Here Are Pittsburgh's Best Colleges For 2025, According To New Study

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 2025 Best Colleges In Americarankings, which also includes rankings for 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 and National Science Foundation - along with reviews from students and alumni.

Six Western Pennsylvania colleges and universities cracked Niche's top 25 list. Their state ranking is listed parenthetically.

Carnegie Mellon University (2)

Overall Niche Grade: A+
Acceptance Rate: 11 percent
Net Price: $33,499
SAT Range: 1,490-1,570

University of Pittsburgh (7)

Overall Niche Grade: A
Acceptance Rate: 49 percent
Net Price: $24,286
SAT Range: 1,280-1,470

Slippery Rock University (20)

Overall Niche Grade: B+
Acceptance Rate: 74 percent
Net Price: $17,873
SAT Range: 960-1,160

St. Francis University (21)

Overall Niche Grade: B
Acceptance Rate: 73 percent
Net Price: $27,459
SAT Range: 1,030-1,240

Duquesne University (22)

Overall Niche Grade: B
Acceptance Rate: 88 percent
Net Price: $33,919
SAT Range: 1,160-1,330

Allegheny College (25)

Overall Niche Grade: B
Acceptance Rate: 70 percent
Net Price: $26,719
SAT Range: 1,140-1,360