Duke University
- Academics

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Duke University - Academics - Academics - College ProwlerCollege Prowler5.00

Academics

Quick Stats

Student-Faculty Ratio 8:1
Full-Time Student Population 13,870
Part-Time Student Population 480
Full-Time Instructional Faculty 1,284
Part-Time Instructional Faculty 67
Total FT Faculty 3,398
Faculty with Terminal Degree 96%
Average Faculty Salary $114,671
Full-Time Retention Rate 97%
Graduation Rate 94%
Programs/Majors Offered 72
Average Course Load 12–15 credits (4–5 courses)
Academic/Career Counseling? Yes
Remedial Services? No
Class Sizes
  • Fewer than 20 students: 71%
  • 20 to 49 students: 23%
  • 50 or more students: 6%

Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

Students at Duke seem to have found the academic experience pretty satisfying on the whole, thanks in large part to the teachers. This is not to say that everything about Duke academics is perfect; some of the math and science professors certainly sound like they could liven up a little, and some English and history professors can lose touch with modern reality and campus life. There is also the age-old problem of distinguished faculty who are there for the research facilities more than the students. However, researching professors can be a remarkable asset if they choose to keep students involved—which many do. Even lecture classes are not exclusively impersonal, weed-out programs; many lecturers are thrilled to get to know students after class or during open office hours and appreciate the time students put into getting extra help. Most large classes will also have smaller lab, recitation, or discussion groups with TAs to help clarify the information from the lecture. 

All Duke professors are well educated and established in their field, and most do their best to relay their expertise in a simple yet challenging manner. Faculty members are excited about their fields and strive to pass that excitement onto their students. Students subsequently appreciate that professors are hands-on and that they regularly emphasize the practical, real-world applications of their subject matter. Duke’s professors play a vital role in the quality and success of the University's academics.

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Duke Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Academics at Duke University

GiuliaCaterini

Public Policy Analysis '15

5.0
A+

Rigorous Academics, Lots of Support in Job Search

Duke is tough, especially if you choose a major that has a reputation for being tough. But the hard work pays off, since it is a very-well regarded institution, and all the rigor prepares you for anything. Duke also has an extensive alumni network, and a very helpful career office. That being said, choice of major matters a lot in career prospects. Choose wisely – if it's a hard major there's a reason everyone's going for it (no, it's always intellectual curiosity).

May 22, 2012

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Academics at Duke University

bobleman300

Public Policy Analysis '15

5.0
A+

Opportunities Galore

Small class sizes and huge emphasis on professor student relations leads to amazing interactions and intellectual engagement. Great outside speakers really supplements in class lessons as well! I have a great first year internship because of specific skills I learned in my major's classes.

May 19, 2012

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Academics at Duke University

stillundecided

Psychology '15

4.6
A

Duke Is Duke

The academics at Duke speak for themselves. Duke is one of the highest research universities in the country. This had its downside though. Some professors are more interested in their research than their classes, and the administration tends to value professors who research more than those who strictly teach. The work is hard in most classes, and you need to know how to manage a heavy workload, but almost everone does.

May 02, 2012

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User rating for Duke University - Academics is 4.6 out of 5 based on 31 user reviews.

Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

Rate your school’s professors on the following topics

Rate your school’s academic environment on the following topics

Facts

Instructional Programs Occupational: No
Academic: Yes
Continuing Professional: No
Recreational/Avocational: No
Adult Basic Remedial: No
Secondary (High School): No
Special Credit Opportunities Advanced Placement (AP) Credits: Yes
Dual Credit: No
Life Experience Credits: No
AP Test Score Requirements Possible credit for scores of 4 or 5
IB Test Score Requirements Possible credit for scores of 6 or 7.
Undergraduate Schools/Divisions
  • Nicholas School of the Environment
  • Pratt School of Engineering
  • Sanford School of Public Policy
  • Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Degrees Awarded
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Doctorate - Professional practice
  • Doctorate - Research/scholarship
  • Master's degree
  • Post-bachelor's certificate
Most Popular Majors
  • Business Administration and Management: 9%
  • Economics and Econometrics: 3%
  • Law: 4%
  • Public Policy Analysis, General: 2%
Graduation Requirements
  • English (including composition)
  • Foreign languages
  • Humanities
  • Mathematics
  • Sciences (biological or physical)
  • Social science
Special Study Options
  • Distance learning opportunities
  • Study abroad
  • Teacher certification (below the postsecondary level)
Other Academic Offerings
  • Cross-registration
  • Double major
  • Exchange student program (domestic)
  • Independent study
  • Internships
  • Student-designed major
Best Places to Study
  • Bryan Center, in a comfy corner
  • East or West Campus Quad
  • Lilly Library (East Campus)
  • Perkins/Bostock Library (West Campus)
  • Sarah P. Duke Gardens
  • Your room

Online Courses

Duke's Continuing Studies offers online courses in more than 17 topics, including project management, leadership, communication, finance, management (strategic and marketing), and business writing.

Did You Know?
  • The Vice Provost for Interdisciplinary Studies works with faculty members and administrators across the University to support interdisciplinary research, collaboration, and instruction on Duke's Strategic Plan: "Building on Excellence."
  • The Center for Civic Engagement has coupled with the Program in Education to create service-learning courses, which combine traditional classroom learning and community service projects in the Durham area.

Become a Contributing Author Learn more »

Most Recent Student Author View all

Name
George Carotenuto
Hometown
East Hanover, NJ
Major
Economics

College Prowler is seeking talented student authors to assist with writing and updating the College Prowler guides to their schools. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain experience and tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is really like at your college.

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