The Story
Founded in 1787, the University of Pittsburgh is one of America's oldest and most distinguished research universities. It emerged from modest beginnings to become a world-class institution, with the iconic Cathedral of Learning standing as Pittsburgh's most recognizable academic landmark and one of the tallest educational buildings in the world.
Pitt's medical school and health sciences programs rank among the nation's finest. The university operates with deep ties to UPMC, one of the world's leading hospital systems, creating a powerful partnership that drives medical research, innovation, and clinical care. The Pitt-UPMC connection has made Pittsburgh a hub for healthcare innovation and biomedical research, attracting grants, talent, and emerging companies across the region.
With 34,000 students and 13,000 employees, Pitt is a major economic force in Pittsburgh and a magnet for international talent. Chancellor Joan Gabel leads the institution as it expands research in medicine, engineering, and business, continuing its mission to advance knowledge and serve society.
What Makes It Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning is the visual and symbolic heart of Oakland and Pittsburgh's skyline. Built in the 1930s, the Gothic Revival tower represents the city's commitment to education and culture during the Depression era, embodying Pittsburgh's resilience and forward-thinking vision.
The Pitt-UPMC ecosystem is a defining feature of modern Pittsburgh. Medical discoveries made in Pitt labs and UPMC hospitals have transformed cancer treatment, transplant surgery, and neuroscience. This academic-medical partnership model is replicated in few other cities, making Pittsburgh a unique center for healthcare advancement and entrepreneurship in life sciences.