Cultivating Innovation In and Out of the Classroom

From unique industry partnerships with organizations like Denver Public Schools and Apple to forward-thinking programs that prepare learners for tomorrow’s workforce, at CU Denver, we infuse innovation into everything we do. As part of that mindset—and Goal Four of the university’s Strategic Plan—CU Denver has created academic programs that both prepare an evolving set of working learners to meet their moment and meet increasing industry needs. Those learners include alum Maydha Kumar BS ’25, MS ’25, who was drawn to the university for its Bioengineering Department.  

Through her hands-on lab work, Kumar discovered a strong desire to help others—and a determination to continue her studies. She applied for and was accepted into CU Denver’s 4+1 program, in which students begin graduate coursework during their undergraduate studies and earn a master’s degree in just one additional year. Next, Kumar plans to work on two more degrees: an MD and a PhD. “I’m really proud to be a student here because all my projects helped real people, and I’m really excited for the next chapter,” said Kumar. 

Another example of CU Denver’s focus on innovation is the Business School’s new Executive MBA in Aviation program—which marks the first of its kind in the world. We’ve partnered with Denver International Airport (DEN), one of aviation’s busiest global hubs, to create an educational experience designed to shape current and aspiring aviation executives into future industry leaders. “At a time when universities are facing questions around the unique value they add to society, innovative business schools will partner with major economic forces to deliver growth,” said David Chandler, associate dean of Executive Programs at CU Denver. “DEN is the largest single economic driver in the Rocky Mountain region, and we are excited to help shape executive leadership in such an essential global industry.”  

The program’s advisory board and faculty comprises experts from academia and industry, including Phil Washington, chief executive officer of DEN, Oscar Munoz, former CEO of United Airlines, and Kate Watkins, Colorado’s state demographer, among others. The program’s target learners are professionals with 15 to 20 years of experience in industry. They will study curriculum focused on the challenges and opportunities facing airports, airlines, and their supply chains.   

At the heart of this program—much like CU Denver’s campus—is innovation. “Universities must demonstrate how their programs add value to surrounding communities and help meet workforce needs,” said Scott Dawson, dean of the Business School. “CU Denver is thinking ahead by creating programs that cater to an evolving set of working learners, who will apply the skills they learn to ensure the economic vitality of the industries they serve.”