Undergraduate Programs
Creative and Liberal Arts Curriculum
Our programs are deep, broad, and multi-disciplinary, giving students the knowledge and skills necessary to flourish personally and professionally during and after college. Through hands-on experience working closely with faculty, participating in community-engaged projects or completing internships, students have the opportunity to share their voice, take a stand, lead and deliver results.
With options for dual-degree, joint and interdisciplinary programs, as well as minors, we encourage students to collaborate and develop their own educational journey through multiple disciplines. Explore our programs and plan the next steps into your future.
- MAJORS
Your major is your chosen academic discipline, typically requiring four years of study. In addition to taking classes related to your field, you’ll take liberal arts courses designed to diversify your learning and ensure you come out of college a well-rounded individual prepared for various professional pursuits. Some students choose their major immediately upon beginning school, while others decide after spending time determining the direction they wish to follow.
- MINORS
A minor is a student’s secondary academic discipline. It requires a set framework of classes, though it’s less intensive than a major. Minors can either complement a major or give the student the opportunity to study a field in which they’re interested but do not wish to pursue as a major.
- DUAL-DEGREES
A dual degree is a program of study in which students simultaneously pursue their undergraduate and graduate degrees, reducing the time required to achieve both. Typically, students complete their undergraduate studies after three years, as opposed to four, and take two more years to complete their graduate degree.
- BA
Bachelor of Arts
- BS
Bachelor of Science
- BFA
- Bachelor of Fine Arts
- BM
- Bachelor of Music
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Anthropology
About this Program
Our BA in anthropology takes a holistic approach to the study of human physical and cultural difference across time and space. An interdisciplinary field, anthropology draws on expertise from across the arts, humanities, and social and natural sciences at DU.
Through courses centered around social change, human rights, environmental issues, material culture, technology, science and more, you'll gain an understanding of the diversity of human thought and behavior while developing practical research skills. You can garner distinction in the major by specializing in one of its core areas of study: archaeology, cultural anthropology, and museum and heritage studies.
Faculty across the department are committed to hands-on, experiential learning that goes beyond the classroom and into the laboratory, museum, gallery and field settings. DU's own Museum of Anthropology serves as a public-facing, community-engaged space for you to gain real-world experience.
In our labs and museums, you can hone professional skills, from interviewing, surveying and photography, to conservation, exhibition design and project management.
Graduates go on to pursue careers in research, cultural heritage management, museum work, public health, environmental conservation, education, foreign policy, and human rights and advocacy.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Art
About this Program
Students who receive a BA from DU's renowned art program develop a well-rounded foundation in the practices and history of visual art. We offer broad education and training in art techniques, theory and criticism, and you'll gain experience with a range of media from painting to ceramics. Meanwhile, you'll develop valuable historical context as you work to find your artistic voice. Upper-level electives allow you to specialize in whatever captivates you, whether that's portrait photography or screen printing.
As part of this major, you're required to complete a minor or an additional major. This flexibility allows you to acquire relevant skills in related areas across the university. Students who earn a BA can double major in journalism to prepare for a career in media or advertising, in art history to prepare for a curatorial career, or even in business for a career in nonprofit arts management. Many alumni have gone on to pursue graduate study or employment in a range of art-related fields.
The School of Art and Art History also offers a BFA in Studio Art.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Art History
About this Program
Our accelerated dual-degree program allows advanced undergraduate art history majors to simultaneously pursue bachelor's and master's degrees. During their junior year, students can apply for one of the limited spaces in this competitive program under the guidance of their Art History Advisor. You'll develop a deep and refined understanding of how art shapes and reflects cultures on individual and societal levels. You'll have the opportunity to work closely with faculty, curators and visiting artists as you explore historical periods and cultures. The program culminates in a master's level research project.
Upon program completion, students can pursue further graduate studies or work in fields such as education, curation, publishing and more. An optional concentration in Museum Studies opens up further employment options in museums and galleries.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Art History
About this Program
Explore the rich history of artistic expression with a BA in art history. As a student, you’ll extend your critical thinking skills through engaging coursework while diving into your own unique areas of interest. Whether you take a course on Islamic mosques, Medieval saints or women and art, you'll explore how the visual arts reflect and shape cultures. We’ll help you combine classroom skills with career-relevant experience to form a diverse, solid and professional skill set.
Denver’s many art institutions allow us to offer both academic knowledge and hands-on experience. Students frequently work on projects at the Denver Art Museum, the Clyfford Still Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver. Students also have access to employment, volunteer and classroom opportunities at the University of Denver’s Vicki Myhren Gallery and the Madden Museum of Fine Art.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Asian Studies
About this Program
You’ll explore the literatures, cultures, visual and performing arts, religions, histories, politics and economies of Asian countries with esteemed faculty. These scholars come from diverse disciplinary backgrounds centered around East Asian, especially Chinese and Japanese, and South Asian cultures and languages. You'll pair this cultural knowledge with advanced training in an Asian language and you're encouraged to deepen your experience further by studying abroad for up to a year.
This immersive approach develops real-world skills for careers in areas like international business, international law, government service and education. You'll learn the skills in Asian languages and knowledge of Asian cultures to succeed in a variety of postgraduate endeavors.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Black Studies
About this Program
Black Studies is an interdisciplinary minor that invites students to explore the breadth of the field. Classes provide students with in-depth exposure to the historical, cultural, political, economic and social development of the African Diaspora. Through a variety of humanities and social sciences approaches, students will explore the history and foundation of Black Studies while also building the critical thinking skills to apply what they learn to topics in a variety of disciplines. A minor in Black Studies prepares students for a global future providing them with an understanding of a key demographic of the US and world.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Chinese
About this Program
Delve into the world's most commonly spoken language while exploring a vibrant, varied culture. Our Chinese classes are designed to prepare our students to engage in a global world, equipped with Chinese language skills and cultural knowledge. Our students will apply their linguistic and cultural competencies to a wide variety of majors and careers, most notably, international studies and business. They will develop problem-solving skills to address future global challenges.
We offer study abroad opportunities in multiple locations in China to students who have completed two years of language study. Among them, the language immersion program at China Studies Institute hosted in Beijing University is one of our star programs.
Our faculty and students collaborate on opportunities that advance scholarly inquiry, cultivate critical and creative thought, and generate knowledge.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Communication Studies
About this Program
Communication matters. From interactions with communities and cultures to work presentations to participation in democracy, communication plays a crucial role in shaping the world around us. By pursuing a BA in communication studies, you'll hone your practical communication skills as you lay the foundation for ethical and effective communication.
Our courses explore the role of communication in fostering high-quality human relations in interpersonal, organizational, cultural and public contexts. With flexible requirements, you are able to customize your experience to align with your interests and career goals.
Employers actively seek the career skills our students develop, including integrity, leadership, teamwork and the ability to analyze information and articulate ideas. Graduates pursue careers in fields as wide ranging as education, law, business, public relations, advertising, social work and human resources.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Composition
About this Program
The bachelor of music in composition offers aspiring composers rigorous training in composition, harmony, counterpoint, analysis, conducting, orchestration and digital audio. The high ratio of performance majors to composition majors at Lamont means composers have many opportunities to hear their music. For students interested in digital audio, our state-of-the-art recording studio is wired to every performance and rehearsal space, allowing students to graduate with a diverse portfolio of digitally recorded works.
This selective program provides a conservatory-level education within a vibrant liberal arts university experience. Pursuing a music education pushes students to develop creative thinking, discipline, the capacity to collaborate and emotional intelligence. Thanks to these abilities and developed skills, students can leave prepared for careers inside and outside of music.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Criminology
About this Program
Our BA in criminology provides you with the foundation to think critically about crime, law and justice. In addition to learning theory and methods, you'll examine structural foundations of crime, deviance and social control.
Our low student-to-faculty ratio allows professors to advise you according to your individual passions and career goals. As you develop specific areas of interest, you can delve deeper into the creation and application of criminal law, the causes of crime or societal responses to lawbreaking. Your exploration of these topics can culminate in a senior thesis.
Majors often go on to law or graduate school, or pursue careers in social- and human-service occupations related to criminal, juvenile and social justice. Others pursue graduate study in criminology, law and other social sciences.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Critical Race & Ethnic Studies
About this Program
With a BA in Critical Race and Ethnic Studies, you'll examine race and ethnicity in social, political and cultural contexts that are both contemporary and historical. Our dynamic courses unpack race relations both in the U.S. and globally. Throughout your studies, you're encouraged to build on critical theory in the classroom by practicing ethically engaged citizenship.
A deep understanding of race and ethnicity studies provides excellent training for careers in areas like business and law, education, journalism and the arts, social work and nonprofits, government and public policy agencies, and science and technology fields. We also offer a minor in Critical Race and Ethnic Studies.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Economics
About this Program
With our BA in economics, you'll build an in-depth understanding of economic growth and development locally, nationally and globally. Faculty challenge you to think critically as you research social and government policy alternatives and apply your findings both inside and outside the classroom. In this major, you can investigate the environmental impact of economic activities and study the relationship between financial markets and the economy.
Emphasizing conceptual understandings in addition to quantitative skills, we challenge you to explore new theories through heterodox economics. You can analyze economic structural changes and learn theories of business cycles, as well as investigate the choices and consequences of government policy alternatives. Once you've narrowed down an area of interest, you can complete an honors thesis.
Our program prepares students for careers in business, banking, government and education. Graduates hold positions in private industry and government as leaders, consultants or advisors. Economics is also a good foundation for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees in law, business and international studies.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Economics & Social Policy 4+1
About this Program
Our accelerated dual-degree program allows students to gain a solid grounding in economics, examine both mainstream and alternative theories, and advance their research as they simultaneously pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees. We teach students to critically evaluate economic theory so that they can influence policy discussions as a means to positively shape our world. Within our program, students can study a range of specific economic and social policy issues of greatest interest to them. The MS requires completing a policy-oriented internship or taking a comprehensive exam to demonstrate that they can apply what they have learned.
The analytical skills, ability to think outside the box and preparation to conduct insightful research helps prepare our graduates for careers with governmental agencies, policy research organizations, the business sector or within Denver's thriving startup and renewable energy sectors.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Emergent Digital Practices
About this Program
Creatively shape the future of media with a BA in emergent digital practices (EDP). Our EDP program brings together art, design, media, culture and technology studies in a hands-on, project-based, collaborative environment.
You'll learn principles of creative software development, sound design and visual presentation, along with essential skills required to navigate a career in tech or the arts and design.. A BA in emergent digital practices positions you to succeed as an art director, game artist or software designer, among many other positions.
The BA focuses on emerging digital technologies as a broader cultural phenomenon that intersects with a range of other areas of study and career fields. EDP invites students to work together to develop strategies and processes for addressing interdisciplinary topics. Together, EDP faculty and students strive to innovate new forms of art, experiences, media and ways of knowing.
The EDP minor is a strong addition to a number of majors, including computer science, game development, marketing, psychology and anthropology. Minor students build a broad foundation in the digital arts, while also creating their own pathway as they focus on courses related to their interests.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Emergent Digital Practices
About this Program
The BFA in emergent digital practices (EDP) lets you explore new artistic and designerly enabled by the rise of digital media. In this major, you'll push the boundaries of how art is created, presented and used as a tool for the benefit of society.
You'll work in a range of disciplines and explore advanced visual design, interactive media, digital fabrication and sonic arts. A historical examination of art will give you the background you need to harness the full potential of these technologies.
The BFA focuses on the creation and performance of your own original works, and emphasizes community engagement in galleries, museums, festivals and other public spaces.
Graduates go on to careers in areas such as experience design, creative coding, game design and arts management. Since you can tailor your degree with specialized electives in subjects such as 3D modeling and advanced video art, there are a wide range of tech and artistic careers ahead.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Emergent Digital Practices 4+1
About this Program
Designed for students who want to pursue a deeper dive into the ideas and making within Emergent Digital Practices (EDP), the 4+1 MA program offers expanded professional preparation for leadership positions in arts, design and technology.
At its heart, the EDP program is interdisciplinary and focused on the public good. Adding the EDP MA to your BA gives you the opportunity to critically analyze and contextualize various areas of study in relation to technology and digital tools while materializing an engaging public project that demonstrates your voice. The 4+1 BA/MA doubles the number of EDP courses you will take, allowing for depth and complexity in your ideas and technical abilities, taking your liberal arts education to the next level.
At the end of the 4+1 BA/MA degree is a thesis project, a keystone experience that will serve as a portfolio and example for future employers of how you engage and empower others with thoughtfully applied technologies.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
English and Literary Arts
About this Program
In our BA program, you'll engage historical and contemporary texts in depth, while also developing critical and creative writing experience.
You'll hone interpretive skills by connecting words on the page to broader social, economic, cultural and political conditions. You'll not only read texts, but craft your own, with opportunities to write poetry, long-form essays, short stories and research-driven projects. Our program offers concentrations in literary studies, creative writing or English education.
Outside the classroom, gain hands-on experience managing, editing and publishing with Foothills, the undergraduate literary journal. Or intern with our partner, Tethered by Letters, to hone publishing and editing techniques. You can also take these skills beyond campus by studying abroad.
Our BA in English develops critical thinking, reading and writing abilities essential to graduate studies and a wide range of careers. Writing-based roles in publishing, marketing, law, nonprofits and technology are ever-expanding. We offer specific programs in publishing, education and professional writing to help you develop these career skill sets.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Ethnomusicology
About this Program
The minor in ethnomusicology provides students with opportunities to study music in and as culture. Students engage with a variety of musical practices, including popular, traditional, and art musics from around the world, utilizing a range of methods for studying music and demonstrating the relevance of music in multiple areas of life. This minor consists of 24 credits and can be completed in two years. It includes coursework in ethnomusicology, musicology, and/or anthropology, as well as participation in Lamont’s world music ensembles.
This program does not require experience on a musical instrument, and there is no audition needed for admission.
For more information, see the Undergraduate Bulletin. Interested students should contact Professor Sarah Morelli, Chair of Musicology and Ethnomusicology.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Film Studies and Production
About this Program
With a BA in film studies and production, you'll be a critical observer and producer of our culture's most powerful media art forms: film and video. You'll learn the history, theory, production and criticism of motion pictures, while developing a hands-on understanding of the film industry.
You’ll explore existing and emergent media platforms, learning what it means to be an ethical, effective and culturally sensitive communicator. You’ll write scripts and participate in screenwriting teams, while developing technical skills in lighting, editing and sound design. Our award-winning faculty will guide you through the processes of fundraising, exhibiting and promoting your films.
You’ll also develop a deeper understanding of how sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, gender, class, age and ability are represented in and by media — and why such representations matter. Our classes adopt an intersectional lens in their exploration of how identity markers create unequal power dynamics both on and off screen, highlighting how off-screen dynamics greatly impact what is seen onscreen.
The BA prepares you for a career in the fast-paced, highly competitive industries of film, video and related fields. After graduating, you can apply your creative and analytical abilities across many sectors, including media, marketing, entertainment, education and communications.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
French and Francophone Studies
About this Program
Our BA in French and Francophone Studies hones your speaking, reading and translation skills while deepening your critical understanding of France and the Francophone world.
You'll receive an immersive language experience by studying literature, culture and film and by engaging in discussions and analyses with faculty and classmates. Take these studies a step further by completing a senior thesis in French and earning distinction in the major.
Outside the classroom, you can join the DU Francoscope Club, explore internship opportunities or study abroad in places like France, Senegal, Madagascar, Quebec, Belgium, Switzerland and Morocco.
Our graduates go on to become artists, computer programmers, translators, NGO directors and lawyers. And with French-speaking Canada as the United States’ most important export market, French-speakers have opportunities to excel in international commerce and business.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies
About this Program
Are you eager to explore the role gender plays in the construction of identities and the social and political organization of society and culture? Our cross-disciplinary program offers a vibrant and rigorous course of study in this important and growing field. As you advance, you'll find opportunities for internships, awards and study abroad.
Upon graduating, many students pursue graduate studies in fields such as law, social work or education. Others launch a career in a variety of public service or private industry roles, including health, counseling, government, community work, politics, business, social services, spiritual leadership, environment, media and the arts.
This program includes exploration of the following areas:
- History of the varied and changing ways that societies have defined gender.
- Theory of how Women’s Studies, Queer Studies and Gender Studies have developed.
- Institutions and power of how gender identity is constructed.
- Intersectionality of gender identities, recognizing that gender cannot be studied in isolation from social structures.
- Rhetoric of how gender definitions and roles are expressed in linguistic structures.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
German
About this Program
Studying the language, cultures and histories of German speaking countries offers students opportunities to develop effective communication skills as well as intercultural competencies that will further their role as responsible global citizens. The German program complements language study with courses in German literature and film as well as contextual study of political and cultural histories.
Students collaborate closely with experienced faculty and take advantage of our many excellent study abroad programs to achieve their professional goals. With a degree in German, students have access to a broad range of career opportunities such as in international business, non-profits, the sciences and government.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Hebrew
About this Program
Modern Hebrew is the official language of Israel, one of the world’s fastest growing high-tech global economies and a country of constant importance on the world stage. Learning Hebrew at DU introduces students to Israel’s ethnic diversity and multiculturalism. Incorporating music, poetry, short stories, media and movies, the Hebrew Minor introduces students to Hebrew at various levels of the languages while enriching their exploration of Israel’s pluralist mosaic. The minor is particularly invaluable to research of the Middle East and its politics, economics, technology, journalism, religion, peace, migration and international studies as well as other fields of study.
The Hebrew program at DU emphasizes the proficiency approach to language instruction. In small class settings, personal attention is placed on the student’s linguistic abilities, learning style, sources of motivation and other individual factors. The learning experience is both innovative and varied, and the pedagogy ranges from traditional to novel methods of instruction.
The Center for Judaic Studies partners with us to provide a minor in Judaic studies with a Hebrew emphasis. Learn more about this option on the Judaic Studies minor program page.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
History
About this Program
A BA in history exposes you to the breadth of human experience. It's a pursuit of knowledge that combines the thrill of discovery with deep critical thinking, all while emphasizing hands-on experience. We offer opportunities to explore multiple geographical regions and chronological periods, with the ability to focus on those that align with your interests and passions. Our small class sizes encourage lively discussion and enable you to work closely with faculty. With resources at your fingertips, you're empowered to present original research by your senior year.
History majors acquire a wide range of highly relevant skills—such as analytical writing, critical thinking, evidence examination and interpretation—that prepare you for a variety of careers. Many of our history grads hold positions in business, law, museums, education, nonprofit research and as graduate candidates.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Intercultural Global Studies
About this Program
Our interconnected world has made cross-cultural understanding and empathy crucial to success. The minor in Intercultural Global Studies (IGS) helps you expand your critical and analytical skills and apply them to coursework across multiple academic disciplines.
IGS emphasizes connecting classroom study to real-world engagement through service learning, study abroad and field study. As part of the minor, you'll immerse yourself in community work domestically or abroad through an internship. As a capstone of the minor, you'll participate in a mini conference, which gives you a platform to share your insights with other scholars and professionals.
The skills you'll develop both inside and outside the classroom will empower you to pursue careers in a variety of globally minded organizations in areas such as nonprofit humanitarian work, international and intercultural education, or community activism.College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Italian
About this Program
Studying Italian at DU will foster your ability to master more than one language and culture, an asset as a global citizen. In the Italian major, you’ll study the Italian language and its manifestations in history as well as cultural studies from the past to the present. Our faculty work closely with students to build an understanding of the relationship between language and culture.
Any language study requires immersion, and we offer study abroad options that support a variety of student interests. You can study language in Perugia, learn about business in Milan and Turin, or enhance your understanding of Italian art in Florence. You’ll finish the Italian degree with the necessary linguistic and cultural background to pursue prestigious fellowships or attend graduate school in Italian Studies. You’ll also gain a foundation of experience to achieve professional goals in the world of business, international relations and education.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Japanese
About this Program
The Japanese program at DU prepares students to become informed international citizens who develop effective Japanese language and cultural communication expertise. Our students apply their Japanese linguistic, literary and cultural competencies to a wide variety of majors, careers and future global challenges. At the same time, they deepen their empathy for and curiosity about the diversity of human experiences. Our faculty and students collaborate on opportunities that advance scholarly inquiry, cultivate critical and creative thought, and work to better our local and global communities.
Japanese clubs and events on DU's campus provide fun ways to further engage with Japanese language, literature and culture. With study abroad opportunities in desirably located premium universities in Japan you can hone your linguistic and cultural competencies while immersing yourself in contemporary Japanese life.
Alumni of the program have participated in the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program and have won the prestigious Boren Scholarship for Japanese and the competitive Critical Language Scholarship for Japanese, among other awards.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Jazz Studies
About this Program
The bachelor of music in jazz studies provides professional training in all aspects of jazz music. Our faculty of artist-teachers is dedicated to expanding your creativity while providing the experience and knowledge necessary to build a career in jazz.
In today's jazz industry, musical versatility and diversity is key. With ensemble offerings, classes, guest artists, and a robust performing and recording schedule, our students are equipped to go straight from graduation into careers in performing, composing, arranging, recording and arts management.
Students can choose from any of the following areas of jazz study:
- Bass
- Drums
- Guitar
- Piano
- Trumpet
- Trombone
- Voice
- Woodwinds
- Composing and arranging
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Journalism Studies
About this Program
Spurred by technological advances and changes in consumer behavior, journalists now must be equipped to produce content for a variety of platforms. As a BA student in Journalism Studies you will be empowered to develop sound news judgement. You will be prepared to enter the field with the creativity, versatility, and storytelling skills necessary to produce stories for both traditional and digital media. You will receive training in ethical and legal decision-making as well as writing, editing, video/audio production and digital design.
Your Journalism Studies degree will equip you to join a field with a wide range of potential career opportunities — from news anchor and international correspondent to technical writer and book or magazine publisher. By adding a minor area of study outside of journalism you will develop a unique specialization that can also increase employment opportunities. Additionally, you will gain practical work experience and a professional network before you graduate by completing an internship with an off-campus media outlet.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Judaic Studies
About this Program
The Judaic studies minor offers an interdisciplinary and intercultural perspective on Jewish history, literature, film, philosophy, language and religion. Through the program, you'll have the opportunity to engage ancient texts alongside contemporary theory while also exploring interreligious challenges and opportunities at national and global levels.
The interdisciplinary minor fosters critical thinking and awareness, preparing you for a range of future studies as well as career opportunities. These can include graduate school or careers in government or civic organizations, public engagement, leadership positions, event planning and program management, journalism and educational institutions.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
About this Program
Expand your experience of the world with a degree in languages, literatures and cultures. Our small, interactive classes and faculty experts integrate language learning with in-depth inquiry into multicultural understanding. Across our programs, you'll develop communication and problem-solving skills to tackle today's global challenges. Linguistic and cultural knowledge can be applied to a wide range of majors and careers, while offering opportunities for immersive understanding of human experience across the globe.
Students pursuing a major in languages, literatures and cultures can choose a concentration in Chinese, French & Francophone Studies, German, Italian, Japanese, or Russian. In addition to those six languages, minors are also available for Hebrew and Latin.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Media Studies
About this Program
Contemporary communication and information media — including traditional and digital media — are integral to political, economic and cultural life today. As a student in the BA in Media Studies, you will learn to examine critically the role and influence of media in our society. You will cultivate a broad understanding of media industries and will also gain communication skills that are applicable to almost any profession.
You will work directly with faculty who are producing research and creative work across the globe as you are challenged to develop a deeper understanding of how sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, gender, class, age and ability are represented in and by media — and why such representations matter.
Before you graduate, you'll build career experience by completing an internship in an industry you're passionate about. The BA in Media Studies will equip you with skills you can take to graduate or law school, into government and nonprofits and into a variety of careers in communication-related industries.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Media, Film & Journalism Studies
About this Program
In today's dynamic, communications-driven world, those working in every field increasingly need backgrounds in effective strategic communication planning, media criticism, social media management, video editing and more. The Media, Film & Journalism Studies minor gives students in every major across the University the opportunity to hone these skills.
This highly flexible minor allows you to design a program that supports your career goals by choosing the media, film and journalism courses that fit your specific interests. Learn how to better promote your work, find out how media affects your major field and learn how to think critically about the media world we live in today.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Middle East Studies
About this Program
This interdisciplinary undergraduate minor provides students with an in-depth and substantive exposure to the politics, society and religions of the Middle East through a variety of humanities and social sciences approaches, and through study of at least one major regional language. The minor helps DU undergraduates pursuing any major to develop deeper and more nuanced understandings of the Middle East.
The Middle East Studies minor offers you broad exposure to the issues, developments and phenomena characteristic of the Middle East, along with the opportunity to establish proficiency in Arabic or Hebrew, two of the major languages of the modern Middle East. You’ll be able to use this degree to market yourself for careers in government, non-governmental organizations, and the academy.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Music
About this Program
The bachelor of arts in music provides the opportunity to develop your musical skills and performance aspirations while engaging in a curriculum that contains a large component of courses outside of music. This combination allows you to explore your interests and invest your time into other fields across the University. An education in music challenges you to learn discipline, collaboration and creative thinking while developing emotional intelligence. These skills and abilities prepare you for a successful career not only in music, but also a variety of other fields. Alongside a robust music curriculum with renowned faculty, you will complete a minor or major in another field, providing a flexible program of study that balances breadth and depth. Pursuing a music education while taking advantage of the academic resources of the broader University provides a perfect environment to sharpen your skills, expand your horizons and pursue your passions.College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Performance
About this Program
The bachelor of music in performance provides professional training in the performance of Western art music. You'll receive extensive hands-on experience in your area of study with a faculty of artist-teachers dedicated to preparing you for a successful career in music. This selective program features a conservatory-level education within a vibrant liberal arts university experience.
Beyond developing your technical skills, you'll have the opportunity to learn discipline, collaboration and creative thinking while developing emotional intelligence. On top of the intrinsic benefits of a music education, you can pursue additional topics through a minor or a second major, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience that can broaden horizons and prepare you for a career not only in music, but in an array of other fields.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Philosophy
About this Program
Our BA in philosophy offers foundations in logic and the philosophical traditions of the ancient, medieval, modern and contemporary eras. Classes cover topics from ethics and perceptions of reality to the philosophical underpinnings of science, law and video games. You'll have the chance to specialize in critical theory, critiquing systems of government, racial, gendered and colonial power structures.
Our philosophy students often find their studies are complemented by the pursuit of a double major. The versatile thinking skills developed in philosophical studies apply to art, history, math and physics, and many philosophy majors go on to pursue law degrees after graduation. Your understanding of logic can translate into careers in information technology and other reasoning-intensive fields. Undergraduate philosophy majors tend to perform well on post-graduate exams and have high mid-career salaries, according to the Washington Post.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Political Science
About this Program
Our BA in Political Science promotes an extensive understanding of politics by offering a broad course of study. You’ll analyze how people seek influence, exercise authority and justify decisions at local, state, national and international levels. In addition to studying politics, you’ll strengthen writing and speaking skills, evaluate arguments and collect, organize and interpret information from multiple sources, all while working closely with faculty engaged in cutting-edge research.
Our program offers internships, community engagement and study abroad opportunities, which help you gain practical experience, hone organizational skills and form a commitment to public service. You can also qualify for the departmental honors program and undertake an independent research project directed by department faculty. The experience you’ll gain prepares you for a variety of careers in public service, activism and advocacy, lobbying, education or corporate leadership.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Pre-Art Conservation
About this Program
History depends on those who preserve the cultural heritage of ancient and modern civilizations around the world. DU's bachelor of fine arts degree in pre-art conservation combines studio art, art history, language, chemistry and conservation techniques. We'll help you explore artistic styles and concepts while you learn how to protect cultural artifacts for future generations.
Many students work with Italian conservators in Florence, Italy during their junior year. Additional hands-on experience includes internship opportunities at major institutions, such as the Clyfford Still Museum, Denver Art Museum, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Western Center for the Conservation of Fine Arts and Mountain States Art Conservation. This rigorous program can lead to careers in conservation and museum curation.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Psychology
About this Program
With a BA in psychology, you'll have opportunities to develop research skills and hands-on experience in areas like clinical, developmental and social psychology. Our optional concentration in cognitive neuroscience offers an in-depth understanding of the relationship between the mind and brain.
In our psychology program, you'll sharpen your critical thinking, knowledge and empirical skills across a wide range of content areas. Students have opportunities to participate in research labs and clinical work through guided upper-level courses.
BA psychology students pursue careers as forensic, educational and counseling psychologists. The specialties of a psychology major prove useful to anyone interested in market research, career advising, medicine or human resources.College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Psychology
About this Program
With a BS in psychology, you'll develop research skills and gain experience that builds on your studies in biology or another natural science. Students in our BS program study cognitive neuroscience, developmental and social psychology, as well as clinical psychology. We offer hands-on experience in a variety of laboratories including those that use biological methods to asses emotional and cognitive functioning in the human brain and body. Our optional concentration in cognitive neuroscience offers an in-depth understanding of the relationship between the mind and brain.
You'll understand the scientific method as it applies to psychological science in order to prepare you for further study in medical school or neuroscience programs. Graduates from this program pursue careers as researchers, practitioners in a variety of health-related professions, and counselors and therapists.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Psychology Dual Degree
About this Program
Our accelerated dual-degree program allows advanced undergraduate psychology majors to simultaneously pursue bachelor's and master's degrees. This program provides the opportunity to take graduate-level coursework, conduct master’s level research in collaboration with a faculty member, cultivate critical and creative thought, and expand your knowledge and innovation as it relates to research in psychological science. You can expect to work closely with faculty and peers as you generate new knowledge about the psychological processes surrounding mental health, person perception, coping, decision-making, biological process underlying thoughts and feelings, parenting, adversity, and more. The program is research-focused and culminates in a master's thesis.
Upon program completion, students can produce quality research, and pursue further studies in research-intensive doctoral programs or research positions in academic, government, non-profit, and corporate settings. The program does not focus on counseling or therapeutic skills and does not result in opportunities for licensure.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Psychology Micro-Credentials
About this Program
The psychology micro-credentials program allows students to build a customized experience that critically engages with the topic of diversity and inclusion, data-informed decisions, or mental health. Along with both required and elective classes on the chosen topic, students develop and complete an experiential project. With the support of a faculty member, students complete a project that ties into their chosen micro-credential as well as being tailored to their academic and career goals. In addition to their micro-credential badge, students will finish the program with a portfolio product that incorporates and showcases what they have learned through their courses and experiential project.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Recording and Production
About this Program
The bachelor of music in recording and production trains students as engineers and producers in the musical genres of jazz, classical, popular, rock and many others. This selective program provides a conservatory-level education within a vibrant liberal arts university. Students take applied music lessons (classical or jazz), study music history and learn music theory while also practicing the art of engineering and producing fantastic music recordings.
Skills and abilities learned in the program can prepare students for successful careers not only in music recording and production, but also in a variety of other fields. Pursuing a music education while taking advantage of the academic resources of the broader university allows you to sharpen your skills, develop emotional intelligence and pursue your passions.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Religious Studies
About this Program
Why is religion so critical to understanding contemporary culture, economics and politics? Our BA in religious studies delves into major world religions with an emphasis on how such traditions impact today's global society. World-class faculty connect the past and present with a balance of traditions, methods and theoretical approaches.
In the classroom, you'll sharpen skills in written and oral communication, research methods and problem-solving, and develop a more complex awareness of human diversity. Religious studies is an interdisciplinary field that inspires conversation across disciplines, so we encourage our students to double major.
Beyond the classroom, you'll have opportunities to visit local community churches, mosques, synagogues and temples. By directly engaging religious communities or local non-profits, you can discover the complexity of religious identity and practice. You can also encounter world religions through study abroad opportunities in places like Austria, Chile, India, Indonesia, Israel and Turkey.
You'll graduate with an in-depth, applied knowledge of cross-cultural analytical tools. Many religious studies majors go on to graduate school in law, religious studies and related fields, while others use their skills in business, human resources, social work, government, non-profits and journalism.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Russian
About this Program
With a BA in Russian, you'll hone written and oral communication skills, as well as a deep knowledge of Russian culture, history, art, literature and politics.
We work to actively support dual-degree seekers who want to pair their knowledge of Russian with majors like international studies, international business and intercultural communications. You can even build your study of Russian culture into an honors thesis project that will allow you to graduate with distinction in the major.
DU houses one of the most extensive university collections of Russian literature, and you can expand your knowledge of Russian further through DU's Russian Club and Dobro Slovo, the National Slavic Honor Society.
Away from campus, immersive study abroad opportunities give you real-world experience in a country that wields enormous influence over global affairs. Because Russia is a political and economic international superpower, a thorough understanding of the language and culture means you'll have career options both at home and abroad.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Socio-Legal Studies
About this Program
Our BA in socio-legal studies asks core questions, like: How does law impact our everyday lives? How do social institutions shape law? And how does law empower and constrain us?
Through our socio-legal studies program, you'll explore questions like these alongside faculty drawn from disciplines across the University. Throughout this process, you'll hone critical thinking and writing and can further develop these skills outside the classroom through internship and study abroad opportunities.
Many socio-legal studies graduates pursue legal careers or post-graduate studies. However, the issues addressed in the major are relevant to many fields that focus on applying the law, including social work, education, business and international relations.College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Sociology
About this Program
Are you eager to study questions like: "Why do gender, racial and class inequalities exist? What are the origins of the self? How do groups make social change?" Our BA in sociology analyzes small-scale human interactions alongside broad-based, international social movements to provide you with both theoretical knowledge and practical, research-based methods.
Small class sizes allow professors to guide, counsel and advise you according to your individual interests and career goals. As you develop specific interests, you can bring these together in an honors thesis to graduate with distinction in the major.
Our sociology program exposes you to a range of theories and research methods as well as practical avenues to apply that knowledge. Graduates enter the job market with the distinct advantage of having a firm grasp on research design and methods, strong analytical skills and an understanding of social nuances in diverse communities. These skills are invaluable in a variety of fields, including law, social work, education, advocacy, public policy, non-profits, journalism and more.College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Spanish
About this Program
A BA in Spanish empowers you to connect with Spanish-speaking communities both locally and globally through three main areas of study: Latin America, Spain or Latino Studies.
Experienced instructors train you in written and oral communication, while literature specialists teach the diverse histories, cultures, literatures and films of the Spanish-speaking world. Our interdisciplinary approach builds your critical understanding of human rights, racial and ethnic identities, social change and language.
Our immersive educational experience prepares you for a wide range of careers. Want to study in Argentina, Mexico, Madrid? The Spanish major enriches your linguistic and cultural development by encouraging study abroad in a variety of countries.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Spanish Language Media Production
About this Program
Roughly 41 million people in the U.S. speak Spanish. The Spanish Language Media Production mico-credential prepares students to address the issues of linguistic access and equitable representation within media and communication industries. This collaborative effort is designed to give students a grounding in both Spanish language and multimedia production.
Students will learn about current trends in the development of content strategy, distribution and media production/consumption. They will be able to create content for Latinx communities, media organizations, marking/advertising, bilingual news outlets and independent distribution, while developing professional and critical knowledge about language use in Spanish-speaking and bilingual career-relevant spaces.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Strategic Communication
About this Program
As a student pursuing a BA in Strategic Communication you will master essential concepts and skills for the creation of successful public information, promotional and advocacy campaigns. You will learn how to set strategic campaign objectives, craft effective media messages, develop sophisticated media strategies and much more.
You will explore media platforms ranging from traditional mass media to emerging digital media, and will learn what it means to be an effective, ethical and culturally sensitive communicator. In many classes you will work with local organizations to address real communication challenges and hone your skills in practice.
You will also be challenged to develop a deeper understanding of multicultural and global issues and reflect critically on the way media and communication impact our lives.
The BA in Strategic Communication will prepare you for careers in public relations, advertising, corporate communication, government and nonprofit communication, digital media management, health communication and sports promotion.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Studio Art
About this Program
Chart your own artistic course with a bachelor of fine arts in studio art. In our program, you'll be exposed to multiple mediums and can choose to concentrate in ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture or continue working in multiple modes. We also encourage collaboration with creatives in film, theater, dance and other areas.
Your instructors will provide you with essential tools and guidance as you develop your unique aesthetic. With your peers, you’ll practice the art of critique and learn to give and receive constructive feedback. In art history seminars, you’ll learn from the masters, turning your aesthetic inclinations and aversions into critical analysis. At the end of their program, students exhibit their work professionally in the Vicki Myhren Gallery. Our art BFA graduates go on to become professional artists, educators and arts managers.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Theatre
About this Program
Are you ready to do it all? In this BA program you'll pair behind the scenes knowledge with practical hands-on work while developing your acting, designing, building and directing skills. Our approach gives you a broad perspective of the theatrical production process and creative problem-solving skills you'll take into your career.
Once you've mastered the basics, you can choose to focus on one area of interest, from performance to design to directing. Students who show outstanding work in one area are recognized at graduation with distinction in their chosen field.
With the support of faculty inside and outside of the classroom, you'll have access to real-world opportunities with local, national and international theatre communities. Some students join theatre companies, while others channel creative and analytical abilities across other industries.
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
