Duke University was created in 1924 by James Buchanan Duke as a memorial to his father, Washington Duke. The Dukes, a Durham family that built a worldwide financial empire in the manufacture of tobacco products and developed electricity production in the Carolinas, long had been interested in Trinity College. Trinity traced its roots to 1838 in nearby Randolph County when local Methodist and Quaker communities opened Union Institute. The school, then named Trinity College, moved to Durham in 1892, where Benjamin Newton Duke served as a primary benefactor and link with the Duke family until his death in 1929. In December 1924, the provisions of indenture by Benjamin’s brother, James B. Duke, created the family philanthropic foundation, The Duke Endowment, which provided for the expansion of Trinity College into Duke University.
A cornerstone of Duke’s commitment to inquiry across disciplines, university-wide institutes, initiatives and centers foster problem-focused education, research, and engagement to generate knowledge in the service of society.
Duke has two campuses: East and West. All first-year students live on East. The distance between the campuses is walkable, but most students choose to ride Duke's frequent and free buses. Room assignments are randomly generated. Buildings and bedrooms differ slightly in their configuration.
Duke University has 12 residences available to first-year students.
The career center is a place where you can learn to explore your interests, values, and strengths and use that self-knowledge to influence your decision-making throughout your time here at Duke. This is also a great place for you to discover how to navigate your Duke experience as well as learn professional development skills.
Learn more about the career center as an undergraduate student.
On top of the varsity sports, Duke also has intramural sports where everyone can join in on the fun.
Participate with and against other members of the Duke Community in a variety of fun and unique recreational activities offered through Intramural Sports. We offer a wide range of team and individual competitions throughout the year, and we are open to participants of all skill levels. Intramural Sports provides a fun, safe, and fair environment for all students, faculty, and staff members to feel welcome.
You do not have to pay any additional fees to register for intramural sports. All participants must have an active Duke ID Card and a Rec & P.E. Membership to play.
Duke University is home to 400+ recognized student organizations that foster student interaction and exchange, exploration of a variety of interest areas, understanding of the principles of organizational structure and management, and development of valuable collaboration, leadership, and communication skills.
Check out Duke University's Student Affairs to learn more about the available clubs.
The best way to enjoy Duke's warm and welcoming spirit is to meet the people who create it: our students, faculty, and alumni. When you meet us, you'll feel the connection, collaboration, and creativity that are the hallmark of the Duke experience. Join us virtually, in person, or both - whatever works best for you. There's no preference in the admissions process for students who have been to campus.
Learn more about campus tours at Duke University.