A Connected, Collaborative Online Classroom

Online students at Duquesne are taught by accomplished teacher-scholars who are leaders in their fields. Grounded in research and real-world experience, their instructional approach leverages engaging technology to deliver dynamic fully online and hybrid learning experiences designed to meet the highest academic standards. You'll learn online with faculty guidance and real engagement in courses designed for your success.

What to Expect as an Online Learner at Duquesne

Duquesne's online courses are not self-paced, independent study. They promote interactions with your professor and classmates, active participation in synchronous and/or asynchronous discussions, and submission of individual and collaborative assignments according to deadlines set by the professor.

Duquesne's online courses feature academically challenging coursework. They are as rigorous as on-campus courses and require the same amount of study and preparation time, completion of homework and overall commitment to your educational goals.

Duquesne's faculty are committed to developing strong relationships with online students. As an online student—as an individual, in groups,and as a class—you'll have regular contact with faculty through online discussions, virtual meetings, virtual office hours, email and other interactive technologies.

Duquesne's online programs utilize quality course design rubrics, professor training and course curriculum to provide students with stimulating and effective learning experiences. Courses are designed around active learning strategies to promote independent action and thinking. Faculty provide students will meaningful feedback and direction so you can learn and grow.

Your success is our priority. Courses designed with you—the student learner. You will have an advisor and academic resources, like the online writing center, online library services and a learning support center able to assist you. You also will have access to an Orientation to Online Learning to help prepare you for success in this learning environment.

As an online student at Duquesne, you should expect to reserve time each day to engage and participate actively in your online course. Our Essentials in Online Learning at Duquesne—Online Student Orientation provides tips and strategies for success used by online students to achieve your educational goals.

 

You'll interact with your online courses in a variety of ways. Computers and laptops purchased within the last five years provide the best experiences for engaging with online courses. Students also use iPads and smartphones to interact with their online courses while on the go.

Beyond the basic functional readiness of your computer or device, there are additional technology considerations that should be made in order to prepare for success when taking an online course.

Internet Access

Online students depend on reliable wired or wireless internet access to connect to their courses in Duquesne’s learning management system, Canvas, and to interact with instructors and other students through Zoom Meetings (real-time web conferencing). Students who own their own computers/devices and who are readily able to access their courses with stable and reliable internet access will be best positioned for success.

Real-Time Web Conferences

Computers or laptops with built in webcams and microphones allow students to participate in Zoom Meetings with their classmates and instructor. Machines without built in webcams should be equipped with a webcam and headset, to support these real-time learning experiences.

Hardware and Software

Duquesne's Computing and Technology Services TechHUB is an authorized vendor of Apple and Dell Computers and iPads. This not-for-profit store is owned and operated by Duquesne University and offers educational discounts to students on devices, hardware and software. Duquesne students also have access to a free software catalog supported and maintained by the University.

Storage

Online students are encouraged to have a plan for backing up their files and work. Duquesne offers free access to Box Cloud Storage, but there are other options available, such as iCloud or Google Drive.

Program-Specific Requirements

Prospective students are encouraged to check the individual program web page to determine whether any technical requirements exist for their desired online program of study.

Resources and Support

Computing and Technology Services (CTS) supports online students with their technical needs. The IT Service Desk offers support 7 days a week via phone, LiveChat, email, or walk-in visit.

Hear From Online Students

PhD Student Liz smiles at the camera.

The fact that it's online and there is an asynchronous component, provides flexibility within the program. With being in Cohort 30 and celebrating the 30th anniversary of the program, I knew Duquesne was well-versed in offering the PhD program in an online format.

Liz, Ph.D. in Nursing Ethics
Hear From Liz About Her Experience
Matt Jones is holding his diploma, wearing his cap and gown, with the city in the background.

There were a lot of benefits to the online program. If I struggled with a topic, I could review the lecture video. And because the online courses were small, I became closer with my other classmates who were very supportive.

Matt Jones, GP'25
Brian Bost smiles in his headshot, wearing a black suit jacket over a plaid shirt.

Duquesne's program allowed me to grow personally & professionally. The coursework taught me the complexities of educational leadership & how to apply what I was learning in class to my career immediately...With the flexibility of an online program, I was able to work full-time while completing my degree.

Brian Bost, GE'21 Director of Admissions of the School of Nursing, Duquesne University

Frequently Asked Questions

Once you decide which program is the best fit for you, visit the Apply Now web page. Choose the Graduate Application button if you are applying for a graduate program or choose the Apply button below the Accelerated Online Bachelor's Degrees heading for the online bachelor's degree option. Check with the program you have chosen for additional application requirements.
Your classes will be engaging and interactive! You will be part of a diverse community of learners involved in coursework, collaboration, and learning guided by knowledgeable instructors. Watch the Online Learning at Duquesne video to learn more about the online student experience from Duquesne students and instructors.
Duquesne University is committed to online student success! You will have writing and learning support, a help desk, an academic advisor or student success coach, and many others ready to support you. Access to support services are available within your course site. You will learn how to access the many services and support resources available at Duquesne through an interactive online student orientation.
Occasionally, but not for all of your courses. Some instructors will use real-time Zoom meetings as part of course introductions, to help prepare for an exam, to discuss a project, or in other ways to support learning. Details will be posted in the course syllabus that you will receive before the start of each course. Meetings will be recorded and made available to you if you are unable to attend.
Online courses at Duquesne are taught through the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS). You'll get a password protected account that allows you to access your courses on a computer, laptop, tablet or mobile device.
Except for unique situations, you can take your exams anywhere you have an Internet connection and are able to login to your course site. For some of your exams, you will be asked to use our online exam proctoring service. Not all courses have traditional exams. You will find our professors use many forms of assessment, such as papers, projects, and Zoom presentations to evaluate your performance and learning.
Your diploma will say Duquesne University, and you will join over 100,000 other Duquesne University alumni! You will be invited to join Duquesne's Alumni Association, network with fellow graduates, participate in the many nation-wide alumni events, receive Duquesne's alumni magazine, and proudly wear a Duquesne class ring and our blue and red colors!

Contact Us

Questions about an online learning experience at Duquesne? Get in touch with us!

Mark Prestopnik

Director of the Office of Distance Education