The DU 4D Experience

Together with our students, we are working towards a shared promise: education should be more than the sum of its individual parts. That’s why we are committed to empowering our students to design an education that makes sense to them and their individual interests, values, and goals. That enables them to connect the dots across their learning. That encourages them to make sense of who they are becoming through their education and how they may apply their skills and learning for the greater good. That provides them with a set of key building blocks to maximize their educational experience while also laying a foundation for lifelong learning, engagement, and thriving. We call it the 4D Experience.Ìý

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Four Dimensions

At the ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½, we focus on developing the whole person. Curious, creative problem solvers. Compassionate, resilient leaders. Intentional relationship builders. And reflective, purpose-driven practitioners.Ìý

Collectively, the Four Dimensions support this holistic development, fostering learning environments in which students not only grow intellectually but also develop their sense of character, well-being, and purpose. It’s a process by which education moves from the transactional to the transformational.

Through learning experiences in and out of the classroom, we...Ìý

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    Deepen Intellect

    We pursue our curiosity, create and innovate, seek new vantage points, engage with complex real-world challenges and questions, and learn to navigate ambiguity.

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    Develop Well-being

    We strive to embrace healthy behaviors and decisions, give ourselves grace, nurture our spirits, and cultivate positive relationships.Ìý

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    Discover Character

    We cultivate empathy and compassion, challenge and reframe assumptions, engage across difference, develop and commit to values, practice resilience, and lead with authenticity.Ìý

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    Design Careers & Lives of Purpose

    We connect the dots across our experiences, set and chart goals, apply skills and talents for the public good, and pursue continuous learning.Ìý


"Learning at DU is multi-dimensional. Here, I'm connecting my interests, values, well-being, and purpose to my education."

Vy Nghe, DU Student
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2 students and a staff standing in front of a slide presentation about 4D

Three Drivers

There are several critical ways in which we facilitate engagement with the four dimensions across a student’s educational journey. These drivers bring 4D to life, empowering students to connect the dots across their learning experiences, gain the support and guidance of mentors, and deepen and apply their learning while cultivating their unique passions. Ìý

  • Reflection

    Through reflection supported by mentors and advisors, students connect the dots across their experiences, make sense of their learning, explore their changed perspectives, and consider how to apply their learning moving forward. In doing so, they develop greater clarity and purpose as well as establish the foundation for expanded knowledge, growth, and maturity over time.

  • Experiences

    Students design a transformational education through curricular and co-curricular experiences that empower them to explore their interests, deepen their learning, cultivate their passions, and apply their knowledge. Students are particularly encouraged to pursue 4D signature experiences, which include study abroad, internships, undergraduate research, and much more. These experiences enhance student success and engagement and allow for deep learning at the nexus of the Four Dimensions.Ìý

  • Mentorship

    The 4D Mentorship Constellation reflects a commitment to providing every student with a relationship-rich education. Students build a network of support, including faculty, staff, alumni, and peers. These mentors and advisors collectively nurture and encourage holistic learning and development in line with the Four Dimensions. This web of relationships provides a resilient and scalable resource to meet a student's evolving needs.Ìý

4D News

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4D Events

The 4D Experience comes to life through dynamic events that connect students, families, faculty, and staff in meaningful learning and growth. From hands-on workshops to inspiring discussions, 4D events foster connection, exploration, and discovery. Join us to engage, learn, and contribute to a thriving, multidimensional DU community!

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Register Now for 4D Symposium 2025

On May 8-9, this year's Symposium theme is "Journeys in Character" and features dozens of informative sessions, engaging panels, and interactive workshops that bring the 4D Experience to life for students, faculty, and staff. Come learn, be in community, and engage in dialogue around models and practices that advance intellectual growth, well-being, purpose, and character, both in and out of the classroom as well as through research and scholarship.



Explore Your 4D Experience

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4D for Students & Families

Make the most of your time at DU and prepare to thrive in a dynamic world with the 4D Experience!

Explore 4D for Students
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4D for Faculty & Staff

As DU faculty and staff, you play a vital role in advancing the 4D model. Join us in shaping the 4D Experience!

Explore 4D for Faculty & Staff