Disney University (DU), formerly known as University of Disneyland, is the global training program for employees of the parks and experiences divisions at The Walt Disney Company also known as Cast Members. Many college students can participate through the Disney college program. The Disney college program is a full-time paid internship at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Students can receive academic credit while building their resume.

Although Disney University is a non-accredited institution, courses are primarily designed, developed, and delivered by experienced professionals. However, in order to enroll, one needs to be enrolled in an accredited college that will allow the student to take classes and work at Disney. Most colleges allowing it have internships available, and give college credit to do the internship while taking Disney classes. Disney University has traditionally provided learning instructor-led classroom sessions, but eventually expanded delivery methods to accommodate Disney's diverse and growing audience with the advent of eLearning and virtual classrooms.

All new Cast Members are required to attend 'Traditions' on their first day of work; this class imparts the importance of Disney culture, heritage, values, and policies through media and group activities. This is the day where new Cast Members get their first sight of backstage.

In 1954, Van France met with Walt Disney at the Walt Disney Studios complex in Burbank, California. With the opening of Disneyland fast approaching, Walt needed to find someone to develop the employee orientation and training process for the new park. At 42 years old, France already had plenty of experience as a trainer for manufacturing companies, such as an auto assembly plant and an aircraft factory, and in the U.S. Army as a training specialist. Impressed by the Disney Studios campus, and knowing Walt had already spent millions of his own to create the park, Van accepted Walt's job offer.

In addition to Walt Disney, Van would also credit Dick Nunis, the former chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, as one other driving force behind Disney University. Van originally hired Dick as his assistant, and was one of the first people hired at Disneyland. Dick was brought on board to assist in creating the first employee orientation and training program.

What happens "backstage" will end up "on-stage." If we aren't friendly with each other...smiling and saying "good morning" and things like that, then we'll have a similar attitude toward our guests.

— Van A. France, founder and Professor emeritus, Disney Universities

For the opening of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, Jim Cora was tasked with implementing the "Disney Way of Leadership" program for Disney University.