The Duquesne University Professional Development School Collaborative is a dynamic cooperative venture between the School of Education and K-12 schools of the surrounding area. Partner schools represent the McKeesport, Peters Township, Pittsburgh Public, Quaker Valley, and Woodland Hills School Districts as well as Vincentian Academy.

The Professional Development School Collaborative is an integral aspect of the School of Education's new flagship Leading Teacher Program. In addition to serving several roles throughout the Leading Teacher Program, the partnership serves other programs, including administration and graduate education, throughout the School of Education.

The functions of the Duquesne University Professional Development Schools parallel those of the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) PDS Standards. The collaborative aspires to attain these standards, which include the functions of stronger preservice teacher education, enhanced staff development, increased student achievement, and use of an inquiry approach. Each of the PDSs will implement these functions in ways unique to the combination of their needs and those of the School of Education.