The University of Pittsburgh, commonly referred to as Pitt, is a renowned public research university and a top 50 global university. Founded in 1787 and located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, it’s one of the oldest universities in the United States. This university is known for its beautiful campus, especially the iconic Cathedral of Learning, a revered Gothic revival edifice, one of the tallest educational buildings in the world.
Academics
With a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence, the University of Pittsburgh offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in various disciplines across 16 schools and colleges. Here are some key areas of study:
- Arts and Sciences: Includes majors like Anthropology, Biochemistry, Computer Science, and more.
- Business Administration: Offers majors such as Accounting, Finance, and Business Information Systems.
- Engineering: Includes Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Computer Engineering.
- Health Sciences: Features programs like Nursing, Pharmacy, and Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.
- Education: Offers majors in areas like Applied Developmental Psychology and Teacher Preparation.
- Social Sciences: Includes majors like Africana Studies, Women’s Studies, and Communication.
Campus Life
Beyond academics, Pitt has a vibrant and diverse campus life with numerous student organizations, athletics, and cultural events that allow students to engage, learn, and grow outside the classroom.
Student Organizations and Activities
- Clubs and Organizations: With over 600 student organizations, there’s something for everyone. These include academic societies, cultural groups, recreational clubs, and special interest groups.
- Greek Life: Pitt has a strong Greek community with fraternities and sororities offering leadership opportunities, social events, and philanthropic activities.
- Student Government: The Student Government Board plays a crucial role in representing the student body and organizing events.
Arts and Culture
- Cultural Events: The campus hosts numerous cultural events, including art exhibitions, theater productions, and concerts. The Pitt Arts program provides students with free or discounted access to cultural events in Pittsburgh.
- Music and Performance: Students can join various music groups, from the University of Pittsburgh Band to a cappella groups, and take part in theater productions.
Athletics and Recreation
- Sports: Pitt Panthers compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. There are also plenty of club and intramural sports for students who want to stay active and competitive.
- Recreation Facilities: State-of-the-art fitness centers, swimming pools, and sports fields are available for student use. The university also offers wellness programs and outdoor adventure activities.
Housing and Dining
- Residence Halls: Pitt provides a range of housing options, from traditional dorms to apartment-style living. Living on campus offers a great way to stay connected and make friends.
- Dining: With multiple dining halls and various cafes and restaurants, there are plenty of food options to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Community and Support
- Diversity and Inclusion: Pitt fosters an inclusive environment with resources like the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, various cultural centers, and support for diverse students.
- Health and Wellness: The university offers comprehensive health services, including counseling and mental health support. There are also programs focused on promoting overall wellness.
Traditions and Spirit
- Homecoming: A beloved tradition with parades, football games, and alumni events.
- Pitt Day of Giving: An annual event where the entire Pitt community comes together to support the university.
- Panther Pride: School spirit is high, with students cheering on the Panthers at various sports events and wearing blue and gold proudly.
Homeschool Applicants
The University of Pittsburgh welcomes homeschooled applicants! Homeschoolers must, minimally, complete the following high school prerequisites:
- 4 years of English
- 3 years of mathematics
- 3 years of science
- 3 years of social studies
- 2 years of arts and humanities
NOTE: Students applying to University of Pittsburgh professional schools such as the Swanson School of Engineering, College of Business Administration, and School of Nursing must fulfill the specific curricular requirements of those schools.
The Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR), a list of your courses and associated grades that have been completed or will be completed for high school or college credit, is required for all first-year US students. This replaces the official high school transcript during the Admissions Committee review process. Additionally, home school applicants are required to submit:
- Home School Supplemental Form
- Progress evaluations from a home school evaluator or supervisor (if applicable)
- A personal statement or the Common Application essay
Homeschooled students who have completed college-level courses to supplement their education should include and designate those courses on their transcript. Further, students who have completed college-level courses are highly encouraged to submit an official transcript. Finally, home-schooled applicants are highly encouraged to complete and submit the optional Application Personal Statement.
The final transcript for enrolling students should either originate from an accredited home school organization or be signed by the individual responsible for the student’s home school education.
“While SAT/ACT scores are not required from first-year applicants participating in accredited home school programs, those applicants from unaccredited home school programs are strongly encouraged to submit test results. The Admissions Committee will be looking for alternative academic information such as previous college course work and grades or AP/IB exam scores for those applicants from unaccredited home school programs who opt not to submit SAT/ACT scores. Transfer applicants with home school educations who have completed more than one full year of college-level course work are not required to submit SAT/ACT scores.”
Outlier Partnership
Did You Know??? You can transfer your Outlier course credits to an official transcript from The University of Pittsburgh! What this simply means is that if you earn credits through Outlier and you want it to count on a transcript to a college that may not otherwise accept that type of credit, The University of Pittsburgh filters it through a method that college will accept. Save time and money on your degree and earn 3 transferable credits from a top 50 global university with Outlier. Visit their website for more information.
