Duquesne University
The Vibe Check
Duquesne University offers a distinct urban campus feel, perched on a bluff overlooking the Pittsburgh skyline, creating a sense of being in an academic bubble within the city. The campus is known for its gothic architecture and strong sense of community, fostering a spirit-driven environment rooted in its Catholic and Spiritan identity. Students often describe it as a place where rigorous academics meet a supportive, close-knit atmosphere.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Duquesne is particularly renowned for its programs in Health Professions, Business, and Pharmacy, offering strong professional preparation. The university emphasizes teaching quality with small class sizes and accessible faculty, while also providing undergraduate research opportunities, especially in the sciences. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates ethical leadership and global perspectives across disciplines.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh offers a vibrant backdrop for student life, with easy access to cultural districts, sports venues, and diverse neighborhoods like the Strip District and Shadyside via public transit. Students enjoy exploring the city's food scene, attending Pirates or Steelers games, and visiting museums like the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. The campus itself hosts numerous events, but the city provides endless options for dining, entertainment, and internships.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($74,742):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Duquesne has its own campus police force and utilizes a comprehensive alert system, creating a secure environment on its hilltop campus. While the university is in an urban setting, the campus itself is well-lit and patrolled, though students are advised to be aware of their surroundings when venturing into the surrounding city neighborhood.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong career outcomes in high-demand fields like health and business
- ✓ Beautiful, urban campus with a tight-knit community feel
- ✓ High retention and graduation rates indicating student satisfaction and support
- ✓ Uniform tuition for all students simplifies financial planning
Cons
- ✗ High sticker price with tuition over $47,000 per year
- ✗ Urban setting may not appeal to those seeking a traditional college town
- ✗ Pell Grant rate of 18.1% suggests limited need-based aid compared to some peers
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Duquesne University is particularly known for its top-ranked programs in pharmacy, health professions, and business, as well as its strong commitment to ethical leadership and service. It is one of the few Spiritan universities in the U.S., emphasizing a mission of spiritual and intellectual growth. The university also boasts a beautiful campus with stunning views of Pittsburgh and a close-knit community atmosphere.
With an acceptance rate of 78.85%, Duquesne is considered moderately selective, making it accessible to many applicants. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1257, so while strong academics are important, the university also values well-rounded applicants. A solid GPA, meaningful extracurriculars, and an application that reflects alignment with the school's mission can improve your chances.
Campus life at Duquesne is vibrant and community-oriented, with over 200 student organizations and a strong emphasis on service and social justice. Students enjoy a mix of traditional campus events, such as Spiritan masses and cultural festivals, alongside easy access to Pittsburgh's urban amenities. The campus is walkable and residential, fostering a sense of belonging, though some students note the hilly terrain can be a workout.
The value of a Duquesne degree depends on your major and financial aid package, but the 10-year median earnings of $74,742 suggest a solid return on investment for many graduates. Programs in health professions, business, and computer science often lead to strong job placement and earning potential. While the net price is high, the university's high graduation and retention rates indicate that students who attend are likely to succeed and graduate on time.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1878
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 5,617
- In-State Tuition $47,146
- Zip Code 15282
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $34,978 after aid, Duquesne is a significant investment, but the 10-year median earnings of $74,742 suggest a strong return for graduates. The uniform tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students simplifies budgeting, and the university's high retention and graduation rates indicate solid student outcomes. For those who leverage merit aid and graduate on time, the degree can be a worthwhile financial investment, especially in high-earning fields like health professions and business.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.