Chatham University
The Vibe Check
Chatham feels like a close-knit, progressive community where sustainability and hands-on learning are woven into daily campus life. The historic woodsy campus in Pittsburgh's East End creates a peaceful, almost sanctuary-like atmosphere that encourages deep focus and personal connection among students.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Academics at Chatham are defined by strong, career-focused programs in biology, psychology, and business, with the unique and highly-regarded Master of Science in Sustainability degree. Small class sizes ensure direct access to professors, and the university's commitment to sustainability is integrated across the curriculum through real-world projects and research opportunities.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Pittsburgh
Chatham students enjoy easy access to Pittsburgh's vibrant cultural scene, from catching a Pirates game at PNC Park to exploring the museums in the Oakland district. The campus is a short bus or bike ride from the trendy shops and restaurants of Walnut Street in Shadyside, offering a perfect blend of city and neighborhood life.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($52,410):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus itself is located in the quiet, residential neighborhood of Shadyside and is considered very safe, with its own campus police force. While Pittsburgh's East End is generally safe, students should practice urban awareness when venturing off-campus into the surrounding city.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ A stunning, historic 39-acre campus that feels like a private arboretum in the city.
- ✓ Pioneering sustainability focus integrated into nearly every academic program.
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personal attention from professors.
- ✓ Prime location in the safe and affluent Shadyside neighborhood with easy city access.
Cons
- ✗ The small enrollment of 1,252 can feel isolating for students who prefer a large university environment.
- ✗ At $43,810, the sticker price is high, requiring families to actively seek financial aid.
- ✗ Limited Greek life and a quieter social scene compared to larger urban universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Chatham University is most well-known for its pioneering leadership in sustainability, offering top-ranked graduate and undergraduate programs in the field. It also has strong, established programs in architecture, biology, psychology, and business, all taught within a small, intimate campus setting.
No, Chatham University is not considered highly selective. With a 70.11% acceptance rate, it offers accessible admissions for a broad range of students. A competitive applicant typically has a GPA of 3.4 or higher and an SAT score around the 1205 average.
Campus life at Chatham is close-knit and community-oriented, centered around its beautiful, green 39-acre campus. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, NCAA Division III athletics, and sustainability-focused activities, all while enjoying the cultural and social opportunities of nearby Pittsburgh.
Yes, for many students, Chatham can be a worthwhile investment. While the sticker price is high, the average net price is significantly lower at $25,717. The 10-year median earnings of $52,410 for graduates, combined with strong programs in growing fields, suggests a solid return on investment.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,701
- In-State Tuition $43,810
- Zip Code 15232
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $25,717, the cost is significantly lower than the sticker price, making it more accessible for many families. Given the strong 10-year median earnings of $52,410, the degree offers a solid return on investment, especially for students who leverage merit aid and the university's career-focused programs.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.