Duquesne University: An Overview

Duquesne University is a private, Catholic university located on a picturesque campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Founded by members of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost, the Spiritans, in 1878, Duquesne has grown from a small, faith-centered college to a thriving, comprehensive institution of higher education. Known for its strong academic programs and a commitment to moral and spiritual values, the university provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for both professional success and personal growth.

A Brief History of Duquesne University

Duquesne University was originally named Pittsburgh Catholic College of the Holy Ghost and was established by the Holy Ghost Fathers. Its inception was guided by the vision to provide an education that was not readily accessible to the city's immigrant and working-class population. The college received its charter in 1882 and, in 1911, changed its name to Duquesne University to honor the 18th-century Governor-General of New France, Michel-Ange Duquesne de Menneville, after whom the city of Pittsburgh's Fort Duquesne was named.

The university relocated to its current site on "The Bluff" in the early 20th century and has since expanded its campus significantly. Today, Duquesne serves thousands of students through nine schools of study, offering a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs.

Academics at Duquesne University

Duquesne University's academic offerings are diverse, with nine schools that cater to various interests and career goals:

1. McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts.
2. Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences.
3. Palumbo-Donahue School of Business.
4. School of Education.
5. Rangos School of Health Sciences.
6. Mylan School of Pharmacy.
7. School of Nursing.
8. Mary Pappert School of Music.
9. School of Law.

Each school provides a curriculum that combines a liberal arts foundation with specialized professional training. Students at Duquesne benefit from small class sizes, a low student-to-faculty ratio, and a faculty committed to teaching excellence and scholarly research. The university also emphasizes service learning and community engagement, strongly reflecting its Spiritan heritage.

Undergraduate Programs

Duquesne offers over 80 undergraduate programs, allowing students to choose from a variety of disciplines. The liberal arts tradition ensures that all students receive a broad-based education, even as they focus on their major fields of study. Undergraduate research opportunities, internships, and study abroad programs are also widely available, enriching the educational experience.

Graduate and Professional Programs

For those seeking advanced degrees, Duquesne provides highly regarded programs in various fields, including business, health sciences, education, music, and law. Graduate students can pursue master's and doctoral degrees, as well as professional certificates. The university fosters a collaborative environment with an emphasis on practical experience and scholarly research.

Rankings

Duquesne’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its national rankings. It consistently ranks among the top-tier schools in U.S. News & World Report's "Best Colleges" rankings. The university has also been recognized for its value, veteran-friendly policies, and its contributions to the public good. Particularly notable is the Mylan School of Pharmacy, often listed among the best pharmacy schools in the nation.

Contacting Admissions at Duquesne University

Prospective students and families can easily contact the Duquesne University Admissions Office for more information about the application process, financial aid, and campus visits. The admissions team can be reached at the following:

• Phone: 412-396-6222 (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST)
• Email: [email protected]
• Address: Admissions Office, Administration Building, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15282

Additionally, those interested can learn more about the university and its programs by scheduling a campus tour or attending informational events and webinars.

Useful Links

For more detailed information about Duquesne University, consider exploring the following resources:

• Duquesne University Official Website
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Financial Aid Information
• Campus Virtual Tour

Duquesne University stands out as an institution that not only dedicates itself to academic excellence but also to the development of the whole person. With a firm grounding in its Spiritan tradition, the university fosters a sense of community and service among its students, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to society. Its beautiful campus, vibrant student life, and diverse academic programs make Duquesne a place where students can thrive intellectually, spiritually, and socially.