Duke Campus Security: How safe is the campus?

Hi everyone! I'm looking into applying to Duke and safety is a big factor for me. Can anyone share their experiences with the campus security at Duke and whether the campus feels safe in general?

Hi! It's good to hear that safety is a priority for you. Duke University is known for having a relatively secure campus, thanks to their diligent campus security team, known as the Duke University Police Department (DUPD). DUPD operates 24/7 and provides numerous services to ensure the wellbeing of the students, staff, and campus visitors. Here are a few aspects that contribute to the overall safety at Duke:

1. Blue Light Phones: There are over 300 emergency call boxes (blue light phones) located across the campus. Pressing the button on these phones immediately connects you to campus police, providing an added layer of security.

2. Duke Vans: During evening hours, Duke offers a van service that can transport students from one location on campus to another. This ensures that students don't have to walk alone in the dark and can feel secure as they navigate campus at night.

3. DUPD Safety Programs: Duke's campus police department offers various safety programs for students, including a self-defense course called Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) and an informative session called "Stay Safe at Home" that provides residential security advice.

4. Timely alerts: In case of emergencies, Duke's Alert system sends out notifications to students, faculty, and staff to keep them informed of any incidents on or around campus. This helps the community stay aware of potential safety concerns.

5. Secure access to residence halls: Duke residence halls are accessible only to authorized individuals using their DukeCard, and the main doors are locked 24/7, with only card access or guest registration available for entry.

While these measures contribute to a safer environment on campus, it's important to remember that no university campus is immune to crime or safety concerns. Practicing personal safety precautions, such as walking with others at night and staying aware of your surroundings, can further reduce any potential risks.

Overall, many students have reported feeling safe on Duke's campus, and the university's security measures certainly play an essential role in fostering that sense of security.