Temple University vs University of Pittsburgh

Temple University vs University of Pittsburgh

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

Temple University and the University of Pittsburgh are both established public research universities in Pennsylvania but are distinct in worldwide reputation and academic ranking. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, University of Pittsburgh ranks 281st in the world, while Temple University is at 721–730 band. In the US News Global Rankings 2026, Pittsburgh is at a very strong 52nd position in the world, while Temple University comes at 360th. In THE World University Rankings 2026, University of Pittsburgh stands at the 141st band internationally, whereas Temple University ranks between 351–400. University of Pittsburgh is especially famous for its business, engineering, medicine, and public health courses, whereas Temple University is famous for its business, education, health sciences, and arts with a focus on professional studies.

General Information

The University of Pittsburgh was established in 1787 and is a large public research university in the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with approximately 28,000 students. The university is best known for its production of research and its global reach, especially in medicine, public health, engineering, and social sciences, and is regularly among top U.S. public universities.

Temple University, founded in 1884, is another large public research university based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with approximately 37,000 students. It focuses on affordable education, professional achievement, and extensive industry connections, especially in business, health sciences, education, and arts.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

Temple University has a fairly high acceptance rate of 83%, which shows that it is working towards extending broad access to higher education, particularly to in-state students and those pursuing professional and vocational degrees. In comparison, the University of Pittsburgh is selective, with an acceptance rate of 49.7%, seeking students with better academic credentials and research abilities. Both universities assess applicants on academic performance, personal statements, standardized tests (optional in most cases), and extracurricular activities.

Research Impact & Facilities

The University of Pittsburgh is a research leader, boasting world-class facilities in health science, engineering, public policy, and biotechnology research. Its medical center and research partnerships are renowned worldwide, facilitating pioneering studies in neurosciences, public health, and bioengineering.

Temple University prioritizes applied research and professional practice, specifically in business, education, health sciences, and the arts. It offers good research facilities but gives greater importance to practical applications and community-based projects than high-impact basic research.

Cost & Financial Aid

Both Temple University and the University of Pittsburgh are fairly inexpensive, particularly for in-state students, relative to private colleges. Pitt's greater international reputation is justified by slightly higher tuition and more robust research possibilities. Both schools offer a range of financial aid packages, such as scholarships, grants, and work-study arrangements, created to assist a diverse group of students.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

University of Pittsburgh alumni are sought after in research, healthcare, engineering, and business fields, with close relationships to academic institutions, government, and top companies throughout the world. Numerous alumni go on to pursue advanced degrees and high-impact careers.

Temple graduates perform well in business, education, healthcare, and creative fields, taking advantage of strong industry networks in Philadelphia and the region. The university's focus on professional development prepares graduates for a career in their respective field, particularly in applied and community-oriented positions.