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Duquesne University

Pittsburgh, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

5,216
Total Students
$47K
Tuition (In-State)
$47K
Tuition (Out-State)
$35K
Avg Net Price
79%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Graduation Rate
6-year
86%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Duquesne University

A dynamic Catholic research university in Pittsburgh, rooted in Spiritan values and global reach.

Duquesne University, nestled on a vibrant hilltop campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers a distinctive educational experience as a private Catholic research institution. Founded by the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, Duquesne is committed to fostering academic excellence within a faith-based community. Recognized as an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity," it provides a robust learning environment for its diverse student body, preparing them to become ethical leaders in a complex world.

Duquesne's rich history began on October 1, 1878, as the Pittsburgh Catholic College of the Holy Ghost. It quickly grew in prominence, achieving a significant milestone in 1911 by becoming the first Catholic university-level institution in Pennsylvania. Throughout its nearly 150-year journey, Duquesne has demonstrated remarkable resilience, expanding its campus and academic offerings even through challenging times, thanks to the dedication of its founders, leaders, and supportive student community.

Today, Duquesne is home to ten schools of study, welcoming over 8,200 students, including a significant international population from more than 80 countries. While many students hail from Pennsylvania, the university fosters a global perspective, enhanced by its associate campus in Rome. Beyond the classroom, Duquesne students engage in a vibrant campus life, cheering on the NCAA Division I Duquesne Dukes and participating in a wide array of activities that contribute to a holistic and engaging university experience.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1878 by the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, becoming Pennsylvania's first Catholic university-level institution in 1911.
  • Classified as an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity" with a commitment to significant research contributions.
  • Features a robust endowment of $472.1 million (2020) supporting its academic mission and campus development.
  • Serves a diverse student body of 8,294 (fall 2025 projection), including undergraduates and postgraduates from over 80 countries.
  • Maintains a unique associate campus in Rome, providing international learning opportunities.
  • Offers ten distinct schools of study, with a focus on comprehensive academic programming across various disciplines.
  • Competes in NCAA Division I athletics, with notable achievements including the Duquesne Dukes men's basketball NIT championship in 1955.

Timeline

1878
Founded as the Pittsburgh Catholic College of the Holy Ghost.
1885
Original 'Old Main' building constructed on its current Bluff location.
1911
Became Duquesne University of the Holy Ghost, Pennsylvania's first Catholic university.
1914
Graduate school established, marking a significant academic expansion.
1925
School of Pharmacy established, followed by other professional schools.
1937
Nursing School added to the university's growing academic offerings.
1954
Assumption Hall, the university's first student dormitory, opened.
1967
Played a crucial role in the shaping of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal.
1988
A. J. Palumbo Center dedicated, enhancing athletic and event facilities.
2024
First class admitted to the new Osteopathic Medical School.

Schools & Colleges

10 notable schools within Duquesne University

💊

School of Pharmacy

Established in 1925, offering specialized education in pharmaceutical sciences.

🏫

School of Music

Established in 1926, providing comprehensive musical education and performance opportunities.

📚

School of Education

Established in 1929, dedicated to preparing future educators and educational leaders.

💉

Nursing School

Established in 1937, focused on health care and nursing education.

💼

School of Business Administration

Housed in Rockwell Hall, offering extensive programs in business disciplines.

⚖️

Law School

Housed in Rockwell Hall and expanded in the 1980s, providing legal education and training.

🔬

Rangos School of Health Sciences

One of the new schools opened between 1988 and 2001, focusing on health-related professions.

🔬

Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences

One of the new schools opened between 1988 and 2001, dedicated to scientific research and environmental studies.

🏫

School of Leadership and Professional Advancement

One of the new schools opened between 1988 and 2001, focusing on professional development and leadership skills.

🏥

Osteopathic Medical School

Admitted its first class in 2024, providing education in osteopathic medicine.

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