Best
Value Colleges in Pittsburgh in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Pittsburgh, PA, offers access to employers and internships. Programs typically cover accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, data analysis, and organizational behavior. Students develop leadership, communication, and decision-making skills through projects and case studies. Popular options include the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, and Point Park University. Graduates pursue roles such as financial analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or business consultant.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers access to programs at the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, Chatham University, and Point Park University. Typical courses include introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and cognitive science. Graduates with bachelor's degrees may pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or community outreach worker. Clinical psychologist and counselor positions generally require graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Pittsburgh, PA combines rigorous coursework with access to a vibrant technology community. Programs typically cover programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students develop problem-solving skills through projects, internships, and research. Popular local choices include Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, and Point Park University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, data analysts, systems administrators, cybersecurity specialists, or machine-learning engineers across varied industries.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, typically combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multiculturalism, and supervised practicum experience. Students may pursue programs at Duquesne University, Carlow University, Chatham University, or the University of Pittsburgh. Depending on specialization, graduates may qualify for licensure after required supervised hours and examinations. Common career paths include licensed professional counselor, school counselor, substance use counselor, career counselor, and mental health clinician, serving individuals, families, and groups.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Pittsburgh, PA offers preparation for compassionate, evidence-based patient care. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, ethics, and supervised clinical rotations. Popular local options include the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, Chatham University, Carlow University, and the Community College of Allegheny County. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care, while some advance into community health, nursing education, or specialized practice.

Best Colleges in Pittsburgh, PA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $38,855, compared with $53,669 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $14,814.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students across the ranked colleges, compared with 68.88% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 68.88%. Colleges receive an average of 14,999.12 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 42,028.1 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,360 men and 2,994.5 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,213.5 and 26.33, respectively.
• Average enrollment is 8,534.38 students, including averages of 490.12 men and 641.88 women.
• The average graduation rate is 72%, compared with 87.7% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 65.5% for men and 65% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, nine offer master's degrees, and five offer doctor's degrees.
• Seven institutions are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost alongside financial aid, and compare acceptance rates and applicant numbers with their academic profile. They should also consider graduation rates, degree options, and enrollment figures to assess which institution best fits their goals and preferences.

How much does studying at a college in Pittsburgh, PA cost?

In Pittsburgh, the reported average total cost of studying is $39,738.25, a useful starting point as you compare local degree options. Average tuition and fees are $39,919.25; room and board average $15,344.86, and books and supplies average $1,216.57. Costs vary by college, housing choice, program, and financial aid, so treat these figures as broad planning benchmarks rather than a quote from any one campus for Pittsburgh-area students.

• Tuition and fees: $39,919.25.
• Room and board: $15,344.86.
• Books and supplies: $1,216.57.

Pittsburgh students can compare the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, and Point Park University, with varied programs and campus experiences. Check each school's cost of attendance and budget for commuting, meals, housing, and course materials. Living at home or receiving grants may lower your out-of-pocket cost. Comparing options can make a degree feel more manageable and help you plan for the education and campus life you want.

How long does it take to finish college in Pittsburgh, PA?

In Pittsburgh, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree commonly takes two; a master's often adds one or two years. At the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon, Duquesne, or Point Park, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you study full time. The reported average graduation rate is 72.0%, rising to 87.7% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 68.12% for men and 71.62% for women, showing that many - but not all - students complete their programs.

You can feel encouraged: planning can shorten that path.

• Bring in AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits, or transfer coursework from Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), after confirming how the school applies them.
• Use summer terms, extra courses, or accelerated/online classes where offered; meet an adviser to avoid prerequisites delaying graduation. These options can save time, though workload and program requirements matter.

Salary

After graduating from college in Pittsburgh, PA, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $51,110. Graduates of schools ranked in the top 10% have a higher median of about $71,599 - an encouraging benchmark as you consider the opportunities a degree may open up.

Pittsburgh offers a range of colleges and universities, including the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, and Point Park University. Your own earning potential will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and career path, so treat these figures as broad benchmarks rather than a promise of what any particular school or graduate will earn.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Pittsburgh?

Using Pittsburgh city limits and counting operating institutions whose names identify them as universities, there are five: Carnegie Mellon University, Chatham University, Duquesne University, Point Park University, and the University of Pittsburgh. Counts can differ if you include colleges, seminaries, or schools in nearby suburbs, so it's worth checking location when comparing options.

What is the largest university in Pittsburgh?

The University of Pittsburgh is the largest by student enrollment among the universities located in the city. Its Oakland campus is a lively part of Pittsburgh, with students close to hospitals, museums, parks, and neighborhood businesses. That mix can make campus life feel connected to the city rather than separate from it.

How many universities are there in Pittsburgh?

For a student choosing among schools, the useful answer is five operating universities within the city itself; the number grows if you widen the search to the Pittsburgh region. Suburban campuses may still be practical options, but commute time and transit access can shape daily life, so compare campus addresses as well as programs.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Pittsburgh, PA Ranking in 2026-2027

Carnegie Mellon University offers Pittsburgh students a globally recognized, research-intensive education, especially notable for its strengths in computing, engineering, arts, and business. It enrolls 16,582 students and has a 94% graduation rate, while its 12% acceptance rate reflects highly selective admission. The total annual study cost listed is $64,596, and median alumni salary is $88,761. Located in Pittsburgh, CMU lets students access internships, cultural venues, and technology employers while studying on a collaborative campus with ambitious academic opportunities and citywide connections.

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus offers a large public-university experience in Oakland, giving local students access to extensive research, health sciences, and city resources. Its 31,237 enrolled students form the largest community in this group. The graduation rate is 85%, acceptance rate 58%, total cost $40,060, and median alumni salary $54,781. Studying here places Pittsburgh residents near hospitals, museums, transit, and employers, while the university's broad academic choices and spirited campus life can suit students seeking scale and local opportunity locally.

Duquesne University provides a private, Catholic university experience on Pittsburgh's Bluff, overlooking downtown and keeping students close to the city's cultural and professional life. It enrolls 8,269 students, graduates 77%, and admits 84% of applicants. Its listed total study cost is $48,986, with median alumni earnings of $55,816. For a Pittsburgh-area student, Duquesne's compact urban setting can make internships, service, and neighborhood exploration accessible, while its range of programs offers a close-knit alternative to larger campuses in the region nearby.

Carlow University is a small private university in Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood, offering students a more personal campus experience within reach of hospitals, museums, and downtown opportunities. Its enrollment is 3,439, graduation rate 60%, and acceptance rate 87%. The listed total study cost is $34,546, while median alumni salary reaches $64,244. Students who want to stay in Pittsburgh may appreciate Carlow's intimate scale and access to the city, alongside academic pathways designed to connect classroom learning with professional and community experiences.

Chatham University offers a small-campus setting in Pittsburgh's Shadyside neighborhood, known for its campus and emphasis on sustainability and women's education, while welcoming students across programs. It enrolls 2,314 students, with a 63% graduation rate and 62% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $43,518, and median alumni salary is $44,749. For Pittsburgh residents, Chatham combines a quieter residential feel with nearby shops, parks, hospitals, and city internships, making it worth considering for students who value community and urban access together.