As an online student at Duquesne, you can choose from an array of high-quality fully online and hybrid learning experiences taught by teacher-scholar faculty who are leaders in their fields and who also teach in on-campus environments. Engaging technology and achieving the highest academic standards, faculty's instructional strategies are grounded in scholarship, research and real-world experiences.

Here's What You Can Expect

An engaging and collaborative virtual classroom experience

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.

Faculty availability

Because Duquesne's faculty teach in the classroom as well as online, they are committed to developing the same strong relationships they have with online students as they experience with their classroom students. Duquesne online students - as individuals, in groups, and as a class - will have regular and appropriate contact with faculty through course email, online discussions, performance feedback, and other interactive technologies.

Innovative uses of technology for instruction and learning

Duquesne's online programs strive through the use of quality course design rubrics, professor training, and course curriculum to provide students with stimulating and effective learning experiences in online courses. Duquesne's online courses are designed around active learning strategies to promote independent action and thinking.

To make a commitment to be a successful online learner

Duquesne's online students should expect to reserve time each day to engage and participate actively in their online course. Please read our Tips for Success for strategies used by online students to be successful and achieve their educational goals.

To have support services available to you

Duquesne is committed to the success of its students. Not only are its courses designed with you, the student learner, at the center, but you will also have an advisor and academic resources, such as an 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.

Technology Requirements

Students at Duquesne interact with their online courses in a variety of ways. Computers and laptops purchased within the last 5 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 Computer Store is an authorized vendor of Apple and Dell Computers and iPads. The store offers educational discounts to students on these purchases, as well as on other 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.