Duquesne University, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a private Catholic university founded in 1878. The university is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and its strong emphasis on integrating liberal arts education with professional training. With a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, Duquesne offers students opportunities in various fields such as business, law, health sciences, and education. The university's motto, "Docendo Discimus," which translates to "In teaching, we learn," reflects its dedication to fostering a rich learning environment where both students and faculty engage in collaborative education.

The campus is situated on a scenic hilltop, providing breathtaking views of the Pittsburgh skyline and creating a vibrant community atmosphere that encourages student involvement. Duquesne University is not only famous for its exceptional academic offerings but also for its commitment to service and social justice, which is deeply rooted in its Catholic heritage. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, enhancing the overall student experience. Additionally, Duquesne supports a robust athletics program, promoting physical fitness and school spirit through various sports teams. With a strong focus on graduate employability and community engagement, Duquesne University prepares students not only for successful careers but also to become conscientious citizens who contribute positively to society.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Duquesne University

Duquesne University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key indicators over the past decade. One of the most significant changes has been in tuition costs. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has jumped from $31,385 to $47,146, representing an increase of approximately 50%. This escalation in tuition can have profound implications for accessibility and student debt levels, particularly as many families struggle with rising education costs amidst economic uncertainties.

Another critical metric is the graduation rate. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has fluctuated, peaking at around 69.2% in 2022 before slightly declining to 69.1% in 2023. This indicates a positive trend in student success, although the variability suggests that there are still challenges to address in supporting students through to their graduation.

Retention rates, which reflect the percentage of students who continue their studies at the same institution, have also shown a downward trend. The retention rate for undergraduates fell from 88.5% in 2013 to 83.8% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about student satisfaction and the effectiveness of support systems in place, as lower retention rates often correlate with increased dropout rates.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shifted slightly, with women consistently making up the majority of the student body, reaching around 63.3% in 2023. This trend aligns with broader national patterns in higher education, where female enrollment has generally outpaced male enrollment.

In summary, while Duquesne University has made strides in graduation rates, the rising cost of tuition and declining retention rates highlight areas needing attention to ensure long-term student success and institutional stability.

Analysis of Graduate Data at Duquesne University in 2023

The graduate data from Duquesne University in 2023 reveals some intriguing trends, particularly in the fields of health and business. A noteworthy observation is the dominance of doctoral graduates in the legal and health-related programs. Specifically, the law field saw 137 doctoral graduates, whereas health disciplines also produced a substantial number, with 128 doctoral graduates in fields like pharmacy and pharmaceuticals. This indicates a strong focus on advanced studies within these sectors, which is reflective of a growing demand for expertise in legal and health professions.

In contrast, undergraduate programs appear less populated, as evidenced by the absence of bachelor’s degree graduates in law, pharmacy, and many health-related fields. This trend may suggest that prospective students are either opting for direct entry into master's or doctoral programs or are seeking alternative pathways within these disciplines. The business sector, while showing some bachelor’s degree completions—87 in marketing and 57 in finance—still reflects a relatively modest output compared to the high figures seen in doctoral programs.

Moreover, the presence of international students is limited, especially in bachelor’s and master’s programs, which could indicate barriers to entry or a lack of awareness about the offerings at Duquesne University. This data could serve as a catalyst for the university to bolster its recruitment strategies aimed at international students, particularly in high-demand fields such as health and business.

Overall, the data suggests that Duquesne University has established itself as a significant contributor to doctoral education, particularly in law and health, while also highlighting potential areas for growth in undergraduate and international student enrollment.

Assessment of Duquesne University Admission Trends and Rankings

Duquesne University has experienced a notable decline in its US News ranking over recent years, plummeting from 151st in 2023 to 165th in 2025. This downward trend raises questions about the university's competitiveness and appeal in an increasingly saturated higher education landscape. In terms of admission rates, the university has seen fluctuations, with the male acceptance rate at approximately 86.6% and the female acceptance rate at around 88.4% in 2023. These figures indicate a relatively inclusive admission policy, which may attract a diverse student body. Interestingly, in 2022, the acceptance rates were lower, suggesting a selective stance during that cycle, but the subsequent increase in 2023 may reflect a strategic choice to boost enrollment numbers. The enrollment figures have also varied, with a peak of 1,441 students in 2023. However, the university has faced challenges as it denied over 1,500 applicants that year, highlighting the competitive nature of admissions despite the relatively high acceptance rates. The university's ability to defer many applicants may also indicate a desire to manage class sizes effectively, yet it could lead to uncertainty among prospective students. As Duquesne University continues to navigate these challenges, the institution may need to implement strategies that enhance its reputation and attract quality applicants, especially considering its recent drop in rankings. Emphasis on academic programs, faculty quality, and campus facilities could play a crucial role in reversing this trend and positioning the university favorably in future rankings.

Trends in SAT and ACT Scores at Duquesne University

The data from Duquesne University over the years presents a clear trend in both the number of standardized test scores submitted and the corresponding score ranges for admitted students. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has experienced a significant decline, dropping from 95% in 2007 to just 28% in 2023. This reduction suggests a shift in application practices, possibly influenced by the growing number of universities adopting test-optional policies, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has further highlighted the challenges associated with standardized testing.

In terms of academic performance, the score ranges for SAT reading and mathematics have shown gradual increases in the 25th percentile (the lower end of scores) over the years, indicating that the university is admitting students with stronger academic profiles. For example, the SAT reading scores have increased from 510-600 in 2007 to 590-670 in 2023. This upward trend may reflect the university's efforts to attract higher-achieving students amid a competitive higher education landscape.

Additionally, the decline in the number of SAT submissions, despite the higher score ranges, raises questions about the impact on the diversity of the applicant pool. As more institutions move away from standardized testing as a critical component of admissions, it will be essential for Duquesne University to balance maintaining high academic standards while also ensuring inclusivity and access for underrepresented groups.

Overall, the data paints a picture of a university adapting to changing admissions landscapes while striving to uphold and enhance academic excellence.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Duquesne University in 2023

The student composition at Duquesne University for the year 2023 reveals interesting trends regarding gender representation and ethnic diversity within its undergraduate and graduate programs.

Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 1,441 students, with a notable gender imbalance as females make up 64.2% of this demographic, compared to 35.8% males. This trend continues among undergraduate seniors, where the ratio is similarly skewed with 63.4% female and 36.6% male among 3,434 students. Interestingly, undergraduate transfer students show a shift, with males constituting 45.3% and females at 54.7%, indicating a more balanced representation in this category.

For graduate students, the total of 3,012 reveals that females dominate at 64.7%, with males at only 35.3%. This significant gender disparity across different student categories raises questions about the factors influencing women's higher enrollment in both undergraduate and graduate programs.

When we delve into racial and ethnic representation, the data indicates that the majority of students are white, with substantial numbers in all categories. However, the specifics of minority representation remain less clear, as data for ethnic breakdowns in graduate and undergraduate senior categories are not fully disclosed.

Overall, while Duquesne University showcases a diverse student body, especially in terms of gender, there is an evident need for deeper analysis into racial and ethnic diversity to better understand the dynamics at play. The university could further enhance its inclusivity efforts by actively promoting engagement with underrepresented groups, fostering a more balanced and equitable academic environment.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Duquesne University in 2023

The age composition of students at Duquesne University in 2023 reveals significant insights into the demographic trends among its undergraduate and graduate populations. A notable feature is the predominance of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 age bracket, accounting for approximately 52.4% of the total student body. This trend aligns with national patterns where higher education institutions attract a majority of traditional-aged students right after high school.

In the next age category, 20-21 years, the figures remain robust, with students making up about 27.2% of the total. This is indicative of a large number of students progressing through their undergraduate studies within the conventional timeline.

However, as the age groups increase, there is a noticeable drop in student numbers. For instance, the 22-24 age group holds about 12.1% of the total, while older age categories, such as 25-29, 30-34, and 35-39, exhibit even fewer enrollments, collectively representing only a small fraction of the university population. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including life commitments, career pathways, and financial considerations that often lead non-traditional students to opt for part-time education or alternative qualifications.

Interestingly, the representation of graduate students is relatively higher in the 22-24 and 25-29 age groups, suggesting that many individuals are returning to education after gaining some work experience. This trend aligns with the growing emphasis on lifelong learning and skill enhancement in today's rapidly changing job market.

Overall, Duquesne University's age distribution reflects broader trends in higher education, with a strong emphasis on traditional-aged students while also accommodating a diverse range of non-traditional learners who contribute to the vibrant academic community.

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Duquesne University

The data on international student enrollment at Duquesne University over the years reveals interesting trends. For undergraduate students, the proportion of international students has seen a fluctuating yet generally declining trend from a peak of 4.30% in 2015 to 1.86% in 2021. However, there was a slight recovery in 2023, where the percentage rose to 2.30%. This indicates that while the university may have experienced challenges in attracting international undergraduates, recent efforts may be paying off.

In contrast, the graduate student segment demonstrates a more stable and upward trajectory in international student enrollment. The percentage of international students in graduate programs increased from 9.02% in 2004 to an impressive 11.89% by 2023. This growth could be attributed to a growing recognition of the university's programs in a global context, as well as an increasing demand for advanced degrees among international students.

The overall decline in undergraduate international enrollment during the earlier part of the 2010s may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, such as increased competition from institutions abroad and changing immigration policies. However, the resilience of the graduate program's international enrollment suggests that Duquesne University is successfully positioning itself as a destination for graduate studies.

As the university navigates the challenges of a post-pandemic world, it will be crucial to leverage its strengths in graduate programs while also revitalizing strategies to attract international undergraduates. This multi-faceted approach could ultimately enhance the university's diversity and global presence, enriching the academic experience for all students.

Here are some notable universities near Duquesne University:

1. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Ranked 70th in the 2025 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.

2. Carnegie Mellon University - With a rank of 21, Carnegie Mellon is renowned for its cutting-edge programs in technology, arts, and business, attracting students from around the globe.

3. Chatham University - This comprehensive university ranks 209th and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and women's leadership.

4. Robert Morris University - Ranked 214th, this comprehensive institution focuses on providing a practical education that prepares students for the workforce.

5. Washington & Jefferson College - A liberal arts college ranked 90th, Washington & Jefferson is known for its small class sizes and personalized education.

6. Allegheny College - With a rank of 80, this liberal arts college offers a unique curriculum that encourages interdisciplinary learning.

7. Case Western Reserve University - This prestigious university is ranked 51st and is recognized for its research and professional programs, particularly in medicine and law.

8. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Holding the 63rd rank, Penn State is a large public university known for its extensive academic programs and vibrant campus life.

These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities for students and contribute to the rich academic environment surrounding Duquesne University.

Analysis of Crime Statistics at Duquesne University

The crime statistics at Duquesne University reveal a fluctuating pattern over the years from 2013 to 2023. The data indicates a significant peak in 2014, with a crime rate of 17.97 incidents per 1,000 students, before gradually declining to 7.92 in 2023. This overall decline in crime rates is a positive development and may reflect the university's efforts in enhancing campus security and promoting student safety.

Particularly striking is the sharp drop in crime rates in 2021, coinciding with the global pandemic, which might have led to reduced campus activity and a lower student population on-site. The subsequent years, 2022 and 2023, also show a continued decline in reported incidents, suggesting that the university may have successfully implemented strategies that foster a safer environment for students.

When examining specific crime categories, the data does not provide detailed breakdowns for each year; however, it is essential to consider the nature of crimes such as gun-related arrests and domestic violence. These incidents can severely impact the community's sense of safety and wellbeing. The presence of such crimes, even at lower rates, requires ongoing vigilance and proactive measures.

In conclusion, while the overall trend in crime rates at Duquesne University is encouraging, it is crucial for the university administration to continue focusing on safety initiatives and support services for students. This will ensure a secure environment conducive to academic and personal growth. For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.