Education in Pittsburgh Colleges, Universities and K-12

Carnegie Mellon University

Founded in 1900 and located in the historic Oakland neighborhood, Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is renowned for exceptional academic programs and cutting-edge research. As a top-25 university, CMU has evolved into a global leader in fields such as artificial intelligence, computer science, engineering and robotics. CMU ranks first in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, mobile/web applications, software engineering and management information systems.

The university’s commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration has resulted in groundbreaking discoveries and advancements with far-reaching impacts. CMU’s rigorous academic environment fosters a diverse community of undergraduate and graduate students, propelling them to excel in their chosen fields. Notable feats include 21 Noble Laureates in five of the six categories, 13 Turing Award winners and more.  

University of Pittsburgh

Founded in 1787, the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) is a renowned higher education institution with a rich history of academic excellence and commitment to innovation. Pitt offers 646 certificate and degree programs spanning various disciplines, including liberal arts, sciences, humanities, engineering, business and health sciences. As one of the top 40 public universities in the U.S., Pitt’s academics strongly emphasize hands-on research and discovery and have made significant contributions to the fields of medicine, public health and engineering.

The University of Pittsburgh is a top-tier research university, ranking sixth nationally in NIH funding in 2024 with $658M. Pitt attracts world-class faculty and students, fostering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating learning environment on campus. And, with a diverse and inclusive campus community — including a five-star campus pride index — Pitt continues to shape the leaders of tomorrow and make a positive impact on the global stage.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Founded in 1875, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) empowers its students with personalized academics, mentorship, hands-on learning and a vibrant campus life. Located in Indiana, PA, IUP offers 160+ majors and graduate programs and a nationally recognized Academy of Culinary Arts. IUP also offers 12 doctorate programs, which range from Business to Criminology and School Psychology. 

IUP’s programming focuses on delivering challenging, exploratory and affordable academics. IUP works to offer paths for every student’s passion regardless of financial barriers through financial aid. In fact, IUP offers well-ranking online master’s programs in nursing, mathematics education, criminal justice and criminology.

Community College of Allegheny County

With four campuses and four centers located in and around Pittsburgh, the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) makes receiving an excellent education convenient. CACC’s more than 150 programs range from 8-week FOCUS pathways in business and psychology to apprenticeships in carpentry and electrical construction technology and specialty health programs in MRI scanning and physical therapy. You can complete 17 different degree programs and 15 certificate and diploma programs entirely online.

30+ clubs and sports teams, tutoring and career services and local and overseas travel opportunities enrich the classroom experience, while community gardens, nature trails and social spaces offer opportunities to recharge and connect with fellow student life.

Additionally, CCAC enables their students to save upwards of $72,000 by spending the first two years of their four-year bachelor’s degree program at CCAC. This college includes a Center for Innovation, Education and Training, making it an excellent choice for students looking to take the first steps towards their degree or professionals looking to advance their career through certification.