Duke University

Duke University Overview

Founded by Methodists and Quakers in 1838, Duke University stands as a beacon of academic brilliance and architectural splendor in Durham, North Carolina. The institution's storied past transcends time, having commenced in the city of Trinity and subsequently relocating to Durham in 1892.

Spanning over 8,600 acres across three contiguous sub-campuses in Durham, Duke boasts an awe-inspiring landscape that includes a marine lab in Beaufort. The campus is a remarkable blend of architectural masterpieces, notably the West Campus—graced by the magnificent 210-foot Duke Chapel, a pinnacle of Gothic architecture, designed by the acclaimed African American architect Julian Abele.

Pushing Boundaries Globally

Demonstrating a commitment to global education, Duke University oversees two esteemed Asian schools: Duke–NUS Medical School in Singapore (established in 2005) and Duke Kunshan University in Kunshan, China (established in 2013). These institutions embody Duke's pursuit of international academic excellence.

Academic Eminence and Selective Admissions

Duke's academic eminence is evident through its highly selective undergraduate admissions, boasting an acceptance rate of 6.2% for the class of 2026. A notable investment of over $1 billion annually in research positions Duke among the top ten largest research universities in the United States. The faculty's scholarly impact is extraordinary, with a roster of over a dozen world-renowned researchers. The university proudly claims affiliations with 15 Nobel laureates and 3 Turing Award winners.

Architectural Marvels and Campus Beauty

Renowned for its captivating architecture, Duke University's West Campus, coined "the Gothic Wonderland," captivates visitors with its Collegiate Gothic style. The picturesque East Campus, home to first-years, showcases Georgian-style buildings, and the 54-acre Sarah P. Duke Gardens stand as a serene oasis within the campus.

Unique Academic Offerings and Endowment

Duke's academic prowess extends across 12 schools and institutes, with Trinity College of Arts and Sciences, Pratt School of Engineering, and Duke Kunshan University hosting undergraduate programs. The university, having historical ties to the United Methodist Church, remains an independent, nonsectarian institution. Bolstered by a robust endowment valued at $12.1 billion in 2022, Duke University offers unparalleled academic facilities, including art museums, language labs, research centers, and specialized labs for varied disciplines.