Why should I apply to Duquesne's International Pathway Program?

The Pathway Program allows you to take high-quality English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework designed for graduate students as you complete coursework toward your degree. You can focus on improving your English skills, prepare to succeed on your tests for full admission, and start your graduate degree program coursework at Duquesne, a highly ranked research university in the United States.  In the Pathway Program, you can earn academic credit for your Duquesne graduate program as you develop your langauge skills.

Do I have to take an English language test for admission to the Pathway Program?

Yes. We ask that you obtain a certain score on the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test in order to determine the correct amount of ESL instruction prior to full admission to your graduate program. Each program's requirements are outlined below.

Find more information about English language tests:

When will I be directly admitted to my program of study?

Admission requirements include:

  • successful completion of all English language coursework and academic coursework in the Pathway Program with a grade of B- or better.
  • attainment of a GRE or GMAT score acceptable for entrance into the academic program of choice (if required by their particular program).

NOTE:  At the conclusion of the Pathway Program, students are not required to take a further English language test for full admission to their graduate program if they have met the requirements outlined above.

Is the Pathway Program separate from other academic programs at Duquesne?

Yes. You will be offered acceptance letters and immigration documents specifically to attend Duquesne's Internatonal Pathway Program. Once you complete the program and submit acceptable standardized test scores such as GRE or GMAT, you will be offered full admission to Duquesne and have the opportunity to complete your degree here.

As a Pathway Program student, you'll receive great support from Duquesne's Center for Global Engagement, ESL instructors and staff at the Global English Institute (GEI), as well as faculty in your chosen area of study.

Will you accept the IELTS for entrance into the Pathway Program?

Yes. If you have an IELTS score of 6.0 or 6.5, we will consider you for the Pathway Program, depending on your subscores for the IELTS.

What ESL courses are included in the Pathway Program?

Depending on your English language needs, you may be placed in coursework at the GEI Level 3, Academic Prep 1 or Academic Prep 2G levels. The following coursework is included in the Academic Prep 1 and Academic Prep 2G strands of the program. 

Academic Prep 1 

  • Academic Listening and Vocabulary in Context
  • Academic Grammar and Vocabulary in Context
  • Academic Reading in Context
  • Academic Speaking in Context
  • Academic Writing in Context

Academic Prep 2G

  • Graduate Research Paper
  • Graduate Academic Discourse
  • Speaking and Presentation