More than 50 online and hybrid programs extend Pitt’s reach virtually anywhere
The University’s online and hybrid learning opportunities make gaining a world-class education accessible from anywhere — extending Pitt’s impact nationwide and beyond.
Pitt offers more than 50 online and hybrid programs representing a range of fields and specialties, including master’s degrees in civil engineering, physician assistant studies and social work.
The driving factor behind Pitt’s commitment to online and hybrid programs is accessibility, says Anthony Delitto, associate provost for digital education.
“People underestimate the barrier of relocating for working adults who want to earn a degree,” he says.
Flexible learning options empower students to pursue academic advancement on their own terms, whether they’re navigating work, family or other obligations.
“By creating an online space for our programs, we attract students who can’t pick up and move to Pittsburgh but want a Pitt education,” Delitto says.
Pitt’s online and hybrid degree options are valuable stepping stones for people in any professional field, says Marily Nixon, director of online programs in the School of Law.
“For example, Pitt Law’s online programs teach legal content and skills, but they are not necessarily aimed at people who intend to practice law,” she says. “Instead, they are aimed at business, nonprofit, government and other professionals who need to understand the law to perform highly in their field. Among our students and alumni are university professors, doctors and nurses, financial professionals, professional sports executives, artists, health care administrators, defense contractors, administrative professionals and entrepreneurs, among others.”
Pitt’s continued growth of online and hybrid programs also is a reflection of the University’s role in addressing workforce shortages, Delitto says.
“We build desirable programs that address people’s wants and needs,” he says. “This ensures future student success and their future employment.”
An updated Pitt Online experience is coming soon: online.pitt.edu
Immersive, yet flexible
Grace Bromery (LAW ’25) | Charlotte, NC
Online: Master of Studies in Law
“I chose to pursue an online degree at Pitt because I needed a program that would work around my full-time work schedule while still offering the rigor and reputation of a top institution.
"I was able to apply what I learned online just as effectively as I did in a traditional classroom setting and often in real time within my current role. Several assignments even required me to engage with professionals in my network, which not only deepened my understanding of the course content but also expanded my connections and exposed me to new career opportunities.”
Dhawal Thakare (BUS ’25G) | Pittsburgh, PA
Hybrid: Master of Business Administration
“Earning an MBA was critical to taking a hard pivot from my career as a research chemist to a global strategic market manager role.
"My degree was supported by my husband, a member of the Pitt staff — education benefits extend to spouses. Technological advances also mean that online education can be just as immersive as an in-person classroom experience.”
Emily Baker (SHRS) | Houston, TX
Hybrid: Current Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies student
“The advantage of pursuing an online degree or a hybrid degree is the flexibility. I was a new mom with 3-month-old twins when I started the program and was able to stay at home and pursue a physician assistant degree.
"I’m a veteran and plan to apply my education to working at a Veterans Affairs medical facility. Many veterans are without care due to understaffing and lack of access to health care. I want to be a part of the solution.”
Michael Wilkinson (SPIA ’18G) | Harrisburg, PA
Online: Master of Public Policy and Management
“My job in the Department of Human Services for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania was becoming more and more technology-, research- and policy-based and operating less ‘in the field.’
"Learning online mirrored those changes and prepared me to participate in higher-level policy and budget discussions. I was promoted to a director’s role less than two years postgraduation.”
Did you know ... ?
800 students are enrolled in the online Master of Data Science program, which aims to upskill and reskill workers in coal-impacted communities by way of stackable credentials. Learn more about Pitt's Public Impact.