Duquesne University vs. Pittsburgh: Cost, Bar Passage & Outcomes Compared
Both are Pennsylvania law schools. On the most recent ABA Standard 509 data, Pittsburgh is the more selective admit (median LSAT 160 vs 157); Duquesne University posts the higher first-time bar passage (88.74% vs 86.33%); Pittsburgh is cheaper on sticker tuition ($39,936 vs $58,898); Duquesne University places more graduates in full-time JD jobs (90.1% vs 89.3%).
Side by side (ABA Standard 509)
| Metric | Duquesne University | Pittsburgh | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admissions | |||
| Median LSAT | 157 | 160 | Pittsburgh |
| Median undergraduate GPA | 3.62 | 3.54 | Duquesne University |
| Acceptance rate | 43.2% | 34.9% | Pittsburgh |
| Cost | |||
| Resident tuition | $58,898 | $39,936 | Pittsburgh |
| Non-resident tuition | $58,898 | $53,434 | Pittsburgh |
| Median grant | $30,000 | $30,000 | Tie |
| Bar passage | |||
| First-time bar passage | 88.74% | 86.33% | Duquesne University |
| Two-year ultimate bar passage | 95.12% | 91.8% | Duquesne University |
| Bar passage vs. state average | +8.6 pts | +6.1 pts | Duquesne University |
| Employment | |||
| Full-time, long-term JD employment | 90.1% | 89.3% | Duquesne University |
| Large-firm (250+) employment | 9.9% | 20.5% | Pittsburgh |
| Federal clerkships | 2% | 3.3% | Pittsburgh |
15-year trajectory
Full profiles & related
Duquesne University full profile · Pittsburgh full profile · All Pennsylvania law schools
FAQ
Is Duquesne University or Pittsburgh harder to get into?
Pittsburgh is the tougher admit — its median LSAT is 160 against Duquesne University's 157.
Which is cheaper, Duquesne University or Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh is cheaper on sticker: resident tuition of $39,936 versus Duquesne University's $58,898.
Which has better bar passage, Duquesne University or Pittsburgh?
Duquesne University has the higher first-time bar passage, 88.74% against Pittsburgh's 86.33%.
Which has better job outcomes, Duquesne University or Pittsburgh?
Duquesne University places more graduates in full-time, long-term JD jobs (90.1% vs 89.3%).
Source: ABA Standard 509 Required Disclosures, most recent reported cycle. Last updated June 26, 2026.