3 Pitt campuses are among this year’s Colleges of Distinction

Three University of Pittsburgh campuses were recently named 2025-26 Colleges of Distinction, a recognition of their engaged and successful students, excellent teachers and vibrant communities.

Colleges of Distinction is an online guide for college-bound students that recognizes student-centered schools that traditional rankings may often overlook. Its selection process includes a sequence of detailed interviews with the schools and in-depth research.

The University’s Pittsburgh, Bradford and Johnstown campuses were each recognized among Pennsylvania and public colleges, along with the overall 2025-26 rating. The Pittsburgh campus also earned an international distinction.

Along with being honored for its programs in business, education and nursing, Pitt-Bradford was recognized for career development for its comprehensive four-year plans, advising and resources like the Academic Advising Center, Academic Coaching and Tutoring Center and Career Services. The Bradford campus was also recognized for being a community dedicated to equal opportunity for all students, faculty and staff.

Pitt-Bradford was also named one of only five Pennsylvania Affordable Colleges of Distinction, a recognition based on a low net price, strong financial support, low median debt among graduates and many more affordability metrics.

The Johnstown campus received specialized recognitions for its programs in business, education, engineering and nursing as well as career development. Colleges of Distinction also noted Pitt-Johnstown’s partnership with the Windber Research Institute, which gives students priority access to internships and other health sciences programs focused on breast cancer and disease prevention.