Enrichment
Program

The Enrichment Program connects the intellectually curious adult to DU's outstanding faculty, facilities and programming, and Denver's rich cultural community through non−credit classes. With adult education offered through short courses, lectures, seminars, weekend intensives, and evening classes, you can explore a wide range of subjects: from history and contemporary issues to science, literature and the arts−without the pressures of exams, grades or admission requirements.

Lifelong learning in the Enrichment Program allows you to discover a new interest or reengage in an old one, discuss favorite subjects with peers and scholars, explore current events, or deepen appreciation of the arts. Center your studies on what interests you. Whatever your motivation, this innovative, non-credit program is sure to stimulate your mind and reawaken your curiosity−all for the love of learning!

Director's Message

Welcome to the Enrichment Program where we strive to meet your needs by offering non−credit courses in short, convenient formats that are relevant, thought−provoking, and inspiring. We take pride in collaborating with the region's best scholars and top cultural institutions to help you explore great literature, the pressing issues of the day, emerging arts and spirited performances, and much more. Whether you're a recent empty nester, retiree, or simply a person with an insatiable curiosity who thrives on learning, I hope you take the time to explore our offerings and give us a try. The University of Denver's beautiful campus and our enthusiastic instructors await you!

Dr. Andy Fine is a primary care/internal medicine physician in Denver who enjoys the blend of mountain activities and the diversity of Denver's restaurant and cultural offerings. He seeks out Enrichment Program classes to "learn about new things and have discussions with thoughtful, reflective people."

What attracted you to the Enrichment Program in the first place?
The Enrichment Program is a cultural and educational gem that is unique in Denver. It offers a wide range of practical and thoughtful courses, cerebral without being overly academic, enhanced by vigorous class discussion.

What motivates you to be a lifelong learner?
Curiosity. Part of the thrill of being alive is that there are always new things to think and learn about. As new interests or ideas emerge, I am curious to understand how these affect my life and my community.

Why do you enjoy taking Enrichment courses?
We get access to the best DU faculty for affordable prices in a relaxed setting. We are there to learn and enjoy, without having to focus on essays or grades.

What has been your favorite Enrichment course?
"Truth, Beauty, and Justice." We realized that each of us has a different experience of, and definition for, these three things, and our conceptions of them changed as we heard each other, and some of the best thinkers through the ages, reflect on what these terms mean.

"I have taken over 20 DU Enrichment courses over the past ten years and they have all been exceptional. There is an endless variety of courses offered each year and the opportunity to learn from DU's distinguished faculty and guest professionals is unmatched." −Melodye Turek
"The instructor's remarkable ability to pack two hours brim full make each of his classes so satisfying. I've learned so much from each one of them. I am grateful to DU for providing us with the Enrichment classes. They are a valuable opportunity to continue our educations at times and in settings that are compatible with our day jobs. The class offerings are broad and well−conceived. The faculty has been excellent." −Aris Sophocles, MD
"I thrive on learning. It is one of the keys to personal growth and development. I believe it makes one more interested and more interesting. The world is changing, and changing quickly, and the Enrichment courses help me stay relevant and appreciate different cultures, religions, new trends, and new perspectives as well as stimulate the desire to travel." −Tim Brown

Every time you read the Enrichment Program catalog, you will find something new. We keep the program fresh for people just like you–people with insatiable curiosity who just can't stop learning. And each year welcome you and 1,500 other adults to our beautiful campus–to explore topics of special interest, develop new skills, or just think deep thoughts.

Over the past eight years we've discovered what you like: hand–picked scholars, controversial topics, serious discussion, and classes that often include a special experience or event–with no grades, exams, or admission requirements! It keeps us hopping to meet the high expectations of such an engaged audience

As always, we offer a wide selection of nearly 50 courses in the humanities, current issues, and more. Note in particular An Evening with Former Ambassador to Iraq, Christopher Hill, dean of the Korbel School of International Studies. Hill addresses the direction of U.S. Policy in the Middle East and in East Asia and lessons learned during recent wars. Go further back in history to explore Lincoln's political legacy to our state, and then compare "Molly" Brown's Denver approximately a century later. Both history courses are accompanied by Newman Center Presents performances, bringing landmark events vividly to life.

On the lighter side, a few tough choices may await you among the exceptional writing, art, literature, music and theater offerings! Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald, Star of Animal Planet's Emergency Vets, returns for an evening of laughter, animal insights, and education. (Snakes and spiders and ... hedgehogs? Oh my.) It also may be difficult to decide between two very tempting regional Italian menus from Il Posto, one of 5280 Magazine's "Top 25 Best Restaurants of 2011." Speaking of Italian, would you like to hitch a ride on our five-session journey through Rome?

Finally, Focus Forward: Reinventing Career and Retirement continues after a successful launch last term. Designed for career professionals age 50+, the Focus Forward program was created to help you navigate through this crucial transitional point in your work life. Does this program speak to you? Did you miss it the first time around? We hope to see you at our info session on Saturday, January 7.

Some people find that one particular course to match a specific interest; others take several classes each term that, over the years, add up to an important accumulation of new knowledge. Don't apologize if you just can't stop learning. We have support groups for people like you: they're called Enrichment courses. Enroll and enjoy!

James R. Davis, Dean
University College