Education in Pittsburgh Colleges, Universities and K-12
Pittsburgh is a vibrant and innovative region, often recognized for its rich history and transformation. Fueled by its exceptional educational institutions, today, Pittsburgh is a thriving hub for entrepreneurship, innovation and technology. Home to renowned universities like Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, and 77 other universities and post-secondary institutions, this region is at the forefront of groundbreaking research and world-shaping technologies and innovations.
45,000
Annual Degree and Certificate Completions
#1
U.S. AI graduate program (Carnegie Mellon University)
#2
U.S. computer science graduate program (Carnegie Mellon University)
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Universities and post-secondary institutions
An Unmatched Workforce
Pittsburgh’s workforce is characterized by its resilience, adaptability and diverse skill sets. 1.2 million people strong, Pittsburgh’s workforce is well-equipped and constantly evolving to meet the demands of the rapidly changing global economy.
Pittsburgh’s vibrant workforce is further distinguished by its sizeable and collaborative nature. Boasting the sixth largest population share of educated professionals, ages 25-34, among the top 40 largest metropolitan areas, Pittsburgh is a place where talented individuals can find their place and make a meaningful impact. This diverse and dynamic workforce fosters a spirit of collaboration and innovation, driving the region’s continued growth and propelling Pittsburgh to new heights as a center of excellence and opportunity.
Colleges & Universities in Pittsburgh
From state universities to private colleges, Pittsburgh is home to some of the best universities in Pennsylvania and the United States. Education in Pittsburgh can help students achieve undergraduate to doctoral degrees in a wide range of fields. The 10-county region has 79 universities and post-secondary institutions, including Carnegie Mellon, University of Pittsburgh, Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Community College of Allegheny County, some of the best colleges and universities with the highest enrollment in the Pittsburgh region.
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 30 university, CMU has evolved into a global leader across fields such as artificial intelligence, computer science, engineering and robotics, and ranks first in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Quantitative Analysis and Robotics.
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, including 20 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 the 23rd best public school 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 third nationally in NIH funding in 2022 with $675M. 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 100+ undergraduate programs, 60+ graduate programs and a nationally recognized Academy of Culinary Arts. IUP is the only in-state university in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education that offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. IUP’s 13 doctorate programs 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 programs in nursing, mathematics education, criminal justice and criminology.
Community College of Allegheny County
With four campuses and three centers located in and around Pittsburgh, the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) makes receiving an excellent education convenient. CACC’s more than 130 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. Online courses are also available — 18 degree programs and 15 certificate and diploma programs can be completed entirely online.
30+ clubs and sports teams, tutoring and careers 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 $70,000 by spending the first two years of their four-year bachelor’s degree program at CCAC. This college is an excellent choice for students looking to take the first steps towards their degree or professionals looking to advance their career through certification.
Pittsburgh Region Trade Schools
The Pittsburgh region is home to a robust network of training institutions. With over 70+ technical and trade schools in the region, from Pittsburgh Technical College to Triangle Tech and the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh, there are training opportunities available across a diverse range of disciplines. Whether you’re looking to earn your real estate license, brush up on your graphic design skills or master criminal justice practices, there is a technical or trade school in Pittsburgh that will get you there.
Many of the community colleges and trade schools in the Pittsburgh region collaborate with employers to create custom training programs that allow companies to create the talent pipeline they need to thrive and grow. The new, cutting-edge Community College of Allegheny County Workforce Development and Training Center was co-designed by industry and educators to build a skilled workforce in advanced manufacturing. Other community colleges in the region also developed workforce training centers, such as the Community College of Beaver County’s Shell Center for Process Technology and the Westmoreland County Advanced Technology Center.
Additionally, programs, like Pittsburgh Technical college’s, ensure that degree-seeking students graduate with an on-site experience or internship, helping students secure the edge necessary to compete in today’s job market.
Pittsburgh Area School Districts
The Pittsburgh region is home to some of the most well-regarded public schools. In fact, four of the top 30 public schools in Pennsylvania are in the Pittsburgh region.
Additionally, the Pittsburgh area is known for its collaboration between schools, community organizations and businesses, fostering a supportive network that enriches students’ educational experiences. Whether it’s through advanced placement programs, specialized career and technical education or extracurricular activities, the Pittsburgh area school districts strive to nurture the potential of each student and cultivate a future generation of informed, engaged and successful individuals.
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