UNIVERSITY OF DENVER

University College
Denver, Colorado

Distance Learning Program

The University College distance learning program provides the same premier, internationally recognized University of Denver program quality to students who, because of geographic location, work schedule, or personal commitments, would otherwise not have the opportunity to attend DU. The learning experience for the distance student goes beyond the traditional classroom by capitalizing on the advantages of distance learning technology. University College provides an anytime, anywhere support service as well as consistent high-quality instruction. University College has more than 300 students actively taking courses online from a wide list of states and countries.

Delivery Media

All of the University College distance learning master's degrees and Certificates of Advanced Study can be taken entirely online. A wide array of learning techniques is used to help students develop their knowledge, understanding, and problem-solving skills. University College has an entire team dedicated to utilizing emerging technologies and understanding individualized learning styles to enhance the educational experience. University College uses Blackboard® and eCollege® as its courseware management tool. The system is interactive, allows students to work collaboratively in lively discussion boards and chat rooms, and promotes the exchange of ideas and the development of a learning community. This interaction includes extensive communication with faculty members over the Internet, virtual teams, individual and group assignments, online projects, and online papers and connects students to experts from around the world.

Programs of Study

University College online programs offer three master's degrees and more than thirty graduate Certificates of Advanced Study. There are no on-campus requirements for any of the distance learning programs. The online master's degree programs require 54 quarter credit hours of study to be completed in five years or less. Typically, a program can be completed in 2½ years. Certificates are 18–24 quarter credit hours. Certificates typically take twelve to eighteen months to complete. For each of the following programs listed, a bachelor's degree is not required for a certificate, and certificate course credits may be applied toward a master's degree.

The Applied Communication master's degree program is designed to provide the real-time and practical knowledge and skills that provide specific industry expertise required for career success in a wide range of communication professions. The program's curriculum emphasizes a balance of theory, principles, and practice combined with professional experience to generate focused outcomes that are not offered in generic communication degree programs. Concentrations are available online in applied communication, organizational communication, and public relations and marketing.

The Computer Information Systems program is designed for computer professionals as well as for those planning a new career in the computer industry. This flexible program keeps current with today's changing technology and how it relates to new technologies, existing systems, and customers' needs. In addition to the master's degree program, five online certificate programs of advanced study are offered in computer information systems, database administration, distributed object-oriented analysis and design, information security and network administration, and Web design and development technologies.

The Environmental Policy and Management program provides a seamlessly blended graduate education that emphasizes ethical management, science-based environmental policies, and professional applications of technical knowledge. In addition to the master's degree program, six certificate programs of advanced study are offered in environmental, health, and safety management; environmental information management; environmental management; environmental policy; environmental project management; and natural resource management.

The University of Denver (DU), the oldest independent university in the Rocky Mountain region, is a premier liberal arts university that was founded in 1864. In addition to its rich history, DU is known for its research and high-quality teaching. To augment the traditional undergraduate and graduate programs, this outstanding institution offers innovative graduate programs through its division for working adult professionals—University College. University College was founded in 1983. With more than forty national awards and many other distinctions from its peers, University College of the University of Denver is recognized as one of the very best providers of adult education in the nation. University College offered its first online master's degree program in 1996. Today, it offers three master's degrees online, more than thirty Certificates of Advanced Study, and numerous individual courses in a variety of subject areas. University College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program provides great job opportunities for those interested in managing physical facilities, providing services, analyzing markets, and managing information in public agencies or private organizations. The master's degree, designed in conjunction with DU's Department of Geography, allows students in the University College GIS certificate program to transfer up to 24 quarter hours from their certificate. For more information on the master's degree program, students should call 303-871-2513. The certificate program, also designed in conjunction with the DU's Department of Geography, offers working professionals the opportunity to acquire the background information and hands-on-expertise necessary to capitalize on the emerging technology.

The Human Resource Administration program offers a Master of Professional Studies in human resource administration. It provides a comprehensive examination of the HR profession and positions those interested for career advancement in a variety of organizational settings that include business, government, and not-for-profit organizations.

The Online Professional Studies program is a flexible management and leadership degree program that incorporates both the analytic and interpersonal skills necessary to be an effective manager in a variety of enterprises. Distance students each choose a specific concentration based on their area of interest and career goals. Examples include computer information systems, electronic commerce, environmental policy and management, geographic information systems, leadership, organizational security, project management, technology management, and telecommunication. The online master's degree is structured around a core of 21 quarter hours of required management and leadership courses, including Principled Leadership, Managerial Decision Making, Integrated Public Relations and Marketing Strategies, Financial Analysis, Leading Organizational Change, Enterprise Management, and Graduate Research and Writing. Two certificate programs of advanced study are offered: civic leadership and development and organizational security.

The Technology Management program is designed for those who understand the power of leveraging technology in business to create their own competitive advantage. Career opportunities are limitless for those who can create, manage, and use emerging technology. In addition to the master's degree program, four certificate programs of advanced study are offered in electronic commerce, leadership, project management, and technology management.

The Telecommunications program fosters an integration of telecommunications technologies and effective management. In an industry driven by new technology, new applications, and an increasing demand for services, professionals need to maintain a current understanding of fundamental issues surrounding those technologies and the regulations which govern them. The telecommunications offerings at University College are designed to help students keep abreast of changes and take advantage of the opportunities change offers. In addition to the master's degree program, four certificate programs of advanced study are offered in broadband, telecommunications management and policy, telecommunications networks, and telecommunications technology.

Student Services

University College is dedicated to providing complete student services online. This includes admissions, registration, student advising, online resources through the library, access to the bookstore, and an individualized career counselor. There is a complete support team for technical issues as well as student support and training for Blackboard.

Credit Options

Students may be able to transfer credit earned at other accredited graduate colleges and universities. The credit hours for the certificates may apply toward the related master's degree.

Faculty

University College has 300 faculty members, all with advanced degrees, who are practicing professionals in the areas in which they teach. At any given time there are 20 to 30 faculty members teaching online. University College engages in advanced and continual training for its faculty members in the methods and application of distance learning.

Admission

Entrance examinations are not required. Students who are applying for admission to the master's degree programs must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Applicants must also submit an essay, a career goal statement, and letters of recommendation.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition is $325 per credit hour, and there is a technology fee of $4 per credit hour. Tuition rates remain the same for programs overseas.

Financial Aid

Some financial aid programs are available to assist University College students. The University of Denver's Office of Student Financial Services handles all financial aid applications (http://www.du.edu/sfs/).

CONTACT

Distance Learning Programs
University College
University of Denver
2211 South Josephine
Denver, Colorado 80208
Phone: 303-871-3315
800-347-2042 (toll-free)
Fax: 303-871-3070
E-mail: [email protected]
Web site: http://www.universitycollege.du.edu

Applying

To apply for admission to a master's degree program, students must complete a full application, including a degree plan. Registration is available on the University College Web site at http://www.universitycollege.du.edu/registernow/registerinstructions.asp#online. For more information or an application, students should visit the Web site at the address listed in the Contact section.