University of Pittsburgh
- Academics

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University of Pittsburgh - Academics - College ProwlerCollege Prowler3.85

Academics

Quick Stats

Student-Faculty Ratio 15:1
Full-Time Student Population 24,077
Part-Time Student Population 4,251
Full-Time Instructional Faculty 1,659
Part-Time Instructional Faculty 730
Total FT Faculty 4,110
Faculty with Terminal Degree 94%
Average Faculty Salary $81,251
Full-Time Retention Rate 93%
Graduation Rate 76%
Programs/Majors Offered 157
Average Course Load 15 credits (5 courses)
Academic/Career Counseling? Yes
Remedial Services? Yes
Class Sizes
  • Fewer than 20 Students: 43%
  • 20 to 49 Students: 41%
  • 50 or More Students: 15%

Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

The University of Pittsburgh is over 16,000 students strong, which can seem like a scary number, at first. In reality, what you get in classes isn’t a reflection of this size. Some classes are large, especially the introductory classes that you have to take for the first year or two, yet once you get heavily focused on your major, the whole university seems to shrink. Variety is the spice of life, and one of the great things about a liberal arts school is that you will find just enough variety to allow you to go in any direction you choose. From a strong medical program based on UMPC’s massive resources, to a well-known business program, to a distinguished philosophy department, Pitt has plenty of options for any sort of education you’re looking for. Although some programs are stronger than others, and some are smaller (and therefore more personal), Pitt can meet the needs of nearly any student.

Professors and teaching assistants are known for being approachable. The rule at Pitt is that you can find help in any subject—you just have to be willing to go after it. In many cases, you’ll find the best professors teaching the highest level courses. Students have complained that some courses, (particularly those in science-related fields), are staffed with foreign teaching assistants that are difficult to understand; while this can sometimes make classes more difficult, there are always other resources available. As the years go by, and the standards for entrance get higher, Pitt is becoming more and more distinguished. The University’s strong academic programs are only getting stronger, and students can rest assured that the hard work of earning a degree will pay off.

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Pitt Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Academics at University of Pittsburgh

brandondjango

'15

Computer Engineering Technician

4.6
A

Academics

The academics are good, especially if you're on the pre-med track or into engineering. The engineering program especially is really strong.

Jan 25, 2012

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Academics at University of Pittsburgh

russianhitman

'15

Neuroscience

4.2
A-

Neuroscience, Pre-Med

Can't be happier with my choice, the faculty are top-notch with plenty of opportunities to do research. Intro level science (bio especially) faculty are not easy but possible.

Nov 28, 2011

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Academics at University of Pittsburgh

excitementjunky

'13

Health Care

5.0
A+

Pitt Is Awesome

I came to Pitt because it has an outstanding reputation for its Emergency Medicine bachelors program, which combines incredible practical experience with intense academic rigor. I was admitted as a transfer Junior; the program does not begin until the Junior year and requires that all your general education requirements be met, as well as specific science courses. The program is awesome! Junior year includes four shifts a week in both UPMC emergency rooms and ambulance based emergency services in addition to 18 credits of practical (Patient Assessment) and scientific (Pathophysiology) classes, including labs. Payoff includes a Parmedic certification after junior year and a bachelors after senior year (which involves more clinical experience plus management, leadership and legal courses focusing on emergency medicine). This program sets you up very well for a focused career in patient care or as a step toward medical or PA school. Top notch!

Nov 19, 2011

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Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

Rate your school’s professors on the following topics

Rate your school’s academic environment on the following topics

Facts

Instructional Programs Occupational: Yes
Academic: Yes
Continuing Professional: Yes
Recreational/Avocational: Yes
Adult Basic Remedial: No
Secondary (High School): No
Special Credit Opportunities Advanced Placement (AP) Credits: Yes
Dual Credit: Yes
Life Experience Credits: No
AP Test Score Requirements Possible credit and/or placement for scores of 4 or 5
IB Test Score Requirements Possible credit for scores of 5, 6, or 7
Undergraduate Schools/Divisions
  • College of Business Administration
  • College of General Studies
  • School of Arts and Sciences
  • School of Education
  • School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
  • School of Information Sciences
  • School of Nursing
  • School of Social Work
  • Swanson School of Engineering
Degrees Awarded
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Certificate
  • Doctorate - Professional practice
  • Doctorate - Research/scholarship
  • Master's degree
  • Post-bachelor's certificate
  • Post-master's certificate
Most Popular Majors
  • Business Administration and Management: 2%
  • Foundations of Education: 2%
  • Psychology: 2%
  • Social Work: 1%
Special Study Options
  • Distance learning opportunities
  • Study abroad
  • Teacher certification (below the postsecondary level)
Best Places to Study
  • Cathedral Lawn
  • Cathedral of Learning Commons
  • Hillman Library
  • Residence hall lounges
  • Schenley Plaza
Did You Know?

The University of Pittsburgh’s Posvar Hall is built on the site of the old Forbes Field, where the Pirates used to play. Babe Ruth hit the last two homeruns of his career at that field, and in commemoration, the home plate is still in the floor of the building. Students slide across home plate for luck, especially during midterms and finals!

Pitt requires you to meet with your academic advisor at least twice a term to make sure that you’re on top of things.

If you’re struggling with classes, Pitt has multiple tutoring groups, mentoring groups, and a Writing Center to help you with any problems you may have. Also, at various times throughout the week, TAs set up help desks at tables in the Cathedral, so anyone who has a question or a problem in that particular subject can feel free to walk up and ask!

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Most Recent Student Author

College Prowler guides are in the hands of students throughout the entire process. Because you can't make student-written guides without the students, we have students at each campus who write, edit, and survey their peers for every guide that we publish. Thanks to our most recent student author at Pitt

Name: Courtney Vock

Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA

Major: Creative Non-Fiction Writing

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