Duke University

Quick Facts about Duke University

• Type: Private
• Students: 17,499
• Campus: Urban
• Tuition: $55,000 – $70,265/year
• Language: English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 7:1
• Intakes: August

About Duke University

Academics

Duke is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach to education and research, fostering collaboration across various schools and departments. The university comprises 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools, including the highly regarded Fuqua School of Business and the Pratt School of Engineering. This emphasis on interdisciplinary inquiry allows students to explore complex issues from multiple perspectives, with opportunities in areas like neuroengineering, digital humanities, climate change impacts on health, and the ethical implications of AI.

International Students

Duke University is home to a diverse international student body, with over 6,000 international students from 124 different countries enrolled in 2022. International students constitute approximately 10% of undergraduates and 18.3% of all students. The Duke International Student Center (DISC) provides extensive support services, including advising, educational programming, community building, and assistance with visa and immigration matters. Various student organizations, such as the Duke International Association, actively promote cultural awareness and help ease the transition and integration of international students into the university and Durham community.

Campus & Location

Duke University's sprawling 8,600-acre campus in Durham, North Carolina, is known for its Gothic architecture and includes the expansive Duke Forest for research and recreation. Durham offers a lively city experience with various attractions, including the Durham Bulls Athletic Park for baseball fans. The campus itself features distinct areas, with East Campus housing all first-year students to foster class unity.

Career Outcomes

Duke's Career Center provides comprehensive services for undergraduates, graduate students, and alumni, including resources for U.S. and global job searches, and guidance on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students. While Duke cannot guarantee specific career outcomes or employment in the United States for international students, it provides tools and data on where past F-1 visa holders have worked. Top industries for Duke graduates include finance and business and management consulting.

Information for International Students at Duke University

Duke University in Durham, United States welcomes international students.

• No visa support offered
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available (~$1633/month)
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Duke University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Duke University:

• IELTS minimum: 7
• TOEFL minimum: 100
• Duolingo minimum: 130
• GPA minimum: 3.7
• Application fee: $95
• Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
• Application deadline: January 5

Apply to Duke University →

Programs at Duke University (44 programs)

Duke University offers 44 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (14)

• Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,406/yr
  Students analyze political systems, behavior, and theories, covering areas like international relations, comparative politics, and American government, fostering critical thinking about power and governance.
  Field: Political Science
  Career outcomes: Political Analyst, Diplomat, Journalist
• Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,406/yr
  Students analyze political systems, behavior, and theories, covering areas like international relations, comparative politics, and American government, fostering critical thinking about power and governance.
  Field: Political Science
  Career outcomes: Political Analyst, Diplomat, Journalist
• Physics (BS) — 48 months · English · $64,406/yr · STEM
  Students explore fundamental principles of the universe, from quantum mechanics to cosmology, developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to various scientific and technical fields.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Data Scientist
• Electrical and Computer Engineering (BSE) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr · STEM
  This program covers the design and analysis of electrical and computer systems, including circuits, electronics, signal processing, and computer architecture.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Computer Hardware Engineer, Software Developer
• Biomedical Engineering (BSE) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr · STEM
  This program provides a strong foundation in engineering principles applied to biological and medical problems, preparing students for careers in medical device development, biotechnology, and healthcare.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Designer, Research Scientist
• Public Policy (BA) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr
  This interdisciplinary program examines the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of public policies, preparing students for careers in government, non-profits, and advocacy.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Official, Advocacy Director
• Mechanical Engineering (BSE) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr · STEM
  Students learn to design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems, covering areas like thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and robotics.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Product Design Engineer
• Neuroscience (BS) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr · STEM
  This program explores the structure and function of the nervous system, from molecular to behavioral levels, integrating biology, psychology, and computational approaches.
  Field: Neuroscience
  Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, Research Assistant, Medical Researcher
• Chemistry (BS) — 48 months · English · $64,406/yr · STEM
  This program provides a comprehensive understanding of chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, with hands-on laboratory experience.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Chemist, Pharmacist, Materials Scientist
• Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr · STEM
  Students learn fundamental concepts of computing, including algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software engineering, with opportunities for specialization in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst
• Economics (BA) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr
  This program explores economic theories and their application to real-world issues, covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various specialized fields.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Economic Consultant, Policy Analyst
• Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr
  Students investigate human behavior and mental processes through a scientific lens, covering areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist
• Environmental Sciences (BS) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr · STEM
  An interdisciplinary program examining environmental issues through scientific principles, focusing on ecology, conservation, and sustainable solutions.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Sustainability Consultant
• Civil Engineering (BSE) — 48 months · English · $63,054/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of the built environment, including infrastructure, transportation systems, and environmental engineering.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Urban Planner

Master Programs (15)

• Law (LLM) — 9 months · English · $74,000/yr
  This program offers advanced legal education for international lawyers, allowing specialization in various legal fields such as corporate law, international law, and intellectual property.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: International Lawyer, Legal Counsel, Judge
• Business Administration (MBA) — 21 months · English · $78,000/yr
  The MBA program develops strategic leaders with a global perspective, focusing on core business functions, leadership development, and experiential learning in a diverse environment.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Consultant, Product Manager, Entrepreneur
• Environmental Policy (MEM) — 24 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
  The Master of Environmental Management program prepares students to address complex environmental challenges through interdisciplinary study, combining science, policy, and management.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Policy Advisor
• Statistical Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $58,000/yr · STEM
  This program provides advanced training in statistical theory and methods, preparing students for careers in data analysis, research, and quantitative modeling across various industries.
  Field: Statistics
  Career outcomes: Statistician, Data Scientist, Quantitative Analyst
• Global Health (MSc) — 24 months · English · $58,000/yr
  This program addresses complex global health challenges through interdisciplinary approaches, focusing on health disparities, policy, and interventions in diverse populations.
  Field: Global Health
  Career outcomes: Global Health Specialist, Public Health Analyst, NGO Program Manager
• Master of Science in Global Health (MSc) — 24 months · English · $55,000/yr
  This program addresses complex global health challenges through interdisciplinary approaches, focusing on research, policy, and intervention strategies.
  Field: Global Health
  Career outcomes: Global Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Program Manager (NGO), Health Policy Analyst
• Master of Management Studies (MMS) (MMS) — 10 months · English · $68,000/yr
  Designed for recent college graduates, this program provides a strong foundation in business fundamentals, preparing students for a wide range of entry-level business roles.
  Field: Management
  Career outcomes: Consultant, Financial Analyst, Marketing Specialist, Operations Manager
• Master of Science in Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM
  This program provides rigorous training in statistical modeling, machine learning, and computational methods for analyzing and interpreting complex data sets.
  Field: Data Science
  Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Developer
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $78,000/yr
  The MBA program develops leaders with a strong understanding of business fundamentals, strategic thinking, and ethical decision-making, with concentrations in various business areas.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Consultant, Product Manager, Investment Banker
• Master of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering (MEng) — 24 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM
  This professional master's program focuses on advanced topics in biomedical engineering, preparing students for leadership roles in industry and research.
  Field: Biomedical Engineering
  Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, R&D Engineer, Product Development Engineer, Regulatory Affairs Specialist
• Master of Environmental Management (MEM) (MEM) — 24 months · English · $58,000/yr · STEM
  This program trains environmental professionals to address complex environmental challenges through interdisciplinary approaches, combining science, policy, and management.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Sustainability Manager, Policy Analyst
• Master of Public Policy (MPP) (MPP) — 21 months · English · $55,000/yr
  This professional degree prepares students for careers in public service, focusing on rigorous policy analysis, program evaluation, and leadership in government and non-profit sectors.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Consultant, Non-profit Director
• Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
  Advanced study in computer science, allowing students to deepen their knowledge in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and software systems.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Machine Learning Scientist, Data Engineer
• Master of Fine Arts in Experimental and Documentary Arts (MFA) — 24 months · English · $50,000/yr
  A studio-based program for artists interested in experimental and documentary practices across various media, fostering critical thinking and innovative artistic production.
  Field: Arts
  Career outcomes: Artist, Filmmaker, Photographer, Curator
• Master of Engineering Management (MEM) (MEM) — 12 months · English · $65,000/yr · STEM
  This program combines engineering and business principles to prepare technical professionals for leadership roles, focusing on project management, finance, and innovation.
  Field: Engineering Management
  Career outcomes: Engineering Manager, Technical Project Manager, Product Development Lead

PhD Programs (14)

• History (PhD) — 60 months · English
  The PhD in History offers advanced training in historical research, methodology, and historiography, allowing students to specialize in various historical periods and regions.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Historian, Archivist
• Molecular Genetics and Microbiology (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This program provides comprehensive training in molecular biology, genetics, and microbiology, focusing on research into fundamental biological processes and disease mechanisms.
  Field: Biology
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotechnology Scientist
• PhD in Neuroscience (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  The Neuroscience PhD program offers comprehensive training in all aspects of neuroscience, from molecular to systems and cognitive levels, with a strong emphasis on research.
  Field: Neuroscience
  Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Biotech Scientist
• PhD in Biomedical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  The PhD program in Biomedical Engineering focuses on advanced research and innovation at the intersection of engineering and medicine, leading to significant scientific contributions.
  Field: Biomedical Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotech Innovator, Medical Device Developer
• PhD in Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  The Physics PhD program offers advanced study and research opportunities across various subfields of physics, including condensed matter, nuclear, and theoretical physics.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research Physicist, University Professor, Data Scientist, Engineer
• PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This doctoral program prepares students for careers in research and academia, focusing on original contributions to the field of computer science.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead AI Engineer, Innovator
• PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English
  This rigorous doctoral program trains students in advanced economic theory and econometrics, preparing them for research and teaching positions in academia and policy institutions.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist (Government/Private Sector), Research Fellow, Policy Advisor
• PhD in English (PhD) — 60 months · English
  This doctoral program in English focuses on advanced literary study, critical theory, and scholarly research, preparing students for careers in academia and related fields.
  Field: English Literature
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Literary Critic, Editor, Writer
• PhD in Public Policy (PhD) — 60 months · English
  This program prepares scholars for careers in public policy research and teaching, focusing on advanced analytical methods and theoretical frameworks for policy analysis.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Policy Researcher, Think Tank Analyst, Government Advisor
• Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy (PhD) — 60 months · English
  A research-oriented program focusing on advanced methods in policy analysis and evaluation, preparing students for careers in academia, think tanks, and high-level policy research.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Policy Researcher, Think Tank Analyst
• Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  A research-intensive program focused on advancing knowledge in biomedical engineering through original research, preparing students for academic and industry research careers.
  Field: Biomedical Engineering
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Biotech Innovator
• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD) — 60 months · English
  This program offers advanced training in psychological research and theory, with specializations in cognitive, developmental, social, clinical, and neuroscience areas, preparing students for research and academic careers.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Academic Psychologist, Clinical Psychologist, Research Scientist
• Doctor of Philosophy in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English
  A rigorous research program designed to train future economists in advanced economic theory, econometrics, and specialized fields, preparing them for academic and research positions.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist (Government/Private Sector), Research Fellow
• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This program emphasizes cutting-edge research in various areas of computer science, including theoretical computer science, artificial intelligence, and systems, leading to significant contributions to the field.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Industrial Research Scientist, Software Architect

Scholarships & Tuition at Duke University

Annual tuition for international students: $55,000 – $70,265/year

✅ Duke University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Duke University

• National Ranking: #6 in United States
• QS World University Ranking: #62
• Times Higher Education (THE): #28
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #39
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at Duke University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Urban
• Average class size: 20
• Housing cost: ~$1633/month

Key Highlights

• Prestigious research university
• Interdisciplinary academic excellence
• Diverse international student body
• Stunning Gothic architecture
• Vibrant Durham city experience

Accreditation

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Notable Alumni

• Richard Nixon
• Tim Cook
• Melinda Gates
• Ricardo Lagos
• Elizabeth Dole

Frequently Asked Questions about Duke University

How Abroadly Helps You Study at Duke University

Abroadly is an AI-powered platform that manages your entire study abroad journey — not just university search. Here's how we help students applying to Duke University in United States:

🎯 Phase 1: Exploration & University Matching

Our AI matches you to Duke University based on your GPA, budget, test scores, and career goals. Compare programs, tuition, scholarships, and admission requirements side-by-side.

📝 Phase 2: Application & SOP Generation

AI generates personalized Statements of Purpose (SOPs), cover letters, and motivation essays tailored to Duke University's requirements. Get per-university document checklists and deadline tracking.

✅ Phase 3: Post-Acceptance & Enrollment

Once accepted to Duke University, Abroadly helps you review offer letters, pay tuition deposits, arrange student housing (available at this university), activate health insurance, and complete enrollment steps.

🛂 Phase 4: Visa Processing & Embassy Prep

Get AI-guided visa document preparation for United States: embassy appointment booking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly (proof of funds), and country-specific document checklists.

✈️ Phase 5: Pre-Departure & Travel

After your visa is approved: banking setup in United States, orientation registration at Duke University, emergency contact registration, health insurance activation, accommodation confirmation, and travel booking guidance — all tracked in your dashboard.

Apply to Duke University with Abroadly — University Search to Visa to Landing

Use Abroadly's AI to manage your complete journey to Duke University: university matching, SOP & cover letter generation, application tracking, visa processing, embassy interview prep, and pre-departure planning — all in one platform.

What you get: AI-generated SOPs, per-university document checklists, embassy appointment tracking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly, pre-departure checklists, and 24/7 AI advisor support.

Explore All Features | For Students | For Agencies | Pricing

Visit Duke University Official Website →

Explore More Universities

• All universities in 🇺🇸 United States
• Universities in Durham
• Browse all universities on Abroadly
• How Abroadly helps students — university to visa to landing
• How Abroadly helps education agencies manage visa pipelines