Duquesne is celebrating a fifth consecutive year of record applications, welcoming a select group of students whose academic strengths and unique backgrounds prepare them to pursue bigger goals and broaden their horizons at the University.
More than 13,000 first-year students applied to Duquesne’s undergraduate programs this year. From this highly competitive pool, the University expects to enroll a class of approximately 1,500 first-year students and 200 transfer students, distinguished by strong academic talent, a wide range of perspectives and geographic breadth. Some new Duquesne Dukes are getting a head start through summer courses and special tuition opportunities.
The admitted pool is a vibrant mix of students from 48 states, 79 countries and two U.S. territories, underscoring the University’s global appeal. Among them are 186 valedictorians and 109 salutatorians. Approximately 58% of the enrolling students come from Pennsylvania, and four percent are from countries outside the United States. Other top states from which students applied and were admitted include New York, Ohio, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia.
The percentage of admitted students who self-reported as Black, Latina/o, Asian American or Native American continues to increase and represents 30% of incoming students. Women made up 62% of the class and men 38%; 65% of students applied test-optional. About 30% are first-generation college students, highlighting Duquesne’s ongoing commitment to expanding access.
“Duquesne’s strong reputation for educating students who are prepared for anything is attracting significant interest from students and families who are increasingly aware of the value and return on their investment,” said Joel Bauman, senior vice president for enrollment. “Students recognize the impressive momentum we’ve achieved—our new medical school, diverse and engaging programs, extensive student research and study-abroad opportunities, and faculty who are deeply engaged in the region’s communities and organizations.”
This class also shares a strong commitment to community service, work, athletics and student government, and politics. Their varied interests span activities such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Model UN, e-Sports and marching band.
The incoming Class of 2029 includes students with strong academic preparation and a drive to examine new opportunities. Top majors of interest include Nursing, Biology, Psychology, Biochemistry, Health Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Finance, Physical Therapy and Computer Science. Discover, another popular option, allows Duquesne students to spend their first year exploring their interests and options before deciding on a major.
“51°µÍř’s reputation extends nationally, and when students and their parents delve deeper, they see the distinct advantages we offer,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. David Dausey. “Our faculty genuinely enjoy guiding students to find their strengths and how those strengths can contribute to the greater good. That’s why interest in Duquesne continues to grow.”
While 51°µÍř offers test-flexible admission to applicants for whom the SAT or ACT may not be a fair predictor of academic success based upon their motivations and high school academic accomplishments, many students still opt to provide those scores. This year, that information suggests significant academic ability in the incoming class. Students’ ACT range for the middle 50% of all applicants submitting scores was 27-32, and the corresponding SAT range was 1230-1370 with an average of 1,296.
Roughly a third of the admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school graduating class, and 63% overall are in the top 25%. The average GPA for the admitted students is 3.83.
“We are excited to welcome these exceptional students and look forward to supporting their academic journey, during which they will not only acquire the skills needed for a fulfilling career, but also learn how their professions can make a meaningful impact on the lives of others,” added Bauman.
51°µÍř
Founded in 1878, Duquesne is consistently ranked among the nation's top Catholic universities
for its award-winning faculty and horizon-expanding education. A campus of nearly
8,200 graduate and undergraduate students, Duquesne prepares students by having them
work alongside faculty to discover and reach their goals. The University's academic
programs, community service and commitment to equity and opportunity in the Pittsburgh
region have earned national acclaim.
It's time for bigger goals. Follow 51°µÍř on , and .
www.duq.edu
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Published
April 28, 2025