Duquesne University has welcomed more than 2,600 new undergraduate and graduate students this fall—marking a record-breaking year with the highest number of total applications across undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in its history.
The incoming Class of 2029 stands out for its exceptional qualifications, geographic diversity and a shared drive to pursue bigger goals.
This year marks, with the most domestic freshman applications - more than 13,000 first-year applicants. The more than 1,400 first-time, first-year students who have matriculated represent one of the most academically accomplished in University history. Their achievements include:
- An average GPA of 3.73
- 27% rank in the top 10% of their high school class
- 55% are in the top 25%
- Average ACT score: 28
- Average SAT score: 1,267.
“This enrollment cycle reflects the strength of Duquesne’s mission and momentum, even as we have weathered demographic and national policies challenges,” said Joel Bauman, senior vice president for enrollment management. “These students are eager to discover their purpose and appreciate the value of our programs to prepare them for anything —they’re coming here to build the professional confidence, impressive experience and powerful networks they need to get a running start on a meaningful career.”
Beyond their impressive academic profiles, these students contribute to a vibrant and inclusive campus culture shaped by their varied origins and passions. Students come from 34 states and 19 countries, including Vietnam, Morocco, Bangladesh and South Africa. Approximately 74% of the incoming class hails from Pennsylvania, with strong representation from New York, Ohio, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia. Their interests span student government, Model UN, athletics and marching band, enriching the campus community with energy and engagement.
Among the newest faces at Duquesne is Isaac Burd, a first-year Health Sciences major on the Pre-Medicine track who is also pursuing a Catholic Studies minor. He chose Duquesne for its unique combination of academic excellence and spiritual foundation.
“I ultimately chose Duquesne because of their new College of Osteopathic Medicine,” said Burd, who is in the Honors College. “With the University’s strong STEM curriculum, the new medical school truly piqued my interest! I also wanted to attend a Catholic college, as my faith is very important to me—Duquesne offers the best of both worlds.”
Enrollment growth also is evident across several programs, including new engineering offerings, the College of Medicine—which received more than 3,500 applications for its second cohort—and the law school, which saw approximately 1,400 applications.
Students are stepping into some of Duquesne’s most in-demand academic programs—fields that offer hands-on learning, real-world impact and the kind of preparation that sets them apart in competitive industries. Top enrolled majors include nursing, biology, Discover business, pharmacy, physical therapy, biochemistry, psychology, political science, and the business and law 3/3 program.
Additionally, the Honors College welcomed 149 new students. Interest in Duquesne’s ROTC programs also surged, with 59 incoming students committing—a significant increase over last year—reflecting the University’s appeal to students seeking leadership and service-oriented pathways.
From first-year undergraduates to graduate and professional students, Duquesne’s newest arrivals are already shaping the campus community, bringing fresh ideas, a variety of perspectives and a shared commitment to making the most of the opportunities ahead.
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