Is Duke University Worth It?
Durham, NC · Large city · 6,442 students · Data: College Scorecard, June 2026 release
Duke University is a R1 Research University located in large city in Durham, NC. It enrolls approximately 6,442 students. The acceptance rate is 6%, making it highly selective. 97% of students finish within 6 years (150% of normal time) — a strong result. With $97,800 median earnings and $13,000 median debt, median debt equals about 2 months of gross pay (estimate) — a solid ROI. 89% of borrowers are making progress on their loans 3 years after leaving school (College Scorecard).
Liberal-leaning student body
4.45 liberal students for every 1 conservative student (FIRE survey). Free speech rank 50 of 261, grade D+.
Full campus politics breakdown →Source: FIRE 2027 College Free Speech Rankings (student survey fielded 2026 by College Pulse)
Similar Schools Worth Comparing
No-Degree Paths That Pay More
Rate Duke University
Student, alum, or parent? Tell the next generation the truth the brochure won't.