FAQs

While all Robertson Scholars have full student privileges at both universities, each Scholar matriculates at and graduates from only one of the two universities. However, each Scholar will take a minimum of 5 courses at the sister university over the course of four years and Scholars’ transcripts will reflect all cross-campus coursework and participation in the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program.

The Robertson Express Bus, open to all members of the Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill communities, provides regular transportation from Duke’s West Campus to the main campus of UNC-Chapel Hill during the academic year. The bus ride lasts approximately 20 minutes.

Robertson Scholars may major in any subject offered at their home institution. Scholars may also double major, minor, or obtain a certificate in a variety of subjects.

Each Scholar works with the Assistant Director for Summer Programs to design and plan a summer experience catered to his or her unique interests, leadership development needs, and personal goals. To this end, Scholars take a fair amount of responsibility in creating an experience that is personally relevant, meaningful, and productive; the program staff supports the Scholar’s own efforts and provides guidance as needed.

The first summer lasts a minimum of eight weeks. The length of the second and third summers are determined by the Scholar.

Graduates of our program pursue a variety of post-graduate paths. While some Scholars will opt to continue their education by attending graduate and professional schools, others will take jobs in global companies, small start-up businesses, and other private organizations. Still others will work for nonprofits in the U.S. and abroad. You can learn more about the some of our Scholars’ paths through their Alumni profiles.

Robertson Scholars commit to participating in signature programming, including but not limited to: retreats, the campus switch, cross-campus coursework,  and community events. Scholars also participate in Community Summer, following their first year in the program, and are able to participate in up to two additional summer experiences.

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program expects all Scholars to uphold the academic standards for which they were awarded the scholarship. Continuation in the program depends on the maintenance of good academic performance, which is defined as a 3.0 grade point average at the end of the first year and a 3.30 grade point average at the conclusion of each subsequent academic year.

No. Only students who matriculate directly to Duke or UNC as their primary institution are eligible for the scholarship.