Learn to lead

Our students come to the Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University from all walks of life, each bringing a diverse background and unique perspective. They come together as a family to learn, study, and interact in a rigorous academic setting.

Male student with downtown blurred in background
Just as they find down time with each other, many students become involved in any of our 30 student-run organizations. Each is unique, just like each student, and enhances personal and professional interests. They make important connections in these pursuits and gain significant experience.

Students shine in the many available leadership opportunities, either through running an organization or volunteering in one. They also hone their legal skills by joining our award-winning trial advocacy and nationally award-winning appellate moot court program.

Whether practicing for a simulated trial, advocating for animals, or promoting military issues, students pursue the activities that interest them, personalizing their law school journey.

Create a balance

Organizations are only one way our student life team helps our lawyers create a healthy mind, work, and body balance. Stress relief and wellness activities—such as yoga—are offered regularly in our meditation room.

View of Power Center with downtown buildings in background
Lunchtime sessions for law students, networking, and affinity group get-togethers are other ways we strive to keep students connected and help them unwind. We also get back to basics, sometimes painting rocks or decorating jack-o-lanterns to take a break from studies, bond, and relax.

Our students anticipate our annual activities, like the PILA Auction, the Hanley Bowl law student flag football game, the Barristers' Ball and the Katie Westbrook 5K Race & Dog Walk among others. We offer a variety of events and opportunities to fit your personal and professional interests and ambitions.

Get Involved

 
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Student Organizations

Students shine in the many available leadership opportunities, either through running an organization or volunteering in one. They also hone their legal skills by joining our award-winning trial advocacy and nationally award-winning appellate moot court program. Whether practicing for a simulated trial, advocating for animals, or promoting military issues, students pursue the activities that interest them, personalizing their law school journey.

Explore all opportunities
Students by Tribone Center

Publications and Blogs

Communication and writing skills are essential to a successful legal career. Law students at the Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University study with law professors who are renowned for their legal research and writing skills. Students have multiple opportunities to hone their writing competency both in class and through various publications.

Learn More
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Orientation

The Dean of Students Office plans Orientation, which is held in August immediately before the first day of classes. The event introduces 1L students to academic expectations and student life at the Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University.

Group of female graduates clapping at commencement

Endowed Scholarships

Each year the School of Law distributes a number of scholarships from a wide array of endowed scholarship funds made possible by the generous contributions of our benefactors. Application procedures are distributed to current students in the spring term. A portion of incoming student scholarships are also funded through the endowed funds. Duquesne Law also awards a limited amount of endowment scholarship funds to returning law students in good standing who have unmet need, as determined by the Financial Aid Office, and who meet certain criteria delineated by the donors. Students must complete a FAFSA form as well as an online application to be considered.

Working Together

Our staff's office doors are open to our students. We work together to help them find their passions in the pursuit of the law. We likewise lend helping hands and ears to students as they navigate their personal and professional paths.

Ella Kwisnek, J.D., M.S.Ed.

Associate Dean of Students and Assistant Professor of Legal Research and Writing

Ella Kwisnek, J.D., M.S.Ed.

Beth Bauer, M.B.A.

Assistant Director of Student Organizations and International Programs

Beth Bauer, M.B.A.