OUR PROGRAMS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


ABOUT THE SCHOOL

Why start a new school in the middle of the worst economic downturn since the great depression?
Boulder Digital Works is a new idea at one of the oldest universities in the American West. We expect to transform the future of digital work through innovative learning approaches—in form as well as content. If this sounds at all immodest, consider that we are part of a university that began with forty-four students taught by three instructors in a single building that housed all classrooms, the library, the president's home, and the janitor's quarters. Now one of only 34 U.S. public institutions belonging to the prestigious Association of American Universities (AU)— and the sole member in the Rocky Mountain region— The University of Colorado (CU) has a successful tradition of experimentation and innovation, with four Nobel laureates and more than 50 members of prestigious academic academies. Attribute our attitude to an innate frontier spirit but the American West has always been the place—literally and figuratively—that stimulated the minds of those who looked to the future and imagined new possibilities.
What makes BDW different from other schools?
What makes this program different from a traditional masters program is that it is always current with industry because it is taught almost entirely by top industry professionals and developing industry-sponsored projects. What all of this means to you is that you will have an exceptional portfolio when you're finished, and be connected with an excellent network of industry professionals.
Where is the school located?
BDW is located at 3390 Valmont in Building 3 – an industrial space that was once a lumber yard – in Boulder, CO. You'll wake up every day to breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, and you'll be able to participate in any outdoor sport, biking in the morning and skiing in the afternoon. Boulder is only a few hours from some of the country's best ski resorts such as Vail, Winter Park, or Breckenridge. You'll be able to enjoy the outdoors all year round—it's sunny over 300 days a year.
What type of degree do I get?
BDW is a certificate program awarded upon successful completion of the 60-week program. In essence, the program is pass/fail. But really, BDW isn't about certificates or degrees. It's about acquiring the skill sets to think and execute in real life digital environments.
Is financial aid offered for BDW?
Because BDW is a University of Colorado program, you are eligible to apply for private financial aid from a variety of banks and organizations. Please visit our financial aid section for more information on financial aid options. There are options for both US citizens and international students.

ABOUT THE STUDENTS

Will I be a CU student?
Yes and no. BDW is administered through the University of Colorado's continuing education department, so you are not a matriculated student. However, you will have a CU student identification card, CU email account, full use of the library, access to the recreation center, and various student resources.
How do I apply?
Ready to take the first step? Just click on the apply button, and complete the two-step process. We want to get to know you better, so send us an email if you have any questions about the process or acceptance policy.
How much experience do I need to apply?
BDW is the first school of this type in the United States, so your application and experience will be closely evaluated. Tell us what you know, what you've done, what you are interested in learning, and how you want to change the future. We'll take it from there.
Can I work a 9-5 job while also attending the 60 weeks program?

If you are planning to work while attending BDW, the 60 Weeks program is not for you. 60 Weeks is intense and immersive. It is entirely focused on building your digital portfolio under the guidance of the top digital pros from the industry. In the end, you will have an enviable network to promote your finished book.

The Workshops might be a better option for someone working a 9-5 job because they are less time intensive. They are a diverse and always developing collection of entirely separate offerings designed for people who want to accelerate their careers in digital field. We have had a tremendous response to this idea and welcome questions and requests for new workshops. The Workshops are viable options that are dynamic and adaptable to attendee's needs.

Is there room and board at BDW?

While you may take some classes on the CU campus, BDW is off campus, and we do not have a housing program. We do have relationships with various housing companies that also provide solutions for CU grad students, law students, medical students, and the like.

For housing options, please visit the following sites:

ABOUT THE CLASSES

How long is each class?
As long as it needs to be. BDW isn't a traditional program, and our class-schedule reflects that. But we know you have a life and need to plan your time accordingly. Check out the topics section for more information on classes. The program is intensive, with hours of interactions Monday — Friday. Some courses will be done in three hours; some in three eight-hour days and others may be four hours a day for four weeks. Our industry expert faculty and the needs of mastering a specific area drive our courses. The focus is on learning, experimentation, and mentorship, not filling time.
What internships will be available during the 60 week program?
Internships are integrated into the 60 Week program through our network of internship business partners. One of the advantages we have over other schools is our unique network of industry talent, so they'll keep you busy in the summer and all year round.
What if I don't know if I want to learn creative vs. technology vs. business?
Not a problem. At BDW, you'll develop a working knowledge of all three areas because you'll take classes in all of them. However, you will eventually be able to focus and specialize in one.
Can I take individual classes at BDW?
The 60 Weeks program is an integrated program, and you need to be accepted into that program to take its courses. However, BDW does offer other shorter programs that are open to interested individuals such as our 2 day executive workshop, Making Digital Work.

ABOUT THE TEACHERS

Can I teach at BDW?
We're looking for leaders in business, creative, and technology to help shape the minds of the next digital generation. Our students learn from leaders––local, national, and global. If you are interested in teaching, please send us an email.
Can my company or organization become a strategic partner or sponsor?
Absolutely. To become a strategic partner at BDW, please email us, and we'll get back to you with more information. We have multiple options for partners and sponsors, including research, fellow, strategic, and other opportunities.

FINANCIAL AID

How long will I have from the time I am accepted until I have to start paying for BDW?
Visit the apply section of our site to for the Fall 2011 60 weeks program application deadline. The 60 weeks program starts on August 22nd, 2011. Accepted students are given more than 10 weeks to sort out their financial aid concerns.
If I have previous school loans am I able to defer these loans while I am at BDW?
Yes, you are enrolled as a full time student through the University of Colorado at Boulder so you will be able to defer past student loans.