Orientation is a combination of asynchronous work (work done on your own prior to orientation), live sessions in person and optional office hours. Participation in all sessions is mandatory unless otherwise stated.
Orientation has been designed intentionally across multiple formats to support effective learning and to maximize the success of your adjustment to graduate school.
Asynchronous content: Asynchronous content is designed for you to digest and absorb the material at your own pace and will prepare you for virtual live zoom sessions.
You’ll maintain access to Canvas and can refer to this content in the future.
Much of what we cover is important for the duration of your program.
In-person sessions: Orientation is designed to be in-person so students can explore campus, learn about resources and build community.
Social Work Competencies Presentation - 8:45 - 9:15 a.m. MST:
This session will include an overview of the 9 Core EPAS Competencies that you will be learning while at GSSW, led by the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Stephanie George, EdD, MSW.
Creating an Inclusive Learning Community - 9:15 - 10:15 a.m. MST:
The Office of Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity (CREO) serves the DU community by fostering an environment of equal opportunity, equity and anti-discrimination. Dr. Colleen Fisher will facilitate conversations about how values such as respect, fairness, responsibility, safety, and opportunity can shape a welcoming learning community.
Break - 10:15 - 10:30 a.m. MST:
Academic Planning: Advising, Curriculum, and Program Opportunities - 10:30 - 11:00 a.m. MST:
This interactive session, led by Denver Campus Director Amity Good, will provide an overview of advising, curriculum requirements, and academic planning tools. Students will also learn about opportunities to enhance their MSW experience, including dual degrees, certificates, and scholarships. Please bring your laptop, tablet, or something to write with so you can follow along.
Break - 11:00 - 11:15 a.m. MST:
Career Services - 11:15 - 12:00 p.m. MST:
In this session, you’ll meet our Career Services team and learn about available resources, potential career pathways, and how to effectively communicate your academic and field experience when applying for post-graduate roles.
This session will include an introduction to our various student support teams, including the Assistant Dean for Students, Career Services, Registrar, Student Engagement, Financial Aid, and other DU resources. You will learn how these teams can help you navigate your student experience.
Lunch - 12:30 p.m. MST:
Enjoy a casual lunch while getting to know your cohort, faculty and staff from the GSSW community. Faculty and staff will be available to answer questions and to connect with students. This is an opportunity to build relationships, learn more about field education, coursework, professional development and advising, and discover ways to get involved in the GSSW community.
Fall Orientation - September 4, 2026
Student Resource Fair - 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. MST:
We are excited to host a Resource Fair to introduce you to information about dual-degree programs, certificates, scholarships, student organizations, and other student services available at the GSSW. You will also be able to connect with Academic Affairs, Denver Campus Program Directors, Student Services, and the Field Office.
University of Denver Graduate Student Orientation - 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. MST:
Hosted by the Office of Graduate Education (OGE), this university-wide orientation introduces graduate students to campus resources and services. Please check your du.edu email for additional information.
Required Follow-Up Sessions
Field Orientation - Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.:
This session is designed to help prepare you for a successful field education experience. You’ll meet members of the Field Education team, connect with fellow students, participate in interactive activities, and receive practical guidance for success at your internship placement. We’ll also review the structure of the internship course, key policies and timelines, professional expectations, and strategies for making the most of your field experience.
You will then meet with Amity Good, who will walk you through how to review your Degree Audit, use Academic Planning tools, confirm your academic plan, discuss course selection, and prepare for registration.
Optional Follow-Up Sessions
October 6 (In-Person) Pop-Up Advising Session in the Margaret Page Library - 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. MST:
This is a built-in opportunity for students to meet with an academic advisor to review their Degree Audit, confirm their academic plan, discuss course selection, and prepare for registration. It is a chance to ask questions and make informed decisions before enrolling in classes.
October 8 (In-Person) Pop-Up Advising Session in the Margaret Page Library - 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. MST:
This is a built-in opportunity for students to meet with an academic advisor to review their Degree Audit, confirm their academic plan, discuss course selection, and prepare for registration. It is a chance to ask questions and make informed decisions before enrolling in classes.