Know the Code

Admission to the University of Colorado Denver carries with it the assumption that students will be responsible members of our community. When you choose to enroll at CU Denver, you assume responsibility to uphold standards of conduct appropriate to the academic and community goals set by the University.

Learn more about the various types of prohibited conduct included in Section II of the Student Code of Conduct below:

    What You Need to Know: Ay-Oh-Dee 101

    You are responsible for knowing the relevant laws and policies related to Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) at CU Denver.
    Additionally, stay safe by knowing the resources that may be available to you!

    Start here: The Sources

    Federal LawsState LawsCU Policies
    • Alcohol
      • Legal drinking age is 21+
      • No driving while intoxicated
    • Marijuana and Other Drugs
      • Illegal for all ages
    • Alcohol
      • Federal laws apply
    • Marijuana
      • Recreational and legalized (21+)
      • Medical use with card (18+)
    • Psilocybin
      • Decriminalized (21+)
    • Alcohol
      • Federal laws apply
    • Marijuana and Other Drugs
      • Off-campus you are to comply with State law
      • On-campus you are to comply with Federal law

    Information to Consider

    CU Housing and Dining

    • Alcohol or a substance use may be legal for a student off-campus, but there are specific restrictions for individuals living in the residence halls.
    • Students over 21 are not allowed to drink or be in possession of alcohol if minors are present.
    • Students of any age are not permitted to use marijuana or other drugs in the residence halls, this includes students with medical marijuana cards.

    Off-Campus

    • Students are expected to abide by the Student Code of Conduct at all times.
    • For example, if a student attends a party at another college, gets arrested for a drug charge, or gets a DUI, the matter can be addressed through the Conduct Process.

    Studying Abroad

    • If something is legal in the U.S.A. do not assume it is permitted abroad.
    • The university cannot intervene if you violate another countrys laws.

    Resource Offices

    AgencyServicesContact Information
    Auraria Recovery CommunityResource for students in recovery and/or those that are struggling with substance misuse, mental illness, or process addictions.RecoveryCommunitylnfo@gmail.com 
    Counseling CenterProvides mental health counseling services to CU Denver Students.(303) 315-7270
    Tivoli 454
    Office of Case ManagementAssists students dealing with areas related to mental health, emotional well-being, and safety.(303) 315-7312
    Tivoli 309

    Kiana Arellano grew up in Colorado. Kiana was described as a “smart, fun-loving girl with an incredible sense of humor”. In 2013 Kiana started struggling with anxiety and depression related to being cyberbullied. On May 19, 2013 Kiana attempted to end her life. The attempt caused a brain injury that left Kiana paralyzed and unable to speak. Kiana and her family experienced the devastating impact of cyberbullying and chose to take action.

    In 2015, Colorado Legislators approved House Bill 1072 and “Kiana Arellano’s Law” was passed, C.R.S. § 18-9-111. Kiana has left a lasting legacy on the State of Colorado as it relates to preventing and responding to incidents of cyberbullying. As a State we are committed to kindness and respect to one another and Kiana’s Law codifies this.

    You can learn more about this Colorado Law at: https://law.justia.com/codes/colorado/title-18/article-9/part-1/section-18-9-111/ 

    There are two forms of Disruption that the SCCS assist with addressing:

    Disruptive Student Behavior: This type of misconduct relates to the academic environment specifically. Behavior that the faculty member is responsible to intervene or is disruptive to other students is likely to be considered disruptive. Follow this link to learn more about the Disruptive Student Behavior Policy.
    The Student Code of Conduct also defines Disruptive behavior. In short, behavior that materially and substantially interferes with, obstructs, or disrupts a normal University of Auraria Campus activity could be considered disruptive.

    Appendix B- Anti-Hazing Policy (PDF, 181 KB)

    In 2024 the U.S. Department of Education made legislative changes as it relates to hazing. The legislation has tasked CU Denver with three actions. These actions are reflected in CU Denver’s Anti-Hazing policy (7041D):

    1. Prevention and Education: CU Denver is committed to educating its students on appropriate behavior to prevent incidents of hazing. Connect with Student Life & Campus Community to learn more about Hazing prevention efforts. 
    2. Addressing Concerns of Hazing: The SCCS is responsible for addressing concerns of hazing through the Student or Organizational Conduct process as described in the Code. Our Incident Report Form can be completed to report concerns of Hazing.
    3. Disclosing incidents of Hazing
      1. Reported incidents of Hazing are to be included in the Annual Security Report, per the Clery Act.
      2. Findings of Hazing (i.e., when an Organization is found Responsible for Hazing), this will be posted on CU Denver’s website. The Campus Hazing Transparency Report can found here.

    In May 2024, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed a law making it a misdemeanor to knowingly carry a firearm onto certain sensitive areas, which includes school grounds. The law took effect July 1, 2024 and includes the open and concealed carry of firearms on University and College Campuses. Those carrying out the duties of university employment requiring the use of a firearm (e.g., state certified police officers) are an exception to this change. On June 21, 2024, members of the Board of Regents resolved to amend weapons policies to align with State law.

    Please review CU Regent Policy 14.E for more information.

    For more information about the Colorado Law, please review C.R.S. § 18-12-105.5.