Pioneer Prep

Undergraduate Admission

The Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute is a core component of the University of Denver's commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, centering the needs of the Black/African-American and Latinx communities as they relate to higher education.

There is no racial or ethnic prerequisite to participate in the program. All are welcome to apply!

The Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute brings together rising high school juniors and seniors from across the country for a transformative experience that:

  • Enriches participants' cultural awareness

    Enriches participants' cultural awareness by examining and celebrating the communities, cultural adaptations, and resilience that have allowed Black/African-American and Latinx peoples to survive the systemic inequality they face in the United States. Noted academics, thought leaders, and storytellers discuss what it means to occupy these identities, as well as the strength and grit gained from the shared experiences of these communities.

  • Empowers emerging leaders

    Empowers emerging leaders to start creating the future they envision through workshops, exercises, and presentations led by recognized experts from a variety of fields and professions. Participants will walk away armed with a wealth of knowledge about their individual strengths and leadership skills and how to put them to use in shaping their futures.

  • Guides scholars through the college admission process

    Guides scholars through the college admission process, from initial selection to application and financial aid. Presentations from admission and financial aid professionals, panel interviews with current University of Denver students, and admission case studies all help scholars understand every facet of this process, ensuring they make the best choice for their educational goals.

Pioneer Prep Business Days will provide interested students with additional programming to explore life as a business student at DU, learn from Daniels College of Business professors, and engage with experts and professionals in the Denver business community. Topics will include entrepreneurship, marketing hospitality management, and finance in the current business landscape.

The application for the 2023 Pioneer Leadership Institute has closed.

Pioneer Prep group outside

Benefits of Pioneer Prep

  • Engaging discussions promoting cultural awareness, leadership, and college access
  • Continued communication and support throughout the college search and application process
  • Build one's resume and social circle of influence
  • As a Pioneer Prep Scholar, we'll waive your $65 application fee if you choose to apply for college at DU
  • Depending on financial need, Pioneer Prep participants who successfully complete the program may receive a Pathways Scholarship worth up to $7,500 per year, renewable for four years at DU

Getting ready for Pioneer Prep

  • Who can apply to Pioneer Prep?

    Rising juniors and seniors who are US citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients are all eligible to apply for the program.

  • How do I apply?

    The application for the 2023 Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute has closed.

  • How much does the program cost?

    The total cost of the program is $65, with scholarship consideration for families who demonstrate financial hardship through free or reduced lunch eligibility.

     

    For Non-Colorado applicants only: if you are interested in being considered for a travel stipend, please be sure to indicate this on your application.

    Please note, travel stipends are limited and evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

  • What if I'm interested in Pioneer Prep Business Days?

    Are you interested in studying business at the University of Denver? Are you curious what a business degree is all about? If so, you can join us for two additional days on campus!

    The Pioneer Prep Business Days begin on July 16, 2023, and will connect you with current students so you can hear what life as a business student at DU is like both inside and outside the classroom. Business Days will feature presentations by Daniels College of Business professors, who will engage with you on topics such as Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Hospitality Management, and Finance in the current business landscape.

    As Denver is one of the fastest-growing cities for business, you will take a trip into the city to hear from a corporate partner and engage with professionals with a business background who are eager to share their professional journeys!

    You will learn about and participate in a Case Competition, where you will have a unique platform to present a solution to a business problem and hone your presentation skills.

    If you are interested in being a business leader, discovering what that means, or learning more about The Daniels College of Business, then select "yes" when you apply for the Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute and join us for Business Days!

    The application for the 2023 Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute has closed.

Contact

Pioneer Prep Leadership Institute

 

Undergraduate Admission

For visit-related questions, please call 303-871-7711.

Daniels College of Business Undergraduate Programs