University Welcomes Record-Breaking Incoming Class

The largest incoming class in University history started classes this week. The record-breaking class of more than 1,550 freshmen is also among the most academically talented.

“The caliber of students entering Duquesne this fall demonstrates that the University offers a highly desirable educational environment,” said Paul-James Cukanna, associate provost for enrollment management. “This success represents the dedicated work of admissions, financial aid and many strategic academic, administrative and student services partners across campus.”

The University’s freshman survey shows that the offered programs of study draw them to Duquesne; the largest numbers of freshmen are enrolled in the schools of business, liberal arts and health sciences. Growing academic programs include music, nursing, business and health sciences, according to preliminary statistics. In addition to Duquesne being a private institution, freshmen selected the University for its urban setting, academic reputation, size and distance from home.

While undergraduate enrollment has stayed fairly flat at many institutions, it continues to grow at Duquesne. “We believe that an increasing number of academically talented students are finding that Duquesne is the right fit for them,” added Debbie Zugates, director of admission.

The majority of students in the incoming class are from Pennsylvania, but 31 other states and several countries are represented, including Canada, China, Hungary, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, more minority students—particularly African-American and Latino students—are enrolling at the University. Nearly one of every four incoming freshmen has relatives who are alumni.

“Duquesne has continued to enroll and retain students at rates far above national averages, and our efforts have been recognized by others, including ranking surveys and ratings by major financial services firms,” said Cukanna.

With more than 80 majors—including a new biomedical engineering program that will launch in Fall 2014—plus interest in the University’s well-established programs, the trend of more academically prepared freshmen is expected to continue next year.