Making the Right Transfer Decision: Expanding Horizons

“I transferred from Harrisburg Area Community College to Duquesne my junior year, and it didn’t take long to know I had made the right choice. The smaller class sizes and individual student focus were the most important to me when choosing to transfer to the University for my undergraduate and graduate degrees,” said Elaine Cibort Shedd, B'89, GB'96.

Shedd credits the University for her success today as director of imaging project management for the Chesapeake, Lake Erie and Ohio Valley Markets for GE HealthCare Medical Systems and Solutions.

“The business school is fantastic—the faculty are not only superior academically; they also have real-world experience that they share with students. That insight is invaluable,” she said. “I was able to find a job quite easily after graduation, and I even went back to the University to pursue my MBA. Duquesne has truly helped me to continue to grow in my career.”  

All Duquesne students are challenged to set high aspirations, embrace new opportunities and prepare for meaningful careers—no matter where their academic journey begins. The University walks alongside transfer students, providing the essential support they need and connecting them with life-changing people and opportunities.  

A Clearer Vantage Point

Joel Bauman, senior vice president for enrollment management, emphasizes Duquesne’s mission to provide a transformative education.  

“We know that a Duquesne education is about those moments that move our students to a clearer vantage point—both in terms of what they’re studying and the larger world,” said Bauman. “Our Pennsylvania State Grant-Matching Program offers our students who qualify a practical financial resource to help them pursue that education at Duquesne.”  

The University offers a variety of financial planning resources, with some designed specifically for transfer students like Phi Theta Kappa scholarships and micro-scholarships through RaiseMe.    

With these resources, Duquesne ensures that students from all backgrounds have access to an affordable, high-quality education.  

Charles Harris, HS’24, cites the admissions team’s prompt, personable responses and financial resources as key factors in his decision to transfer to the University in June 2021. 

“Duquesne took action and actively engaged with me,” said Harris, a sterile processing tech for AMN Healthcare. “The admissions staff was great, making what can be a tedious process feel seamless. I was fortunate to be awarded academic scholarships and donor support when needed, and the availability of payment plans helped ease financial stress.” 

Harris’ advice to individuals considering transferring to the University? "As long as you're focused and determined to meet your bigger goals, Duquesne will help in myriad ways to help you get there.” 

A Transfer-Friendly Campus

Duquesne is nationally recognized as a Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Honor Roll institution, underscoring its dedication to creating clear pathways for transfer students. Through the Bridges curriculum, students with an associate degree can seamlessly transition into their major, having already satisfied the majority of their general education requirements.  

Nate Keogh, 21, transferred to Duquesne in the fall of 2024 from Monterey Peninsula College. He was initially concerned about whether his credits in fire science would transfer to Duquesne.

“They accepted my associate’s degree at face value and waived courses for me to enroll as a junior,” said Keogh, a communications major in the McAnulty College of Liberal Arts. “This took a huge weight off my shoulders. The overall transfer experience was great—from applying through registering for classes. It was a very smooth process.”  

While only in his second semester, Keogh is already reaping the benefits of the Duquesne University student experience. “One of the biggest things I’ve learned is networking and utilizing the resources available to you—it's something I’ve been exposed to through my courses here, especially in my communications classes,” he said. 

Teaching Assistant Professor Robert Healy trusts in his students’ potential and understands the importance of mentorship. He hosted former Pittsburgh Pirates sideline reporter Robby Incmikoski as a guest speaker in his Media and Sports class. “He gave us fantastic insight into the world of sports media,” Keogh said. ”At the end of class, I was able to meet with Mr. Incmikoski, connect on LinkedIn and exchange phone numbers. I now have a great connection into the sports media world I would've never had without Duquesne.” 

Find Your Future at Duquesne

For these accomplished Duquesne alumni and students, true growth emerged in a new environment, where their bigger goals and ambitions truly thrived.  

If you or someone you know is considering transferring to Duquesne, find out more.

Published with permission from Duquesne Magazine, Spring 2025.