College Spotlight: Denison University
Get the inside scoop on Denison University.
Denison University, a top liberal arts college located in Granville, Ohio, offers a unique college experience centered on setting students up for a lifetime of success, not just four years of fun. In our latest College Spotlight, we sit down with Caitlin Latta, Director of Selection to learn what makes "The Hill" so special. We dive into the university's innovative approach to career preparation, including one-on-one coaching at the Knowlton Center and the new Executive-in-Residence program, which connects students with industry leaders. Caitlin also shares how Denison's future-focused mindset doesn't stop students from enjoying the present, highlighting campus traditions like the Vail Series and the student-favorite Denison Day music festival. Denison is one of 45 Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL) schools and in my opinion, this is a place that truly transforms lives. Read on to discover how Denison’s interdisciplinary majors, supportive community, and forward-thinking resources help students find their true selves and prepare them for a lifetime of incredible years ahead.
The Nest: Tell us a fun fact or about a tradition that is unique to your university.
Caitlin: Denison University is a unique college experience in that we don’t think your time on The Hill should be the best years of your life. Don’t get us wrong, we want the years you spend at Denison to be incredible; but we think the years after should be even better. That’s why the Denison experience is designed to offer students a lifetime of best years through resources like 1:1 career coaching in the Knowlton Center for Career Exploration, skill certification programs in the Denison Edge, and our new Executive-in-Residence program where industry leaders bring their professional expertise to mentorships with students. These programs grant students the career exploration and professional insight they need to prepare them for years of success after graduation and achieve the life they aspire to lead. But, just because we’re future-focused doesn’t mean we don’t prioritize enjoying the present! Many of our campus traditions uphold the close community fostered on campus, such as the Vail Series. Here, award-winning artists from around the world perform free of cost for Denison students in our Swasey Chapel. Our most recent guest was EGOT winner and performing arts legend, Rita Moreno! However, my personal favorite is a campus-wide music festival called Denison Day (or D-Day). The afternoon kicks off with student performances and a community cookout for the entire student body, and ends with a professional artist performing a free concert for students on the Quad. In the past, students have rocked out to everyone from Diana Ross and the Supremes to Waka Flocka Flame. It’s a fun-filled afternoon that ties the campus together as we welcome fall semester!
The Nest: What is the most unique major you offer?
Caitlin: Denison provides an interdisciplinary framework in every academic program offered, from fine arts to STEM. That means you won’t graduate with just one perspective from that major, you’ll graduate with multiple. Our Global Commerce department is a great example. This major takes business to the international level, focusing on the interrelationship of culture, politics, and history that influence the global economy. Students in this program choose a region of focus and even study abroad in that area! On the fine arts side, we’re proud to have one of the oldest Cinema programs in the nation, in which student filmmakers study the history, aesthetics, and theory of cinema. Even more, students can use professional cameras and equipment for free starting their very first year on campus — no need to wait! In terms of humanities, our Journalism department encourages students to explore the evolution of storytelling, especially through The Reporting Project — a nationally recognized, non-profit news source written by Denison students and faculty (through which some students have been widely published!). Finally, our majors are unique through their constant innovation. Data Analytics and Computer Science are some of the fastest growing, highest demand majors, so Denison sought to create a state-of-the-art space to match this trend. We are currently renovating Doane Hall to become a 36,000 square-foot facility fit with virtual reality labs, data visualization spaces, and collaboration centers to facilitate conversation between students and faculty alike. But no matter what a student wants to study, Denison is devoted to offering them unique, personalized guidance through our Knowlton Center for Career Exploration.
The Nest: Who is the best-fit student for your university?
Caitlin:We strive to create a learning environment where students are passionate, well-rounded thinkers who give back to the society around them. Students are encouraged to dip their toes into different academic puddles at Denison, expanding their understanding and interest beyond a singular background or focus. We’ve found that students who feel the most fulfilled at Denison are those who find joy through active involvement in a variety of campus organizations, are open towards challenging their mindset, are curious learners, and are ambitious towards crafting the future they want. Students find a way to be their whole, true selves — lace up for Denison's club ice hockey team, light up the audience as a part of the nation's oldest collegiate improv group, educate and empower peers as a member of DU Votes, discuss current market position with a Red Frame Lab client, all while delving headfirst into a rigorous academic schedule. Denisonians are not sitting in the back of the class trying to blend in, they’re eager to connect with their peers and reach out to faculty.
The Nest: What application plans do you offer, and how should students determine which plan is best for them?
Caitlin: Regarding application plans, we offer Early Decision 1 (November 15), Early Decision 2 (January 15), and Regular Decision (January 15). If Denison is a student’s first choice school, Early Decision may be their preferred application plan. Not only does applying Early Decision demonstrate a student’s interest in the university, a higher percentage of students are also admitted through Early Decision rounds. Additionally, students who apply Early Decision typically receive their admission decision about 1 month after their given ED round deadline. If you’re passionate about Denison being the school for you, Early Decision is highly recommended. Regular Decision is a strong plan for students who are still considering what school is the right fit for them. If your search is more ongoing, that’s okay! Unlike Early Decision, Regular Decision is not a binding agreement. If admitted through Regular Decision, students can keep their applications open at other schools and continue to weigh the best option for them. Students who apply RD typically receive their admission decision around mid-March.
The Nest: What is your best application advice for prospective students?
Caitlin: Do your research and use your resources! You have a lot of college options, and they can blur together after a while. Curb any overwhelming stress or confusion by asking questions, whether that’s to admission counselors, current students, or mentors. They’re a great way to get a feel for the vibe of a campus and to envision where you’ll feel most comfortable. Also, take advantage of interview opportunities. Not only do they connect you with a new resource, but they add a face and story to your application while demonstrating interest in an institution! Keep an open mind throughout your search, and don’t be afraid to reach out to us if you need anything! We’re happy to help you on your journey!
Application/College insights from The Nest:
Early Decision · November 15, 2025
Early Decision II · January 15, 2026
Regular Decision · January 15, 2026
Test-optional
iPEDS 25th/75th percentiles:
ACT: 29 - 32
SAT: 1770 - 1460
90% Retention Rate!
The takeaway: Denison University provides a unique college experience focused on setting students up for a lifetime of success through innovative career preparation, a supportive community, and forward-thinking resources.
Helping you soar sooner,
Carrie