Founded in 1878, Duquesne University. is a Private college. Located in Pennsylvania, which is a city setting in Pennsylvania, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 6,039 full time undergraduate students, and 3,304 full time graduate students.
The Duquesne University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 13:1. There are 502 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Duquesne University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
73%
Application Deadline
1-Nov
Application Fee
50
SAT Range
1055-1230
ACT Range
24-29
Admissions at DU are considered Selective, with ,41% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 20 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
89% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 60% were in the top quarter, and 29% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Duquesne University.
13%
“We”re apathetic”
36%
“We know about current events and vote”
48%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
3%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
27%
“Sometimes, but not often”
55%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
14%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
1%
“I only go out in groups”
24%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
74%
“I feel extremely safe”
41%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
46%
“We bought the gear”
13%
“We live for the big game”
13%
“It”s not really our thing”
22%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
55%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
10%
“We”re a very artistic group”
1%
“Haven”t met them”
6%
“Available in class”
45%
“They keep regular office hours”
47%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
19%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
70%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
10%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
0%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
13%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
63%
“We only party on weekends”
24%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
4%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
67%
“There might be people who do”
25%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
4%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
13%
“We”re apathetic”
36%
“We know about current events and vote”
48%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
3%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
27%
“Sometimes, but not often”
55%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
14%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
1%
“I only go out in groups”
24%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
74%
“I feel extremely safe”
41%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
46%
“We bought the gear”
13%
“We live for the big game”
13%
“It”s not really our thing”
22%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
55%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
10%
“We”re a very artistic group”
1%
“Haven”t met them”
6%
“Available in class”
45%
“They keep regular office hours”
47%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
19%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
70%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
10%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
133 Students rated on-campus housing 3.2 stars. 6 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
100 Students rated off-campus housing 3.6 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
141 Students rated campus food 2.9 stars. 6 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
144 Students rated campus facilities 4.1 stars. 33 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
144 Students rated class size 4.4 stars. 52 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
143 Students rated school activities 3.8 stars. 29 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
143 Students rated local services 4.1 stars. 44 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
144 Students rated academics 3.9 stars. 33 % gave the school a 5.0.
Duquesne University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Duquesne University?
67 Students rated Duquesne University
ashley - 05/13/2024
Honestly, I love the school, good people and good environment! Good sports teams and the games are very exciting. The school is close to many sports arenas which is very nice for sports fans.
Angelino - 01/31/2023
Duquesne University has a lot to offer. From student life on and off the campus to its prominent location within the boundaries of the city. Academically it proud itself in the expansive variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with professors more than adequate to satisfy the needs of knowledge-hungry young scholars. Those willing to study hard and concentrate on building their future from the start will certainly not be disappointed. Advances in the carrier post-graduation are the main goals in constructing the portfolio in the programs offered, especially the one with narrowed specialization in the given field of expertise. And the opportunities upon graduation are endless; hence the individuals are willing to progress. The Students also have the option to participate in extracurricular activities actively or simply partake in different clubs, etcetera. Last but certainly not least to mention is the importance of the safety of its resident students, in which Duquesne University places its utmost priority. I am proud to be called 'Duke'
kam - 06/30/2021
Outside of the sciences (pharmacy, health information systems, OT, nusring, PT, pre med) thisplace is average or below avg. its a tier four university with a close knit group of students who come from upper middle class catholic sheltered communities . It feels like a giant 5A high school of 8000 students. After two years of classes and partying youve seen everyone or know ofthier name/“reputation”. Greek life is vibrant. This university reminded me of kids who miss high school . Its super cliquey especially if you didnt come from western pa. The campus isbeautiful, the area is nice, southside is close by and the people at duquesne are very attractive. It looks like a jcrew photo shoot. The classes aresmall , the education is okay but dont expect people to value your degree if your not in pittsburgh. Its very unknown beyond pennsylvania. On campus life is definitely fun especially freshman orientation . The only advantage this school has is southside adjacent to it. Otherwise, its just another high priced university with no prestige. I would only go here if you think youllfit inand the program you want ishighly ranked and you know you are going to live or work in pennsylvania.
Julian - 06/11/2021
I regret my time at Duquesne. I did not form a single meaningful friendship at the school, apart from meeting my husband there. Due to the low admission standards, most students are not academically driven. The three professors of the small Computer Science program were the highlight of my time at the school.
Catherine - 06/26/2020
I am an occupational therapy student. I absolutely love the OT faculty. They are spectacular. I would never transfer because I feel like I am learning so much in my program. However, there's nothing particularly amazing about Duquesne. My advice to others is to look into the program you want to do to see if you like the way it's designed. If you really like it, come here. If not, don't bother. There's nothing special here unless something about the way they structure your major is different here. Everything else Duquesne offers you could get somewhere else for much cheaper.
Krista - 05/07/2020
My experience at Duquesne University was very rewarding. The campus is a beautiful, private Catholic based school. I am Catholic, however; never felt pressured into religion. I enjoyed listening to the church bells, and school was cancelled due to random Catholic holidays, which is always a bonus. It's near downtown Pittsburgh, so it' s convenient to get everywhere quickly, and there are delicious restaurants nearby. The PPG Paints Arena (Consol Energy Center) is within walking distance, as well as the book store. There is a library located on campus. Professors are always available and extremely helpful in making sure your understand each concept taught so that you are the best in your field. This is an excellent school to choose for your degree!
Brittany - 04/29/2020
Duquesne University is a wonderful school in the beautiful city of Pittsburgh. The intimate campus and small class sizes are what drew me to Duquesne in the first place. The professors and staff are extremely kind and helpful. You will not regret choosing Duquesne University as your home away from home!
Heather - 04/02/2020
Duquesne has a welcoming atmosphere and there are usually students all around campus. There are a variety of options to get involved on campus, and the University does a great job of keeping campus and their students safe. The surrounding area does not have grocery stores or convenience stores, but there are restaurants and bars. The campus is right on the main Port Authority bus line, making transportation easy. If you drive to campus parking passes are extremely expensive and depending on the time of day, you spend a lot of time driving around the parking garage looking for an open spot. Overall the professors are great and very accessible, and there is a lot of variety in conversations and interests in students.
Prevan - 03/05/2020
Great catholic foundation school, peaceful environment, full of educational opportunities! Duquesne University is a high quality college at a good price, the price average combined with a very high quality education, results in a good value for the money when compared to other colleges and universities in Pennsylvania.
Amond - 11/28/2019
I like duquesne but it is just very expensive which is why i am looking for these scholarships now. Also i do not like how they handle the campus rooming situation. The price and housing are the only negatives, but everything else is amazing which makes me sad because i wont be able to afford it, and i will be forced to transfer to pitt or carlow.
Mary - 10/12/2019
Too much money for professors who do not care
Joseph - 06/13/2019
Great learning facility for any medical professions. In the heart of Pittsburgh with access to the best hospital and teaching facilities in the country. Easy access to the cultural district and sporting events. Diverse campus with students attending from all over the world. Many organizations and clubs to join or you can organize one yourself. Class sizes are small with a more one on one with professors and teaching staff. Duquesne is rich in culture and heritage.
Hayley - 05/30/2019
I have loved my time thus far at Duquesne. Pittsburgh is a great location to attend school because of the exciting sports atmosphere, availability of shops and food, and wide variety of cultural experiences. Everyone in the city and on campus is extremely friendly and willing to lend a hand. There are plenty of sports, organizations, clubs, etc. to join and find your niche. The professors really care about the students and that they are well prepared for their future careers.
Madison - 02/26/2019
The entire campus is absolutely amazing. I chose this university to complete my education because of the amazing home feel that I got as soon as I walked in. The people were polite everywhere I went, the campus was extremely clean, and their support system for all students amazed me. They offer so much to ensure the success of every student enrolled.
Lauren - 01/20/2019
I love it! It's the perfect balance between partying and academics. The professors are very knowledgable and willing to meet outside of the classroom and the university itself is well known and respected. There are many opportunities for internships and career oriented activities. The school is right in the city but feels like a park when walking around it which I love! There is always something to do, something to see, and plenty of amazing restaurants to enjoy! Pitt and Point Park are also within walking distance so there is a good amount of students within the same age group as you. As for the dorms and facilities, they are well kept and cleaned well. The dorms are spacious and the bathrooms are communal but have separate showering areas to maintain the privacy. The food is good and there are many options. There is a main dining hall, a smaller one with "make your own" selections, Chick Fila, and Chipotle, etc within walking distance. Sports are not a huge thing like at Ohio State or Penn State but they are still present and students still attend the games. For students not looking to watch, intermurals throughout the recreational center are also available in addition to a three story gym with classes and basketball courts. Some classes include HIT and spin lead by licensed instructors and sure to give you a great workout! Overall, Duquesne is a great school that is well kept and promises career success. The beauty and strength of the campus are strong attributes.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Duquesne University is 73%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Wow, well I would certainly tell myself a lot of things. I would definitely tell myself to stay focused and get work finished early. I would also tell myself to apply for many scholarships. Lastly I would tell myself that going off to college will be the best but most challenging years of your life. The transition will be easy but the work load and trying to balance a real job with school is the most difficult part!
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
Duquesne University does not do much to supply any sort of transportation around the city of Pittsburgh. Every other school in the city supplies its students with bus passes that are included in the cost of the tuition. Duquesne has what is called the "loop bus." It takes the students to a total of three places and is not big enough for the students on go out on friday and saturday night which are the only time it runs. This means the students have to pay everytime they get on the bus during the week/day which gets costly.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
Duquesne cannot be described in words, let alone one sentence; the faculty, alumn, students and I myself are walking attestments to the University itself, a University unlike anyother grounded in education, morality, faith, reason, and a strong sense of self worth and pride, dedicated to hard work and those life experience that embody the self, that become the self, those things which cannot be explained in words but only in the character itself and the look of accomplishment and pride in the eyes of all who walk the campus of Duquesne University.
I have had the most fantastic professors at Duquesne. Each and every one of them know your name and care how well you learn the information. They also love what they're teaching so they are more than enthusiastic which definitely helps, especially in the early classes. You'll have a bad professor here or there, I suppose, like every other school, but I never had one in my years there. They are also very open to speaking with you outside of class. They love when you come to their office hours with a question or just to talk about something that's going on in the class. The entire university simply wants you to learn. They want you to get a good job, too, but they realize there's much more to education than that. As far as the Psychology department goes, it is one of the only human-science undergraduate departments in the country. It focuses more on understanding the meanings people make in their lives as opposed to doing experiments in labs, which tend to be very far from understanding actual life. Our department professors are nationally renowned in their field and know more than anyone could ever hope to. They are truly amazing people. If you're looking for a unique spin on the traditional scientific psychology, Duquesne is the place to be.
For me, Duquesne is one of the most unique universities. It's medium range regarding size so there are so many activities to do all the time like any other big university, but the majority of classes are very small so you get all of the personal attention that you would want from a smaller school. Also, since it is based in liberal arts, everyone is required to take a certain amount of classes outside of their major. It may sound stupid at first since you don't "need" them for your future career, but some of my favorite classes have been the ones outside my major because they're so different than what I would normally be learning.
Duquesne is also unique because it's in the city, but you would never know it walking around campus. It's very secluded from the bussle of city life and is filled with green spaces and beautiful fountains. It's truly an amazing campus to view at any point in the year. Its seclusion also makes it a very safe campus, which helps parents when they worrying about their children going to school in a city. On the other hand, you are only blocks away from anything you would want to go to in a city: shopping, plays, concerts, etc.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The parking on campus is some what of a frustrating issue. Since we are in the city parking is very limited and if you do wish to buy a pass it can get very expensive. It is a high commuter school so we have many people parking on campus everyday.
This school is unfortunately best known for attracting well off, upper middle class to high class people, as well as those who are only making it through on grants and loans. There is a lot of diversity, but in such a lot of disparity between the girls wearing the UGG boots and the girls who are coming from India to study and kids like me, who have little to no money to afford the expensive things most of them wear and feel a little left out.
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
Not really. There are a fair share of wealthy students that drive mercedes and only wear Coach or Gucci merchandise but that is certainly not the majority. Most people (like me) have worked their butts off for scholarships and have taken out loans to go to Duquesne so they do not take their education lightly. Everyone is very dedicated to working hard and getting the most out of their time at Duquesne.
Duquesne is the right school for those who take great joy in helping others, are dedicated students, and have good time management skills. Although it is difficult to balance both volunteer activities and course work, students at Duquesne find a way to make sure they keep up on their studies while being involved in the community and other on-campus events.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
If we had a stereotype it would be laid-back kids who like to party on the weekends, but work really hard and buckle down around exam time. We get stuff done!
Duquesne has both social, professional and honor Greek organizations. About 20{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of students are Greek at Duquesne. The organizations make a positive presence on campus through philanthropy events, Greek Sing, Carnival and being present at major events on campus.
Professional Greek Organizations are ones that are focused on a major area of study or other aspects, like service. There are many of these on campus. These organizations have a strong presence on campus with their own philanthropy events, educational outreach and events to help build not only their members but the campus community in professional life.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
99% of students attending Duquesne University receive some sort of financial aid.
22% were awarded federal grants.74%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.