University of Pittsburgh

Overview

Founded in 1787 as the Pittsburgh Academy in a humble log cabin, the University of Pittsburgh has grown into a major public research institution. It now serves approximately 25,000 undergraduate and 10,000 graduate students across campuses throughout Pennsylvania. The university encompasses 16 schools and colleges, including renowned institutions like the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, the Swanson School of Engineering, and the School of Social Work.

The main campus, located in Pittsburgh's Oakland area, spans 132 acres and houses iconic structures such as the Cathedral of Learning. Completed in 1926, this 42-story building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a hub for classrooms, libraries, computer labs, and a theatre. Standing at 535 feet, it ranks as the second-tallest educational building globally, after the Moscow State University building.

Pitt's campus also boasts 17 libraries, with the Hillman Library being the largest. This five-story library contains 1.5 million books and accommodates up to 1,500 users. As a whole, the university's library system is the 22nd largest in the United States. Additionally, the university benefits from strong partnerships with the renowned non-profit Pittsburgh hospital, enabling collaboration in areas like transplantation, oncology, and psychiatry.