Academic Integration
Students apply course concepts to real-life projects rooted in community priorities.
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What is Community Engaged Learning?
An Overview of CEL
Community Engaged Learning (CEL) is a teaching and learning approach that integrates meaningful community partnerships into academic coursework to deepen student learning and support public good.
At MSU Denver, CEL is part of our commitment to equity, relevance, and civic engagement. Through CEL, students apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, while building critical thinking, leadership, and collaboration skills.
Key Features of Community Engaged Learning
Critical Reflection
Reflection activities help students make meaning of their experiences and connect personal growth to learning outcomes.
Reciprocal Partnerships
CEL prioritizes equitable, mutually beneficial relationships between faculty, students, and community organizations.
Civic and Career Readiness
CEL builds skills in communication, collaboration, resilience, and civic responsibility—tools that matter in any career.
CEL vs. Traditional Service Learning
CEL vs. Traditional Service Learning
CEL reflects an intentional evolution beyond traditional “service learning.” The Faculty Senate’s 2025 vote to adopt CEL language signals a shift toward a more reciprocal partnership and away from charity-based models.
- Read about the name change in the Early Bird
- Download the CEL White Paper (PDF)
Why It Matters
Community Engaged Learning transforms the educational experience by connecting theory to practice, students to communities, and learning to lasting impact.
Contact Faculty Engagement
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Phone: (303) 615-1133
Email: CEL Program Manager: Nora Bashir
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