Class of 2020 is Among Duquesne’s Largest, Most Diverse
The newest freshman class at Duquesne may turn out to be the largest in University history.
While final enrollment figures won’t be available until late September, the estimated enrollment of 1,550 freshmen in the new Class of 2020 is the largest at Duquesne to date. The other largest incoming classes in history were in 2013 (1,547) and 2012 (1,526).
The new freshman class is also the most diverse in Duquesne’s history, according to the University’s Enrollment Management Group. Minorities in this class—primarily African American, Hispanic/Latino of any race and Asian—rose to 18 percent.
“Increasing diversity on campus and sustaining an environment where diversity is valued have been among the core goals of the Enrollment Management Group,” explained Kelley Maloney, director of enrollment marketing and communication.
The freshman class also has a mean SAT score of 1142—the highest in University history—and an acceptance rate of 74 percent, one of the most selective in Duquesne history.
“We’re very pleased with the academic profile of our freshman class,” said Paul-James Cukanna, associate provost for enrollment management. “It met our enrollment goals and is one of the largest, most diverse and academically talented freshman classes in University history. It’s a collaborative effort and we appreciate the dedication and support of our partners and colleagues throughout the entire University.”
This marks the first year that students could enroll via test-optional admission in business and the second year for liberal arts, according to Maloney. “This initiative proved very successful with approximately 200 academically talented students taking advantage of this option,” said Maloney.
Other notable highlights of the Class of 2020:
- Approximately 95 percent said Duquesne was their top choice school.
- When surveyed, freshmen said their primary reasons for selecting Duquesne were—in rank order—program of study, urban location, size and academic reputation.
- Out-of-state residents represent 31 states, plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico.
- Members of the freshman class represent 11 countries, including China, Saudi Arabia, Costa Rica and Norway, among others.
- Approximately 21 percent of the freshman class has relatives who are Duquesne graduates, making them a University legacy.
While it is not uncommon for twins to enroll together at Duquesne University, this year’s new class includes quadruplets, who hail from Baltimore.