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Duquesne University vs University of Pennsylvania

ABSN programs compared — side-by-side on NCLEX pass rates, tuition, admissions, and format.

Updated Reviewed by NurseWay Editorial Team

At a glance

Higher NCLEX pass rate
University of Pennsylvania
98% vs 96.4%
Lower tuition
Duquesne University
$47,146 vs $248,000
Faster to complete
Duquesne University
16 months vs 48 months
Easier to get into
Duquesne University
78.8% vs 6% acceptance

Side-by-side details

Best value in each row is highlighted.

Duquesne University
Accelerated BSN
University of Pennsylvania
Accelerated BSN
Program typeABSNABSN
Formatin personin person
LocationPittsburgh, PAPhiladelphia, PA
Length16 monthsBEST48 months
NCLEX pass rate96.4%98%BEST
Acceptance rate78.8%BEST6%
Avg accepted GPA3.9
Min GPA
Entrance examNot required
Total tuition$47,146BEST$248,000
In-state tuition$47,146BEST$62,000
Out-of-state tuition$47,146BEST$62,000
Clinical placementarranged
AccreditationCCNECCNE

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has a higher NCLEX pass rate, Duquesne University or University of Pennsylvania?

University of Pennsylvania's ABSN program has the higher first-attempt NCLEX pass rate at 98%, compared to 96.4% for the other program. NCLEX pass rates are the single best signal of how well a program prepares students for licensure.

Which is cheaper, Duquesne University or University of Pennsylvania?

Duquesne University is the more affordable option at roughly $47,146, compared to $248,000. Factor in residency status, financial aid, and program length when deciding — total cost matters more than annual tuition.

Are Duquesne University and University of Pennsylvania the same type of program?

Both are ABSN programs, so they award the same credential. Compare them on NCLEX pass rate, tuition, length, and location to find the better fit.

How do I decide between Duquesne University and University of Pennsylvania?

Start by ruling out programs you can't get into (compare your GPA against each school's admissions stats), then weight what matters most — NCLEX pass rate for quality, total tuition for cost, length for time-to-degree, and format (online, hybrid, in-person) for lifestyle. Use NurseWay's free intake to get a personalized fit score for both.

Want a personalized fit score?

Take the free 3-minute intake and we'll rank both programs against your GPA, location preferences, and budget.