Academics
A modestly-sized Catholic university in the heart of Pittsburgh, Duquesne offers students “small class sizes [and a] welcoming staff” along with good “financial aid and scholarship opportunities.” The university is especially renowned for its “strong health profession programs,” and we’re told that the “Nursing, Physician’s Assistant, and Pharmacy Programs are all very well developed” in particular. Additionally, the nearby “hospital system provides … a quality learning and clinical environment for students.” Fortunately, most departments, by and large, offer students “great research opportunities.” Undergrads also appreciate the fact that it’s rather easy to “make strong connections [with their professors].” As one student explains, “My professors all seem to love Duquesne, and [they] love to share their research … with the class.” The vast majority of professors “are very open to questions and will do anything to help their students, in and out of the classroom.” Indeed, they make it quite evident that “[they] care about … the well-being of their students” beyond academics. Finally, as another student concludes, “I … feel as if I’ve been given unbelievable opportunities by attending Duquesne.”
Student Body
At first glance, Duquesne undergrads appear to be largely “white, middle/uppermiddle class Christian” with a “heavy majority of female students” to boot. However, others insist that you will find “a very diverse group of people,” noting that the university has a “fair amount of international students.” Regardless of background, the school tends to attract students who are “driven and have a desire to work and learn.” Just as important, undergrads are quick to mention that their peers are “very friendly.” And you are sure to always find a “familiar face when walking to class/dining halls.” One student even goes a step further, describing classmates as “the type of people who do basic things like hold the elevators for you, but if they overhear you stressing about an exam in the library … [they’ll] help you out and give you some pointers.” Another student boasts, “I personally found my life-long friends on the first day, and my friend group only grows with each passing day. Duquesne is a place where I feel I belong and I am welcomed.”
Campus Life
There’s no denying that academics take top priority at Duquesne. And on any given weekday you’ll find most students “in the library ... study[ing].” However, these industrious undergrads still manage to carve out some time for fun. For starters, many students are “involved in Greek life, whether it be a professional or social [type of organization].” Additionally, every Friday the school hosts events ranging from “epic bingo” to movies on the waterfront. Of course, the weather dictates activities as well. “In the winter we head to Market Square to go skating,” one student says. Once the temperature starts rising, you can often find undergrads “playing with a frisbee or playing catch” or they simply “bring [out] the hammock[s] and … hang out on the lawn.” We should note that Duquesne “is not a party school.” Students looking for a more partying experience often “go to [nearby] Pitt.” Finally, Pittsburgh proper provides ample social and cultural opportunities. For example, students love to head “to the South Side on the weekends where there are a lot of restaurant and shopping options to choose from.” And, of course, they love attending “a lot of sporting events [to cheer on the] Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates.”
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