Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University, or CMU, is a private institution located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With a campus size of 147 acres in an urban setting, students have many opportunities to become immersed in their academic studies. Various extracurricular opportunities and Greek life also help students receive a well-rounded undergraduate experience.

Carnegie Mellon has a wide variety of majors, but the most popular are computer science, electrical and electronics engineering, mechanical engineering, systems science and theory, and chemical engineering. The undergraduate business program is also ranked highly for its management information systems and production/operations and quantitative analysis. In a recent study by the Wall Street Journal, CMU was ranked highly by job recruiters in the areas of computer science, finance, and economics. Despite a large focus on science and business, the university also has a renowned drama school.

The school has just over 7,700 undergraduates, which results in a tight-knit community. They have over 400 organizations and clubs on campus, including social, media, recreational, sports, and academic groups. They have a student devoted gallery called The Frame and performing arts events from a group called Scotch ‘n’ Soda. There are also over 20 active fraternities and sororities, with about 13 percent of the student population affiliated with Greek organizations.

Nearly 50 percent of CMU students choose to remain in college-owned housing during their undergraduate years. They have a variety of housing options, including standard, prime, suites, efficiencies, one or two-bedroom apartments, or houses. Currently, there are 26 residence halls and apartments owned and operated by the university. Athletic life is also important to Carnegie Mellon University. The Tartans compete in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III levels. School spirit is represented with the Kiltie Band (a nod to founder Andrew Carnegie’s Scottish roots), who perform in full Scottish garb at every home football game.

Today, there are more than 105,000 Carnegie Mellon alumni dedicated to spreading the message of their wonderful experiences. Students looking for a strong academic program in engineering or science should consider the school’s stellar reputation. Also, the urban setting increases research opportunities for students. Carnegie Mellon University’s long, rich history demonstrates the university’s devotion to rigorous academics combined with fun on-campus activities.