
600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA


Duquesne University holds regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which ensures that the institution meets rigorous standards for academic quality and institutional effectiveness. This accreditation is a critical marker of the university's commitment to providing a high standard of education and maintaining continuous improvement.
In addition to its institutional accreditation, several of Duquesne University's individual programs have earned specialized accreditations from relevant professional bodies. For example, its business programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction recognized globally for quality in business education. Likewise, programs in nursing have received accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that the curriculum and clinical experiences meet current healthcare standards.
The law program at Duquesne University is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), which is essential for graduates intending to practice law. Accreditation from professional organizations like these confirms that graduates are prepared to meet industry expectations and licensure requirements.
Overall, Duquesne University's accreditations reflect a comprehensive evaluation process that spans the university's operations, academic offerings, and professional programs, providing prospective students with assurance of the institution's educational quality and credibility.
Duquesne University requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent high school education. Submission of a secondary school record and achievement of a specified secondary school GPA are mandatory for admission consideration. While the university recommends applicants submit their secondary school class rank and other demonstrated competencies, these are not strictly required. Prior participation in a college program is also necessary for admission.
Standardized admission tests such as the SAT and ACT are considered, although detailed score requirements are not explicitly stated. The mean SAT score for admitted students is 1225, with individual averages of 605 in math and 620 in writing, indicating competitive academic standards. The average ACT score is 27, placing admitted students in the top 30 percentile nationally.
Duquesne University does not operate an open admission policy, and it does not offer dual credit to incoming students. Transfer credit and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted, allowing students to apply previously earned academic credits toward their degree.
Computer ownership is not a prerequisite for enrollment, but a computer lease program is available to students who need one.
Duquesne University requires prospective undergraduate students to pay an application fee as part of the admissions process. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing each application. The specific amount of the application fee is publicly stated by the university, which is important for applicants to consider when planning their college expenses.
For students facing financial challenges, Duquesne University offers application fee waivers. These waivers are designed to reduce barriers for applicants who demonstrate an economic need. Typically, eligibility for a fee waiver is determined through standardized criteria such as participation in government assistance programs or completion of certain financial aid forms. Applicants may need to submit documentation or meet qualifying conditions to obtain a waiver.
The availability of fee waivers reflects the university's effort to attract a diverse student body by minimizing upfront costs for students from various economic backgrounds. Prospective students are encouraged to check the admissions office or official university resources for details on how to apply for a fee waiver as guidelines and eligibility may vary.
Duquesne University offers access to Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs primarily through a branch unit located on its campus. Additionally, students interested in ROTC may also participate via branch units at cooperating host institutions. This setup provides flexibility for prospective students seeking military training alongside their academic studies, allowing them to engage with ROTC programs either directly at Duquesne University or through affiliated schools.
Duquesne University allows transfer applications for the fall, spring, and summer semesters, providing flexibility for prospective students planning their transition. The institution welcomes transfer credits, including those earned through CLEP General and CLEP Subject exams, which can facilitate credit recognition and accelerate degree completion. Transfer applicants are required to submit recommendations as part of their application, reflecting the university's holistic review process. While the admissions process is considered moderately difficult, the acceptance of various credit types indicates a willingness to accommodate diverse academic backgrounds.
Duquesne University offers a variety of study abroad programs designed to enhance the academic and cultural experience of its students. These programs include short-term faculty-led trips, semester exchanges, and full academic year opportunities at partner institutions worldwide. Students can choose from programs that focus on specific disciplines or regions, allowing them to tailor their international experience to their educational goals.
Many programs emphasize immersive learning, combining classroom instruction with cultural activities and site visits. The university maintains partnerships across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, providing diverse geographical options. Additionally, Duquesne supports service-learning abroad experiences, where students engage in community projects while studying.
Financial aid and scholarships are available to help offset the costs of participation, making these programs accessible to a broader range of students. Eligibility requirements typically include maintaining a certain GPA and completing prerequisite coursework, ensuring participants are prepared for the academic rigors of studying overseas.
Median composite SAT score
1225Median composite ACT score
27Percent of students submitting ACT scores
4%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
20%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
Data not availableOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer