University of Denver

Also known as Denver University, DU

private university in the Rocky Mountain Region of the United States

Key facts

Former name: Colorado Seminary (1864–1880)
Motto: Pro Scientia et Religione ( Latin )
Motto in english: For Knowledge and Spirit
Type: Private research university
Established: 1864 ; 162 years ago ( 1864 )
Religious affiliation: Nonsectarian ; founded by Methodists
Academic affiliation: CUMU IAMSCU NAICU Space-grant
Endowment: $1.15 billion (2025)
Chancellor: Jeremy Haefner
Provost: Elizabeth Loboa
Students: 12,813 (fall 2024)
Undergraduates: 6,613 (fall 2024)

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Article

The University of Denver (DU) is a private research university in Denver, Colorado, United States. Founded in 1864, it had an enrollment of approximately 6,600 undergraduate students and 6,200 graduate students in 2024. It is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research spending and doctorate production". The 125-acre (0.51 km) main campus is a designated arboretum and is located five miles (8 km) south of downtown Denver.

History