Binary Engineering Program

Our Binary Engineering dual-degree program offers students the opportunity to pursue an integrated curriculum jointly offered by one of our partners: the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) or Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). 

The 3+2 model. Years 1, 2 and 3 are spent at Duquesne University for a minimum of 102 credits, completing the physics requirements. At the end of year 3 students formally transfer to the partner university to complete the engineering requirements.

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Program Information

Pursue an integrated curriculum jointly offered by the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) or Case Western Reserve University (CWRU).

Program Type

Dual Degree

School

Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences

Duration

5-year

Required Credit Hours

120

Additional Information

Additional information on the Binary Engineering program.

The transfer requirements are high, ensuring that only candidates in top academic standing are eligible to transfer. This incentivizes students to perform well in the first three years of the program. When candidates transfer to engineering school, they take with them rigorous study habits acquired through physics courses and thrive in upper level engineering coursework.
Our binary engineering program has been graduating outstanding candidates since the 1980's. Articulations agreements are in place and are reviewed on a regular basis. Typically, between 50% and 60% of our physics majors are enrolled in this program. Candidates begin taking courses at engineering school the year before transfer, which builds a smooth transition to the larger program. Transfer is facilitated by liaisons from both schools and admission in the partner university is guaranteed for candidates who meet the transfer requirements.
Fewer than 1% of college students major in physics nationwide, which makes binary engineering candidates stand out in the job market: physicists contribute a unique perspective of great value in engineering problem solving. Duquesne binary engineering graduates have found placement in many industrial sectors including nuclear power, programming, electrical, automotive, construction and manufacturing.
If you change your mind about the physics degree soon enough - and if you qualify for admission in the partner school -, you may transfer directly from the freshman year at Duquesne into the sophomore year at engineering school, because the freshman year is structured the same in both majors. There is nothing to lose for the opportunity to experience learning of the highest quality in a small-program setting.
  • Incoming freshman: apply for admission to the physics bachelor of arts program.
  • External transfer: apply for transfer to the physics bachelor of arts program.
  • Internal transfer from outside of the physics major: apply for transfer to the physics bachelor of arts program
  • Current physics major: just speak with your academic advisor. Physics majors can opt into or out of the program at any time.