Marines ROTC

Naval ROTC
University of CO Boulder
UCB 374
Boulder, CO 80309-0374
Phone: (303) 492-2576

Army ROTC

Dept. of Military Science
633 Curtis Street
Modular Building MO-1
Denver, CO 80217
Phone: (303) 352-7419

Transfer students enrolled in Army, Air Force, or Navy/Marines ROTC programs should consult with their school or college regarding the application of ROTC course credit toward graduation requirements.

Students on the Denver Campus may change colleges or schools within the university provided they are accepted by the college or school to which they wish to transfer. Intra-university transfer forms may be obtained from the student’s school or college or from the Office of the Registrar.  Decisions on intra-university transfers are made by the college or school to which the student wishes to transfer.

Students in continuing and professional studies programs wishing to enroll in regular courses or degree programs on the Denver Campus should apply for admission to CU Denver.  Visit www.ucdenver.edu/admissions or contact the Office of Admissions at 303-556-2704 or admissions@ucdenver.edu for assistance with application processes and options.

CU Denver students who have not registered and attended classes on the Denver Campus for one year or longer and who have not attended another institution since the University of Colorado are considered returning students and must formally apply for readmission. An additional application fee is only required if changing from undergraduate to graduate or nondegree to degree status or if a degree was earned and the student is applying for a second degree. Students applying for readmission may complete an online application (preferred) or download an application form at www.ucdenver.edu/admissions.  If applying online and a fee is not required, students should indicate “pay by check” when prompted for application fee payment.  The fee requirement is then removed during application processing.  A paper application may also be requested by calling 303-556-2704 or by e-mail at admissions@ucdenver.edu.

Students who have attended another college or university since last attending the University of Colorado must apply as transfer students and meet the admission criteria and transfer student deadlines for receipt of documents. This requires payment of the $50 (subject to change) nonrefundable application fee and submission of one official transcript from each college or university attended since last enrollment at CU Denver.  Transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing institution to:

Office of Admissions
University of Colorado Denver
Campus Box 167
P. O. Box 173364
Denver, CO 80217-3364

Students who last attended another University of Colorado campus as a degree seeking student must formally apply for admission and meet the admission criteria of CU Denver. An application fee is not required unless going from undergraduate to graduate status, from nondegree to degree status or if a degree was earned. Students may apply online (preferred) or download a paper application at www.ucdenver.edu/admissions.  If applying online, students should indicate “pay by check” when prompted for application fee payment.  The fee requirement is then removed during application processing. A paper application may also be requested by calling 303-556-2704 or by e-mail at admissions@ucdenver.edu.  University of Colorado transcripts are not required, but official transcripts from each college or university attended prior to enrollment at the University of Colorado must be submitted.

Students who are at least 20 years of age and wish to take university courses, but do not plan to work toward a University of Colorado degree, may be admitted as nondegree students provided they have at least a 2.0 cumulative collegiate GPA and are eligible to return to all collegiate institutions previously attended.  Questions regarding admission as a nondegree student should be directed to the Office of Admissions. Each school/college limits the number of semester hours taken as a nondegree student that may be transferred to a degree program.

Students considering changing from nondegree to degree status will need to apply as an undergraduate or graduate degree seeking student and meet the admission requirements of the intended program of study.  Students under age 22 will be required to submit high school transcripts and ACT/SAT scores in addition to official college transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credit hours completed. 

Note: International students are not admitted as nondegree students.

Financial Implications for Nondegree students

Students with a baccalaureate degree who are admitted as nondegree students will be classified as nondegree graduate students and assessed graduate tuition regardless of the level of courses taken. If enrolling only in undergraduate courses, an adjustment may be requested through the Office of the Registrar to pay the undergraduate tuition rate. However, the Colorado Opportunity Fund (COF) is not available to in-state nondegree graduate students. To utilize COF and pay the lowest tuition rate, students must apply as undergraduate degree-seeking students, even if a degree is not desired. Note:  Students who have completed an undergraduate degree in business will not be accepted for second undergraduate degree-seeking status in the Business School.

Nondegree students are not eligible to receive federal or state financial aid, student loans and most CU Denver scholarships.

How to Apply

To apply for admission as a nondegree student, visit www.ucdenver.edu/admissions/nondegree and submit your application online (preferred) or download a paper application.  You may also obtain a paper application by calling 303-556-2704 or by email at admissions@ucdenver.edu.  Submit the completed application by the deadline for the term desired. A $50 (subject to change) nonrefundable application fee is required. No additional credentials are required. Nondegree students admitted prior to “open registration” for a given semester are advised that registration for courses is done by time assignment, and nondegree students have the latest registration time assignments regardless of the number of credits completed. Admission as a nondegree student does not assure availability of specific courses.

Continuation as a nondegree student with no prior undergraduate degree is contingent upon maintaining an overall GPA of 2.0 upon completion of 12 or more semester hours.

Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in any major other than business may apply for admission to any undergraduate program and work toward completion of a second undergraduate degree. Applicants with an undergraduate degree in business may apply for graduate programs or for undergraduate programs in the College of Architecture and Planning, College of Arts & Media, College of Engineering and Applied Science, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences or the School of Public Affairs.  Applicants for a second undergraduate degree must meet CU Denver admissions standards.

How to Apply

1. Apply online or request an application for undergraduate admission from the Office of Admissions at www.ucdenver.edu/admissions.
2. Complete the application and send it to the Office of Admissions with a $50 (subject to change) nonrefundable application fee.
3. Have one official transcript sent to the Office of Admissions from each collegiate institution attended. Official transcripts for enrollment at any campus of the University of Colorado are not required. Official transcripts are those sent by the issuing institution directly to:
   Office of Admissions
   University of Colorado Denver
   Campus Box 167
   P.O. Box 173364
   Denver, CO 80217-3364
   Hand-carried or faxed copies are not official.

Transcripts from the institution where the first undergraduate degree was earned must have final grades posted for the semester that the student graduated and have the official notation of the degree awarded.

All credentials presented for admission become the property of the University of Colorado and must remain on file. Students who do not declare all previously attended institutions are subject to disciplinary action and/or dismissal.

Students who knowingly falsify transcripts or test scores will be denied admission to, or will be disenrolled from, the university.

High school juniors and seniors with demonstrated academic abilities may be admitted to CU Denver with special approval for one term only. This approval may be renewed. Credit for courses taken may subsequently be applied toward a university degree program, if applicable. For more information and application instructions, contact the Office of Admissions, 303-556-6745 or admissions@ucdenver.edu.

The University of Colorado Denver is proud to have a diverse population of international students coming from more than 100 countries. Instructions for international student admissions are available in the Information for International Students  section of this catalog. International application forms are accessible on the international admissions website at www.internationaladmissions.ucdenver.edu.

New Student Orientation

New Student Orientation is designed to help students make the best possible transition to the University of Colorado Denver. Specific orientation programs are available throughout the academic year. For more information regarding orientation dates, please call (303) 315-3503 or visit us online at www.ucdenver.edu/orientation.

Freshmen

All first-time freshmen are required to participate in orientation. Specific activities for first-time freshmen include: academic advising; registration for courses; introduction to campus resources and policies; and the opportunity to meet other students. Family and friends are welcome to attend a freshmen orientation with their student.

Transfer, Graduate and Non-Degree

Spring and Fall Welcomes will be held in January and August, respectively, for all new students transitioning to CU Denver. Specific transfer sessions will be offered throughout the school year. Graduate students should verify with their specific school or college before attending an orientation session.

The University of Colorado Denver has adopted a set of guidelines to define the conditions under which an undergraduate student will be guaranteed to graduate in four years. More information is available through the undergraduate advising offices for each college and the major program offices. The Denver Campus has five undergraduate colleges in which this guarantee applies: College of Arts & Media, Business School, College of Engineering and Applied Science, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and School of Public Affairs.

CU Denver guarantees that if a student begins studies in a fall semester and lack of scheduling of essential courses is found to have prevented a student from completing all course work necessary for a BA, BFA or BS degree from the university by the end of the student’s eighth consecutive fall and spring semester, the college/school shall provide tuition plus any course fees for all courses required for completion of the degree requirements. This applies only when needed courses are not offered by the college/school and does not apply to scheduling conflicts for individual students. Students must satisfy all the requirements described below to be eligible for this guarantee.

This guarantee applies to all students who enroll beginning in a fall term as first-semester, full-time freshmen without admission deficiencies, who do not need remedial course work and who satisfy all the requirements described below. This guarantee does not include completion of all options within the major, a second major, a double degree, a minor or a certificate program. The four-year graduation guarantee does not apply to programs in which the degree has been discontinued or is in the process of being phased out. In these cases, every effort will be made to allow students to fulfill requirements by taking courses at other universities and colleges to facilitate timely completion of the degree.

Some study abroad programs may not provide a sufficient range of courses to allow students to meet the requirements, thus, students who participate in study abroad programs during the fall or spring semesters may not be eligible for this guarantee. A student may be able to participate in a study abroad program during the summer semester and still meet all the requirements of this guarantee. It is essential that a student work closely with an advisor to determine if the student can participate in a study abroad program and still meet all the requirements of this guarantee.

Requirements

Students must satisfy all of the following requirements to be eligible for this guarantee.

1. Students must begin studies in a fall semester and enroll in CU Denver course work as specified on the student plan of study for eight consecutive fall and spring semesters.
2. Students must complete all required course work by the end of the eighth semester.
3. No fewer than 60 semester hours of applicable course work must be completed successfully by the end of the second year (24 calendar months); 90 semester hours by the end of the third year (36 calendar months); and 120 semester hours by the end of the fourth year (48 calendar months). Students must successfully complete an average of 15 semester hours each semester.
4. Students must meet with their college advisor and their major advisor for academic advising during the first, third, fifth and seventh semesters of study.
5. The major must be declared no later than the end of the first semester of study and students must not change their major or any options within the major.
6. A required plan of study toward the major must be agreed upon and signed by the student and advisor at the end of the first semester. Thereafter students must make satisfactory progress toward completing the major, as defined by each major, and the general education requirements. Courses with certain grades may not meet the satisfactory progress requirement of this guarantee. A statement of what constitutes satisfactory progress and what grades are acceptable is available from the major or departmental office at the time the major is declared.
7. A minimum of 30 semester hours of college general education courses should be completed by the end of the second year, including core curriculum courses that also meet major requirements and foreign language proficiency.
8. All lower-division graduation requirements must be successfully completed by the 90-semester-hour mark.
9. Students must remain in good academic standing according to their school/college academic policies.
10. Grades of C-, C or C+, as defined by the college/school, must be earned in all course work required for the major, and students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all major course work attempted.
11. Students must register each semester within one week of the student’s specified eligibility to register.
12. Students must take courses that are specified in the student plan of study approved by their advisor.
13. Elective courses must be avoided if they conflict with required major or general education courses. Elective courses must not be given a higher priority than required courses.
14. Students must meet all departmental, school or college and university policies regarding graduation requirements.
15. The college/school must be notified in writing of the student’s intent to graduate no later than the beginning of the seventh semester of study. A graduation application must be filed no later than the deadline for the appropriate graduation date. The student must complete a graduation checkout/senior audit with their advisor.
16. The student is responsible for and must keep documentation proving that these requirements were satisfied (e.g., records of advising meetings attended, advising records and instructions, etc.).

Assistant Vice Chancellor for Undergraduate Experiences: John Lanning, John.Lanning@ucdenver.edu
Program Coordinator for Undergraduate Experiences: Ingrid Hoff, Ingrid.Hoff@ucdenver.edu
Office: Lawrence Street Center, Suite 300
Telephone: 303-315-2133
Fax: 303-315-5829
Website: www.ucdenver.edu/UE

The Office of Undergraduate Experiences coordinates and implements education programs designed to promote undergraduate student access to high-quality and innovative CU Denver programs, improve the recruitment and retention of undergraduate students, and coordinate programs between academic and student affairs to better serve students. Undergraduate Experiences oversees the University Honors and Leadership program, the First-Year Seminar program, the Experiential Learning Center, and the Early Alert program.

University Honors and Leadership Program (UHL)

Director:  Steven G. Medema
Program Coordinator:  Phyllis Chaney
Office: 1047 Ninth Street Park
Telephone: 303-556-5297
Fax: 303-556-6744
E-mail: UHL@ucdenver.edu
Website: www.ucdenver.edu/UHL

University Honors and Leadership (UHL) is a program of excellence designed for students who have demonstrated superior achievement in academic performance and/or outstanding leadership qualities. UHL is founded on the premise that the integration of rigorous programs of academic excellence and leadership education provides the ideal environment in which to develop the gifts of the next generation of leaders in academia, business, policy-making, and service to communities local, national, and global.

The four-year UHL program is unique in integrating academic honors and leadership education within a highly selective learning community of outstanding students and faculty. The UHL program allows students to complement their major field of study with a traditional honors experience in the academic honors track or with a program of leadership education in the leadership studies track. Students move through the UHL program in cohorts that simultaneously promote community, teamwork, and individual initiative. All UHL courses are multidisciplinary, reflecting the view that the ability to effectively analyze the challenges faced in all sectors of society can be enhanced by the integration of appropriate information drawn from a broad base of perspectives and problem-solving skills. The UHL program complements this philosophy with an emphasis on the development of exceptional oral and written communication skills, projects that steep students in sophisticated research methods, and the opportunity to work in teams to solve practical problems in the community.

The Academic Program

UHL is a multidisciplinary cohort program consisting of 27 semester hours of coursework to be completed over four years. The UHL courses substitute for most of the CU Denver core curriculum requirements.

UHL students have the opportunity to pursue an honors experience through the academic honors track or to focus on leadership education through the leadership studies track. UHL students have a shared first-year experience, taking a core of coursework common to both tracks. The second and third years of the UHL program offer programs designed specifically for the academic honors and leadership studies tracks. UHL students come together for a two-semester capstone research seminar in the fourth year.

Students pursuing the academic honors track have the opportunity to earn a minor in “Multidisciplinary Research Methods.” Those completing the leadership studies track have the opportunity to earn a minor in “Leadership Studies.”

UHL students who successfully satisfy the course and credit-hour requirements and maintain a GPA of 3.50 or higher in their UHL courses will graduate with “University Honors.”

Please click here for more information on the UHL program .

^Top

First-Year Seminar Program

Assistant Vice Chancellor for Undergraduate Experiences: John Lanning, John.Lanning@ucdenver.edu
Program Coordinator for Undergraduate Experiences: Ingrid Hoff, Ingrid.Hoff@ucdenver.edu
Office: Lawrence Street Center, Suite 300
Telephone: 303-315-2133
Fax: 303-315-5829
Website: www.ucdenver.edu/FYE

CU Denver offers the optional First-Year Seminar (FYS) program, which is designed to assist students in successfully making the transition from high school to college, improve student retention, and boost new student confidence. FYS courses integrate rigorous academic content with academic skills such as library usage, campus resources, information literacy, time management, communication skills, and career counseling. Class size is capped at 24 students to facilitate interaction between student and instructor, and to allow the instructor to serve as a mentor in the student’s first semester of college.

Why should entering high school students participate in a First-Year Seminar course?

• higher first semester grades
• student engagement with campus activities
• higher student satisfaction facilitated by small class size and a faculty mentor
• knowledge and utilization of campus resources designed to assist students
• early exploration of career paths and a suitable major
• more likely to stay in college
• Core curriculum credit
• active learning pedagogy designed to improve writing and critical thinking skills

Please click here for more information on the First-Year Seminar program .

Experiential Learning Center (Internships, Service, and Research)

Director:  Tony R. Smith
Office, Events, and Assessment Coordinator:  Rachel Wilcoxson
Office: Tivoli Student Union, 260
Telephone: 303-556-6656
Website: www.ucdenver.edu/ELC

Live your learning at CU Denver! Students have many opportunities to explore academic fields through direct experience, including internships, service in the community, undergraduate research, and international experiences. Connect your academic learning to the real world by putting your knowledge into practice. You will develop new skills, grow personally and professionally, and enrich your academic experience. 

INTERNSHIPS (Academic and Not-For-Credit)

Hundreds of CU Denver students engage in degree-related work experiences with corporations, government, and nonprofit agencies in the Denver metro area and around the world. Students can earn academic credit, pay, or both while gaining relevant experience related to their career interests.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Students gain a better understanding of community issues, develop practical skills, and make a difference in the world around them when they engage in service activities. From the first-year experience course to senior capstone classes, faculty weave service projects into their courses, giving students a wider view of the world. These service learning experiences vary in length of time, but the impact is always transformational. Many volunteer opportunities that connect students with the local, national, and international communities are available through the Experiential Learning Center. Students can also earn AmeriCorps education awards for service.

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACTIVITIES

Whether assisting faculty with research or pursuing their own research under faculty supervision, CU Denver students can experience what it means to be involved in the creation of knowledge. Students may apply for research grants through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and showcase their research projects at the annual Research and Creative Activities Symposium. The Experiential Learning Center provides resources for a myriad of opportunities available to CU Denver students.

Early Alert Program

CU Denver participates in the campus-wide Early Alert program to identify undergraduate students in need of assistance from academic and student service offices. Providing assistance early in the semester is very important to a student’s success in their baccalaureate program.

The Early Alert program is designed for faculty to identify students in the fifth and sixth weeks of the semester who need assistance because of academic performance, class participation, and/or behavior issues. Students who are identified by faculty for an alert are contacted by the advising office in the student’s home school or college. It is important for students to respond to Early Alert communication with their advisors. Assistance is then provided to students through academic advising and referrals to appropriate CU Denver student service offices.

Further information about the CU Denver Early Alert program is available from the Office of Undergraduate Experiences, 303-315-2133, www.ucdenver.edu/earlyalert.

 ^Top