Pitt-Greensburg earns national recognition as "College of Distinction" for second consecutive year

Colleges of Distinction badgesContinued dedication to innovative, high-impact educational practices at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg has earned the school recognition among the nation’s Colleges of Distinction for the second consecutive year.

This year, in addition to receiving accolades as a 2017-2018 College of Distinction, Public College of Distinction, and Pennsylvania College of Distinction, Pitt-Greensburg also received recognition for its Education program.

To earn this recognition, colleges and universities must demonstrate results across the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. High school counselors and educators make nominations, and each school is evaluated on key indicators including student engagement, student empowerment, and curricular innovation. Colleges that have distinguished themselves in each of the Four Distinctions and that have demonstrated dedication to enriching student outcomes through innovative learning opportunities are then invited to join Colleges of Distinction.

The annual process to select the nation’s Colleges of Distinction also includes a review of each institution’s freshman experience, as well as its general education program, strategic plan, and alumni success and satisfaction measures.

Pitt-Greensburg students earn college credit and valuable life experience while participating in study abroad programs, as well as through internships, service learning, learning communities, and athletics.

At this regional campus that is part of the world-renowned University of Pittsburgh system, Pitt-Greensburg students earn a Pitt degree in small, intimate class-settings. Close, personal interaction with award-winning instructors creates opportunities for student-faculty partnership in experiential learning projects that have real-world impact. Additionally, students are able to collaborate with faculty in original research, which both empowers undergraduate students with vital disciplinary skills and provides them with professional experience typically only accessible at the graduate level.

Pitt-Greensburg’s “liberal arts education for the 21st century” model emphasizes the role of communicative and critical thinking skills across the disciplines – a foundation ensuring that, regardless of their field of study, graduates are equipped for lifelong learning. Cutting-edge digital age programs and support services bolster students’ digital literacy to keep pace with rapid technological advancement in the workplace.

Students can expect individualized support services and academic experiences tailored for success and sought-after experience in their field of study. Living and learning communities such as the Academic Village, Greensburg Experience More (GEM), and the Science Learning Community transform the higher education experience into a foundation for personal and professional development.

“We are honored to name Pitt-Greensburg as a 2017-2018 College of Distinction for its continued commitment to student success,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer for Colleges of Distinction. “Our goal is to select the best schools that are 100% focused on the student experience, and producing the most well-rounded graduates that are prepared for a global society and economy.”

Pitt-Greensburg’s emphasis on hands-on, inquiry-based learning extends through the classroom and internship experience to its Green Scholars program where undergraduate students receive a graduate-level experience when they partner with a faculty member for the purpose of original, collaborative research.

 “Becoming a College of Distinction, like Pitt-Greensburg, is proof that the institutions we select are fully invested in their students’ success, beginning on day one, and continuing through the rest of their lives,” said Schritter.

About Colleges of Distinction

Since 2000, the Colleges of Distinction website and guidebook have recognized and honored schools throughout the U.S. for excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The member schools in the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience. The website and annual guidebooks provide dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information, and to learn how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.

About Pitt-Greensburg

Founded in 1963, the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg is a publicly assisted, four-year, liberal arts college in southwestern Pennsylvania. Pitt-Greensburg offers 29 baccalaureate degree programs, including new majors in Nursing, Healthcare Management, Public Policy, and Education as well as 19 minors and five certificate programs. Pitt-Greensburg provides a vibrant, diverse community that is a dynamic model of a 21st century liberal arts education.

Publication Date

Wednesday, December 31, 1969 - 23:00