About Point Park University
The financial picture requires careful consideration. Students pay an average net price of $24,791 after aid, less than the $38,160 sticker price. However, graduates earn a median of $45,856 ten years after graduation. Many students graduate with $27,000 in debt and monthly loan payments of $286. The math works better for students who land well-paying industry jobs, but the performing arts field offers variable income potential.
The student body skews female at 64%, reflecting the strong emphasis on dance and theater. With a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, performers get individual attention from industry professionals. The 60% graduation rate suggests the demanding programs aren't for everyone, but those who complete degrees find work at a 96.5% employment rate.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 12:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 30.4%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 59.2%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 59.6%
- Retention Rate
- 70.8%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $45,856
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $69,338 |
| Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $67,101 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $57,735 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Bachelor | $56,415 |
| Intelligence, Command Control and Information Operations. | Master | $52,107 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $44,942 |
| Journalism. | Master | $44,590 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $42,682 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $42,682 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Master | $41,565 |
Campus Life
The 64% female student body reflects the university's performing arts focus, with dance and theater majors dominating campus culture. Students spend weekends attending productions at the nearby Heinz Hall or catching shows at Point Park's own Pittsburgh Playhouse. The 12:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know students by name, crucial for an arts program where personal mentorship drives success. Campus social life revolves around rehearsals, showcases, and industry networking events rather than traditional college parties. With 57% of students coming from Pennsylvania, many head home on weekends, creating a quieter campus atmosphere that serious arts students often prefer for practice and study.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 998 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1960
Campus Safety (2023)
25 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| Fondling | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Rape | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 20°–39°F
- July Avg
- 63°–85°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 38.3"
- Annual Snowfall
- 44.1"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 35.6%
- Women
- 64.4%
- White
- 64.7%
- Black
- 13.7%
- Hispanic
- 10.1%
- Asian
- 1.9%
- In-State Students
- 57.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 37.1%
Location
- Address
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-1984
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $45,856
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $49,504
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $32,800
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 52.5%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Point Park University?
Point Park University accepts 82.05% of applicants with an average SAT score of 1138. The school draws students primarily interested in performing arts and creative fields. About 58% of students come from Pennsylvania while others are attracted by the downtown Pittsburgh location.
How much does Point Park University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $24,791 after aid, lower than the full tuition of $38,160. About 37% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating substantial need-based assistance. Graduates typically leave with $27,000 in debt and monthly loan payments of $286.
What is Point Park University known for academically?
Point Park specializes in performing arts programs including dance, theater, and film with strong industry connections. The university maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio across its programs. Classes operate on a semester system with an enrollment of 2,320 students.
What are the career outcomes for Point Park University graduates?
Graduates earn a median salary of $45,856 ten years after graduation with a 96.5% employment rate. The university achieves a 59.6% six-year graduation rate. Alumni include notable figures like actor Zachary Quinto and entrepreneur Marc Cuban.
Where is Point Park University located and what is campus life like?
The university sits in downtown Pittsburgh with housing capacity for 998 students. About 65% of the student body is female, reflecting the strong performing arts focus. The campus gives students direct access to Pittsburgh's professional arts scene and cultural opportunities.
Does Point Park University have strong athletic programs?
Point Park fields 13 varsity sports teams in the Mountain East Conference with 333 total athletes. The university provides $2.8 million in athletic scholarships annually. The Pioneers compete at the NJCAA level while maintaining the school's primary focus on performing arts education.
