Here Are Pittsburgh's Best Colleges, According To New Rankings

PITTSBURGH, PA — Carnegie Mellon University is the best institution of higher learning in Western Pennsylvania, according to Niche.

The Pittsburgh-based data analysis company has released its 2024 rankings of the best colleges in Pennsylvania. Not only was CMU rated the best university in the city, it trailed only the University of Pennsylvania in the state rankings.

Niche said the rankings are based on rigorous analysis of academic, admissions, financial, and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along with reviews from students and alumni.

Niche also stated that its 2024 Best Colleges Rankings reflect the declining importance of SAT and ACT scores and the increasing importance prospective students and their families place on

value and economic mobility — that is, the ability of students to improve their economic status after graduation.

Here are the top five colleges and universities in Western Pennsylvania. Their state ranking is listed parenthetically.

1. Carnegie Mellon University (2)

Overall grade: A-plus

Acceptance rate: 14 percent

Net price: $37,450

SAT range: 1480-1560

2. University of Pittsburgh (7)

Overall grade: A

Acceptance rate: 67 percent

Net price: $22,996

SAT range: 1250-1470

3. Slippery Rock University (23)

Overall grade: B

Acceptance rate: 79 percent

Net price: $12,364

SAT range: 970-1170

4. Duquesne University (28)

Overall grade: B

Acceptance rate: 84 percent

Net price: $34,505

SAT range: 1140-1310

5: Allegheny College (29)

Overall grade: B

Acceptance rate: 75 percent

Net price: 25,419

SAT range: 1140-1350